Laowa ACRIS 35mm f/2.8 1X AF Macro APO reaches an impressive 1:1 macro reproduction

Laowa's ACRIS 35mm f/2.8 reaches 1:1 magnification, with autofocus from 0.5 m to infinity. The $449 lens comes in five mounts (though only three with autofocus).

Laowa has announced the ACRIS 35mm f/2.8 1X AF Macro APO, which it reckons to be the world's first full-frame autofocus 35mm lens with 1:1 life-size magnification. Unlike conventional close-up lenses that stop at 0.5X, the ACRIS 35mm f/2.8 captures subjects at full 1:1 scale. As the video below shows, this gets you some impressive images.

The lens has a dual-mode hybrid focusing system. Standard Autofocus covers infinity down to 0.5 m (1.6 ft), while Macro Focus Assistance covers 0.5 m (1.6 ft) to 1:1, providing micro-step manual precision (note the word ‘manual’ there) and integrates into focus-bracketing workflows. A Focus Assist Button switches between modes.

The lens offers autofocus in Sony E, Canon EF, and Nikon Z mounts, but manual focus only in Canon RF and L-Mount.

The optical construction is 13 elements in 10 groups. Laowa says the APO design virtually eliminates longitudinal and lateral chromatic aberrations in both in-focus and out-of-focus areas, and that the f/2.8 maximum aperture gives “striking” subject isolation and a smooth bokeh. And the 35mm relatively wide angle for a macro lens lends itself to some excellent looking compositions. 

The housing is all metal, with weather-sealed construction against dust and moisture. Internal focusing keeps the lens length fixed. Dimensions and weight vary by mount, however. The Sony E version measures Ø79 mm × 114 mm (Ø3.1 × 4.5 in) and weighs 560 g (19.8 oz), while the Canon EF version measures Ø79 mm × 87.4 mm (Ø3.1 × 3.4 in) and weighs 530 g (18.7 oz).

Pricing and availability

The ACRIS 35mm f/2.8 1X AF Macro APO is available now for $449.