Table of Contents

Laowa Probe 24mm T14

Summary

Previously funded in Kickstarter and ranked 2nd in the all-time most funded lens project, this is the world’s first consumer-grade probe lens which focuses from 2:1 macro to infinity and with a compelling wide angle ‘Bug Eye’ perspective. The wide angle design means much greater depth of field at close distances than possible with conventional telephoto macro lens, so more background details can now be seen. The front barrel of the lens is waterproof and an LED ring light is mounted at the tip of the lens. It can cover both standard 35mm full frame & Super35 image sensors and is super lightweight to carry.

Canon EF, Nikon F, Sony FE, Pentax K, Arri PL mounts are available. “Cine-mod” version, with standard gear focus and aperture rings, is specifically designed for videography purposes. Includes variable-output Control cable and rugged aluminum carry case. The retail package includes a white USB cable dimmer (with power adjustment), a black USB cable (no power adjustment) and metal case. Please note that the LED is powered by an external battery (not included in the package).

Tech Specs

Manufacturer Laowa
Series Probe
Model
Focal Length 24mm
Max Aperture T14
Min Aperture T40
Format Full Frame
Image Circle
Minimum Focus 18 in.
Focus Rotation
Iris Blades 7
Optical Design 27/19
Squeeze none
Front Diameter n/a
Filter Thread n/a
Focus/Zoom Rod
Native Mount PL, EF, E
Data Protocol none
Length 16 in.
Weight 474g
Body Telescope none
Body Material Aluminum
Focus Drive Manual
Iris Drive Manual
Zoom Drive n/a

History

Country of Origin: China
Release Date: 2018
Launch Price: $1,599
Design Revisions:
Aditional features were added to subsequent product releases. See entries for the PeriProbe and Pro2be.

Service

Service Manual: (Insert link to manual here)

Full CLA: 4-6 hrs.
From factory: Most returns we have so far are mostly on: Front element damaged, LED lights not working and/or waterproofing failed. Replace waterproof tube for any of these issues. If the damage is covered under warranty, Laowa can supply the part for free. Unless the damaged part is on the main body, should be fine to do the repairs locally. For damages on main body, please send us descriptions for further follow-up.
Replace front tube: 1 hr.
WARNING! Don't forget to install shims under waterproof tube otherwise front flat will crack! - Old version has Micro USB connection. New version has Type-C connection. get updated cable if waterproof tube has old connection. See front shell removal/installation video here. Tighten and secure focus stop: 1 hr.
1. Unscrew rear cone
2. Unscrew rear optics, there will be shim underneath.
3. Leave mount on, locate 4x phillips head screws inside rear housing. Remove screws (lightly glued) to remove rear housing. (Laowa should align to witness mark)
4. Exposed rear of focus ring has 3x phillips holding helical into focus ring, do not remove these. 3x ball and springs put tension between focus ring and rear housing, do not lose these or focus will have lots of play.
5. Rotate focus to close focus and slide toward rear of lens to expose stop ring. Ring help by 3x pointed sets that should align to dimples. (These screws are not glued from the factory) Hard stop should split the infinity sign.
6. To access followers unthread focus scale from middle helical. Middle helical will be keyed, make note of position before removing.
7. Iris access is from front of lens, geared ring is a threaded sleeve that comes off the front and reveals 4x screws holding front housing. I don't remember the rest.
Tighten and secure rear housing: 1-3 hrs.
Focus scale bearings are 1.5mm. Check to see if sub-mount screw holes are stripped or not.
Replace first internal element 1-3 hrs.
(first element behind waterproof housing) Laowa front elements located in Gray cabinet in vault in Mics. drawer. Small bag labeled Laowa.

Notes

Media