he Helios 44-2 lens, produced in the Soviet Union from the 1950s to the 1990s, is renowned for its distinctive optical qualities. Originally a copy of the Carl Zeiss Biotar 58mm f/2 lens, it became a staple in Soviet photography due to its robust build and affordability. The lens features a 58mm focal length and a maximum aperture of f/2, making it versatile for a range of photographic applications, from portraits to landscapes. Its optical design includes six elements in four groups, contributing to its characteristic image rendering. The Helios 44-2 is particularly famous for its unique “swirly” bokeh, where the background elements are rendered with a distinctive circular blur.

Photographers appreciate the Helios 44-2 for its build quality and the artistic effects it can achieve. The lens’s manual focus ring is smooth and precise, allowing for detailed control over the focus plane. The lens’s ability to create a creamy bokeh and sharp center makes it a favorite among portrait photographers seeking a vintage look. Its all-metal construction ensures durability, even after decades of use. Despite its humble origins, the Helios 44-2 has garnered a cult following among photographers worldwide, prized for its ability to infuse images with a nostalgic and artistic quality.

Below are some of my images takes with this Soviet era lens