A combined semiconductor apparatus has a substrate, a thin semiconductor film attached directly or indirectly to one major surface of the substrate, and a lens attached to the opposite surface of the substrate. The thin semiconductor film includes a light-emitting element that emits light through the substrate. After passing through the substrate, the emitted light is focused by the lens. The substrate functions as a spacing element, assuring that the lens is positioned at the correct distance from the light-emitting element without the need for separate alignment. The substrate also holds the lens without the need for a separate lens holder. Driving circuitry may also be formed on the substrate.