The Hasselblad 500C/M is a medium format film camera renowned for its exceptional image quality and precise mechanics. Developed by the Swedish company Hasselblad, this camera has become a staple among professional photographers, especially in the realm of fashion, portrait, and landscape photography.
**Introduction**
First released in 1957, the Hasselblad 500C/M quickly gained popularity among professionals for its modular design and uncompromising build quality. The camera boasts a robust construction, consisting of a metal body and interchangeable components that allow photographers to adapt it to different shooting situations.
**Technical Specifications**
The Hasselblad 500C/M features a focal plane shutter, which allows photographers to use a wide range of interchangeable lenses. The camera supports a variety of film formats, including 120 and 220 roll films, providing versatility in capturing both high-resolution images and panoramic shots.
With its revolutionary waist-level viewfinder, the 500C/M allows photographers to compose images while looking down into the viewfinder rather than through it. This unique feature offers a distinct shooting experience and facilitates precise framing and composition.
**Image Quality and Optics**
The image quality produced by the Hasselblad 500C/M is exceptional, thanks to its high-quality optics and precision engineering. The camera is compatible with a wide range of Carl Zeiss lenses, which are renowned for their sharpness, clarity, and color rendering.
**Price and Availability**
The Hasselblad 500C/M was initially released with a price tag of around $350, making it a relatively expensive piece of equipment during its time. However, due to its enduring popularity and timeless design, it remains highly sought after by collectors and photographers alike.
While the Hasselblad 500C/M is no longer in production, used models can still be found in various online marketplaces and camera stores. The price for a second-hand Hasselblad 500C/M can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, depending on the condition and accessories included.
**Conclusion**
The Hasselblad 500C/M continues to be considered an iconic and highly regarded camera among film photography enthusiasts. Its modular design, exceptional image quality, and precision mechanics make it a timeless piece of equipment. Although it may not be as widely used today due to the rise of digital photography, the Hasselblad 500C/M remains a symbol of craftsmanship and artistic excellence in the world of medium format film cameras.
