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Posts Tagged ‘Hasselblad’

Hands-on with the Hasselblad CFV II 50C and 907X

22 Jun

Hands-on with the Hasselblad CFV II 50C and 907X

The Hasselblad CFV II 50C is an upgraded version of the original CFV 50C digital back that was launched in 2014. This new model though comes, I assume, with the benefits of the speed improvements in the X1D II 50C that make operation quicker, and that it will provide large JPEGs as well as general improved quality in JPEG files.

The back is exciting in as much as it is designed to work with V-system film camera bodies to bring them into the modern age: even some of the earliest Hasselblad models from the 1950s.

What makes this version much more exciting though is that is also designed to couple with a new 907X body that accepts the X-series lenses – so the CFV II 50C back is a gateway not only to digitizing older classic bodies, but also to using the new X lenses in a smaller, classic-style format. Here the CFV II 50C back is married to the 907X body and mounted with the XCD 65mm F2.8 lens.

Hands-on with the Hasselblad CFV II 50C and 907X

The back is designed very much in the classic Hasselblad style, and the 907X body is made to match. The black textured finish and chrome trim is straight from the first mainstream Hasselblad medium format film bodies.

This side of the 907X body features only the strap lugs, while the CFV II 50C has its USB-C socket disguised as something like a frame counter window on the A12 film back. It is all quite minimalist this side.

Hands-on with the Hasselblad CFV II 50C and 907X

Underneath we have a collection of screw mounts and sockets. On the left are the connections that will allow the 907X to communicate with the optional grip that Hasselblad will introduce with the camera. In videos shown of the system the grip has a shutter release and a collection of control points for directing the operation of the body.

Hands-on with the Hasselblad CFV II 50C and 907X

Below the rear screen is a flap that conceals another series of connection ports. Sockets for microphone, headphone, HDMI, two sizes of flash connections (in and out) and Hasselblad’s ELX socket.

The flash sockets allow short cables to be used to connect wireless triggers and standard PC flash cables. It isn’t certain yet if the HDMI socket will survive into the final production model, I was told, so don’t count on it until the camera comes out.

Hands-on with the Hasselblad CFV II 50C and 907X

The CFV II 50C has a neat flip-out screen that allows viewing from three positions: folded flat to the back and slightly raised are just two of them. The screen has a collection of buttons for controlling the back and camera’s functions, and the buttons come up with the screen when it is angled away from the body.

Hands-on with the Hasselblad CFV II 50C and 907X

Here the screen is flipped up fully. It provides something of the waist-level finder experience of the classic V system bodies. Someone will probably invent a chimney-finder hood before the CFV II 50C even arrives on the market.

Hands-on with the Hasselblad CFV II 50C and 907X

The front of the 907X with the lens removed shows that there’s no body shutter so we see straight through to the sensor of the CFV II 50C. As all Hasselblad lenses use a lens shutter there’s no need for one in this little camera.

The body carries the contacts that allow it to communicate with the lens to drive the AF, aperture and shutter commands.

Hands-on with the Hasselblad CFV II 50C and 907X

This new version of the CFV has an internal battery compartment so we no longer have to attach a battery to the outside of the body. The back accepts the same battery that is used in both X1D models. You can see too that there are dual SD card slots: most likely UHS-II, as with the new X1D II 50C.

Hands-on with the Hasselblad CFV II 50C and 907X

To access the battery compartment and the SD card slots, a panel on the side of the CFV II 50C is pulled backwards to reveal the hinge. Once this is done the compartment door springs open. It is a very neat design.

Hands-on with the Hasselblad CFV II 50C and 907X

The CFV II 50C digital back and the 907X camera body clip together in exactly the same way a film back mounts on the back of a V series camera. Guiding prongs at the bottom slide in first and then we just clip the top edges together.

Hands-on with the Hasselblad CFV II 50C and 907X

Away from the CFV II 50C the 907X body is very skinny. It really is more than just a mount adapter though, as it offers controls for the user as well as running functions like AF, aperture etc that you wouldn’t expect to be able to control from a digital back.

The 907X name comes from the SWC 9xx series that saw the 903 and 905 bodies designed to be used with super wide-angle lenses.

Hands-on with the Hasselblad CFV II 50C and 907X

The shutter release button on the 907X is positioned exactly where you would expect it to be on a classic Hasselblad, so that it can be operated with the same hand that cradles the body. Around the shutter release is a dial that can be used to adjust exposure settings.

Next to the dial, on the side of the camera, is a small button that can be used to toggle the dial’s function when the camera is used in manual mode. I guess it will also deal with exposure compensation in the semi-auto modes.

Hands-on with the Hasselblad CFV II 50C and 907X

The CFV II 50C is also fitted with a USB-C socket for tethered shooting and for downloading images from the memory cards. The socket can also be used for charging the battery, though I’m not sure whether it can be used to power the back while it is in use as well.

The CFV II 50C has a whole new row of contacts that the original version didn’t have. These are to allow the back to interface with the 907X.

Hands-on with the Hasselblad CFV II 50C and 907X

In Hasselblad’s publicity the CFV II 50C and 907X set up is shown with an optical viewfinder mounted on the top of the camera section, just as the SWC models had.

I couldn’t see how this could be done on the pre-production example I was using as there is no hot shoe or obvious mounting area. There is chance that Hasselblad name plate will flip up to allow accessories to be mounted. This one though was firmly rooted in place.

Hands-on with the Hasselblad CFV II 50C and 907X

Here’s the CFV II 50C mounted on the back of a Hasselblad 503 CX – a model made between 1989 and 1994. This is a relatively modern model that still fetches just under $ 2000 with an A12 back and a good 80mm F2.8 standard lens. The CFV II 50C looks completely at home on it, and there is little to tell us that it wasn’t made at the same time as the camera.

Hasselblad bodies don’t have too much trouble holding their value on the second-hand market, but we should expect rising prices over the next few months as interest in these models is peaked and the V-system comes back to life once again.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Hasselblad launches X1D II 50C with improved handling, faster responses and lower price

22 Jun

Hasselblad has released a new version of its X1D medium format digital camera that offers a range of upgraded features and a speedier operating system. With improvements based around user feedback, the X1D II 50C offers a larger rear screen, a higher resolution EVF, faster startup and reduced lag, as well as a collection of menu and interface changes. Hasselblad says the new camera offers a ‘quicker and more intuitive medium format experience’. Critically though, the new version will cost a good deal less than the original X1D, presumably to bring it closer to the price of the Fujifilm GFX 50R.

Using the same body and pixel-count as the original X1D 50C, the Mark II is clearly an upgrade rather than a completely new camera, a fact reflected in the naming convention. A new processor appears to have been used that speeds up the operating system so that the time it takes the camera to start up is cut by 46%, shutter lag is cut and the blackout time between frames is reduced.

Users will get an extra 0.4 fps on the maximum drive mode taking the frame rate to 2.7 fps, and the time it takes to preview and scroll through recorded images has been decreased. The new processor allows a 62% better refresh rate in the viewfinder too – it’s now 60 fps – and focus accuracy has been improved.

Hasselblad claims the 3.6″ rear screen is the largest available on a digital medium format camera, and has increased the resolution to 1024×768 pixels with the total number of dots standing at 2.36M compared to the 920,000 screen used on the original model. Likewise, the EVF resolution has jumped from 2.36M dots to 3.69M (1024×768 vs 1280×960), and the new 0.87x magnification gives users a bigger view.

Hasselblad says the camera’s menu system has been tweaked to make it more logical and to deliver easier access to the functions, while new icons and clearer language make finding what you are looking for more straightforward. The menu can now be displayed and operated in the viewfinder, while a new system for touch AF has been incorporated and the control screen will now display more information, including self-timer and a Balance Scale to indicate exposure adjustments.

JPEG users will be pleased to hear that the X1D ll 50C allows not only full sized JPEG images but that JPEGs can be recorded on their own with no Raw accompaniment. And, the company says the quality of its JPEG files has improved – though we don’t get to know how exactly.

The camera’s 24.7Wh battery can be charged either in an external charging block or in-camera via the USB socket. This also allows the battery to be charged via a powerbank when on the location. Another new feature is that a GPS module is now built into the body instead of being supplied as a hot shoe accessory. This saves the $ 175 that it costs for the hotshoe model used with the original body if one wasn’t supplied with your camera, while freeing up the hot shoe for a flash unit.

The Hasselblad X1D II 50C will be available in July 2019 and will cost $ 5750 (before tax) or €6000/£5400 (inc VAT). For more information see the Hasselblad website.

Phocus Mobile 2 allows Raw download and cabled connection

Hasselblad has also updated its Phocus Mobile iOS app so that now users can not only control the camera and rate images, but additionally download Raw and JPEG files to their iPad Pro and iPad Air (2019) devices. The app can connect to the X1D II 50C either via Wi-Fi as before or via the camera’s USB-C port, and will now support tethered shooting.
Phocus Mobile 2 is free, and will be available on Apple’s App Store.

Press release

X1D II 50C – AN EVOLVED MEDIUM FORMAT PHOTOGRAPHY EXPERIENCE

In the pursuit to continue the journey of taking medium format outside of the studio, Hasselblad is pleased to announce the next installment of the X System – the X1D II 50C Mirrorless Medium Format Digital Camera. Dedicated to optimising the X System for a wider audience of creatives, Hasselblad has listened to user feedback and improved upon the first generation with enhanced electronics for a quicker and more intuitive medium format experience.

Continuing in the legacy of being the most portable and lightweight digital medium format camera, the X1D II 50C lets you take the power of medium format in a footprint smaller than most full frame DSLRs in a beautifully designed, compact package. Its large, high resolution 50-megapixel CMOS sensor (43.8 x 32.9 mm) is 1.7 times larger than 35mm full format sensors, packing in huge pixels (5.3 x 5.3 nm) for capturing images with superb tonality. With outstanding colour depth and an impressive dynamic range of 14 stops, which allows for capturing immense details in both shadows and highlights, the photographer is left with plenty of room for adjustment in post-processing. With Hasselblad Natural Colour Solution (HNCS) technology integrated into the camera’s system, exceptional, true-to-life tones are delivered that match what the human eye sees.

Building upon the award-winning first generation, the X1D II 50C blends form and function with minimalistic, Scandinavian design aesthetics and a smooth handling experience with its ergonomic grip. The new X1D II 50C continues to provide creatives with incredible Hasselblad image quality, with 16-bit RAW images and now full resolution JPEGs, in a compact, lightweight design.

Developing upon the first generation of the X System, the X1D II 50C’s upgraded electronic platform includes a higher resolution 3.6-inch 2.36-million-dot touch display, which is physically the largest LCD display currently available on a digital medium format camera.

Additionally, the X1D II 50C features a higher resolution enhanced OLED electronic viewfinder (EVF) with 3.69-million dots and a high magnification of 0.87x, letting you see the bigger picture. The much higher resolution of the rear display screen (1024×768) gives a more vivid, true to life image viewing experience.

The X1D II 50C’s live view features a faster refresh rate, reduced shutter lag and black out time between frames, an improved continuous capture rate, and a startup time cut almost in half from the first generation. Building upon the highly-intuitive user interface of the previous model, further refinements have been made to the X1D II 50C to improve the camera’s handling experience, including the ability to access the menu system when looking in the EVF, giving greater usability in the sunniest conditions.

Enabling an even more portable medium format workflow, Hasselblad’s post production solutions now include the new Phocus Mobile 2. Connected via USB-C and Wi-Fi, photographers can transfer RAW and full quality JPEG files directly from the X1D II 50C and edit RAW images on their iPad Pro or iPad Air (2019) while out on the field.

PHOCUS MOBILE 2 TAKES IMAGE PROCESSING WORKFLOW TO A NEW PORTABLE LEVEL

Expanding the possibilities of the Hasselblad workflow, Phocus Mobile 2 takes the image editing process to a new, portable level. Compatible with the X1D II 50C via either USB-C or Wi-Fi, this application is currently supported on iPad Pro and iPad Air (2019) models, enabling the traveling photographer to have a quicker, more mobile workflow. With Phocus Mobile 2, users can import, edit and rate RAW images and import and rate full quality JPEG images directly on their portable device. In addition, Phocus Mobile 2 supports full quality image export, tethered shooting and direct camera control.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Hands-on with the Hasselblad X1D II 50C

21 Jun

Hands on with Hasselblad’s X1D II 50C

The new Hasselblad X1D II 50C is housed in a body that’s almost exactly the same as that used for the original X1D 50C. You will notice that the top plate and metal trim are now a dark grey instead of the lighter shade brushed chrome used on the original model, but there isn’t too much to tell them apart at first glance.

Hasselblad’s first X system zoom lens

This is the camera with the new 35-75mm F3.5-4.5 lens mounted. This is the first zoom for the X system and is said to produce the quality that exceeds prime lenses. While it is relatively big when compared to the other system lenses it is still well balanced and comfortable on the X1D II 50C body. It isn’t nearly as heavy as it looks either, at 1115g weighing only a bit more than a Nikon 24-70mm F2.8 for the F system. For a medium format lens it is doing quite well.

X1D II 50C top view

The top plate remains unchanged from the previous model, with a Nikon-compatible hotshoe, and the same control layout and operation as before.

Grip changes

There is a slightly different shape to the right hand grip in the new version I’m told. The grip is slightly more angled to the main body, and the finger and thumb holds are a little more pronounced, providing a more secure grip with longer lenses. The difference isn’t dramatic and I’m not sure I could tell without direct comparison, but the grip feels good either way.

Rear screen changes

The change in the rear screen though is dramatic. The new 3.6″ display looks significantly bigger and fills a lot more of the back of the camera than the screen on the original model. We have a much higher resolution too, with 2.36 million dots compared to 920k dots, which leads to much greater detail on display.

Higher resolution viewfinder

The viewfinder enjoys a higher resolution as well as a slightly larger magnification of the image on display. The resolution has jumped from 2.36 million dots to 3.69 million, and when you look through the finder window you can see the effect of that extra detail. The refresh rate is also improved to 60 fps which makes a further significant difference. These three changes make this viewfinder a much more modern device and very nice to use.

USB-C and UHS-II

The switch to USB-C allows better communication with external devices, so large files can be moved more quickly to a user’s iPad or computer when shooting tethered or when downloading captured images. The camera has dual SD slots that have been upgraded to UHS-II and which can accept 1TB cards.

Few changes to UI

The main menu screen hasn’t really changed that much. Some of the icons are redrawn to be clearer and with the higher resolution display everything looks a bit sharper and cleaner.

Menu navigation

Accessing the menu items though has changed, so now we have menus in menus, like folders, instead of big long lists of items which take ages to scroll through. The menu can now be viewed in the viewfinder too, which can make operation a good deal more convenient.

Shooting data

The main shooting data display is much the same as before, though now we have the exposure indicator in the middle of the screen.

More responsive touch control

I was very pleased with the reactions of the touch functions and how much more responsive they are now. Touching your subject on the rear screen brings the AF area to that point and the focusing system to life immediately. It is a dramatic improvement on previous performance. We can now also change the size of the AF area just by pinching with two fingers on the rear screen, which is much quicker than before. The three AF area sizes options are still accessible in the menu as well.

Touch pad AF

Now the rear screen can be used as a touch pad to direct the AF area while our eye is to the viewfinder. This also is a massive improvement, and the system works quickly, smoothly and predictably.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Hasselblad launches X1D ll 50C with improved handling, faster responses and lower price

19 Jun

Hasselblad has released a new version of its X1D medium format digital camera that offers a range of upgraded features and a speedier operating system. With improvements based around user feedback, the X1D ll 50C offers a larger rear screen, a higher resolution EVF, faster startup and reduced lag, as well as a collection of menu and interface changes. Hasselblad says the new camera offers a ‘quicker and more intuitive medium format experience’. Critically though, the new version will cost a good deal less than the original X1D, presumably to bring it closer to the price of the Fujifilm GFX 50R.

Using the same body and pixel-count as the original X1D 50C, the X1D ll 50C is clearly an upgrade rather than a completely new camera, a fact reflected in the naming convention. A new processor appears to have been used that speeds up the operating system so that the time it takes the camera to start up is cut by 46%, shutter lag is cut and the blackout time between frames is reduced.

Users will get an extra 0.4 fps on the maximum drive mode taking the frame rate to 2.7 fps, and the time it takes to preview and scroll through recorded images has been decreased. The new processor allows a 62% better refresh rate in the viewfinder too – it’s now 60 fps – and focus accuracy has been improved.

Hasselblad claims the 3.6″ rear screen is the largest available on a digital medium format camera, and has increased the resolution to 1024×768 dots-per-inch with the total number of dots standing at 2.36 million compared to the 920,000 screen used on the original model. Likewise, the EVF resolution has jumped from 2.36 million dots to 3.69 million (1024×768 vs 1280×960), and the new 0.87x magnification gives users a bigger view.

Hasselblad says the camera’s menu system has been tweaked to make it more logical and to deliver easier access to the functions, while new icons and clearer language make finding what you are looking for more straightforward. The menu can now be displayed and operated in the viewfinder, while a new system for touch AF has been incorporated and the control screen will now display more information, including self-timer and a Balance Scale to indicate exposure adjustments.

JPEG users will be pleased to hear that the X1D ll 50C allows not only full sized JPEG images but that JPEGs can be recorded on their own with no Raw accompaniment. And, the company says the quality of its JPEG files has improved – though we don’t get to know how exactly.

The camera’s 3400 mAh battery can be charged either in an external charging block or in-camera via the USB socket. This also allows the battery to be charged via a powerbank when on the location. Another new feature is that a GPS module is now built into the body instead of being supplied as a hot shoe accessory. This saves the $ 175 that it costs for the hotshoe model used with the original body if one wasn’t supplied with your camera, while freeing up the hot shoe for a flash unit.

The Hasselblad X1D ll 50C will be available in July 2019 and will cost $ 5750/€5000/£4500. For more information see the Hasselblad website.

Phocus Mobile 2 allows Raw download and cabled connection

Hasselblad has also updated its Phocus Mobile iOS app so that now users can not only control the camera and rate images, but additionally download Raw and JPEG files to their iPad Pro and iPad Air (2019) devices. The app can connect to the X1D ll 50C either via Wi-Fi as before or via the camera’s USB-C port, and will now support tethered shooting.
Phocus Mobile 2 is free, and will be available on Apple’s App Store.

Press release

X1D II 50C – AN EVOLVED MEDIUM FORMAT PHOTOGRAPHY EXPERIENCE

In the pursuit to continue the journey of taking medium format outside of the studio, Hasselblad is pleased to announce the next installment of the X System – the X1D II 50C Mirrorless Medium Format Digital Camera. Dedicated to optimising the X System for a wider audience of creatives, Hasselblad has listened to user feedback and improved upon the first generation with enhanced electronics for a quicker and more intuitive medium format experience.

Continuing in the legacy of being the most portable and lightweight digital medium format camera, the X1D II 50C lets you take the power of medium format in a footprint smaller than most full frame DSLRs in a beautifully designed, compact package. Its large, high resolution 50-megapixel CMOS sensor (43.8 x 32.9 mm) is 1.7 times larger than 35mm full format sensors, packing in huge pixels (5.3 x 5.3 nm) for capturing images with superb tonality. With outstanding colour depth and an impressive dynamic range of 14 stops, which allows for capturing immense details in both shadows and highlights, the photographer is left with plenty of room for adjustment in post-processing. With Hasselblad Natural Colour Solution (HNCS) technology integrated into the camera’s system, exceptional, true-to-life tones are delivered that match what the human eye sees.

Building upon the award-winning first generation, the X1D II 50C blends form and function with minimalistic, Scandinavian design aesthetics and a smooth handling experience with its ergonomic grip. The new X1D II 50C continues to provide creatives with incredible Hasselblad image quality, with 16-bit RAW images and now full resolution JPEGs, in a compact, lightweight design.

Developing upon the first generation of the X System, the X1D II 50C’s upgraded electronic platform includes a higher resolution 3.6-inch 2.36-million-dot touch display, which is physically the largest LCD display currently available on a digital medium format camera.

Additionally, the X1D II 50C features a higher resolution enhanced OLED electronic viewfinder (EVF) with 3.69-million dots and a high magnification of 0.87x, letting you see the bigger picture. The much higher resolution of the rear display screen (1024×768) gives a more vivid, true to life image viewing experience.

The X1D II 50C’s live view features a faster refresh rate, reduced shutter lag and black out time between frames, an improved continuous capture rate, and a startup time cut almost in half from the first generation. Building upon the highly-intuitive user interface of the previous model, further refinements have been made to the X1D II 50C to improve the camera’s handling experience, including the ability to access the menu system when looking in the EVF, giving greater usability in the sunniest conditions.

Enabling an even more portable medium format workflow, Hasselblad’s post production solutions now include the new Phocus Mobile 2. Connected via USB-C and Wi-Fi, photographers can transfer RAW and full quality JPEG files directly from the X1D II 50C and edit RAW images on their iPad Pro or iPad Air (2019) while out on the field.

PHOCUS MOBILE 2 TAKES IMAGE PROCESSING WORKFLOW TO A NEW PORTABLE LEVEL

Expanding the possibilities of the Hasselblad workflow, Phocus Mobile 2 takes the image editing process to a new, portable level. Compatible with the X1D II 50C via either USB-C or Wi-Fi, this application is currently supported on iPad Pro and iPad Air (2019) models, enabling the traveling photographer to have a quicker, more mobile workflow. With Phocus Mobile 2, users can import, edit and rate RAW images and import and rate full quality JPEG images directly on their portable device. In addition, Phocus Mobile 2 supports full quality image export, tethered shooting and direct camera control.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Video: Hasselblad H6D-100C medium-format camera paired with DIY anamorphic lens system

14 May

Through his YouTube channel GxAce, cinematographer Casey Cavanaugh has published a new video showcasing his homemade ‘GX-Pan’ anamorphic lens adapter used with the $ 32k Hasselblad H6D-100C medium-format digital camera.

According to Cavanaugh, Hasselblad saw the video in which he unveiled his DIY anamorphic lens adapter setup and offered to let him test it with the medium-format model. ‘I was absolutely blown away by how much my little anamorphic lens resolved on that 100MP sensor,’ Cavanaugh says in his video. ‘I was honestly worried that it wasn’t going to hold up to that scrutiny of 100MP.’

Cavanaugh explains that in addition to being an anamorphic lens created for a Super 16 projection, the unit also has a persistent fungus problem that has proven difficult to eliminate. In light of that, says Cavanaugh, the ‘insanely sharp’ images produced by the setup were ‘honestly very surprising.’ The demonstration also includes short video clips shot with the system.

Cavanaugh’s previous content includes tips on purchasing a film camera and a short award-winning film on the risks of photo obsession. A selection of his anamorphic still images are available on his website.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Hasselblad launches new cable release, battery charging hub for X1D

16 Mar

Hasselblad has introduced a cable release for its X1D medium format rangefinder-style camera alongside a new USB double battery charger. The Release Cord X is 90cm/36in long and triggers the shutter in single shot and continuous modes, and controls the camera via its microphone socket.

Dual slots on the Battery Charging Hub allow for two batteries to be charged simultaneously and for the camera to be powered via the USB C connector. The hub can be plugged into the AC power supply to charge batteries and the camera, or it can be fed from a portable power bank. The hub is compatible with both battery varieties the camera takes, but charges the newer 3400mAh models 25% more quickly – in 2 hours 18 minutes for one and 2 hours 48 minutes for two. The older 3200mAh model takes 3 hours.

Batteries can be checked via the LED panel that monitors the charging process as well as providing a quick levels readout for partially charged units.

The Hasselblad Release Cord X will cost €69 / $ 80 / £64 / JPY¥9360 excl. VAT. / CNY¥629 incl. VAT, and the Battery Charging Hub will be €129 / $ 155 / £115 / JPY¥17460 excl. VAT / CNY¥1199 incl. VAT. For more information see the Hasselblad website.

Press release:

{pressrelease}

Hasselblad X system expands with Release Cord X and Battery Charging Hub

Hasselblad proudly expands its photographic tool kit for the X System with the introduction of the new Release Cord X and Battery Charging Hub. With Hasselblad’s full commitment to the development of the X System, these two new accessories alongside the introduction of the newest XCD Lenses greatly expand the creative capabilities of the revolutionary mirrorless medium format X1D-50c.

The Hasselblad Release Cord X allows for remote shutter actuation, an invaluable tool when eliminating shake or vibration is paramount. A durable cloth-wrapped 90cm (36 in.) cable connects to the X1D-50c’s microphone input port and the remote’s simple single button operation allows photographers to keep vibration to a minimum. When autofocus is enabled on the camera, a single action swiftly starts autofocus and then releases the shutter. Holding the button down when in Continuous Capture mode allows for multiple frames to be captured, whilst setting the camera in Manual Focus mode allows for Release Cord X to fire the shutter without delay. Its durable metal construction matches the adventurous endeavours of Hasselblad’s X System users and its slim, ergonomic design fits comfortably in the hand. For seamless functionality, the X1D should be updated to the latest 1.22 firmware available at My Hasselblad.

The Hasselblad Battery Charging Hub makes it possible for a Hasselblad photographer to streamline the battery charging process, allowing X1D photographers to go further with their creative pursuits. Its dual slots support the simultaneous charging of two batteries while an integrated USB Type-C connector supports mains power via an included power supply or from common external USB battery banks (sold separately). Front-facing LEDs indicate status and capacity when charging, or users can use the Battery Charging Hub to check battery levels simply by inserting a battery and pressing a single button. The Battery Charging Hub supports both first-generation 3200mAh X System batteries and current 3400mAh batteries, the latter of which support quick-charging up to 25% faster than the former. This equates to a completely replenished single battery in 2 hours 18 minutes, or dual batteries in 2 hours 48 minutes. First-generation 3200mAh batteries recharge completely in approximately 3 hours and completed charging cycles are indicated by an audible chime in either situation. With a durable metal construction and compact design, the Battery Charging Hub is posed to simplify a critical aspect of photography and ensure that maximum creative vision can be achieved.

The Hasselblad Release Cord X is available to purchase with an MSRP of €69 / $ 80 / £64 / JPY¥9360 excl. VAT. / CNY¥629 incl. VAT.

The Hasselblad Battery Charging Hub is available to purchase with an MSRP of €129 / $ 155 / £115 / JPY¥17460 excl. VAT / CNY¥1199 incl. VAT.

{/pressrelease}

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Hasselblad updates firmware for X1D-50c, adds support for new XCD lenses

26 Jan

Hasselblad has announced a firmware update for its X1D-50c medium format mirrorless camera that brings new and improved support to a number of lenses and a converter as well as added features and functionality within the camera itself.

In addition to improved autofocus compatibility with compatible HC/HCD lenses via the XH Adapter, firmware version 1.22 adds support for the following lenses and converter:

  • XCD 65mm F2.8
  • XCD 80mm F1.9
  • XCD 135mm F2.8
  • H 1.7x Converter

Also in the update is a new exposure bracketing option that makes it possible to set a timer to avoid camera shake when shooting long exposures, a new indication to let users know what Auto Focus Scan Range is being used (Near, Far, or Full) and a new customizable icon arrangement on the main menu screen of the X1D-50c.

It’s also now possible to turn off the front-facing LED when using the self timer countdown and the ability to reset focus point in live view by pressing the Cross (X) button.

Firmware version 1.22 can be downloaded directly from Hasselblad’s website.

Hasselblad Firmware Update 1.22 for X1D-50c adds support for new XCD Lenses

With the release of Hasselblad’s most recent XCD Lenses, the XCD 65, 80, and 135 including X Converter 1,7, the new 1.22 Firmware Update ensures photographers are equipped with the most up-to-date tools for capturing their creative visions. Alongside the latest 0.5.33 lens firmware, this update also includes a list of minor improvements that advance the overall functionality of the X1D- 50c mirrorless medium format camera. As with all X1D-50c and XCD Lens firmware updates, these upgraded features are easily downloaded through the My Hasselblad section at Hasselblad.com.

Support of Newest Lenses The XCD 2,8/65, XCD 1,9/80 and XCD 2,8/135 are added to the lineup of supported lenses for the X1D-50c. Note that these lenses must also be updated to firmware 0.5.33 as well.

New Exposure Bracketing option It is now possible to set an initial delay in order to avoid camera shake on long exposures.

Indication of Auto Focus Scan Range in Live View With lenses that support divided scan range of Near, Far, or Full, a visual icon will be shown in Live View indicating when Near or Far settings are enabled. Currently the XCD 120 and XCD 135 lenses support this feature.

Customisable icon arrangement on main menu screen Drag and drop icons to rearrange quick-access shortcuts to settings and options on the X1D-50c’s main menu screen.

New Custom Button options Three new custom button options are available, including Live View On/Off, Drive to Near (mini- mum focus distance) and AF Scan Range Cycle.

New Self Timer option It is now possible to turn off the front flashing LED during the Self Timer countdown.

AF with HC/HCD Lenses and Converters/Extension Tubes Autofocus for compatible HC/HCD Lenses via the XH Adapter includes expanded support of select H System lens accessories including extension tubes and select adapters.

Reset Focus point in Live View Set Focus Point back to the centre directly while in Live View by pressing the Cross (X) Button.

Firmware updates are available from the “My Hasselblad > Downloads” section online at Hasselblad. com. Users can update their firmware simply by downloading the “.cim” file to an SD card and selecting Firmware Update from the Service Menu on their camera.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Hasselblad Phocus 3.4 update adds new shadow/highlights tool, adjustment layers, more

07 Dec

Hasselblad has released an update to its medium format post-production program Phocus. Focus version 3.4 adds improvements across the board, including improved shadow and highlight tools, new adjustment layer tools, expanded live view options, new lens profile, and more.

The enhanced Shadow Fill and Highlight Recovery tools have been ‘significantly enhanced.’ Hasselblad says the updated algorithm ‘enables photographers to fully utilize the dynamic range available in their images,’ although exactly how it’s changed remains a mystery. In the event the updated methodology isn’t what a user wants, or the a user is working with previously-corrected images, Hasselblad has also included the old algorithm under a selectable version option.

Hasselblad has added Shadow Fill and Clarity options to the adjustment layer tools so they can now be used as local adjustments with the brush tool and linear and radial gradients. A new Detail tool has also been added under the exposure toolset. This new tool is used alongside the Clarity tool to fine-tune the local contrast in an image.

Focus 3.4 also includes a new Live View Aperture option that lets users ‘to automatically open to the widest aperture possible or to use the selected aperture instead when activating live view.’

Also new is an updated Noise Filter tool and additional lens profiles for the following lenses:

• XCD 2,8/65
• XCD 1,9/80
• XCD 2,8/135 with X Converter 1.7

To download Hasselblad Phocus 3.4, head over to Hasselblad’s Phocus download page.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Award-winning film shot through Hasselblad 500CM warns of photo obsession dangers

13 Nov

I think there may be more than a few of us who have been told that we spend too long looking through a viewfinder instead of experiencing life first hand. And there will be plenty of us who know that sometimes we don’t get to experience an event because we are constantly looking for the best angle and thinking photography rather than feeling the moment as everyone else is.

Filmmaker Casey Cavanaugh has made a really cool film on the subject, and has created a wooden rig that allowed him to mount his Sony a7S above the viewfinder of a Hasselblad 500CM so he could record the movie through the viewfinder of the medium format film camera. I won’t spoil the story for you, but it doesn’t end well for the Hasselblad! Cavanaugh also shared the main actress in the film, Corrina VanHamlin, tragically passed away after it was made.

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Link in bio || We all had a really amazing time making this short film for the Capital City Film Festival. Watching it now is a little more difficult for me as well as anyone who might have known the amazing lead actress, Corrina VanHamlin. She tragically passed away this year and her performance in this film is but a glimpse into the wonderful and talented person she was. I’m extremely grateful that we were able to make this piece of art together. Huge thanks to the rest of the team, @xiaoxinghan @ryanzern @danhartleyvideo @lukepline • • • • • • #cinematic #shortfilm #hasselblad500cm #hasselblad #fujiframez #framez #sonyframez #fujifilm #sonya7sii #sonya7riii #sonya7iii #fullframe #atomosshogun #groundglass #mediumformatfilm #mediumformat #mediumformatphotography #mediumformatcamera @hasselblad @hasselbladfeatures @hasselbladculture @hasselblad.japan @petapixel @phoblographer

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See the GxAce YouTube channel to watch Casey’s other films. Cavanaugh is the same guy behind the DIY XPan camera video DPReview shared last week.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Video: DIY Hasselblad XPan camera combines Hasselblad 500cm and anamorphic lens

10 Nov

Cinematographer Casey Cavanaugh of GxAce has published a video detailing the creation of his own Hasselblad XPan, a DIY camera he calls the GX-Pan. “I always wanted an XPan, the anamorphic dream,” Cavanaugh narrates in his video. “But it has always been out of my reach, so I built my own.”

The DIY GX-Pan features a custom machined adapter design to mount an anamorphic lens onto a Hasselblad 500cm camera. “What makes this better than an XPan, in my opinion, is that it gives a true anamorphic widescreen image,” Cavanaugh explains. Viewers are given both technical details and brief looks at the creation process.

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X-Pans are too damn expensive. So I built my own. Link to the video is up in the bio. #hasselbladxpan #xpan #anamorphiclens • • • • • • #anamorphic #anamorphiles #hasselblad #hasselblad500cm #fujiframez #fujixt3 #500cm #mediumformat #mediumformatfilm #cinematic #cinematography #cinebible #photocinematica #filmisnotdead @japancamerahunter @emulsivefilm @petapixel @phoblographer @35mmcblog @camerafilmphoto #panoramic #fujitx2 @hawkanamorphic @hasselblad @hasselbladfeatures @hasselbladculture

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Cavanaugh’s work can be found on his personal website, Flickr, and Instagram.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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