"JAIVEY" Helios 44 + Vid Atlantic ANAMORPHIC Filter + GH5 TEST

I didn’t originally plan to share this, but after obsessing over the Helios 44 for weeks, I realized there’s a gap online. I couldn’t really find proper videos showing how much of the swirl actually remains when using this lens on a crop sensor. Not saying I can do it better than anyone, but here’s a practical test and breakdown.

My Setup:

Panasonic GH5
Viltrox EF-MFT 0.71x Speedbooster
EF to M42 adapter
Helios 44 (Silver M39 version)
49–77mm step-up ring
Vid-Atlantic Anamorphic Filter (clear thread with oval insert)
Tilta Mini Matte Box
No ND filters used
Shot in V-Log for max dynamic range

Key Findings:

The swirl effect is definitely present, but more subtle due to the crop. Still, it's there, soft and clean, not exaggerated or messy in my opinion.

Contrast is weak out of the box. Expect to fix that in post.

Flares are excellent. But heavy flaring kills micro-contrast. Either bounce light on your subject or use a powerful source like an Aputure 300D to fight that.

Corner softness adds to the vintage character without going overboard.

Shooting Tip: If you want to emphasize the swirl and flare, shoot with the sun shining through a tree or reflective surface (like water, Christmas lights, or LEDs). Put your subject between you and the light source. This positioning gives you both swirly bokeh and dynamic flare layering.

Whatever you do: go pick up this lens IMMEDIATELY. You will not be dissapointed.