This is video my love letter to the Helios 44-2 and this comment is my love letter to your valuable time: 0:00 - INTRO 1:07 - UNBOXING - LENS in a BOX 3:49 - "VINTAGE LENS FILES” Historical Beat 4:37 - Details on the LENS HOUSING 6:47 - Customization Details 8:01 - Optical examples 8:31 - Experience using a Wireless Follow Focus 9:05 - Optical examples part 2 (Aperture/Swirly Bokeh/Flares) 10:39 - WHO is this lens for?
@@ChristianTandbergMedia Thanks mate! I need to post more lol and get into the cool things that the younger audiences are eating up...tech seems to be quite popular. Does youtube need another ipad unboxer ;) JK JK JK. I'm old school, I like it this way!
This lens is made for any DP that wants to play with his vintage lens on a professional shoot but cannot just bring his tiny 44-2 in front of the client.
There is SOME truth to that unfortunately. Optics matter on set sometimes (more from the client), but the functionality makes that on set experience much smoother!
Dude thanks, mean a lot coming from you. Your eye is solid. Thanks again for the follow focus loaner. Would have missed that functionality in this review. Ordering the set of these so, when it comes time to shoot that mini doc we planned, I’ll have the set to shoot with vs just the one...although that could have been a creative challenge in itself.
GAS confirmed... what an awesome creation. It looks and has an aesthetic way beyond it's pricing. Thos guys have done an incredible job with these... definitely on the list!!
They really have. The challenge for me here is to somehow transcend that THROUGH the screen, not sure if I was successful or not, but that's what was the fundamental motivation behind this one. Thanks for stopping by as always AJ!
I don't shoot video, but I do own this lens (came off my dad's old Zenit 35mm) and I've got it coupled to a Fujifilm XT2. I had NO IDEA that rehousing vintage lenses was something that existed, but it's one of the most amazing examples of repurposing/upcycling I've yet seen! Thanks for opening my mind to this craft.
It’s got a very specific purpose and is super niche but there is wider market where rehousing is a thing. A few others exist, white optics, zero optics. Zero optics did the canon 50 and 35 0.95 range finder lenses Zach Snyder used to shoot his latest zombie film. The fact there is a market is a testament to these old optics.
holy cow! the production in this video is amazing. you are the reason i ordered the helios last week with your last video of the non-cine version but i got it with the mods... excited for it to get here!
Thanks Jeremy, that was my experience as well seeing the box, the moment I opened it back in Feb I was like, I need to document this experience...at least TRY because it was a big part of my first impression of the lens.
super stoked! can't wait to see this one. i ordered mine and i can't wait for it to arrive. it's been a long time coming and im finally beginning my ironglass vlfv rehoused soviet cine lens set. what better way than to start with the great helios 44-2!
Mark Holtze i got the white 13-blade helios in PL (with EF adapter) with anamorphic bokeh. im definitely going to get a set. Their Jupiter 9 85mm 2.0 and Mir 1V 37mm 2.8 for sure. Afterwards I plan on the Tair 11V 135mm 2.8, Mir 10A 28mm 3.5 and Mir 20M 20mm 2.0. Not really sure which to get first of the three after the 85 and 37. Vadim has been a great help though. The biggest thing with vintage lenses for me is their look and matching between other lenses. Investing in a set keeps that Soviet style look across the board and what better investment than this arsenal of glass! I’m going for all white rehousing across the whole set. the look is so unique and it will look really great on my S1H with white camo haha. Really see myself standout as a filmmaker. Thanks for being a great guide on my journey!
@@n8miles455 The STORMTROOPER coat, I FKING love it! Do you EF to L adapt to your S1H? When I ordered the lens I didn't have the S1H, but I have it now and wondering if I should wait for an L adapter from Ironglass. Their Sony adapter is fantastic, I'd love the same for L.
Mark Holtze I’m adapting EF to L via sigma MC-21. When I asked Vadim about adapting their lens from PL->EF->L, it was stated they’ll work great. I was worried about flange distance. Since their PL Mount is smaller (from what I understand), the use of their EF adapter does not change the the distance from the rear glass to the adapter. It’s almost like it changes it to EF mount and not just adapting it. Very cool to me. He was able to get me a good deal on an adapter as well. It could be worth asking for the EF too! If you don’t already get the Mount before I get my glass, I’ll definitely let you know how the Mount works for me. Worse comes to worse, I’ll get the sigma Mc-31 for PL to L or another EF to L mount adapter 😁
Flattered my friend! Too kind! The history for me is like number one, lol. Now I can only review lenses with an interesting backstory to make those vintage lens files really sing!
Mark Holtze been using the 58 for my wife’s RUclips videos and sprinkling the 37 in there for some product shots. But haven’t used the 85 much as of yet due to the Shelter in Place we have going on here in San Diego. So, can’t give you a fave yet. To be continued... 🤙🏽
@@NDMediaGroup It's like choosing a fav child I would imagine. The 85 is a big tricky of a focal length within a limited setting. They're among my fav, and I don't use them nearly enough. Stay healthy mate, would love to see you review these at some point. I imagine mine won't come in until Mid July at some point after I order.
Mark Holtze “It’s like choosing a favorite child” that’s exactly right Mark, you hit the nail on the head. I will be ordering the 20 and 135 soon as I feel those 2 would complete my set. Let’s catch up soon, and you and the fam stay healthy too!
Had the Helios in my cart for a while for some manual cinematic work that’s on my project list, and decided to pull the trigger after watching your two videos on the lens. Excellent presentation and review - instantly liked and subscribed!
Mark, this lens is interesting. But I actually stayed with this video because of your content creation. Your growth as a video content creator is superb. I watch & listen to every nuance of your videos--the quality and attention to detail is superb! Lastly, your love for vintage lenses inspired me. I've begun shopping for Canon FD glass. Be well.
Thank you kindly my friend. I’ve always loved making videos, made it a career and it’s super cool that we can use a platform like this to make videos geeking out over the stuff we love. Appreciate the very kind words of support my friend! Best of luck with your FD search, careful you don’t fall too far down the rabbit hole ;) 🐇
It's so suprising to see how awesome this lens turned out! Thanks for sharing your experience, looks like a very good option to make your work stand out!
It's surprisingly to pitch a client on a LOOK with this lens and the vintage set in general. What I love about this lens is it makes executing that vision easier and really adds to the optics of that vision you sold.
I had to pause the video as I’m simply blown away by the efforts you have put into this video. Such production quality, I can’t believe I’m watching this on an individual’s RUclips channel ! if I could subscribe twice I would. ok, now that I got that off my chest .... let me watch the rest :)
photoBrother, I hope you read this. I recently discovered your channel. and all because of vintage lenses. I absolutely LOVE your production skills and everything about your videos. WHY IN THE WORLD is your channel not at a million subs!!! YOU SURELY DESERVE IT! please continue to make the quality content you make. and please keep sharing vintage lens stuff as I am obsessed with it and since I found you I do not want to watch anyone else do lens videos but you. thank you for your amazing content!
Wow, such kind words @RoninBattousai thanks for the vote of confidence. I can't pretend to understand how RUclips delivers my content once it's produced, but probably to do with the fact these old lenses aren't heavily searched so perhaps they're not reaching the same amount of people say whatever the newest Sony camera/lens/iPhone drop is. I'm okay with that though, I do this for the love of it. :)
Well, sir. You’ve done it. Just ordered my first Helios, a Contax Zeiss 100mm Makro, and the Super Tak 135mm. Thank you for all of these insanely great videos.
@@MattJackson_RUclips My pleasure mate, but the lenses made me do it, they're so sick and tired of photography youtubers hawking the newest most expensive lenses (they got for free), there's a whole uprising starting lol (JK) Enjoy those mate!
Will definitely be investing in one of those once I can. Great presentation Mark! thank you for putting all this effort in creating this awesome video.
@@MarkHoltze I've order the simple version for starters. Not the same thing as the CINE version but fingers crossed it will help to create some interesting and aesthetically pleasing footage!
Thanks Craig! Warning, one MIGHT not be enough, it WAS enough until I got it...things quickly spiral out of control since then ;) Let me know if you have any buying questions, happy to help out.
Our boi is getting fancy! Look at the edits!! Great video, Helios is a very interesting lens, I really wanna buy one, one day x3 This housing is SO beautiful, i want a makeover too
I have a helios and it's easily my favorite lens. I really thought that this custom built version would kost hell of a lot more tan 950 😅Well I was pleasantly surprised. Also Mark: The production quality of this video is just INSANE!! The vintage lens files part was very interesting (as always) and I could by no means figure out how you created those amazing visuals for it. Such a great video. I wish you all the best and keep it up!
After effects, layering elements. I was surprised as well, when I first saw mention of these I figured $2000 based on what I saw in the video, SHOCKED to see it for $950, you can get most of the set for $2k and that being an investment that will pay for itself, depending on the work you do with it.
I've watched quite some of your videos since I found your channel and really like the way you're doing them. But this video is definately a different level. Keep it up! Best regards from Germany.
I'm glad that's coming through, one challenge for me was HOW do I really exude that feeling this lens gives me to the audience. That's how I feel about all these vintage lenses, but this one just has such a wonderful form...point the camera at it and beauty.
The lens is available on Ebay for 170$ with focus gear and all, the seller has a small shop in Ukraine he modifies the lenses himself. Iron Glass are selling those for 1000$, its the same damn lens. I admit the Iron Glass version is neat and more "stylish" but that doesn't justify at all the price. Also, he can adapt it on all mounts, the Iron Glass version is only for a couple of mounts
You don’t have to justify it. Buy the cheaper one. I’m saying these lenses are worth the price for the work I do. I can’t speak to the market you are in or what value you hold. These are custom made for a professional workflow. You can get the photography lens for like $30. I have mods attached to my Takumars, they’re great quality but it’s not the same thing at all. Rehousing a lens is different than adding focus gears. :) but glad there are lots of options out there.
@@MarkHoltze I have dealt with many Russian suppliers and they are all across the board on quality and reputation. I like the rehoused ones you show and you are totally correct, huge difference in rehousing a lens the way they do it.
Mark, you are an essential addition to the world of creative cinema. I love your work, your approach and respect you carry for the art of light play. Thanks for another super enjoyable rendition to this movement.
Makes me smile hearing that from you mate! Very kind words! I'm looking at doing that wide angle video you suggested,...just a bunch of wide angle options (that I currently have). That was a nice suggestion!
Great video review as usual.I always enjoy your reviews so thanks again. I recently bought a Helios 44 and Helios 40,but can't find a hood for either,any suggestions or links,much appreciated cheers mate
Brilliant review! 👍 Do you know what year Helios they choose from? Is it a 1980s model or earlier? And, which of the numerous factories is the original lens from?
Thanks mate! I'm not sure actually. Might be a good question for Ironglass Adapters. I suspect because it's a 44-2 there were a certain number of those produced before they evolved into different labelled versions, but I'm not entirely sure.
Thank you so much for taking the time to make this review. This lens looks so sick! I really loved the look of the outdoor shots in here. I am wondering about your process there. Are you shooting SLOG? Are there LUT's you have found that you like best with Sony cameras? I feel like I am constantly battling my color. I'd love some insight there if you are open to it. Thanks for the amazing content!
I think i'm going to make a video about this, but I'll answer those questions here. 1) My pleasure, i wanted to shoot a dedicated 3 min mini doc with it to help with the review, but LOCKDOWN. This was the next best thing and really happy with how it turned out. 2) The forest shots turned out really great, better than I had thought. I don't use any lut's, I grade everything from scratch and when I find a look I like, I will just paste that grade across the rest. I do record externally on an Atomos Ninja Flame 4k, images are Pro Res 422, not sure that makes a diff. I shoot SLOG2 yes, but for these shots waited until light was just right and that part of the forest is kind of magical even on a bad day. I find LUT's to be destructive for the most part, always requiring too much finess that i might as well just go from scratch depending on the lighting and mood i want. White balance, watch your exposure in SLOG. One forgiving profile (i forget the name of it) is PP5, it's a happy medium, gives you some range, but colours feel more natural out of the gate. I'll often shoot here with mixed lighting conditions and I kind of dig it. What camera are you on? What are you using for grading?
PS: I can post some raw footage of the forest if you want, DM me on instagram or TWITTEr I can give you a link later tonight or tomorrow. 15 second clip and you can mess around with it.
I have this lens with an anamorphic adaptation applied. I absolutely LOVE the image it produces. This one you've showcased is like the perfect version of it lol
@@MarkHoltze LOL TBH, you did a video a while back on the base lens. That inspired me to look into it. Just so happened to find one that was modified. I don't have the cine mods on mine though. Might have to look into it. Iron Glass is really good with their mods!
@@AfoteyAnnum Funny enough THAT older video (the lens I did a giveaway one) made me look into Helios 44-2 replacements, which ultimately led me to IRONGLASS and the rest is history. I thought this would be an appropriate upgrade to a lens I already know I love, but with the functionality to apply directly to my commercial video work. A video of the lens would of course be in the cards, but it's just a natural progression I think. It would probably feel a lot like my last helios review if I just reviewed the 44-2. The 44M and 44-2 are SLIGHTLY different, but splitting hairs I believe. Cine Mods are niche within a nice, most people use these lenses are affordable creative experimentation or collectors items. I've slowly realized over the course of working so closely with them how useful they are for video. First shooting my youtube videos with them, then expanding that out to my production company work. Hence getting my Takumar's modded, starting a Contax Zeiss set and ultimately these. Japanese, German and Soviet set of lenses that each other different looks for the client. They're very easy to sell the LOOK of, but the functionality and optics of this lens in particular (which is why I'm now getting the set) gets no pushback from network executives wondering why you're shooting their production with a small little SLR lens ;)
Great review, Mark. Really love the attention to detail in your reviews and overall presentation. You are very thorough, articulate, and engaging. Quick question for you; did you opt for the anamorphic flares for this lens? I'm curious to know why or why not? I'm considering picking up the 58mm but I'm torn between getting the flare string option vs without.
Thanks mate. Felt it was the least I could do to show this lens some love ;). I’m not a big fan of anamorphic flares, they become too distracting for my liking. The amber ones are super cool, but just very specific anamorphic lenses have so many other strong characteristics, but flaring for me isn’t one of them. For many things they are great, but didn’t want to be stuck with that look personally. It’s highly subjective obviously; just not my cup of tea. Love the option is there though. Very cool
Nice video, nice product. I have an old Helios which I just adore - first vintage I bought and still my favourite (with the Tamron 90mm 2.4 Macro just behind it) The way it deals with color is unlike any other lens I own and that shallow depth of field is rendered beautifully. Cracking lens, glad to see it getting a modern make-over (even if it is out of my price range!)
I'm so impressed with this for a number of reasons, Mark. So much so, I wanted to make a second comment. In no particular order, things that stood out to me; your candor and delivery are so easy and comfortable that I felt more like I was listening to a classic radio show than watching a RUclips video. The balance of high-end broll (both naturally lit and controlled environment) are perfect very well done. The fact that your A-roll set up is so casual and evenly lit compared to the drama you created with the b-roll was so eloquently done, I didn't even notice how low-key your a-roll set up was (I mean this in the best way possible). Also, the story telling here is remarkable. This is a lens review... REVIEW and I felt like I was watching a mini-doc piece. Lastly, I am planning out a lens review of my own right now as well as some other product shots for a company that has red, white and black as their primary colors and screen grabbed 11 different times. Bravo, man. Really top notch. Thank you for taking so much care with this. Very inspiring.
Wow what a comment mate! Thank you first off. It’s a love affaire for sure, putting the time and craft into something you love and it all seems to fall into place. Background is pretty simple, I don’t fuss with it too much as I intend to cover most of my face anyway. Also my office right now is doubled up as a full time edit with multiple computers and stuff everywhere so it’s hard to dedicated a clean space that’s permanent. For some reason it feels a bit wasted efforts. My space is a creative mess, looks terrible on camera but it’s my zen. ;)
I would hands down, fantastic lens, great price, very versatile. Just make sure you get a good quality one without any fungus etc. You want this lens in tip top shape.
Mark Holtze okay, thank you. I’ll have to check what delivery companies Ebay uses, since packages that are shipped through USPS are then transferred to my local company here in Mexico, and they have taken a few months to deliver things in the past haha 😅
@@TylerVincent definitely...it might help make this purchase go down a bit easier ;). 44M convinced me, i rarely make impulse purchases, it's always very strategic and well thought out....99% of the time ;)
Once again a great video. This rehoused Helios looks gorgeous. I own this lens but couldn't justify getting it in this instance. However I do understand that as a professional filmmaker this could make sense.
Totally understandable. Regardless of usage, we can all agree the unifying element of this is the Helios itself. The lens by itself is fantastic, i've slowly come around to not only shooting these videos with my SLR lenses, but client work as well. This is just the next natural step for me in my production work. The functionality is everything, but highly overkill if you don't need it. Thanks for watching mate!
Wow lovely review . I bought Helios - 44-2 58mm f/2 Mount m42 Lens but I need a ND Filter and lens hood for it but I dont know which 1 to buy. Please help me
I would opt for a SIMMOD Variable ND personally. Very good price and hardly any colour shift. Check out www.simmodlens.com You'll need step up rings to get it to either 77mm or 82mm but that's fairly easy. Good luck mate!
Nice one Mark... It would be good to get the video comparison for the unmodified lenses ~ I imagine it can be done just the throw of the lenses much more tricky...!?
Great video Mark, very well done! Loved the background on the Soviet history of the lens. I have a modest collection of lenses, somewhere between 150 and 200 in all forms from primes to telephotos, zooms to rare and exotic BUT if I were forced to use ONE LENS for all photography and filming it would be the Helios 44 in some version. It is just so adaptable as you say! I even registered a domain and upcoming website for films, documentaries, TV shows, and videos shot with only one lens! This lens inspired me to do so. Happy you suggested it. I also use the Helios 33 which is a cine lens (35mm f2) and a few other Helios lenses, including a massive 150mm f1.5 that is very special. Hats off to you for showcasing one of the best lenses in the world. Thanks.
Such a specific look for a really common lens. I get that you love the added modern functionality, but If you could get a re-housed SMC set, would you prefer them?
Tough, it would really depend on the housing. That experience in of itself is the main reason I love this lens. The 58mm focal length is also versatile, you can shoot wides and close ups with it, facial distortion non existent, it makes everybody look good. I'd have to see a re-housed Tak and go from there to make an educated decision ;)
Mark glad to see your carefully made video, just a question, did you use an Helios without any "anamorphic bokeh / purple / amber inside" ironglass right? just plain Helios lens?
Hey Mark! I have a Helios 44-2 58mm and a Jupiter 135mm. I was curious when you say getting an 85mm Jupiter f/2 for a set, why not a Helios 85mm f/1.5? Would that not match better? I haven't used the Helios 85mm 1.5, but was just curious on your take regarding that.
Ironglass doesn’t offer a modded Helios 85 otherwise I would consider it. They would have to rebuild, design and engineer all their working parts and I think that becomes unsustainable since this is so niche. It might be a better match, but I’d have to see first hand how big a difference they can make.
I might order some metal follow focus gears for a Helios 44-2 lens I own. It will make it easy for me to pull focus, and I don't need a new mount. The screw mount works for me. It's just nice to have gears so I can use a follow focus to remotely pull focus.
Form factor is wonderful, but ya the optical results are what really matters for most. For most the form won’t benefit. It’s nice to share an appreciation for it however.
You basically get the lens for free, but if you intend to use this on paid gigs, it might be worthwhile. It's tough to say, I hate to speak for other people when it comes to the cost of something. This is super niche stuff with some serious engineering and technology/quality behind the builds so I can only speak for myself. I'd much rather have a set of these than a set of similarly priced "discount" cinema lenses from the other guys.
Fabulous video 👌🏽 Putting my order in for one of these - do you not need the 16 iris blade modification if you go with the anamorphic bokeh insert? Was wondering how the number of iris blades would effect the anamorphic bokeh
The anamorphic bokeh will go away after F5.6 so you can still take advantage of those blades! It’s a great option I think at a minimal additional cost.
Just the mod, no colours correct. I like the idea of them, but they flare a little too loud and that impacts the image a little too much. I'm not a huge fan of anamorphic flares myself so a cleaner look was my preference for what I want to use it with. The "anamorphic bokeh" is fantastic though. Check out my instagram @mholtze if you want to see a direct comparison of the bokeh against a regular Helios 44-2 at F2 vs the Re-Housed version. A fraction of light loss with the ovel bokeh, but it's barely apparent to the naked eye.
Does the adaptation of vintage lens ( m42 lens + adapter ring to EF + EF to EOS M mount ) apple a further crop ? if i use the helios 44-2 m42 mount with a canon ef mount then on a ef-m mount ( canon m50) .. will it produce a crop due to using double adapters ?
Glassless adapters don’t crop. Assuming you are on a FF camera as they are FF lenses. You will always have a crop on a crop sensor. Since the M series is a mirrorless you should be able to M42 to Eos-M adapt clean. You don’t need EF to eosM
@@MarkHoltze thanks fr the reply .. but by mistake i uv ordered the m42 to ef mount for my canon m50 apsc. i hv a canon adapter EF - EFM and thought will use with that .. but niw i am thinking did i made a mistake and will it work, will it show vignette on the sides ? the seller has shipped one of those slim m42-ef adapter with the helios 44-2
It might impact your focus a bit but no vignetting. Adapters are built with back focus in mind and when you stack them it CAN (not always) mess up the focus a bit. I’ve stacked adapters fine before without issue but something that’s in the back of my mind. If the adapter has a glass element in it, you will get a crop, the glass corrects for back focus on DSLR’s but the m42 to EOS is just a straight metal plate no glass so you should be fine. Curious about the results though. Would love to hear your experience
@@MarkHoltze thanks .. this is the first time i hv order a vintage lens, and i’m so exited .. been doing a lot of reserve fr the last few weeks. i’m gonna be using the helios with my sony a7s3 and my canon m50. i will surely let u know of the results and u have to guide this fellow creator from India more about the vintage lenses, i will get in touch with u on instagram too . 😊😊😊 .. just recently found ur channel and been loving the videos so much 😊. no .. i don’t hv the speed booster adapter with the lens element, just the basic canon one , EF - EFM
Do you have any problems with infinity focus, considering that the PL mount has a larger flange distance that the Helios's original M42 mount? Also, do you plan on getting more vintage lenses rehoused-maybe something wider?
Zero issues, I've actually never had any issue with infinity focus using any of my vintage lenses on my mirrorless or cinema cameras actually. Not sure how it all just works, but i think they take the flange distance into account when they do adapters.
wow , my helios 44m-4 is a beast too. if i didnt need an adapter it is a tiny and light lens. and i love the focus ring, smooth as hell. on apsc the edge to edge sharpness wide open is perfect. i dont find sharpness falloff on edge on my piece
The bonus of super 35 sensor for sure! When shooting wide open I don’t want edge to edge sharpness, the optical vignetting only enforced my subject isolation in a frame. Not many lenses have clean edge to edge on a full frame as well (wide open), ones that cost many more times than this.
Rehousing... pricey, tempted but, in my opinion, worth the money for a professional filmmaker. I've recently read a lot about laboratories that modify and rehouse lenses, not only Russian glasses but also Leica, Canon, Zeiss, or even Pentax by request and I have to admit that I would like to have in my hands some vintage lenses in their 'new house'. I don't know if you had previously shot with this Helios glass, if so did you notice relevant visual differences between the original and rehoused version of this lens? Thanks.
I reviewed my 44m so I've shot with it. I gave that lens away in a giveaway and wanted to get the original 44-2 and then I saw these. Made sense given my professional workflow and the fact I already liked the 44M 58mm F2 to spring for it. Happy I did and completely understand the re-housing is a bit overkill for most people. It's a professional tool IMHO, built for cinematographers who work on traditional motion picture/commercial work. The optical differences would be minimal unless you get the coloured anamorphic flares etc.
@Imrul Khan I think these guys just do the soviet lenses for now and very specific ones. Probably a lot goes into the measurements and fitting and setting the machines for those specs would be a challenge. New lenses would require entirely new designs, if the demand isn't there, probably wouldn't do well commercially. Just my thoughts, I'm going to do some searching.
Such an amazing lens after all these years. We love vintage lenses for cinematography. In fact we are using our Canon FD 50mm on the new RED Komodo. Loving the images so far. Should have a video soon. Keep up the great content Mark and hopefully we can connect and collaborate soon 🤝
It really is. The new form factor just makes it so much more usable for a professional video flow...they’re are rumours these guys are working on an FD set of rehoused. Mini k35’s ;) but not 100% sure! Saw the Komodo! It’s so nice, can’t wait to see what you guys do with it. Always down for a collab, you guys are also a huge resource for the video production world so thanks for all that you guys do to make it easier for geeks like us :)
wow, could you give details on the animation you made for the "vintage Lens Files" part? That was amazing. Was that made by you or was that a template? Thank you.
This is video my love letter to the Helios 44-2 and this comment is my love letter to your valuable time:
0:00 - INTRO
1:07 - UNBOXING - LENS in a BOX
3:49 - "VINTAGE LENS FILES” Historical Beat
4:37 - Details on the LENS HOUSING
6:47 - Customization Details
8:01 - Optical examples
8:31 - Experience using a Wireless Follow Focus
9:05 - Optical examples part 2 (Aperture/Swirly Bokeh/Flares)
10:39 - WHO is this lens for?
Waiting for a Netflix documentary with Mark and the history of every vintage lens... 🌍📷
That would be the dream! Combine all things I love lol! Better get working on a pitch deck!
WE NEED THIS
@@MarkHoltze you deserve more subscribers! love your vids!
@@ChristianTandbergMedia Thanks mate! I need to post more lol and get into the cool things that the younger audiences are eating up...tech seems to be quite popular. Does youtube need another ipad unboxer ;) JK JK JK.
I'm old school, I like it this way!
This lens is made for any DP that wants to play with his vintage lens on a professional shoot but cannot just bring his tiny 44-2 in front of the client.
There is SOME truth to that unfortunately. Optics matter on set sometimes (more from the client), but the functionality makes that on set experience much smoother!
Indeed. Same thing with my own 44-2 journey. Only really started using it for pro shoots once I received my own rehoused one.
i did bring a 44m-4 to a shoot, and it look ridiculous with my bmpcc 4k
Nailed it. When you wanna look pro..but also shoot with a vintage lens 😅
Your production value is out of this world.
Dude thanks, mean a lot coming from you. Your eye is solid. Thanks again for the follow focus loaner. Would have missed that functionality in this review. Ordering the set of these so, when it comes time to shoot that mini doc we planned, I’ll have the set to shoot with vs just the one...although that could have been a creative challenge in itself.
Mark Holtze 7Artisans is sending me some glass to review - definitely using you as an inspiration!
Love how you breathe new life into this classic lens.
Thanks Jyrki! it's definitely more than just puppy love ;)
I think that's is one of the best video on RUclips platform man! You're channel is amazing
Thanks Marco. Check out the Soviet sisters video, enter for a chance to win this lens!
Wow! Really great review of beautyfull lens! Amazing production!!👏👏👏
THanks so much Mario! Trying to translate the feeling the lens gives into a video was the motivation there for sure.
Wonderful storytelling, ambient music, and high-quality production. Thanks Mark!
Thanks Alex! Had that little extra time these days to put into it, felt it was probably worth it considering how much I love this thing.
By far one of the best reviews I’ve ever watched. Bravo. I want one
Thanks mate, had to do the lens justice. ✊
GAS confirmed... what an awesome creation. It looks and has an aesthetic way beyond it's pricing. Thos guys have done an incredible job with these... definitely on the list!!
They really have. The challenge for me here is to somehow transcend that THROUGH the screen, not sure if I was successful or not, but that's what was the fundamental motivation behind this one. Thanks for stopping by as always AJ!
Wow, impressive product and product review. Nice touch with the motion graphics, too. Dig this video, Mark!
Thanks Shawn, kind of the pinnacle of combining my two fav things. Had to put in that extra effort ;)
Your channel is amazing and your voice is so satisfying to listen to
Every time I see your videos it feels like I'm watching a awesome movie. it's always very exciting. Love this lens.. The image it produces is unique.
Thanks mate! I love it too! So cool that I can use it in my everyday work flow as well, with very little compromise.
Amazing video and lens! The video is Informative, cinematic and very entertaining - More of this please.
Triple threat would you say? ;) jk, thanks very much for the kind words mate! Appreciate it!
Vintage Lens Files alone gave me goosebumps.
Always a real treat to be able to include these sequences in a video! Thanks James
Great video. Very well put together and professional. Keep em coming!
Thanks Gregory! Had a little extra fun with this one!
The intro is sick!!
The lens made me do it, I swear ;). Thanks mate!
I don't shoot video, but I do own this lens (came off my dad's old Zenit 35mm) and I've got it coupled to a Fujifilm XT2. I had NO IDEA that rehousing vintage lenses was something that existed, but it's one of the most amazing examples of repurposing/upcycling I've yet seen! Thanks for opening my mind to this craft.
It’s got a very specific purpose and is super niche but there is wider market where rehousing is a thing. A few others exist, white optics, zero optics. Zero optics did the canon 50 and 35 0.95 range finder lenses Zach Snyder used to shoot his latest zombie film.
The fact there is a market is a testament to these old optics.
Hey Mark congrats lens come up great ! and video shows it off nicely well done as always great job. very cool lens and amazing quality.
Thanks mate. Had fun with this one, but I say that about all my videos I guess lol.
holy cow! the production in this video is amazing. you are the reason i ordered the helios last week with your last video of the non-cine version but i got it with the mods... excited for it to get here!
Thanks mate, it's such a great lens, I think you'll love it! Let me know when it comes and your thoughts!
This video was amazing, thank you so much for sharing.
Thanks Gabriel, need to show my fav lens a little love right ? ;) hope you're staying happy and healthy during these times.
Thanks for sharing your passion, very inspiring indeed...I got goosebumps just seeing the box!
Thanks Jeremy, that was my experience as well seeing the box, the moment I opened it back in Feb I was like, I need to document this experience...at least TRY because it was a big part of my first impression of the lens.
This was the video i needed to see to make my decision! Thanks a lot
Glad I could help! They're fantastic lenses!
What a beautiful video! I love the edit. The Helios-44 is a fun lens to use 👍
Thanks mate! This one is a special one for me so wanted to make sure it was good. The climax of my love of both vintage lenses and cinematography.
super stoked! can't wait to see this one. i ordered mine and i can't wait for it to arrive. it's been a long time coming and im finally beginning my ironglass vlfv rehoused soviet cine lens set. what better way than to start with the great helios 44-2!
Thank you for your support! Really value this early adoption!
I think you're going to love it. This one sold me on the lot for sure, which ones are you most interested in?
Mark Holtze i got the white 13-blade helios in PL (with EF adapter) with anamorphic bokeh. im definitely going to get a set. Their Jupiter 9 85mm 2.0 and Mir 1V 37mm 2.8 for sure. Afterwards I plan on the Tair 11V 135mm 2.8, Mir 10A 28mm 3.5 and Mir 20M 20mm 2.0. Not really sure which to get first of the three after the 85 and 37. Vadim has been a great help though. The biggest thing with vintage lenses for me is their look and matching between other lenses. Investing in a set keeps that Soviet style look across the board and what better investment than this arsenal of glass! I’m going for all white rehousing across the whole set. the look is so unique and it will look really great on my S1H with white camo haha. Really see myself standout as a filmmaker. Thanks for being a great guide on my journey!
@@n8miles455 The STORMTROOPER coat, I FKING love it! Do you EF to L adapt to your S1H? When I ordered the lens I didn't have the S1H, but I have it now and wondering if I should wait for an L adapter from Ironglass. Their Sony adapter is fantastic, I'd love the same for L.
Mark Holtze I’m adapting EF to L via sigma MC-21. When I asked Vadim about adapting their lens from PL->EF->L, it was stated they’ll work great. I was worried about flange distance. Since their PL Mount is smaller (from what I understand), the use of their EF adapter does not change the the distance from the rear glass to the adapter. It’s almost like it changes it to EF mount and not just adapting it. Very cool to me.
He was able to get me a good deal on an adapter as well. It could be worth asking for the EF too! If you don’t already get the Mount before I get my glass, I’ll definitely let you know how the Mount works for me. Worse comes to worse, I’ll get the sigma Mc-31 for PL to L or another EF to L mount adapter 😁
Ironglass rehouse is like making a new chapter of history. I like it!
Man, you are one of the best content creators I follow. Especially when you include the history of the lens in your videos. Love your work!
Flattered my friend! Too kind! The history for me is like number one, lol. Now I can only review lenses with an interesting backstory to make those vintage lens files really sing!
Great job Mark! Loving my set of the 37, 58, and 85.
Ohhhhh! Jealous! Which one is your fav?
Mark Holtze been using the 58 for my wife’s RUclips videos and sprinkling the 37 in there for some product shots. But haven’t used the 85 much as of yet due to the Shelter in Place we have going on here in San Diego. So, can’t give you a fave yet. To be continued... 🤙🏽
@@NDMediaGroup It's like choosing a fav child I would imagine. The 85 is a big tricky of a focal length within a limited setting. They're among my fav, and I don't use them nearly enough.
Stay healthy mate, would love to see you review these at some point. I imagine mine won't come in until Mid July at some point after I order.
Mark Holtze “It’s like choosing a favorite child” that’s exactly right Mark, you hit the nail on the head.
I will be ordering the 20 and 135 soon as I feel those 2 would complete my set. Let’s catch up soon, and you and the fam stay healthy too!
Brilliant vid mate. I felt like placing an order just from the packaging. Love your production, so engaging. Oh and the lens looks brilliant too!
Andy, thanks mate! Hope you're doing well through all this!
Mark Holtze no probs. Yeah all good over here 😊
Had the Helios in my cart for a while for some manual cinematic work that’s on my project list, and decided to pull the trigger after watching your two videos on the lens. Excellent presentation and review - instantly liked and subscribed!
Glad it helped mate. I’m a bit infatuated clearly, but that just makes putting down for them a bit easier ;)
Let me know how you like them!
Mark Holtze Thanks! Fingers crossed it arrives quickly - can’t wait to try it out! 🤞
Mark, this lens is interesting. But I actually stayed with this video because of your content creation. Your growth as a video content creator is superb. I watch & listen to every nuance of your videos--the quality and attention to detail is superb! Lastly, your love for vintage lenses inspired me. I've begun shopping for Canon FD glass. Be well.
Thank you kindly my friend. I’ve always loved making videos, made it a career and it’s super cool that we can use a platform like this to make videos geeking out over the stuff we love.
Appreciate the very kind words of support my friend! Best of luck with your FD search, careful you don’t fall too far down the rabbit hole ;) 🐇
It's so suprising to see how awesome this lens turned out! Thanks for sharing your experience, looks like a very good option to make your work stand out!
It's surprisingly to pitch a client on a LOOK with this lens and the vintage set in general. What I love about this lens is it makes executing that vision easier and really adds to the optics of that vision you sold.
Man, you do awesome videos. Great colors, cool theme.
Thanks Igor! It’s pretty simple setup, very effective.
Mega Excited!!!
What a treat this was! Another amazing Doc style video!
Hi Alan ;) It looks amazing :)
My fav types of videos to produce! Combine ALL things I love ;)
I had to pause the video as I’m simply blown away by the efforts you have put into this video. Such production quality, I can’t believe I’m watching this on an individual’s RUclips channel ! if I could subscribe twice I would. ok, now that I got that off my chest .... let me watch the rest :)
Wow! That comment might be my most flattering. Very kind of you to say my friend! Thank you! Many, many thanks!!
Nice piece of art. Great achievement.
Thank you so much 😀
The amount of work this video has, is incredible man
Thanks mate, it's a love affaire I have with these lenses and the only way I can express it is through video lol.
photoBrother, I hope you read this. I recently discovered your channel. and all because of vintage lenses. I absolutely LOVE your production skills and everything about your videos. WHY IN THE WORLD is your channel not at a million subs!!! YOU SURELY DESERVE IT! please continue to make the quality content you make. and please keep sharing vintage lens stuff as I am obsessed with it and since I found you I do not want to watch anyone else do lens videos but you. thank you for your amazing content!
Wow, such kind words @RoninBattousai thanks for the vote of confidence. I can't pretend to understand how RUclips delivers my content once it's produced, but probably to do with the fact these old lenses aren't heavily searched so perhaps they're not reaching the same amount of people say whatever the newest Sony camera/lens/iPhone drop is.
I'm okay with that though, I do this for the love of it. :)
You made me fall in love with the lens and it’s housing. Now I don’t know what to do. I’m planing on selling my kidney 😂
Well, sir. You’ve done it. Just ordered my first Helios, a Contax Zeiss 100mm Makro, and the Super Tak 135mm. Thank you for all of these insanely great videos.
Ohhhh! That 100MM Macro!! I might have to get one of those as well! lol Thanks for the suggestion! ;) Enjoy your new "OLD" glass when it arrives mate!
@@MarkHoltze I most definitely will. Excited to try it out as a portrait lens, too. Thanks again for the killer work.
@@MattJackson_RUclips My pleasure mate, but the lenses made me do it, they're so sick and tired of photography youtubers hawking the newest most expensive lenses (they got for free), there's a whole uprising starting lol (JK)
Enjoy those mate!
@@MarkHoltze the lenses are smart. Just patiently waiting, dirt cheap, for the world to realize their true value.
Time is on their side and it’s been good to them. ;) Lol especially the Contax Zeiss 21mm 2.8 which is worth more now than it was when originally sold
Will definitely be investing in one of those once I can. Great presentation Mark! thank you for putting all this effort in creating this awesome video.
They are something special for sure.
They are something special for sure.
@@MarkHoltze I've order the simple version for starters. Not the same thing as the CINE version but fingers crossed it will help to create some interesting and aesthetically pleasing footage!
It will for sure. Mods are still a great way to add functionality!
I love machines and projects like this, it's a beautiful work, and the images it creates, are too!
I wish I could do more with machines lol. But I also love what they produce!!!
Im so glad I snagged one a couple months ago, not this fancy set up, but the guts is where its at!
Totally where it's at!
Loved this. Great work as always. I might have to order one of these lenses.
Thanks Craig! Warning, one MIGHT not be enough, it WAS enough until I got it...things quickly spiral out of control since then ;) Let me know if you have any buying questions, happy to help out.
Our boi is getting fancy! Look at the edits!! Great video, Helios is a very interesting lens, I really wanna buy one, one day x3
This housing is SO beautiful, i want a makeover too
So many edits lol. Thanks Denise! I might be giving one away in the next few months...try your luck there ;) save you some money, but shhhhhhhh. ;)
@@MarkHoltze omg omg!!
Your secret is dead here u.u don't worry ;)
Just stumbled upon this channel and gota say this production quality is 👌👌
All in the name of vintage lenses lol ;), thanks mate!
Hi Mark,
The vintage lens is vice, I a big collection I take 70% of pictures with vintage lens.
Thank you and congratulations for you videos.
So it's not just me then ;). Fantastic Antonio! Thanks! What are among your fav's?
I have a helios and it's easily my favorite lens. I really thought that this custom built version would kost hell of a lot more tan 950 😅Well I was pleasantly surprised.
Also Mark: The production quality of this video is just INSANE!! The vintage lens files part was very interesting (as always) and I could by no means figure out how you created those amazing visuals for it.
Such a great video. I wish you all the best and keep it up!
After effects, layering elements. I was surprised as well, when I first saw mention of these I figured $2000 based on what I saw in the video, SHOCKED to see it for $950, you can get most of the set for $2k and that being an investment that will pay for itself, depending on the work you do with it.
Great work MARK.
I've watched quite some of your videos since I found your channel and really like the way you're doing them. But this video is definately a different level. Keep it up! Best regards from Germany.
Thanks so much XiaoDu! Appreciate it mate!
OMG it's beautiful!
I'm glad that's coming through, one challenge for me was HOW do I really exude that feeling this lens gives me to the audience. That's how I feel about all these vintage lenses, but this one just has such a wonderful form...point the camera at it and beauty.
Master craft Video of Master craft Lens i doubt this lens has looking any better than on Mark`s unique Style !
TOo kind mate!
The lens is available on Ebay for 170$ with focus gear and all, the seller has a small shop in Ukraine he modifies the lenses himself. Iron Glass are selling those for 1000$, its the same damn lens. I admit the Iron Glass version is neat and more "stylish" but that doesn't justify at all the price. Also, he can adapt it on all mounts, the Iron Glass version is only for a couple of mounts
You don’t have to justify it. Buy the cheaper one. I’m saying these lenses are worth the price for the work I do. I can’t speak to the market you are in or what value you hold. These are custom made for a professional workflow.
You can get the photography lens for like $30.
I have mods attached to my Takumars, they’re great quality but it’s not the same thing at all. Rehousing a lens is different than adding focus gears.
:) but glad there are lots of options out there.
Got a link for the other? I am all for supporting little guys, especially if I get something just as good and cheaper.
@@MarkHoltze I have dealt with many Russian suppliers and they are all across the board on quality and reputation. I like the rehoused ones you show and you are totally correct, huge difference in rehousing a lens the way they do it.
Mark, you are an essential addition to the world of creative cinema. I love your work, your approach and respect you carry for the art of light play. Thanks for another super enjoyable rendition to this movement.
Makes me smile hearing that from you mate! Very kind words! I'm looking at doing that wide angle video you suggested,...just a bunch of wide angle options (that I currently have). That was a nice suggestion!
Mark Holtze and the title is ‘May there be Wide!’ In the hopes you get to it this month lol.
Your channel is so underated 😫you put so much effort to the story
Thanks Chris, at least a few of us can appreciate it ;) 😆
Ps make sure you enter the giveaway for this lens if you haven’t. Details on my Soviet cinema lens video (second last one published)
Great video review as usual.I always enjoy your reviews so thanks again. I recently bought a Helios 44 and Helios 40,but can't find a hood for either,any suggestions or links,much appreciated cheers mate
Simmod lens has “sim rings”. Works like a hood and brings that front filter diameter up.
This is something insane
I almost lost my mind when I saw these back in December, it was a no brainer for me. Not only for my channel, but for my production work.
Brilliant review! 👍 Do you know what year Helios they choose from? Is it a 1980s model or earlier? And, which of the numerous factories is the original lens from?
Thanks mate! I'm not sure actually. Might be a good question for Ironglass Adapters. I suspect because it's a 44-2 there were a certain number of those produced before they evolved into different labelled versions, but I'm not entirely sure.
@@MarkHoltze Thanks. 👍
Thank you so much for taking the time to make this review. This lens looks so sick! I really loved the look of the outdoor shots in here. I am wondering about your process there. Are you shooting SLOG? Are there LUT's you have found that you like best with Sony cameras? I feel like I am constantly battling my color. I'd love some insight there if you are open to it. Thanks for the amazing content!
I think i'm going to make a video about this, but I'll answer those questions here.
1) My pleasure, i wanted to shoot a dedicated 3 min mini doc with it to help with the review, but LOCKDOWN. This was the next best thing and really happy with how it turned out.
2) The forest shots turned out really great, better than I had thought. I don't use any lut's, I grade everything from scratch and when I find a look I like, I will just paste that grade across the rest. I do record externally on an Atomos Ninja Flame 4k, images are Pro Res 422, not sure that makes a diff. I shoot SLOG2 yes, but for these shots waited until light was just right and that part of the forest is kind of magical even on a bad day.
I find LUT's to be destructive for the most part, always requiring too much finess that i might as well just go from scratch depending on the lighting and mood i want.
White balance, watch your exposure in SLOG. One forgiving profile (i forget the name of it) is PP5, it's a happy medium, gives you some range, but colours feel more natural out of the gate. I'll often shoot here with mixed lighting conditions and I kind of dig it.
What camera are you on? What are you using for grading?
PS: I can post some raw footage of the forest if you want, DM me on instagram or TWITTEr I can give you a link later tonight or tomorrow. 15 second clip and you can mess around with it.
I have this lens with an anamorphic adaptation applied.
I absolutely LOVE the image it produces.
This one you've showcased is like the perfect version of it lol
Good so at least it’s not just me 😂 you’ve added some legitimacy to my obsession mate thanks!
@@MarkHoltze LOL
TBH, you did a video a while back on the base lens. That inspired me to look into it. Just so happened to find one that was modified. I don't have the cine mods on mine though. Might have to look into it. Iron Glass is really good with their mods!
@@AfoteyAnnum Funny enough THAT older video (the lens I did a giveaway one) made me look into Helios 44-2 replacements, which ultimately led me to IRONGLASS and the rest is history. I thought this would be an appropriate upgrade to a lens I already know I love, but with the functionality to apply directly to my commercial video work. A video of the lens would of course be in the cards, but it's just a natural progression I think. It would probably feel a lot like my last helios review if I just reviewed the 44-2. The 44M and 44-2 are SLIGHTLY different, but splitting hairs I believe.
Cine Mods are niche within a nice, most people use these lenses are affordable creative experimentation or collectors items. I've slowly realized over the course of working so closely with them how useful they are for video. First shooting my youtube videos with them, then expanding that out to my production company work. Hence getting my Takumar's modded, starting a Contax Zeiss set and ultimately these. Japanese, German and Soviet set of lenses that each other different looks for the client. They're very easy to sell the LOOK of, but the functionality and optics of this lens in particular (which is why I'm now getting the set) gets no pushback from network executives wondering why you're shooting their production with a small little SLR lens ;)
@@MarkHoltze #WellStated
Your production quality is out of this world man
Thanks Jim, loved making videos since I was a kid and I love this lens lol. Glad you enjoyed it mate. Makes it totally worth the time.
Great review, Mark. Really love the attention to detail in your reviews and overall presentation. You are very thorough, articulate, and engaging. Quick question for you; did you opt for the anamorphic flares for this lens? I'm curious to know why or why not? I'm considering picking up the 58mm but I'm torn between getting the flare string option vs without.
Thanks mate. Felt it was the least I could do to show this lens some love ;). I’m not a big fan of anamorphic flares, they become too distracting for my liking.
The amber ones are super cool, but just very specific anamorphic lenses have so many other strong characteristics, but flaring for me isn’t one of them.
For many things they are great, but didn’t want to be stuck with that look personally. It’s highly subjective obviously; just not my cup of tea. Love the option is there though. Very cool
@@MarkHoltze Makes sense. Great insight, thank you!
Nice video, nice product. I have an old Helios which I just adore - first vintage I bought and still my favourite (with the Tamron 90mm 2.4 Macro just behind it) The way it deals with color is unlike any other lens I own and that shallow depth of field is rendered beautifully. Cracking lens, glad to see it getting a modern make-over (even if it is out of my price range!)
Thanks! I've seen a few people mention the Tamron 90 2.4 macro as their LENS of choice! I should look into it! Thanks for the suggestion!
Great review Mark
Thanks so much Ross!
I'm so impressed with this for a number of reasons, Mark. So much so, I wanted to make a second comment. In no particular order, things that stood out to me; your candor and delivery are so easy and comfortable that I felt more like I was listening to a classic radio show than watching a RUclips video. The balance of high-end broll (both naturally lit and controlled environment) are perfect very well done. The fact that your A-roll set up is so casual and evenly lit compared to the drama you created with the b-roll was so eloquently done, I didn't even notice how low-key your a-roll set up was (I mean this in the best way possible). Also, the story telling here is remarkable. This is a lens review... REVIEW and I felt like I was watching a mini-doc piece. Lastly, I am planning out a lens review of my own right now as well as some other product shots for a company that has red, white and black as their primary colors and screen grabbed 11 different times. Bravo, man. Really top notch. Thank you for taking so much care with this. Very inspiring.
Wow what a comment mate! Thank you first off. It’s a love affaire for sure, putting the time and craft into
something you love and it all seems to
fall into place.
Background is pretty simple, I don’t fuss with it too much as I intend to
cover most of my face anyway. Also my office right now is doubled up as a full time edit with multiple computers and stuff everywhere so it’s hard to dedicated a clean space that’s permanent. For some reason it feels a bit wasted efforts. My space is a creative mess, looks terrible on camera but it’s my zen. ;)
Thanks for the wonderfully articulated description of what was working for you. It’s great feedback mate! Thanks again!
Great video! I love the characteristics vintage lenses give to videos, especially this one. Where would you recommend buying the regular Helios 44-2?
I would hands down, fantastic lens, great price, very versatile. Just make sure you get a good quality one without any fungus etc. You want this lens in tip top shape.
Mark Holtze Okay, thank you. I will try to find a good one. Have you bought any vintage lenses through Amazon?
@@maunader I haven't no, only Ebay from verified and reputable dealers. I'm sure Amazon is fine, but just no personal experience with it.
Mark Holtze okay, thank you. I’ll have to check what delivery companies Ebay uses, since packages that are shipped through USPS are then transferred to my local company here in Mexico, and they have taken a few months to deliver things in the past haha 😅
Can’t wait to get my hands on one of these!! 😎
Which one is calling your name? Future order or order already placed?
your videos, pacing, look, attention to detail, is just incredible. I expect to see your channel continue to grow and grow.
Thanks mate. It’s a craft I love for sure. Can’t seem to stop myself.
Great video man! You make me want to try these so bad!
try before you buy, if only. Any experience with the standard Helios?
Mark Holtze not yet. Guess I should just pick up the cheap one first.
@@TylerVincent definitely...it might help make this purchase go down a bit easier ;). 44M convinced me, i rarely make impulse purchases, it's always very strategic and well thought out....99% of the time ;)
Once again a great video. This rehoused Helios looks gorgeous. I own this lens but couldn't justify getting it in this instance. However I do understand that as a professional filmmaker this could make sense.
Totally understandable. Regardless of usage, we can all agree the unifying element of this is the Helios itself. The lens by itself is fantastic, i've slowly come around to not only shooting these videos with my SLR lenses, but client work as well. This is just the next natural step for me in my production work. The functionality is everything, but highly overkill if you don't need it. Thanks for watching mate!
lovely I was not aware of this lens after watching your videos I think his is great lens for stills too...... just subscribed
Already have the lens... and love it. But... man than housing... ❤️❤️ It’s Art!!
It's pretty great! To appreciate it you definitely have to love the lens itself I think! :)
Man I love your videos
Thanks mate! Appreciate you coming by.
Wow lovely review .
I bought Helios - 44-2 58mm f/2 Mount m42 Lens but I need a ND Filter and lens hood for it but I dont know which 1 to buy.
Please help me
I would opt for a SIMMOD Variable ND personally. Very good price and hardly any colour shift. Check out www.simmodlens.com You'll need step up rings to get it to either 77mm or 82mm but that's fairly easy. Good luck mate!
Nice one Mark... It would be good to get the video comparison for the unmodified lenses ~ I imagine it can be done just the throw of the lenses much more tricky...!?
If I get my hands on a naked 44 i will for sure. That's a great idea! The 270 focus throw for video is a bit tricky in it's standard form for sure.
I want this lens!!! 😍😍😍
Videography updated😍🎥4:52...details Mark, details‼️Nailed it my man, keep up salutations from Greece📸🔝💙
Super cool of you to say mate, thanks for the kind words of support! !
Great video Mark, very well done! Loved the background on the Soviet history of the lens. I have a modest collection of lenses, somewhere between 150 and 200 in all forms from primes to telephotos, zooms to rare and exotic BUT if I were forced to use ONE LENS for all photography and filming it would be the Helios 44 in some version. It is just so adaptable as you say! I even registered a domain and upcoming website for films, documentaries, TV shows, and videos shot with only one lens! This lens inspired me to do so. Happy you suggested it. I also use the Helios 33 which is a cine lens (35mm f2) and a few other Helios lenses, including a massive 150mm f1.5 that is very special. Hats off to you for showcasing one of the best lenses in the world. Thanks.
Amazing Lens, OMG!
It's pretty great, definitely wont' lie ;)
Ohhh that modern look
Ohhh! I think it might! ;)
Such a specific look for a really common lens. I get that you love the added modern functionality, but If you could get a re-housed SMC set, would you prefer them?
Tough, it would really depend on the housing. That experience in of itself is the main reason I love this lens. The 58mm focal length is also versatile, you can shoot wides and close ups with it, facial distortion non existent, it makes everybody look good.
I'd have to see a re-housed Tak and go from there to make an educated decision ;)
Mark glad to see your carefully made video, just a question, did you use an Helios without any "anamorphic bokeh / purple / amber inside" ironglass right? just plain Helios lens?
The only mod to this lens is the anamorphic bokeh, so the oval shape. I kept the flares off as I find them too distracting personally.
Hey Mark! I have a Helios 44-2 58mm and a Jupiter 135mm. I was curious when you say getting an 85mm Jupiter f/2 for a set, why not a Helios 85mm f/1.5? Would that not match better? I haven't used the Helios 85mm 1.5, but was just curious on your take regarding that.
Ironglass doesn’t offer a modded Helios 85 otherwise I would consider it. They would have to rebuild, design and engineer all their working parts and I think that becomes unsustainable since this is so niche.
It might be a better match, but I’d have to see first hand how big a difference they can make.
I might order some metal follow focus gears for a Helios 44-2 lens I own. It will make it easy for me to pull focus, and I don't need a new mount. The screw mount works for me. It's just nice to have gears so I can use a follow focus to remotely pull focus.
Hot damn what a beauty. Makes me want to bust out my own little Helios again, I just can't help but envy that gorgeous form factor hahaha
Form factor is wonderful, but ya the optical results are what really matters for most. For most the form won’t benefit. It’s nice to share an appreciation for it however.
Your vids are great!!
Thanks mate. Glad you are enjoying them!
I just checked the price, and it's only $950? I thought this would be many times more. Wow. That's incredible.
You basically get the lens for free, but if you intend to use this on paid gigs, it might be worthwhile. It's tough to say, I hate to speak for other people when it comes to the cost of something. This is super niche stuff with some serious engineering and technology/quality behind the builds so I can only speak for myself. I'd much rather have a set of these than a set of similarly priced "discount" cinema lenses from the other guys.
Why is this video like Netflix kinda feel? Man, you should be on Netflix discussing vintage lenses. I'll definitely going to watch it. 😁
Check out later MC 44-m7 that is somewhat sharper wide open and it is multi coated against flares. And it considered to swirl bokeh even more.
Awesome mate! Will do thanks so much!
Hey Mark, really digging your content! Congrats on this one, truly inspiring especially when you already have a helios at home.
Thanks Ger! Happy you're enjoying it! It's cool to know the Helios is good enough to build around like this. It's the heart of this lens for sure!
Fabulous video 👌🏽
Putting my order in for one of these - do you not need the 16 iris blade modification if you go with the anamorphic bokeh insert? Was wondering how the number of iris blades would effect the anamorphic bokeh
The anamorphic bokeh will go away after F5.6 so you can still take advantage of those blades! It’s a great option I think at a minimal additional cost.
💥 D O P E 💥 E D I T I N G 💥 and I love the chosen music !!!! +Mark Holtze
Thanks Stu!
Brilliant video mate. Such awesome reviews. Any thoughts on the 44-2 vs. the 44M? =)
Quick question, did you only add the anamorphic mod? No colors? I love how the image looks.
Just the mod, no colours correct. I like the idea of them, but they flare a little too loud and that impacts the image a little too much. I'm not a huge fan of anamorphic flares myself so a cleaner look was my preference for what I want to use it with.
The "anamorphic bokeh" is fantastic though. Check out my instagram @mholtze if you want to see a direct comparison of the bokeh against a regular Helios 44-2 at F2 vs the Re-Housed version. A fraction of light loss with the ovel bokeh, but it's barely apparent to the naked eye.
Does the adaptation of vintage lens ( m42 lens + adapter ring to EF + EF to EOS M mount ) apple a further crop ?
if i use the helios 44-2 m42 mount with a canon ef mount then on a ef-m mount ( canon m50) .. will it produce a crop due to using double adapters ?
Glassless adapters don’t crop. Assuming you are on a FF camera as they are FF lenses. You will always have a crop on a crop sensor. Since the M series is a mirrorless you should be able to M42 to Eos-M adapt clean. You don’t need EF to eosM
@@MarkHoltze thanks fr the reply .. but by mistake i uv ordered the m42 to ef mount for my canon m50 apsc. i hv a canon adapter EF - EFM and thought will use with that .. but niw i am thinking did i made a mistake and will it work, will it show vignette on the sides ?
the seller has shipped one of those slim m42-ef adapter with the helios 44-2
It might impact your focus a bit but no vignetting. Adapters are built with back focus in mind and when you stack them it CAN (not always) mess up the focus a bit. I’ve stacked adapters fine before without issue but something that’s in the back of my mind. If the adapter has a glass element in it, you will get a crop, the glass corrects for back focus on DSLR’s but the m42 to EOS is just a straight metal plate no glass so you should be fine. Curious about the results though. Would love to hear your experience
@@MarkHoltze thanks .. this is the first time i hv order a vintage lens, and i’m so exited .. been doing a lot of reserve fr the last few weeks. i’m gonna be using the helios with my sony a7s3 and my canon m50.
i will surely let u know of the results and u have to guide this fellow creator from India more about the vintage lenses, i will get in touch with u on instagram too . 😊😊😊 .. just recently found ur channel and been loving the videos so much 😊.
no .. i don’t hv the speed booster adapter with the lens element, just the basic canon one , EF - EFM
@@MarkHoltze wow .. i just found u on twitter, looks like we r in the same community of creators. 😍😍 Ruben is my friend ..
Do you have any problems with infinity focus, considering that the PL mount has a larger flange distance that the Helios's original M42 mount? Also, do you plan on getting more vintage lenses rehoused-maybe something wider?
Zero issues, I've actually never had any issue with infinity focus using any of my vintage lenses on my mirrorless or cinema cameras actually. Not sure how it all just works, but i think they take the flange distance into account when they do adapters.
wow , my helios 44m-4 is a beast too. if i didnt need an adapter it is a tiny and light lens. and i love the focus ring, smooth as hell. on apsc the edge to edge sharpness wide open is perfect. i dont find sharpness falloff on edge on my piece
The bonus of super 35 sensor for sure! When shooting wide open I don’t want edge to edge sharpness, the optical vignetting only enforced my subject isolation in a frame. Not many lenses have clean edge to edge on a full frame as well (wide open), ones that cost many more times than this.
@@MarkHoltze have you seen the zeiss f/0.7video by the media division? they knocked it out the park with that lens
Video is dope bro!
Rehousing... pricey, tempted but, in my opinion, worth the money for a professional filmmaker. I've recently read a lot about laboratories that modify and rehouse lenses, not only Russian glasses but also Leica, Canon, Zeiss, or even Pentax by request and I have to admit that I would like to have in my hands some vintage lenses in their 'new house'.
I don't know if you had previously shot with this Helios glass, if so did you notice relevant visual differences between the original and rehoused version of this lens?
Thanks.
I reviewed my 44m so I've shot with it. I gave that lens away in a giveaway and wanted to get the original 44-2 and then I saw these. Made sense given my professional workflow and the fact I already liked the 44M 58mm F2 to spring for it. Happy I did and completely understand the re-housing is a bit overkill for most people. It's a professional tool IMHO, built for cinematographers who work on traditional motion picture/commercial work.
The optical differences would be minimal unless you get the coloured anamorphic flares etc.
@Imrul Khan I think these guys just do the soviet lenses for now and very specific ones. Probably a lot goes into the measurements and fitting and setting the machines for those specs would be a challenge. New lenses would require entirely new designs, if the demand isn't there, probably wouldn't do well commercially. Just my thoughts, I'm going to do some searching.
@Imrul Khan hi, sorry for not responding quickly. You can check out Kimcamera both on their FB page and Ebay account
Such an amazing lens after all these years. We love vintage lenses for cinematography. In fact we are using our Canon FD 50mm on the new RED Komodo. Loving the images so far. Should have a video soon. Keep up the great content Mark and hopefully we can connect and collaborate soon 🤝
It really is. The new form factor just makes it so much more usable for a professional video flow...they’re are rumours these guys are working on an FD set of rehoused. Mini k35’s ;) but not 100% sure!
Saw the Komodo! It’s so nice, can’t wait to see what you guys do with it. Always down for a collab, you guys are also a huge resource for the video production world so thanks for all that you guys do to make it easier for geeks like us :)
Mark Holtze we’d be all over the FD re-housed!
I hope they don’t because my wallet will leave me lol.
Mark Holtze haha! Is t that always the truth!
wow, could you give details on the animation you made for the "vintage Lens Files" part? That was amazing. Was that made by you or was that a template? Thank you.