![]() ![]() ![]() But it’s also a more expensive lens than the Helios. The one thing the Nikkor has that I really love is its colors and 3D-like rendering. My favorite of those other ~50mm options would probably be my vintage Nikkor 50mm f1.8 Ai but with it you’re getting a totally different, more modern aesthetic in terms of the optical output. For me the 44m-4 seems to be the best compromise of those two aspects.ĥ6mm is a great focal length for portraits on my Fuji X-T2, and I have a few other 50mm lenses in my bag that I use from time to time. The higher numbered lenses in the series apparently have better optical quality, but the swirl effect in turn becomes less pronounced. From my understanding the 44-2 has an even more pronounced swirl effect, but the optical quality otherwise is a little worse (and it has a potentially bothersome method for adjusting aperture). When it comes to alternatives to the Helios 44m-4, there really aren’t many I can think of except perhaps other lenses in the Helios 44 series. ![]() To adapt my lens, I currently use a Dollice m42 to fx adapter, which has worked quite well (I had previously used a different adapter from a different company where the screw threads stripped after frequent use). For $30 (or close to it), it’s a no-brainer. I find myself coming back to it over and over, and it’s produced some of my very favorite images. It’s not the best build quality, it’s not the sharpest, and it doesn’t have the most traditionally pleasing rendering, but it’s easily the most unique lens in my kit. The Helios 44m-4 is a true must-have and my favorite vintage lens when it comes to character. Stopped down, my copy also is incredibly sharp with unique low-contrast color rendering.īuy it. The more specular highlights in the background the better (a tree canopy with light coming through the leaves works well!). I typically see swirly results with the aperture wide open when the subject is about 10ft from the camera, and the background is 25-30 ft away. And in this area, it does not disappoint! To get the effect you have to get the spacing right between your lens, the subject, and the background, using the right f-stop. When it comes to the Helios 44 series of lenses, one particular characteristic comes immediately to mind: swirly bokeh. There are some lenses known for this this characteristic, most notably the soviet made Zenit Helios 40-2 85mm F1.5 which is still being manufactured. Millions off these things were produced over the years, so it’s pretty common to find them in great shape at ridiculously low prices. This is a swirl-y bokeh, an often desirable flaw commonly found in some vintage lenses and lenses. A great lens all around, it’s often highly sought after because it’s such an amazing value. I’ve acquired quite a few vintage lenses over the past year (close to 20 at this point), but there is only one lens that is a true standout in terms of its unique character. ![]()
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