On July 31, 2026, Fstoppers published a detailed look at the recently released Laowa Aksen ultra macro zoom lenses. The article focuses on the two focal lengths introduced—17.5mm and 45mm—highlighting their designation as ultra macro zooms that provide a continuous magnification range from 1x to 10x. The review notes that both models incorporate APO (apochromatic) optical correction, a feature aimed at reducing color fringing in close‑up work.
The piece positions these lenses as tools for creators who need to capture extreme detail without changing lenses frequently. By covering a wide magnification span in a single zoom, the Aksen series aims to streamline workflows for product photography, nature documentation, and other macro‑intensive content. The Fstoppers writer emphasizes the practical benefit of having both a wide‑angle and a short‑telephoto option in one system, which can reduce gear swaps during shoots.
While the review does not delve into pricing, weight, or specific sample images, it underscores the novelty of offering a 1x‑10x zoom range in a macro lens format—a combination that remains relatively uncommon in the market. The article suggests that this approach could appeal to videographers and still‑shooters who require flexible framing at high magnification while maintaining consistent optical performance.
Overall, the Fstoppers coverage presents the Laowa Aksen 17.5mm and 45mm ultra macro zooms as a new entrant in the creator‑focused macro lens space, noting their unique zoom‑macro capability and APO design as points of interest for professionals seeking to expand their close‑up shooting options. The review invites readers to consider how such a lens might fit into their existing kit and content‑creation strategies.