David Terao
January 2025 - Snowdrops
Original
About the Image(s)
I shot this image at a local, public garden this morning. I wasn't expecting much, but then I saw these amazing snowdrop flowers. I used a Nikon Zf camera and a converted, vintage Helios 44-2 lens (58mm f/2.0). The lens was made in the USSR in the 1970/80s. I recently converted it and have been having a blast playing with it. By "converted" I mean disassembling the lens and reversing the front lens element. I learned how to do this by watching several Youtube videos. The effect of the converted lens is quite unique - a dreamy blur with crazy, swirly bokeh. And, these snowdrops provided the perfect subject.
8 comments posted
I found it very interesting your description on how you did this, enjoyed the details. I like what you have done with this and the look. Reminds me of a Lensbaby. Nice. Good subject. Posted: 01/15/2025 00:38:34
Thanks, Dick. Yes, it looks like it was taken with a Lensbaby...on steroids. Posted: 01/15/2025 11:34:48
David, I enjoyed reading how you converted you Helios lens. I converted my Helios lens also. Like you, I watched quite a few videos before attempting to reverse the lens element. I had an "oops" moment when doing it... When I finally was able to get the lens element off, somehow I turned the whole lens upside down and I ended up with most of the inside parts of the lens on the table! I was able to put it all back together... I really like my Helios lens.
Your image is unique... I love the effect of the Helios on the background. The snowdrops were a perfect subject. Posted: 01/15/2025 02:50:37
Your image is unique... I love the effect of the Helios on the background. The snowdrops were a perfect subject. Posted: 01/15/2025 02:50:37
Thank you, Diana. The same thing happened to me the first time I reversed the front element. After removing the top retaining ring, the front element was stuck, so I turned the lens upside down and tapped it on the table. Everything came out haphazardly, and it took me a couple tries putting all the parts back in in the correct manner. Posted: 01/15/2025 11:41:32
Love this dreamy, swirly Lensbaby effect. The white snowdrop pops against the background. I prefer your original image. It has more depth, and appears as if you are traveling in space towards a black hole. I really like the ethereal effect of the Helios lens. Nice job, David. Posted: 01/15/2025 16:04:31
Thank you for your feedback. Now that you mention it, I see what you mean about the original image. It does have more contrast and depth. Hmm... Posted: 01/15/2025 18:26:51
Hi David, I really love the dreamy feel of this image. The swirling background from the Helios lens adds such a magical touch, perfectly framing the flower.
I have this lens in my bag as well, and I use it extensively because I enjoy the dreamy finish it creates. However, it can be tricky to find the right balance between a sharp focus point and the soft, dreamy background.
Posted: 01/20/2025 19:48:06
Yes, getting desired look from the Helios lens is difficult. And, finding the right subject is not easy. I have the same problem when using Lensbaby lenses. Posted: 01/20/2025 20:23:15