Mark Focus: September 2012

Wednesday, September 12, 2012

Hasselblad Announces New Model: The H5D

Hasselblad H5D-50

Sept. 12, 2012 via Hasselblad Press/Photos courtesy Hasselblad

Hasselblad is set to launch a new flagship H5D medium format camera series.

Hasselblad's next generation H System camera will be showcased at the Hasselblad press conference at photokina, Cologne, Germany (Tuesday Sep 18: 2pm-3pm). The H5D features a modernized design and a complete new electronic engine to pave the way for ultimate quality imaging, for print ready JPEG files, and for a smooth and intuitive user interface. The camera is billed by the Sweden-based company as the latest step in the evolution of the best high-end camera system in the world.

Hasselblad H5D-50 with 100mm F2.2 Lens

Aimed at high-end professional users the H5D offers:

• New H System lens: HCD 4.8/24 mm, equivalent to 17 mm on 35 mm DSLR format.

Hasselblad HCD 24mm F4.8

• New Macro Converter, for superb close-up performance with wide angle lenses.

• RAW + JPEG mode for quick preview and print.

• New True Focus II provides unique, accurate focus and Immediate Focus Confirm.

• Full access to camera information and image preview on rear in tethered mode.

• The largest, brightest viewfinder image on the market.

• New larger, more ergonomic buttons and an easier to read display style.

• New sealing for improved weather proofing plus new sensor unit safety lock.

• Optional battery adapter for standalone operation of digital capture unit.

• Ultimate image quality with Hasselblad Natural Color Solution.

• A choice of software: Hasselblad Phocus 2.7 and Adobe® Lightroom® 4 both included.

Peter Stig-Nielsen, Hasselblad's Director of Professional Camera Products said, "Customers will immediately notice the new-look and improved ergonomics and this progressive system also brings upgraded performance on a number of levels. Hasselblad is a world-leader with an unmatched and comprehensive range of lenses. Now that line has been extended with the new wide angle HCD 4.8/24 mm lens, which offers the same performance as the HCD 28 mm and is the equivalent of a 17 mm on 35 mm DSLR format. Additionally, our new Macro Converter provides excellent close-up performance with the HC 50, HCD 28 and HC 35 lenses - negating the need for additional macro lens purchase."

He added, "Our new True Focus II further advances focusing accuracy after re-compose, and an intuitive focus check has been added. The new hardware architecture allows for delivering print ready JPEG files in addition to the superb RAW files. And we have re-written the user interface to achieve a smooth and intuitive operation. All in all we believe the H5D Camera series will provide the ultimate high-end addition to any serious photographer's capture equipment."

The H5D Series will be available as models with 40, 50 and 60 megapixels as well as 50 and 200 megapixel Multi-Shot versions and will start shipping in December 2012.

For my review of the Hasselblad H4D-40 click here.