Hasselblad Announces New Cameras and New Backs

Hasselblad has developed several new cameras and backs, including the H2D fully integrated digital camera, the Ixpress CF and CFH digital camera backs, and the H2 cross-platform camera.

All the new products are fully compatible with Adobe's RAW image format (DNG), and files produced now carry a full set of metadata. The new cameras also offer an optical format larger than 35mm (37 x 49 mm), and Hasselblad's FlexColor image-processing software, which can run on Mac as well as Windows formats. Using RAW DNG-generated files, the newest version of the software allows photographers to manipulate color temperature and compare image details across multiple images for precise image selection. FlexColor also now includes a color engine to produce reliable out-of-the-box color.

In addition, the new products feature the company's Instant Approval Architecture (IAA) for advanced image approval and selection. Based on Hasselblad's Audio Exposure Feedback technology, IAA comprises a set of feedback tools that trigger audible and visible signals for each image captured; the information is recorded in the file and in the file name, providing a quick way to classify and select images in the field.

The H2D is a 22-Mpxl, single-shot, auto-focus digital camera that is designed around the company's H2 medium-format camera (see below). The H2D features a capture rate of 1.5 sec/image, a 2.2-in. OLED display, and image sizes up to 132 MB in 16-bit RGB. Shutter speed range is 1/800 sec to 32 sec

The camera is compatible with Hasselblad HC lenses with integral leaf shutter and lenses from the V system with optional CF lens adapter. The H2D's modular design also allows easy access for cleaning of the sensor. Image storage can be via CF card, external FireWire, or tethered. Price: $26,995.

Custom-designed to be compatible with the new H2 single-shot camera, the 22-Mpxl Ixpress CFH digital back features a 2.2-in. OLED display, and produces 16-bit RGB files up to 132 MB. In addition to the H2, the Ixpress CFH is compatible with all view cameras via the Hasselblad H system adapter. Image storage can be via CF card, external FireWire, or tethered. Price: $24,995.

The Ixpress CF line of backs comprises the single-shot Ixpress CF 132 and the single/multi-shot Ixpress CF 528. Both are 22-Mpxl backs with the Hasselblad open camera interface, and the i-Adapter that allows photographers to use the back with a variety of professional SLR and view cameras. The color resolution of captures can be increased by means of the 4*Res module, resulting in maximum resolution and moire-free images; the 4*Res module is standard with the 528 and optional with the 132. Price: $24,995 [I think this is the price of the 132, but the 528 is closer to $30k, according to info I found on Galbraiths' site, check with hasselblad]

The medium-format, dual-platform H2 builds on the company's H1 camera introduced in 2002. Capable of handling digital and analog capture, the SLR-type H2 is compatible with all Ixpress, Ixpress CF, and Ixpress CFH backs as well as some third-party backs (and film magazines). New features include integral supply of power to the new Ixpress CFH digital back, functions that support the Ixpress CFH's digital back, plus additional meta-data stored in the image file. The camera is compatible with Hasselblad HC lenses with integral leaf shutter and C-type lenses from the V system with optional CF lens adapter. Price: $2808 (body only).

(Hasselblad: www.hasselbladusa.com)