58/2 Helios-44-2 and Helios-44-3

Helios-44-2

Copy of  Zeiss Biotar.

On APS-c shining as great portrait lens.

It needs f5.6 to cover entire APS-c size frame with circle of sharpness from corner to corner (CZJ Pancolar 50/1.8 and Fujinon 55/1.8 are better doing such at f4) but it's just OK.

Older 44-2 version renders pictures with low contrast - great for portrait.

Newer 44-3 version from Belomo has MC coating and is more "conventional".

Both renders in classic Biotar's weird OOF style - these lenses are HIGHLY recommended, being Zenit camera KIT lenses are often sold for peanuts, so it's a shame to not have one in collection, even with full range of IS equipped professional grade zooms around :)