Venus Optics 40cm macro lens with 90-degree angle adapter for extreme close-ups through tight spaces and along floors.
Technical Details
The Venus Optics Laowa 24mm f/14 Probe Lens measures 40cm in length with a diameter of 20mm at the front end. The optical construction consists of 27 elements in 21 groups with a minimum focusing distance of 2cm. The integrated LED system provides a 3200K color temperature at a power output of 0.8 watts. The Periprobe attachment extends the standard Probe lens with a 90-degree angle adapter and an additional 20mm long, waterproof tube. Focusing is manual via a 270-degree focus ring.
History & Development
Venus Optics introduced the original Laowa Probe Lens in 2018, developed for extreme macro cinematography in inaccessible areas. The Periprobe attachment followed in 2020 in response to requests from nature film crews and commercial filmmakers. The concept is based on medical endoscopes, adapted for cinematographic requirements. In 2021, Venus Optics expanded the series with additional focal lengths and improved LED systems.
Practical Use in Film
The Periprobe enables shots from an ant's perspective along the ground or through narrow gaps. Nature filmmakers use it for insect documentaries, as the 90-degree angle allows shots parallel to the ground without camera repositioning. In commercials, it creates unusual product shots through glasses or between objects. The waterproof construction allows for underwater macros in shallow water. The workflow requires external monitoring, as the camera is often positioned out of sight.
Comparison & Alternatives
Conventional macro lenses do not achieve the extreme angles of the Periprobe system. Borescope cameras offer similar accessibility, but without cinematographic image quality. The Laowa Probe (without the Periprobe attachment) works only frontally, while the 90-degree adapter opens up sideways perspectives. Professional endoscope systems, such as those from Karl Storz, cost ten times as much but deliver higher resolution. For extreme angles without macro requirements, ultra-wide-angle lenses with angle adapters are suitable.