@@MarkHoltze The sound was awesome too but when I watched it (IMAX) the volume was set by someone to 9000 or something 😄. I had a headache the next day and I wasn't able to listen to music with headphones. Also, the scene with the flare was awesome and it instantly reminded me of one scene from Batman vs Superman (guess which one). Same principle but entirely different at the same time. Great video and thanks for bringing this to light
Robert has done a lot to shed that vampire boy stigma no doubt. By the time I saw this thankfully for me, vampire boy was not in the cards. 😆 I know what you mean tho mate ✊
“The creative work should be what dictates the gear and techniques, not the technical limitations of that gear.” YES, yes, yes. This is not my area of expertise but the principle behind it is so inspiring and should be reminded as often as possible. Thanks for making this video.
It’s very true. BUT hasn’t always been able to be put into practice as creative filming in the past didn’t necessarily have the luxury of dictating the gear… only now is this really possible
Limitations existed in filmmaking for decades. It’s what pushes creativity. Limitation forces problem solving which is essentially creativity at its core. ✊
would've been cool to see shots with the helios' original aperture blade setup that gave it the iconic "swirly" bokeh, but as a film photo nerd it's awesome seeing AAA productions still utilizing vintage gear in a beautiful way
Man bro you are one of the few TH-camrs I immediately drop everything I'm doing and go watch your video as soon as it's posted love your work #keepfilming😎💪
Appreciate it Patrick, thanks for being part of this community. I promise to not sell you on anything that I wouldn't deem a worthwhile investment. I know how precious your time is and appreciate your attention and hopefully you can walk away from this with a little more knowledge in the bank to apply to your own creative expressions.
Haha thanks mate. Jus t happy to do it, I won’t be a big tuber and fine with it. Too many compromises. 4 plus years and barely 50k while others can hit 50k in a month lol. Appreciate you watching respect ✊
You and mattias are the goats for poor kids' photography. Your canon fd videos reinvigorated my love for photography and inspired me a lot. Thanks man!
Hadn't planned to, but I'll definitely be watching The Batman now! Thanks for shining the light on these cool ways vintage lenses are used Mark, when you think about it, it's pretty crazy - if you told some Soviet factory worker pumping out hundreds of Helios' a day back in the '70s that a lens they made would end up being used in a Hollywood blockbuster in 2022, they'd probably call you crazy.
After just watching The Batman in cinema and shooting with vintage lenses, you can definitely appreciate the effort that has gone into the overall process here. I see it as a film that is only done true justice in the cinema on a big screen and dark room. With modern equipment, its nearly easier to get very sharp and technically correct images than it is to generate a high quality "Lo Fi" style look. I'm a still, film shooter and don't shoot video, however, the concepts carry over! Great video.
Very much so I agree. A bold move and one I can absolutely get behind. Especially given how much comic book films that are coming and going. This one for me stands way out. But I work as an editor in doc and narrative films so my tastes and appreciation are very craft driven. It’s sometimes nice to see others share in that love that’s for sure
Absolutely loved your video!! Im still learning cinematography and always wondered what lenses they used and got a general idea from shot deck, reddit and such but your video game the most in-depth and clear view on them. Thank you so much ❤️
Thanks for watching mate! Lenses might be the most important intentional decision a DP makes based on the emotion and intention of a scene. What I love about shooting with old lenses is different focal lengths can really help convey the dramatic intention of a scene and in a way that's accessible to pretty much everybody. I know they can be higher maintenance in some aspects, but nothing about narrative production is without effort.
This film honestly is one of the absolute best things I've seen in a looooooong time from a cinematography perspective. Absolutely STUNNING images. And the fact that they used the same exact lenses I have for some shots is empowering.
Totally agree. The images fit the intention perfectly as well. Bring the audience into this world, shroud it in mystery. Make you feel the rain. So good. Greig’s stuff I first really took note at Rogue One bexause I found it wasn’t shot anything like the other Star Wars film. Dune also was visually very beautiful. He’s definitely got a way with the images for sure.
@@MarkHoltze Same! Literally the first film I saw in theaters since the pandemic started. Actually, the second. I watched the Belle anime in theaters when that dropped. Both great experiences, and strong reminders of how dope the cinema experience is.
Listening to that Dolby podcast was truly amazing as it elevates the appreciation of how incredible this film was. Greig truly is one of the greatest cinematographers of our generation and his ability to adapt to a directors vision is truly amazing. Listening to the amount of thought and testing that went into their look was a great insight in to how dedicated they are to their craft, and how lucky we are as viewers to enjoy such an amazing film experience.
Amazing video dude. How epic it is to see these lenses used in such a massive production. Tools us mortal have access too, that’s always exciting to see.
So I worked with Greig Fraser on Rogue One (additional photography) & bought a Helios 58mm for my old DSLR while on the job. I remember showing it to him briefly and he asked if we could put it on the camera. But of course it wasn’t PL mount so we couldn’t do it. Cool to see this pop up on my feed.
Rogue One, was the first Star Wars film that made me appreciate the cinematography in a Star Wars film. PL mount is huge. Not easy to achieve on all lenses without a full rehousing. But when you do….magic can happen lol. Thanks for watching mate. ✊
I really enjoyed this movie for many reasons, but right off the rip, the first thing that struck me was the cinematography and aesthetic choices made. Immediately I knew they were using vintage lenses to take the edge off of the high resolution cameras. I however, was slightly incorrect because I wasn’t expecting those lenses to have been top shelf cinema glass whose elements had been de-centerd and such. That’s really neat and I didn’t realize they were using something like Soviet glass in those scenes. That’s just amazing. Thanks for giving us an insight on this!
Yes same, it’s why I lost it when I saw Greigs post. It confirmed some weird link between watching it and wondering , to full on knowing 😆 I had dinner with an Arri camera rep at NAB last week and he gave me stories about travelling with the DNA’s. Written on the case was DNA and he carried them on….well DNA on a big case at airport threw up some red flags as you would guess in hindsight. The lenses had to be inspected closely in a back room because it was thought human dna was being transported 😆
Found this video because I've (finally) just seen The Batman and was just Googling to find out what lenses Fraser used on the shoot, so I'm pretty chuffed to find out I bloody already own one of them! I also happen to be leaving tomorrow for a trip to Glasgow in Scotland where a lot of The Batman was filmed, so I'll *definitely* be packing my Helios now! Great vid and nice to see smaller companies getting some real recognition too, especially anyone championing vintage glass like this.
Yes!! Enjoy that trip! I’m heading to Vegas for NAB and bringing the Snyder lens 50 0.95 “dream/nightmare” lens. Might find some Zombies to shoot ;). Depth of field optional.
I always watch your videos to the end. Like a Marvel movie, there is always something fun at the end. LOL! As a video production pro myself (30 years in video production, 25 of that as a sound mixer) I have seen more than my fair share of stuff that was rigged just fall down or get knocked over. I was working one time for a News organization in a Colorado mountain town for an ongoing story when one cold, cold morning the wind kicked up and blew down an entire light, stand and sand bag right through the shot! The on-air talent wasn't even phased and kept marshalling on as if nothing had happened. She of course got very dark on one side and she did jump a bit, but kept right on with the live shot. The in-studio people didn't let it go and asked if everyone was OK and what the weather was like. Luckily, the light survived the fall and was back up and running in the next hour for the next live shot. This time everything was tied down using some paracord. The beauty of news is that most of the time, that sort of thing is never seen again and once your 30 to 45 second hit is up, no one ever sees it again. This was also when the director of the show in Atlanta called us up and yelled at me for using a heavy, furry wind screen on the mic for the talent. Said it looked like there was a hamster on her coat. So, for the next shot I removed it and let the wind have at the mostly naked (metal windscreen cap in place of course) mic for the entire standup. About one minute later I got another call from Atlanta. "Yeah, go ahead and use the Hamster. So the weather is pretty brutal out there, huh?" LMAO!!!! I hate doing news...
Fo''Coff Must mean you're familiar with South African dialect! Great to see our lingo being adapted by Canadians lol. Another Fantastic video as always Mark.
That''s so cool, I had no idea it was a SA thing. My wife is Italian and a close friend of mine who does the cups (and designed my logo) it's a big thing in the Italian community so he'sust playing hard off that. I love it though, had no idea it was a SA thing as well! You have my attention and my interest! You need to give me the context behind it from a SA perspective.
Nice to see you again, mark. Your love for vintage lenses, made me get on fire for old cameras. In Fact a Helios 44 was my very first vintage lens. I ever bought. Thanks for that. 🤓🖖
It's a favourite for many and really is one of the best old lenses to use for both photo and video. Cheap, interesting character, great focal length and works on just about every camera system.
@@MarkHoltze and there is so much more out there. I just got a set of Canon fd lenses. I am still figuring out how to make a video about those. My first videos are more about the beauty of stuff. Lenses are a little bit tricky because there is not that much to show. 🤷♂️😁🤷♂️
Awesome video as always Mark. I’ve been a vintage fan for a long time (grew up shooting on film/old Zuiko manual lenses. Your videos always help reinforce how I feel about them.
EXCELLENT video Mark! It's encouraging to know that we all have access to most of the same tools. It's our job to put them to use. Much love from East Tennessee🙏🏼
Thanks Garrett. It’s an interesting position to launch from for sure. If they can make it look that good, how can I up my game. Thanks for watching and leaving your thoughts Garrett!
Super interesting video ! I went to see the Batman 3 times in theaters (yes, it was that good !), and as a filmmaker enthusiast myself, I was wondering what kind of lenses they used, especially in the Batmobile chase. I've seen a few interviews from Matt Reeves and Greig Fraser, but they never got in details on which lenses brand they use, only that it was vintage. Glad to learn some more infos here. Thanks for the investigation !
Thanks mate and yes I think on their front the details can be a bit of a rabbit hole so they speak in general terms. Most people listening don't know what a Helios lens is without a bunch of added context that might derail the convo. I know there's a write up in a UK cinematographer magazine Alan shared with me, if they do an American Cinematographer article, it'll likely be mentioned there. Who knows, just really cool either way :) Thanks for watching.
Interesting video-as always. Funnily enough I’ve just watched the suggested video before watching this one. I love listening to the creative process. Love your passion for vintage glass and it’s relevance today, The Batman reinforces what you’ve been saying all along.
Appreciate it John St John!. The Batman definitely validates my own interpretation of using vintage lenses for video for sure and perfectly encapsulates everything I've been TRYING to say the last 4 + years on this channel. Everybody is different and likes different things, I can't articulately and concisely describe what it is about shooting with old lenses that' inspired me so much, but my only creative freedom is to share it with those who'll listen. Thanks for listening.
Well done Mark. I enjoyed this little video essay on the Helios. I've got the cinemodded version from Ironglass sitting on my shelf and I've yet to shoot with it. This video (and The Batman of course) has inspired me to shoot something with it.
Wow, what a lovely discovery! I'm so exited these little old and humble soviet lenses are here with us doing such a great work. I love my Helioses and Jupiter especially even more now)
Dude, I was just referencing one of your videos this weekend and told my friend he needed to check out the highlight you did about the rehoused Helios lenses you got a while back. I watched The Batman for a third time on my flight home from that work trip and I was wondering what lenses Greig Fraser used to shoot the movie. Now I’m home and finishing the movie on my couch and paused to bring up TH-cam and sure enough, you have a video about it and it’s a rehoused Helios! Hope you’re doing well - another great video!
I JUsT finished watching it at home. HBO max GO!! Such a beautifully shot film and yes the second I found i had to make a video on it lol. Doing well thanks mate! You too I hope!
Yes i know. But even if the optics are cheap still the Batman was filmed like no other. Even better thanks the Army of Dead when Zack used the legandary Canon 50mm f0.95.. the dream lens.
It’s actually nunchuck juggling but it’s so shallow you can’t see 😆. The Helios has amazing out of focus area, zero CA as well….dreamy. Thanks for stopping by mate!
I haven't seen the film yet but this creates a huge connection to those of us who love vintage glass. Proof of the untapped potential that is hiding in these accessible lenses. Great job Mark! I guess I have to go see The Batman now.
I appreciate your work - and the hard work required to do these videos! Jumped into professional photography 6 years ago... my first vintage USE was with one of my old Minolta 50s... my first vintage purchase was a late 50s Leica Summarit 50 1.5, which is an exceedingly difficult lens to use. I have a batch of lens now but this note is supposed to be about you... for you... Just wanted to say... YOU DO IT RIGHT!
Love your channel, style, information I want and humour. Good work. Watched Batman to see how it was filmed, enjoying the fact I have both these "Bat Glass " in my slowly growing kit. Just enjoying it when I get to use different lenses. Thanks for all.
Thanks for the kind words mate. ✊ big fan of using different lenses as well. Figuring them out and what makes them stand out. Exploiting those factors.
I loved the cinematography in the Batman ! I love vintage glass so I was so happy lol. I also appreciated the bold moves they to make it unique not perfect ! It’s just art well appreciated by me.
Very bold for sure and you have lens reviewers who deem flaws in a lens like this “unacceptable”. I’ve had discussions here were people (with no work to show for it) outright say they’re not sharp enough for this or that. Which is funny because I use them in my paid work all the time with big clients and it’s not an issue. It’s a closed minded bias that’s circumstantial to digital cinema and photography that’s entered the digits era. These are not computers where specs rule the game, artistic application is the name of the game. ✊
@@MarkHoltze I will never judges someones art we all create different styles. It’s just another style people like myself love and appreciate. My opinion is vids don’t have to be sharp but a picture should be.
@@MarkHoltze reeves said “ they are creating a feel” and I definitely saw that if they had used super sharp lens it wouldn’t suit the Batman at all they would have to change the whole story lol
I try not to go to camera unless there’s something relevant to say. Prob why I don’t post all the time 😆 this info tho needed a prioritized schedule. Glad you enjoyed it mate, thanks for watching. ✊
What do you mean? The best vintage lens mounts? So many different mounts. M42 is very common (Helios, Takumar, pentax) but each lens has their own mounts in many cases. Canon FD, Contax Yashica, Minolta MD. Just depends on what set you want to collect. Think of it more from the lens and less the mounts and it’s a bit easier ;)
@@MarkHoltze I have read that it's better to buy one mount and search for that mount only, if not you ended with a lot of different adapters and sort of a mess. I have seen difference in price and availability, Canon FD and Nikon F are far more expensive that others mounts, Canon FD is more complicated too, for the maintenance and adapters (I want to maintain my own lenses).
By "de-tuned" i think they are modified by flipping around one glass element. Like the popular mod on helios44 where front glass element is flipped, giving a wild bokeh and edge of the frame is completely out of focus.
thank you I just purchased the lens off your video I have looking at this lens and been hearing good results also which batman movie is it oooh no worries I found it
There’s too many of them floating around for the price to go up too much. Scarcity plays a factor and I still think the popularity of these lenses has peaked in a way. Still way too much work involved than most people are willing to put into. Adapting, manual focus etc. I could be wrong. Thanks for watching ✊
I am completely convinced that the films The Northman and Everything Everywhere All at Once also used the Helios 44-2 in many certain shots, which is so awesome and wild to me.
@@MarkHoltze I also noticed the effect in the trailer to the upcoming horror film Men directed by Alex Garland. The Helios is here to stay and I’m so here for it!
@@MarkHoltze in case of photography people nowadays wanna see more filming look also cuz tired of average pictures everywhere. So classic is always classic 👌
I think what draws me to filmmakers who do things the "wrong" way is because I love to see people use a medium as a physical embodiment of the story. So if it serves the story to use 20mm and under on a closeup or MCU then use it! We invest too much into the price tag of what we bought rather than consider the item as a tool made to do something, and as a craftsman the tool is to be manipulated for the purpose of an artist who's spent the blood, sweat, and tears to become an artist of their craft.
I own both the Jupiter 8 and a couple of different year helios lenses. I would have thought the opposite way when you guessed which was used in which sequence. I'd address the heavy swirl scene to the Helios while the more moderate lesser swirl one to the Jupiter. Anyway, great video. (Y)
I was going by field of view over swirl. The 85 is tighter, but it was just a guess based on my own understanding of focal lengths. The 58 behind a bit wider overall.
“The creative work should be what dictates the gear and techniques, not the technical limitations of that gear.” Thank you. The idea is true, can't be false, proven by real life, the proper textbook says the same, but true personal understanding can come only through practice and profound hard work. Thanks for making the video. Made me remember the textbook line and to appreciate the idea even more. The line goes like so: (translated) "This once again shows that the technical means of photography do not determine anything by themselves. Only the creative thought of the author activates the system of visual and technical means, only directed by the will of the photographer, they contribute to the formation of the image." It's from the basic 1970 Soviet textbook "Conversations about the art of photography" written by Lidia Pavlovna Dyko on the basis of her lectures read at the cameraman's faculty of VGIK. I believe that any good and proper textbook will say something similar, it's just about sticking to what's available and proven by practice. For Russian-speaking countries, L. P. Dyko ru.wikipedia.org/wiki/%D0%94%D1%8B%D0%BA%D0%BE,_%D0%9B%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B8%D1%8F_%D0%9F%D0%B0%D0%B2%D0%BB%D0%BE%D0%B2%D0%BD%D0%B0 is the good-to-go classic author, plain fact. "Basics of composition in photography" ISBN 5-06-001303-0 is also a helpful book. Personally, after maybe 200k shots on my canon 50d with helios 44m-6, jupiter-35 and yn 50mm, AND reading the Dyko textbooks attentively and properly, there is a chance I'll have "some understanding" of the idea.
It's such an important practical aspect of working in this medium. It contradicts much of what you see on y TH-cam which is really just a big push to buy and sell gear, so of course the points to sell that gear are focused on. Gear is rarely part of the discussion though when dealing with the commercial work. Not unless it's serving the story in some way. It's a much more abstract thought to package onto youtube as well. The latest and greatest gear will always get the views over the philosophical practices simply because they're much more highly searched.
Personally speaking, The Batman is a Masterpiece. Stunning to look at. To think that even a few shots were taken with a re-housed Helios puts a big fat grin on my face. Especially knowing that I have one! - Thanks for the Vid 👍
My sentiments echo yours, what a film experience. Between Dune and The Batman, the last two times at the cinema have been BIG time hits. Crazy basically after 2 years of not going (covid shit) and these films plus the time away just made me appreciate it 10 fold. The Helios is a big fat YES to anybody who has ever said you can't use these in "professional work" and I've gotten a lot of that doing vintage lens reviews the last 4 years. I work as an editor in film and TV so I'm not talking out my butt with this lol.
Mark Holtze Totally. Those two films in particular sparked something that, again, personally speaking I haven’t felt in a long while. Especially with all the generic, agenda driven crap fest that’s been churned out over so many years. Correct me If I’m wrong, but I’m fairly sure that both films had a 35mm print transfer (round trip) in their post pipeline to add additional character? Lol. I believe you. Love vintage glass. Think I’m gonna test out the Helios + Anamorphic Adapter Combo. No idea why I haven’t before! Look forward to more vids. Subbed 👍
I've recently acquired both the Helios 44-2 and the Jupiter 9, but only because I found great deals on great copies, and didn't really know much about them. I'm excited to have Batglass now.
Very cool...I am a photographer and when I saw Zack Snyders Army of the Dead I was like wow..the look is so different..looked up and later learned he used a vintage Canon 0.95! lens!. I think made such a creative difference for that movie!..I like learning about cinematography and cinematographers..I sometimes rewatch Blade Runner 2049 just for the cinematography of Deakins.
Ya that was another film, curious why he choose to shoot at 0.95 the whole time, but def made for an interesting look. I guess that's all it boiled down too. I bet that first AC never needs to look for work again with that kind of pulling power .
Your video's on the 44-2, specifically, are what got me into vintage glass, and I have fallen down the rabbit hole! I now have four 44-2s and two Jupiter-9s, and am working on making my own cine conversions for them. For me working with the limitations of your equipment, be it from the practical side, or from the digital side, is what really spurs creativity. I wish more of these big ticket films would actually drop their budgets down to force limitations that cause the film making teams to be creative with how they tell their stories. Thanks for this awesome video!
I'm a firm believer in limitation spurs creativity. Creativity is really a nice word for problem solving so if you don't have everything you want you have to think "outside the box" in a sense to make the most of it. We're constantly working with what we have in an edit, the limitations of what we don't have force us to find cool ways to get what we'd LIKE to have, but in a round about way. In the end if we had everything the results might not have been nearly as cool. Thanks for watching mate!
New Batman BTS suggest that some side mounted cameras in the chase were shot against RP. The batmobile landing shot for example. Perhaps the crash cam stuff was where the vintage glass was used?
I’m obsessed to find out. Crash cam stuff for sure simply for the size and weight. BTS stuff always seems to miss that critical stuff I love …camera and lens specifics lol. It’s cause most people don’t care or it even could be slightly proprietary. I’m hoping American cinematographer comes out with a detailed piece on the Batman. Just read the Lakers Dynasty one and it was camera geek gold. Interesting multi format look in that to match the era. Anyway I’ll check it out. Thanks David!
I have been shooting on all three of those lenses in your case for 7-8 years. I always get snubbed at but they just look great and a perfect for certain situations.
The snubbing is annoying. I get a few comments from people telling me what "can and can't" be used in certain things. Honestly that's fine to have an opinion, I'm cool with that, but please don't state it as absolute fact because it's simply not the case. It started out as an enthusiast but quickly saw the value and started to apply them to my professional work. I cut factual doc and short form narrative series for major networks/streamers so I'm at the very least coming from a position of authority and experience. Greig Fraser and Matt Reeves are in a whole other level, so that's why for me it's the best case study to really demonstrate (with unlimited resources) sometimes the specific tool is chosen to get a job done, despite what people see from certain lens reviews. Anyway blah blah Holtze, thanks for the comment Shauny D
@@MarkHoltze i’m right there with you. I’ve shot some broadcast commercial work with vintage camera lenses. They just fit the bill right and looked great. I think too for personal stuff if a particular lens has a cool vibe that makes you want to or enjoy shooting more it is immediately a better lens than the “best" money can buy. I can shoot on a RED with fancy Zeiss lenses but more often i grab an old original A7s and russian lens because it is more fun and the limitation provokes creativity.
Great video man, it's good to see you explaining the importance of vintage lens 💯 in this Digital Era, by the way I really liked the font typeface that you used in this video, may I know what font you used in this video?
Ok, so...I'm having a bit of trouble at the :23 second mark. I'm also trying to film aperture blades, in a very early Helios 44 and I'm pulling my hair out trying to get a well lit shot without crazy reflections from lights and coating. I can still see your grid softbox, but you've certainly done a great job with it. Can you share how you managed that?
I have a question, so in the car chase scene they used the Helios 44-2, did they use the anamorphic one? Or the spherical one because there’s no anamorphic flare when there’s the Helios 44-2 scene. Or did they use the one you have but on their company?
They had them all modded with anamorphic "bokeh" according to Alan who worked directly with Greig. If you stop down the lens to F4 for example, the oval insert is covered up by the circular aperture blades.
1.) Buy thousands copies of the various base optics, and checking them to find the cleanest and best quality copies. 2.) Spend several years of R&D designing a state of the art lens housing designed to withstand the rigours of a movie set. 3.) Buy several state of the art CNC milling machines and lathes to produce all the parts needed for the lens rehousing… all metal - no 3D printing. 4.) Remove the optics from their originally housings, clean and recenter them. 5.) Pay highly trained technicians to assemble the lenses. 6.) Project and check the lenses - adjust as required until they are on spec.
It’s a bit of a process but accessible for everyone. Ironglass adapters does the service and you ca buy directly or send in a lens. The biggest issue really is the wait time. Pretty much all rehousing services have quite a long cue, simply because of the work involved and demand. www.ironglassadapters.com All the info you might need should be there.
They’re all great! 😆 there is no one best. Like any lens focal length and how the lens renders is critical. It’s also very subjective to your own eye. Best bet is to experiment and draw a conclusion for yourself. The Helios 44-2 is a great lens to start with. Cheap, adaptable, unique look.
It is impressive. I have just seen in the cinema , and it was the first movie that gave me a claustrophobic attack. It was also one of the most literally dark movies I have ever seen, and no need to say the cinematography is outstanding (as is the music and the acting btw). The fact that these lenses are used makes it even more interesting. Must see.
![Chris Langan - The Interview THEY Didn't Want You To See - CTMU [Full Version; Timestamps]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/9miVG2xT5jY/mqdefault.jpg)
Did you see The Batman?
I thought the visuals were by far the strongest aspect of this film... great eye candy for the big screen.
@@julianprzybysawski8543 The sound design was also hype, music and mix had combined made it a wonderful eye/ear experience lol.
@@MarkHoltze The sound was awesome too but when I watched it (IMAX) the volume was set by someone to 9000 or something 😄. I had a headache the next day and I wasn't able to listen to music with headphones. Also, the scene with the flare was awesome and it instantly reminded me of one scene from Batman vs Superman (guess which one). Same principle but entirely different at the same time. Great video and thanks for bringing this to light
Have to admit I wasn't expecting it to be as good as it was, should have never underestimated Matt Reeves. And a solid performance from vampire boy.
Robert has done a lot to shed that vampire boy stigma no doubt. By the time I saw this thankfully for me, vampire boy was not in the cards. 😆 I know what you mean tho mate ✊
“The creative work should be what dictates the gear and techniques, not the technical limitations of that gear.” YES, yes, yes. This is not my area of expertise but the principle behind it is so inspiring and should be reminded as often as possible. Thanks for making this video.
It’s the human factor for sure. Idea chasing vs gear chasing.
It’s very true. BUT hasn’t always been able to be put into practice as creative filming in the past didn’t necessarily have the luxury of dictating the gear… only now is this really possible
Limitations existed in filmmaking for decades. It’s what pushes creativity. Limitation forces problem solving which is essentially creativity at its core. ✊
would've been cool to see shots with the helios' original aperture blade setup that gave it the iconic "swirly" bokeh, but as a film photo nerd it's awesome seeing AAA productions still utilizing vintage gear in a beautiful way
Definitely!
This is so awesome!!! Thanks so much Mark, so glad I could be a tiny part of this video ☺️
BIG part, no video without me chirping your ear off////blowing up your phone ;)
Man bro you are one of the few TH-camrs I immediately drop everything I'm doing and go watch your video as soon as it's posted love your work #keepfilming😎💪
Appreciate it Patrick, thanks for being part of this community. I promise to not sell you on anything that I wouldn't deem a worthwhile investment. I know how precious your time is and appreciate your attention and hopefully you can walk away from this with a little more knowledge in the bank to apply to your own creative expressions.
I love how you interact with viewers, keep it going man, your content is amazing, top tier youtube
Haha thanks mate. Jus t happy to do it, I won’t be a big tuber and fine with it. Too many compromises. 4 plus years and barely 50k while others can hit 50k in a month lol.
Appreciate you watching respect ✊
You and mattias are the goats for poor kids' photography. Your canon fd videos reinvigorated my love for photography and inspired me a lot. Thanks man!
Hadn't planned to, but I'll definitely be watching The Batman now! Thanks for shining the light on these cool ways vintage lenses are used Mark, when you think about it, it's pretty crazy - if you told some Soviet factory worker pumping out hundreds of Helios' a day back in the '70s that a lens they made would end up being used in a Hollywood blockbuster in 2022, they'd probably call you crazy.
Totally! Definitely not the last time we see an old lens being used in a major motion picture that's for sure.
Why wouldn’t you want to watch one of the most if not the most visually stunning movies of the year?
After just watching The Batman in cinema and shooting with vintage lenses, you can definitely appreciate the effort that has gone into the overall process here. I see it as a film that is only done true justice in the cinema on a big screen and dark room. With modern equipment, its nearly easier to get very sharp and technically correct images than it is to generate a high quality "Lo Fi" style look. I'm a still, film shooter and don't shoot video, however, the concepts carry over!
Great video.
Very much so I agree. A bold move and one I can absolutely get behind. Especially given how much comic book films that are coming and going. This one for me stands way out. But I work as an editor in doc and narrative films so my tastes and appreciation are very craft driven. It’s sometimes nice to see others share in that love that’s for sure
This is awesome. Love my Helios 44-2, but had no idea it was used like this! Very cool.
✊
I really appreciate your content. This is by far my favorite of my vintage collection. You continue to bring new creative value to these lenses.
Appreciate it Allen. Thanks for being part of this community.
MAN Very Amazing! Could you-lease tell me what lens did you use for your talking scenes like the one from 1:16 to 1:19 please please?
Canon EF 24m F/1.4.Shot around 2.2 with the background trees about 40 feet away.
@@MarkHoltze I really can't thank you enough for answering back! This is helpful! Really loved the quality of your videos! 😍🙏
Absolutely loved your video!! Im still learning cinematography and always wondered what lenses they used and got a general idea from shot deck, reddit and such but your video game the most in-depth and clear view on them. Thank you so much ❤️
Thanks for watching mate! Lenses might be the most important intentional decision a DP makes based on the emotion and intention of a scene. What I love about shooting with old lenses is different focal lengths can really help convey the dramatic intention of a scene and in a way that's accessible to pretty much everybody. I know they can be higher maintenance in some aspects, but nothing about narrative production is without effort.
This film honestly is one of the absolute best things I've seen in a looooooong time from a cinematography perspective. Absolutely STUNNING images. And the fact that they used the same exact lenses I have for some shots is empowering.
Totally agree. The images fit the intention perfectly as well. Bring the audience into this world, shroud it in mystery. Make you feel the rain. So good. Greig’s stuff I first really took note at Rogue One bexause I found it wasn’t shot anything like the other Star Wars film. Dune also was visually very beautiful. He’s definitely got a way with the images for sure.
@@MarkHoltze yeah, Dune was utterly transcendent in its cinematography. Loved it~!
It was the first film I had seen in awhile at the cinema as well, was a nice way to get back into it :)
@@MarkHoltze Same! Literally the first film I saw in theaters since the pandemic started. Actually, the second. I watched the Belle anime in theaters when that dropped. Both great experiences, and strong reminders of how dope the cinema experience is.
Completely! Thanks for the convo mate! Enjoyed that! Here’s to Dune 2 ;)
Listening to that Dolby podcast was truly amazing as it elevates the appreciation of how incredible this film was. Greig truly is one of the greatest cinematographers of our generation and his ability to adapt to a directors vision is truly amazing. Listening to the amount of thought and testing that went into their look was a great insight in to how dedicated they are to their craft, and how lucky we are as viewers to enjoy such an amazing film experience.
Absolutely! I love this stuff, I live for awhile it really. You learn so much and it’s just a conversation. ✊
Third time watching this video. The vintage lens journey continues, appreciate you for adding more context to this space ✊🏾
It’s a wild ride but more fun with friends 😆
Amazing video dude. How epic it is to see these lenses used in such a massive production. Tools us mortal have access too, that’s always exciting to see.
Totally but don’t lie you love that you have one too. 😆 so does Pete. Have a good weekend gents
So I worked with Greig Fraser on Rogue One (additional photography) & bought a Helios 58mm for my old DSLR while on the job. I remember showing it to him briefly and he asked if we could put it on the camera. But of course it wasn’t PL mount so we couldn’t do it. Cool to see this pop up on my feed.
Rogue One, was the first Star Wars film that made me appreciate the cinematography in a Star Wars film. PL mount is huge. Not easy to achieve on all lenses without a full rehousing. But when you do….magic can happen lol. Thanks for watching mate. ✊
I really enjoyed this movie for many reasons, but right off the rip, the first thing that struck me was the cinematography and aesthetic choices made. Immediately I knew they were using vintage lenses to take the edge off of the high resolution cameras. I however, was slightly incorrect because I wasn’t expecting those lenses to have been top shelf cinema glass whose elements had been de-centerd and such. That’s really neat and I didn’t realize they were using something like Soviet glass in those scenes. That’s just amazing. Thanks for giving us an insight on this!
Yes same, it’s why I lost it when I saw Greigs post. It confirmed some weird link between watching it and wondering , to full on knowing 😆
I had dinner with an Arri camera rep at NAB last week and he gave me stories about travelling with the DNA’s. Written on the case was DNA and he carried them on….well DNA on a big case at airport threw up some red flags as you would guess in hindsight. The lenses had to be inspected closely in a back room because it was thought human dna was being transported 😆
Excellent work Mark! Your editing is so 🤌🤌🤌. I really enjoy your videos.
Thanks for watching Taylor ✊
Found this video because I've (finally) just seen The Batman and was just Googling to find out what lenses Fraser used on the shoot, so I'm pretty chuffed to find out I bloody already own one of them! I also happen to be leaving tomorrow for a trip to Glasgow in Scotland where a lot of The Batman was filmed, so I'll *definitely* be packing my Helios now! Great vid and nice to see smaller companies getting some real recognition too, especially anyone championing vintage glass like this.
Yes!! Enjoy that trip! I’m heading to Vegas for NAB and bringing the Snyder lens 50 0.95 “dream/nightmare” lens. Might find some
Zombies to shoot ;). Depth of field optional.
I had missed your videos, Mark, but then you come and publish this. I loved all 9 minutes and 14 seconds of it!
Ya it has been awhile for sure, but was struggling with a concept I thought would be fun. 8 scripts before this one I ended up hating.
@@MarkHoltze I think your hard work has paid well. Everything sounded quite smooth. :-)
I always watch your videos to the end. Like a Marvel movie, there is always something fun at the end. LOL!
As a video production pro myself (30 years in video production, 25 of that as a sound mixer) I have seen more than my fair share of stuff that was rigged just fall down or get knocked over.
I was working one time for a News organization in a Colorado mountain town for an ongoing story when one cold, cold morning the wind kicked up and blew down an entire light, stand and sand bag right through the shot! The on-air talent wasn't even phased and kept marshalling on as if nothing had happened. She of course got very dark on one side and she did jump a bit, but kept right on with the live shot. The in-studio people didn't let it go and asked if everyone was OK and what the weather was like. Luckily, the light survived the fall and was back up and running in the next hour for the next live shot. This time everything was tied down using some paracord. The beauty of news is that most of the time, that sort of thing is never seen again and once your 30 to 45 second hit is up, no one ever sees it again. This was also when the director of the show in Atlanta called us up and yelled at me for using a heavy, furry wind screen on the mic for the talent. Said it looked like there was a hamster on her coat. So, for the next shot I removed it and let the wind have at the mostly naked (metal windscreen cap in place of course) mic for the entire standup. About one minute later I got another call from Atlanta. "Yeah, go ahead and use the Hamster. So the weather is pretty brutal out there, huh?"
LMAO!!!!
I hate doing news...
I still need to watch this film. Good stuff. Can't justify the cost of the Ironglass mods, but I love my Helios!
Yes rehousing is like niche squared 😆 basic lens is still great value! Enjoy it mate!
So cool to see a new video from you.
Haven't seen The Batman so far.
But the video kind of teases me to watch it ...
It's a long one, but IMHO very. much worth it. Definitely a cinema experience.
Fo''Coff Must mean you're familiar with South African dialect! Great to see our lingo being adapted by Canadians lol. Another Fantastic video as always Mark.
That''s so cool, I had no idea it was a SA thing. My wife is Italian and a close friend of mine who does the cups (and designed my logo) it's a big thing in the Italian community so he'sust playing hard off that. I love it though, had no idea it was a SA thing as well! You have my attention and my interest! You need to give me the context behind it from a SA perspective.
Nice to see you again, mark.
Your love for vintage lenses, made me get on fire for old cameras. In Fact a Helios 44 was my very first vintage lens. I ever bought. Thanks for that. 🤓🖖
It's a favourite for many and really is one of the best old lenses to use for both photo and video. Cheap, interesting character, great focal length and works on just about every camera system.
@@MarkHoltze and there is so much more out there. I just got a set of Canon fd lenses. I am still figuring out how to make a video about those. My first videos are more about the beauty of stuff. Lenses are a little bit tricky because there is not that much to show. 🤷♂️😁🤷♂️
Awesome video as always Mark. I’ve been a vintage fan for a long time (grew up shooting on film/old Zuiko manual lenses. Your videos always help reinforce how I feel about them.
More love for vintage glass,YES! Great story. Thanks for the inside scoop and entertaining facts. My Bat-Glass is always on the top shelf.
Thanks for watching Karen! 👌
EXCELLENT video Mark! It's encouraging to know that we all have access to most of the same tools. It's our job to put them to use. Much love from East Tennessee🙏🏼
Thanks Garrett. It’s an interesting position to launch from for sure. If they can make it look that good, how can I up my game.
Thanks for watching and leaving your thoughts Garrett!
This is awesome Mark!
Thanks Javi! Thanks for watching too! Enjoy your weekend!
@@MarkHoltze you too man !
Super interesting video !
I went to see the Batman 3 times in theaters (yes, it was that good !), and as a filmmaker enthusiast myself, I was wondering what kind of lenses they used, especially in the Batmobile chase.
I've seen a few interviews from Matt Reeves and Greig Fraser, but they never got in details on which lenses brand they use, only that it was vintage. Glad to learn some more infos here.
Thanks for the investigation !
Thanks mate and yes I think on their front the details can be a bit of a rabbit hole so they speak in general terms. Most people listening don't know what a Helios lens is without a bunch of added context that might derail the convo. I know there's a write up in a UK cinematographer magazine Alan shared with me, if they do an American Cinematographer article, it'll likely be mentioned there. Who knows, just really cool either way :) Thanks for watching.
Interesting video-as always. Funnily enough I’ve just watched the suggested video before watching this one. I love listening to the creative process.
Love your passion for vintage glass and it’s relevance today, The Batman reinforces what you’ve been saying all along.
Appreciate it John St John!. The Batman definitely validates my own interpretation of using vintage lenses for video for sure and perfectly encapsulates everything I've been TRYING to say the last 4 + years on this channel. Everybody is different and likes different things, I can't articulately and concisely describe what it is about shooting with old lenses that' inspired me so much, but my only creative freedom is to share it with those who'll listen. Thanks for listening.
Well done Mark. I enjoyed this little video essay on the Helios. I've got the cinemodded version from Ironglass sitting on my shelf and I've yet to shoot with it. This video (and The Batman of course) has inspired me to shoot something with it.
Amazing! Enjoy that experience and thanks for watching
Wow, what a lovely discovery! I'm so exited these little old and humble soviet lenses are here with us doing such a great work. I love my Helioses and Jupiter especially even more now)
They’re hard not to love…. ✊
Dude, I was just referencing one of your videos this weekend and told my friend he needed to check out the highlight you did about the rehoused Helios lenses you got a while back. I watched The Batman for a third time on my flight home from that work trip and I was wondering what lenses Greig Fraser used to shoot the movie. Now I’m home and finishing the movie on my couch and paused to bring up TH-cam and sure enough, you have a video about it and it’s a rehoused Helios! Hope you’re doing well - another great video!
I JUsT finished watching it at home. HBO max GO!! Such a beautifully shot film and yes the second I found i had to make a video on it lol. Doing well thanks mate! You too I hope!
So cool! Helios lenses are an excellent choice! No wonder The Batman was so vintage-looking movie!
Quite the process behind the film for sure, but pretty crazy $50 optics are used in a big budget feature film, even for just a handful of quick shots.
Yes i know. But even if the optics are cheap still the Batman was filmed like no other. Even better thanks the Army of Dead when Zack used the legandary Canon 50mm f0.95.. the dream lens.
I own a lot of vintage m42 glass. They're simply awesome and easy to adapt to full frame.
The easiest for sure! ✊
Hey man I just wanted to say thanks for making this video. Once I heard it was used I was trying to look everywhere and figure out why.
The second I found out I was on the same hunt! Glad I’m not the only one! Thanks for watching Adam! ✊
Just went and bought a 44-2, loved the film, thanks for the video!
It’s prob the coolest vintage lens. Cheap, plentiful and charming. Very little CA as well, even wide open. Enjoy Dan!
I have the cine-mod Helios from IronGlass... wonderful lens, a joy to work with. Great video Mark.
Thanks! Yes big fan of Ironglass, super stoked to see them working on such interesting projects.
I've been in love with these lenses for a couple years now. Just waiting on the v2 housing which are rolling out now.
Heck yes. Going to send these ones in for refitting. Internal focus all day long please!
Awesome video, also noticed that your audio tracks are perfectly set as I’m wearing phones, bravo 👏
Most important of all. Clean audio! ✊ thanks for watching mate!
That shadow boxing with the coffee mug is out of this world. 10/10
It’s actually nunchuck juggling but it’s so shallow you can’t see 😆. The Helios has amazing out of focus area, zero CA as well….dreamy.
Thanks for stopping by mate!
I haven't seen the film yet but this creates a huge connection to those of us who love vintage glass. Proof of the untapped potential that is hiding in these accessible lenses. Great job Mark! I guess I have to go see The Batman now.
If you can see it on the big screen I highly suggest it. Audio and visual experience is so worth it. If not, catch it streaming soon I think.!
I love your TMNT (1990) sound effects you used in this one!
I had to! Lol I love that scene ✊
I appreciate your work - and the hard work required to do these videos! Jumped into professional photography 6 years ago... my first vintage USE was with one of my old Minolta 50s... my first vintage purchase was a late 50s Leica Summarit 50 1.5, which is an exceedingly difficult lens to use. I have a batch of lens now but this note is supposed to be about you... for you... Just wanted to say... YOU DO IT RIGHT!
Thanks Scott, kind of you to say ✊
Great vid Mark, love your work, I too have a Helios, I've put a sticker on it 'used in the making of Batman'😉👍
Imagine justifying it to the client after this? You see the car chase scene? This lens……mic drop
@@MarkHoltze haha yes, the lens will get respect now (more so!) I wonder if more producers will use it now.
Love your channel, style, information I want and humour. Good work. Watched Batman to see how it was filmed, enjoying the fact I have both these "Bat Glass " in my slowly growing kit. Just enjoying it when I get to use different lenses. Thanks for all.
Thanks for the kind words mate. ✊ big fan of using different lenses as well. Figuring them out and what makes them stand out. Exploiting those factors.
So awesome! Great video Mark!! 🙌🙌🙌
Thanks Kyle!! ✊
Well there is a surprise.... detuned lenses and a helios. 44-2 I'm so glad I own both and have has then for ages... now the value is going up again
Makes me happy knowing I got a Jupiter 9 on the way :)!
Still one of the most affordable 85 lenses. No CA either!
I loved the cinematography in the Batman ! I love vintage glass so I was so happy lol. I also appreciated the bold moves they to make it unique not perfect ! It’s just art well appreciated by me.
Very bold for sure and you have lens reviewers who deem flaws in a lens like this “unacceptable”. I’ve had discussions here were people (with no work to show for it) outright say they’re not sharp enough for this or that. Which is funny because I use them in my paid work all the time with big clients and it’s not an issue. It’s a closed minded bias that’s circumstantial to digital cinema and photography that’s entered the digits era. These are not computers where specs rule the game, artistic application is the name of the game. ✊
@@MarkHoltze I will never judges someones art we all create different styles. It’s just another style people like myself love and appreciate. My opinion is vids don’t have to be sharp but a picture should be.
@@MarkHoltze reeves said “ they are creating a feel” and I definitely saw that if they had used super sharp lens it wouldn’t suit the Batman at all they would have to change the whole story lol
Always a great show i can't miss on TH-cam ..Great Job @Mark Holtze
Thanks for watching Barbirou!
1st video I’ve watched from you and loved the info. Got my sub for the Batman
I try not to go to camera unless there’s something relevant to say. Prob why I don’t post all the time 😆 this info tho needed a prioritized schedule. Glad you enjoyed it mate, thanks for watching. ✊
Hi Mark. Which are the best vintage mounts to collect?
What do you mean? The best vintage lens mounts? So many different mounts. M42 is very common (Helios, Takumar, pentax) but each lens has their own mounts in many cases. Canon FD, Contax Yashica, Minolta MD. Just depends on what set you want to collect. Think of it more from the lens and less the mounts and it’s a bit easier ;)
@@MarkHoltze I have read that it's better to buy one mount and search for that mount only, if not you ended with a lot of different adapters and sort of a mess. I have seen difference in price and availability, Canon FD and Nikon F are far more expensive that others mounts, Canon FD is more complicated too, for the maintenance and adapters (I want to maintain my own lenses).
This is absolutely amazing, just tells you the sky is the limit and inspires you to out there and experiment like with with whatever gear you have!
So much more rewarding than chasing gear. ✊
Loved this video, man! hands down!!!
Thanks mate! Was fun to make. :)
@@MarkHoltze Also super fun to watch! Great job
By "de-tuned" i think they are modified by flipping around one glass element. Like the popular mod on helios44 where front glass element is flipped, giving a wild bokeh and edge of the frame is completely out of focus.
Ya not sure what they did exactly. The result is now in the Arri Hero lenses which you can dial in the de-tune. ✊
thank you I just purchased the lens off your video I have looking at this lens and been hearing good results also which batman movie is it oooh no worries I found it
Glad I’ve got a couple of these already, guessing the price will rocket now. Great video dude, you had me at “batglass”, now subscribed
There’s too many of them floating around for the price to go up too much. Scarcity plays a factor and I still think the popularity of these lenses has peaked in a way. Still way too much work involved than most people are willing to put into. Adapting, manual focus etc.
I could be wrong. Thanks for watching ✊
I am completely convinced that the films The Northman and Everything Everywhere All at Once also used the Helios 44-2 in many certain shots, which is so awesome and wild to me.
You’re the second person to mention that in a short amount of time. It had my curiosity, now it’s got my attention lol.
@@MarkHoltze I also noticed the effect in the trailer to the upcoming horror film Men directed by Alex Garland. The Helios is here to stay and I’m so here for it!
Awesome video man. Wish I could give it two thumbs up. Very well written too. Cheers.
Thanks! Two thumbs, pitch it to TH-cam 😆!
Saw The Batman a few weeks ago. Going back to watch it again later today.
It’s better the second time ;)
the helios 44-2 was on my PC table while I was watching this video... goosebumps ❤️❤️❤️
Kind of makes you appreciate it more doesn’t it 👀
Have both of them. Love both of them. Making commercial photography with them. Making money and get lot of fun. ❤️
Keep vintage lens strong❗
Love hearing this from a photo perspective. Not my forte but with a higher demand for resolution this makes me happy. ✊
@@MarkHoltze in case of photography people nowadays wanna see more filming look also cuz tired of average pictures everywhere. So classic is always classic 👌
I think what draws me to filmmakers who do things the "wrong" way is because I love to see people use a medium as a physical embodiment of the story. So if it serves the story to use 20mm and under on a closeup or MCU then use it! We invest too much into the price tag of what we bought rather than consider the item as a tool made to do something, and as a craftsman the tool is to be manipulated for the purpose of an artist who's spent the blood, sweat, and tears to become an artist of their craft.
“Physical embodiment” I really think that’s a great term to describe it. Well said Gustavo! I agree fully ✊
Mark, what did you shoot this video on gimme the deets, looks fantastic.
Mark
Mostly shot on the C100 mark 2, the piano and nunchuck stuff was shot S1H with the Helios 44-2 rehoused.
Mostly shot on the C100 mark 2, the piano and nunchuck stuff was shot S1H with the Helios 44-2 rehoused
THIS VIDEO IS OLD BUT I HAVE TO SHOUT ABOUT HOW MUCH I APPRECIATE YOU BEING A ONE MAN TREASURE TROVE OF RESOURCES! THANK YOUUUUUU~
✊
Beautifully done! 👏
Thanks Chris! ✊
I own both the Jupiter 8 and a couple of different year helios lenses. I would have thought the opposite way when you guessed which was used in which sequence. I'd address the heavy swirl scene to the Helios while the more moderate lesser swirl one to the Jupiter. Anyway, great video. (Y)
I was going by field of view over swirl. The 85 is tighter, but it was just a guess based on my own understanding of focal lengths. The 58 behind a bit wider overall.
I love your presentation... YOU can sell it man!!!!
Thanks Michael! ✊
what music is playing between 2:39 - 4:00 ?)
Awesome just awesome. I was supposed to watch the batman but last minute changes me it not happen. Now I want to see it even more!
Dang!! Make sure you can see it in the cinema if you can. The sights, the SOUNDS!!!
“The creative work should be what dictates the gear and techniques, not the technical limitations of that gear.” Thank you. The idea is true, can't be false, proven by real life, the proper textbook says the same, but true personal understanding can come only through practice and profound hard work.
Thanks for making the video. Made me remember the textbook line and to appreciate the idea even more. The line goes like so: (translated)
"This once again shows that the technical means of photography do not determine anything by themselves. Only the creative thought of the author activates the system of visual and technical means, only directed by the will of the photographer, they contribute to the formation of the image."
It's from the basic 1970 Soviet textbook "Conversations about the art of photography" written by Lidia Pavlovna Dyko on the basis of her lectures read at the cameraman's faculty of VGIK. I believe that any good and proper textbook will say something similar, it's just about sticking to what's available and proven by practice. For Russian-speaking countries, L. P. Dyko ru.wikipedia.org/wiki/%D0%94%D1%8B%D0%BA%D0%BE,_%D0%9B%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B8%D1%8F_%D0%9F%D0%B0%D0%B2%D0%BB%D0%BE%D0%B2%D0%BD%D0%B0 is the good-to-go classic author, plain fact. "Basics of composition in photography" ISBN 5-06-001303-0 is also a helpful book.
Personally, after maybe 200k shots on my canon 50d with helios 44m-6, jupiter-35 and yn 50mm, AND reading the Dyko textbooks attentively and properly, there is a chance I'll have "some understanding" of the idea.
It's such an important practical aspect of working in this medium. It contradicts much of what you see on y TH-cam which is really just a big push to buy and sell gear, so of course the points to sell that gear are focused on. Gear is rarely part of the discussion though when dealing with the commercial work. Not unless it's serving the story in some way. It's a much more abstract thought to package onto youtube as well. The latest and greatest gear will always get the views over the philosophical practices simply because they're much more highly searched.
Personally speaking, The Batman is a Masterpiece. Stunning to look at. To think that even a few shots were taken with a re-housed Helios puts a big fat grin on my face. Especially knowing that I have one! - Thanks for the Vid 👍
My sentiments echo yours, what a film experience. Between Dune and The Batman, the last two times at the cinema have been BIG time hits. Crazy basically after 2 years of not going (covid shit) and these films plus the time away just made me appreciate it 10 fold. The Helios is a big fat YES to anybody who has ever said you can't use these in "professional work" and I've gotten a lot of that doing vintage lens reviews the last 4 years.
I work as an editor in film and TV so I'm not talking out my butt with this lol.
Mark Holtze Totally. Those two films in particular sparked something that, again, personally speaking I haven’t felt in a long while. Especially with all the generic, agenda driven crap fest that’s been churned out over so many years. Correct me If I’m wrong, but I’m fairly sure that both films had a 35mm print transfer (round trip) in their post pipeline to add additional character?
Lol. I believe you. Love vintage glass. Think I’m gonna test out the Helios + Anamorphic Adapter Combo. No idea why I haven’t before!
Look forward to more vids. Subbed 👍
I've recently acquired both the Helios 44-2 and the Jupiter 9, but only because I found great deals on great copies, and didn't really know much about them. I'm excited to have Batglass now.
Enjoy them!! They’ll do you well ;)
Very cool...I am a photographer and when I saw Zack Snyders Army of the Dead I was like wow..the look is so different..looked up and later learned he used a vintage Canon 0.95! lens!. I think made such a creative difference for that movie!..I like learning about cinematography and cinematographers..I sometimes rewatch Blade Runner 2049 just for the cinematography of Deakins.
Ya that was another film, curious why he choose to shoot at 0.95 the whole time, but def made for an interesting look. I guess that's all it boiled down too. I bet that first AC never needs to look for work again with that kind of pulling power .
Bat glass. Lol! Love it! I have a 42 lying around…. Now I feel like marrying it to my camera once again =-D
It’s such a great lens…video and photo.
Just have to say I appreciated the Mikey nunchucks audio clip you snuck in there.
One of my fav scenes in that film 😆 happy to share the appreciation for that moment. ✊
Good text and presentation. thank you))
✊ thanks for stopping by!
Your video's on the 44-2, specifically, are what got me into vintage glass, and I have fallen down the rabbit hole!
I now have four 44-2s and two Jupiter-9s, and am working on making my own cine conversions for them.
For me working with the limitations of your equipment, be it from the practical side, or from the digital side, is what really spurs creativity.
I wish more of these big ticket films would actually drop their budgets down to force limitations that cause the film making teams to be creative with how they tell their stories.
Thanks for this awesome video!
I'm a firm believer in limitation spurs creativity. Creativity is really a nice word for problem solving so if you don't have everything you want you have to think "outside the box" in a sense to make the most of it. We're constantly working with what we have in an edit, the limitations of what we don't have force us to find cool ways to get what we'd LIKE to have, but in a round about way. In the end if we had everything the results might not have been nearly as cool.
Thanks for watching mate!
New Batman BTS suggest that some side mounted cameras in the chase were shot against RP. The batmobile landing shot for example. Perhaps the crash cam stuff was where the vintage glass was used?
I’m obsessed to find out. Crash cam stuff for sure simply for the size and weight. BTS stuff always seems to miss that critical stuff I love …camera and lens specifics lol. It’s cause most people don’t care or it even could be slightly proprietary. I’m hoping American cinematographer comes out with a detailed piece on the Batman. Just read the Lakers Dynasty one and it was camera geek gold. Interesting multi format look in that to match the era.
Anyway I’ll check it out. Thanks David!
@00:39 Great use of the 1989 ninja turtles nunchuck audio ✊🏽🔥🔥✊🏽
Whenever I can 😆 love that scene
@@MarkHoltze same haha 😂
Great Video. I just found you. I will become a Subscriber and try to view more of your channel
YES. VINTAGE LENS ARE THE KING OF VISUAL STORY TELLING
Awesome, thank you! and welcome!
I have been shooting on all three of those lenses in your case for 7-8 years. I always get snubbed at but they just look great and a perfect for certain situations.
The snubbing is annoying. I get a few comments from people telling me what "can and can't" be used in certain things. Honestly that's fine to have an opinion, I'm cool with that, but please don't state it as absolute fact because it's simply not the case. It started out as an enthusiast but quickly saw the value and started to apply them to my professional work. I cut factual doc and short form narrative series for major networks/streamers so I'm at the very least coming from a position of authority and experience. Greig Fraser and Matt Reeves are in a whole other level, so that's why for me it's the best case study to really demonstrate (with unlimited resources) sometimes the specific tool is chosen to get a job done, despite what people see from certain lens reviews.
Anyway blah blah Holtze, thanks for the comment Shauny D
@@MarkHoltze i’m right there with you. I’ve shot some broadcast commercial work with vintage camera lenses. They just fit the bill right and looked great. I think too for personal stuff if a particular lens has a cool vibe that makes you want to or enjoy shooting more it is immediately a better lens than the “best" money can buy. I can shoot on a RED with fancy Zeiss lenses but more often i grab an old original A7s and russian lens because it is more fun and the limitation provokes creativity.
The Batman cinematography is so beautiful
It really is. Sound design, cutting…all of it so good.
Great job ! Do you know what camera was used with the lenses?
A they bought a few Alexa classics for the mounted cameras. Good image, light weight
Great video man, it's good to see you explaining the importance of vintage lens 💯 in this Digital Era, by the way I really liked the font typeface that you used in this video, may I know what font you used in this video?
Thanks mate, let me get back to you on the font, not near that computer right now!
@@MarkHoltze okay, am waiting.
@@MarkHoltze hey man you still out of the range of your computer?
Ok, so...I'm having a bit of trouble at the :23 second mark. I'm also trying to film aperture blades, in a very early Helios 44 and I'm pulling my hair out trying to get a well lit shot without crazy reflections from lights and coating. I can still see your grid softbox, but you've certainly done a great job with it.
Can you share how you managed that?
Ya the grid j keep on I don’t know why, but just need to get the angles right. Macro lens, playing with the light, camwra position etc
I’m using a Tokina AT-X 90mm macro lens.
Thanks! I love your style! Keep up the great work.
✊
I have a question, so in the car chase scene they used the Helios 44-2, did they use the anamorphic one? Or the spherical one because there’s no anamorphic flare when there’s the Helios 44-2 scene. Or did they use the one you have but on their company?
They had them all modded with anamorphic "bokeh" according to Alan who worked directly with Greig. If you stop down the lens to F4 for example, the oval insert is covered up by the circular aperture blades.
@@MarkHoltze so they used the spherical one and modified the bokeh into anamorphic?
1.) Buy thousands copies of the various base optics, and checking them to find the cleanest and best quality copies.
2.) Spend several years of R&D designing a state of the art lens housing designed to withstand the rigours of a movie set.
3.) Buy several state of the art CNC milling machines and lathes to produce all the parts needed for the lens rehousing… all metal - no 3D printing.
4.) Remove the optics from their originally housings, clean and recenter them.
5.) Pay highly trained technicians to assemble the lenses.
6.) Project and check the lenses - adjust as required until they are on spec.
Fantastic content.
How does one go about getting a lens rehoused? Can anyone have it done, or is this only on the domaine of Hollywood?
It’s a bit of a process but accessible for everyone. Ironglass adapters does the service and you ca buy directly or send in a lens. The biggest issue really is the wait time. Pretty much all rehousing services have quite a long cue, simply because of the work involved and demand.
www.ironglassadapters.com
All the info you might need should be there.
I love your video! I have some question because I'm fairly new in the vintage lenses world. What is the best vintage lens in your opinion for video?
They’re all great! 😆 there is no one best. Like any lens focal length and how the lens renders is critical. It’s also very subjective to your own eye. Best bet is to experiment and draw a conclusion for yourself. The Helios 44-2 is a great lens to start with. Cheap, adaptable, unique look.
Great video! if you don't mind me asking, which font are you using for your titles? I love it but I can't seem to identify it :P
It’s called vintage something. I had it when I was subbed to an elements set I d but it’s expired now. Envato, look up “vintage” you should find it
Great overview of some great lenses.
Thanks Daniel!
It is impressive. I have just seen in the cinema , and it was the first movie that gave me a claustrophobic attack. It was also one of the most literally dark movies I have ever seen, and no need to say the cinematography is outstanding (as is the music and the acting btw). The fact that these lenses are used makes it even more interesting. Must see.
Nicely said Christophe.
Thanks for sharing. Very interesting!!
By the way, what camera did you use to shoot this video of yourself??
Just the old c100 mark 2. It’s my TH-cam camera now, just too easy to shoot with to deny it 😆
Fantastic content!
Thanks Lugen ✊
Loved the look of the film
Same, still loving it. ✊
Another great video!
Thanks Avery, pretty dusty in here wasn't it? lol
@@MarkHoltze aha greatness takes time aha. Also kinda nice not having to buy a new lens for awhile ahahahaha I keed I keed - but seriously