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Shift happens as Laowa tilts its focus
LEICA’S INCOMING CEO TO PUSH INNOVATION
Laowa has unveiled an ultra-wide lens, the 17mm f/4 Zero-D Tilt-Shift, as a more capable big brother to the 17mm f/4 Zero-D Shift we tested just recently. Designed to give users more precise control over perspective and focus, both lenses offer a wide 104° field of view and are built around Laowa’s very own Zero-D (zero distortion) technology. This design makes sure straight lines remain true without needing digital correction, which is useful for architectural, real estate and visual effects work where geometric accuracy is critical. While the shift-only model offers ±11mm shift, the tilt-shift version provides ±12mm shift and tilt control, which helps eliminate keystone distortion in camera and maintain full resolution without the need for post-processing. An expanded image circle facilitates use on larger sensors, with up to ±8mm shift on medium format. The tilt function enables precise focus plane control, from extending depth-of-field across a scene to
Leica has appointed Andreas Voll as its new CEO, effective 1 April. He brings experience in premium technology and brand development, and it’s a change that signals Leica’s renewed focus on digital imaging technologies. Voll succeeds Matthias Harsch, who led Leica between 2017 and 2026 and oversaw its expansion beyond traditional photography. For filmmakers and content creators, the key shifts lie in Leica’s plans to expand digital and imaging solutions, to continue developing premium optical and camera systems and to deepen partnerships in advanced optics and mobile imaging, areas increasingly relevant to hybrid and video workflows. Leica will maintain its precision engineering and high-end production while pursuing digital transformation. leica.com
creating stylised miniature effects. A 360° rotation mechanism supports multi-shot stitching, while a 14- blade aperture delivers smoother bokeh and refined highlights. With a 25cm close focus distance, 86mm filter thread and Arca-Swiss mount support, the latest Laowa lenses are solidly built for pro use. The tilt-only version is £1049/$999 while the tilt-shift is £1269/$1249. venuslens.net
LAOWA POWER The latest 17mm lens offers tilt and shift movements for technical image correction as well as creative effects
Aputure’s Spotlight Mount II is an upgraded ellipsoidal projector made to deliver sharper beams and brighter output. Compatible with Prolock- and Bowens-mount lights up to 800W, it uses a redesigned optical system to improve beam uniformity and brightness. A fully rotating barrel facilitates precise alignment of cuts and projections. The model supports four interchangeable lenses: 19, 26, 36 and a new ultra-wide 50° option. It also accepts B-size gobos in metal and glass, expanding the range of textures, patterns and effects available. At a similar size and weight to its predecessor, it stays practical for location work. No UK prices are out yet, but for $629, it comes with a hard case and one lens. Extra lenses are separate. aputure.com APUTURE BOOSTS OUTPUT AND PRECISION
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