Laowa Probe Zoom 15–35mm T12 Lens (Direct View) – Arri PL

Laowa Probe Zoom 15–35mm T12 Lens (Direct View) – Parfocal ultra-wide macro with 5mm working distance

The Laowa Probe Zoom 15–35mm T12 (Direct View) is a specialized cinema lens built for filmmakers who need both ultra-wide perspective and extreme close-up capability. It combines a parfocal zoom with macro performance to keep focus consistent while you change focal length. In addition, its waterproof, durable barrel makes it suitable for demanding environments such as outdoor and underwater shoots.

Key features and what they mean for your shoot

• Ultra-wide 15–35mm full-frame zoom range: Capture expansive scenes and intimate close-ups with a single lens, covering a broad visual spectrum for creative use.
• Parfocal design: Maintain focus while zooming from 15mm to 35mm, allowing smooth zooms without refocusing between focal lengths.
• Maximum magnification up to 2.3x: Achieve strong close-up detail for macro-style shots that reveal fine textures and small subjects.
• Extremely close working distance of 5mm: Film in extremely tight spaces and get very close to your subject while still achieving sharp focus.
• Interchangeable front modules: Choose from Direct, Periscope, 35° View, and 90° View modules to adapt the lens for different shooting angles and access constraints.
• Waterproof and durable barrel: Use the lens in challenging conditions, including underwater and outdoor environments where robustness matters.
• Full-frame coverage (43.2mm image circle): Use the lens on full-frame sensors while preserving image coverage across the frame.
• Dual Imperial/Metric focus scale: Read focus distances in the measurement system you prefer for precise focus pulls.
• Mount options: The lens ships by default with an ARRI PL mount. Optional mounts include Canon EF, Canon RF, Sony E, Nikon Z, and L mounts for different camera systems.

Use cases

Use this lens when you need unique visual storytelling tools. For example, capture immersive environmental scenes with the ultra-wide range, or shoot extreme close-ups where a 5mm working distance reveals fine detail. The interchangeable front modules let you adapt the lens to hard-to-reach angles, while the waterproof barrel supports outdoor or underwater sequences. These features make the lens suitable for professional cinematography, wildlife filmmaking, and creative macro work.

Compatibility and adaptability

The lens comes with an ARRI PL mount as standard. If you use other camera systems, you can choose optional mount adapters for Canon EF, Canon RF, Sony E, Nikon Z, and L mounts. This flexibility lets you integrate the Probe Zoom into a variety of camera packages without losing the lens’s optical capabilities.

What’s in the box

• Laowa Probe Zoom 15–35mm T12 Macro Lens
• Selected Front Module (Direct, Periscope, 35°, or 90°)
• Mount Adapter (Optional)
• Protective Lens Caps
• Carrying Case

Technical specifications

FAQ

Question: Can I use this lens for underwater filming?

Answer: Yes. The lens features a waterproof and durable barrel, making it suitable for underwater shoots. However, always follow appropriate housing and safety procedures specific to your camera system and shooting depth.

Question: Will the lens keep focus when I zoom during a take?

Answer: Yes. The Laowa Probe Zoom is parfocal, so it maintains consistent focus as you zoom from 15mm to 35mm. This lets you perform smooth zooms without refocusing between focal lengths.

Question: Which front module should I choose for tight-angle shots?

Answer: For tight-angle or angled viewing, consider the 35° View or 90° View modules. The Periscope module can help when you need to look around obstacles, while the Direct module is the standard straight-through option.

Question: Is the lens compatible with my camera mount?

Answer: The lens ships with an ARRI PL mount by default. Optional mount adapters are available for Canon EF, Canon RF, Sony E, Nikon Z, and L mounts so you can match it to your camera system.