Hasselblad 500C/M: An Iconic Medium Format Film Camera
**Hasselblad 500C/M** is a legendary medium format film camera that has left an indelible mark on the world of photography. With its modular design and exceptional image quality, the 500C/M remains a favorite among professionals and enthusiasts even today.
What is the Hasselblad 500C/M?
The Hasselblad 500C/M is a manual focus, single-lens reflex (SLR) camera manufactured by Hasselblad, a Swedish camera company with a long-standing reputation for excellence. It was introduced in 1957 as an improvement on the original Hasselblad 500C model.
Unlike most 35mm cameras, the 500C/M uses a larger medium format film, 120 or 220 roll film, providing a significantly higher resolution and image quality. The camera features interchangeable lenses, viewfinders, and film magazines, allowing photographers to customize and adapt the camera to their specific needs.
Key Features of the Hasselblad 500C/M
1. **Build Quality**: The 500C/M is renowned for its robust construction, incorporating a metal body and high-quality craftsmanship. It can withstand rigorous use and endure harsh shooting conditions, making it ideal for professional use.
2. **Leaf Shutter**: One of the distinctive features of the 500C/M is its built-in leaf shutter. Unlike focal plane shutters found in most SLR cameras, the leaf shutter allows flash synchronization at all shutter speeds, offering greater versatility in various lighting conditions.
3. **Carl Zeiss Optics**: Hasselblad partnered with renowned lens manufacturer Carl Zeiss to produce exceptional lenses for the 500C/M. These lenses are known for their superb sharpness, contrast, and color rendition, contributing to the camera’s outstanding image quality.
4. **Modular Design**: The 500C/M’s modular design allows for easy lens and accessory changes. Photographers can switch between viewfinders, film magazines, and focusing screens, enabling them to adapt quickly to different shooting situations.
5. **Image Quality**: With its medium format film, the 500C/M produces incredibly detailed and high-resolution images. The larger negative size captures more information, resulting in sharpness, tonal range, and dynamic range that surpasses that of 35mm film cameras.
Availability and Pricing
The Hasselblad 500C/M was widely available during its production period from 1970 to 1994. Nowadays, it can still be found in the used market and at specialty camera stores. Prices for a complete 500C/M kit including a body, lens, and accessories can range from $1,500 to $3,000 depending on the condition and included components.
While digital cameras have become the norm in today’s photography landscape, the Hasselblad 500C/M continues to hold its allure for those seeking a unique and nostalgic shooting experience. Its soulful connection with film photography and the timeless quality of its images make it a cherished possession for many photographers.
Whether you are a seasoned professional or an avid film enthusiast, the Hasselblad 500C/M is a camera that will inspire and elevate your photography to new heights. Its versatility, exceptional image quality, and enduring legacy make it a true icon in the world of medium format film cameras.
