It's been a while since I have used my 1960s designed Helios vintage lens. I actually have the re-release version with the Canon mount adapted to my Panasonic S5ii. It's speciality being the unique spiral bokeh. It's not the sharpest of lenses across the frame and the general recommendation is to centre the subject when shooting.
Being manual focus, it can also be at times tricky to use. Fortunately with the advancements of modern cameras and tools like focus peaking, it can make manual focus feel almost semi-automatic.
Many people use the smaller and more budget friendly 58mm version the Helios 44-2, especially cinematographers who often adapt it to anamorphic for its soft vintage look and abundant lens flares. However with this model, at least for me it is all about the bokeh. It's actually nicknamed the "Bokeh Monster”. It really should be called the bokeh magician or similar though as the bokeh is magical!
I've started using the Helios 40-2 in conjuction with Topaz photo ai, as for me, I'm not too sold on the soft look on the subject. Using Topaz's subject sharpen ai tool gives me the best of both worlds, dreamy swirly bokeh and a nice sharp subject.
I suppose you could call it a marmite lens in a way, some absolutely adore the look of the bokeh whilst others can find it too busy. I'm obviously on the adore side of the fence :)
Autumn photoshoot pictures attached and a Helios+Topaz photo ai workflow to be uploaded to YouTube soon. Please subscribe and hit the notification bell if you would like to see it, channel here.
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