Thank you Mark.. yes if anyone asks me i'm a photographer not a RUclipsr.. i'm not a natural speaker as you see but it's nice to share some of these older cameras I use. Most videos contain portraits if you want to compare camera A vs B etc. ..or just want to see photos I guess ha.
Matt is not only a photographer, he is an artist. His portraits are some of the very best I have ever seen. And the models who work with him seem so relaxed in his presence, which allows him to capture their natural beauty.
A photographic one man band, an artist, a businessman and a walking photography encyclopedia. I always enjoy your videos and often learn from them. FWIW I have never seen fanboys of any marque carp about your reviews. That is a very short list and means that you are fair, even-handed and knowledgeable. Thanks a lot and keep up the great work!
Thanks for the video. I love the Zeiss lenses used on Hasselblad cameras. I own and use eight Zeiss lenses on my Leica, Nikon, Contax, and Fuji small format cameras. On two separate occasions, I considered purchasing a Hasselblad 6x6cm medium format SLR. The first was when I needed to replace the Yashica TLR that a studio had provided me for taking wedding events. The Yashica was a good camera, but it was so used and abused by other photographers that it was no longer reliable. I considered the Hasselblad but decided against it because: 1. It was too noisy for my taste. 2. It was too expensive for my budget. Instead of the Hasselblad, I purchased three Mamiya TLR bodies with 55/80/180mm lenses. For decades, I used this Mamiya setup for weddings and portraits. When it became time for me to replace my worn-out Mamiya cameras (I owned the C3, C22, and C220), I again considered the Hasselblad. However, I decided against it for the following reasons: 1. It was still too expensive for my budget. 2. I tried it but I never bonded with it ergonomically. 3. I preferred the larger 6x7cm aspect ratio. Instead of the Hasselblad, I purchased two Mamiya RB67 SLR bodies with 50/90/140 macro/150 soft focus/180/250/ and 100-200mm zoom lenses. I primarily use my RB67 cameras for portraits, tabletop, macro, still-life, and product shots. My health prevents me from shooting weddings like I once could. I never considered the RZ67 because I preferred manual/mechanical cameras instead of automatic/electronic cameras.
Thanks, I would have got the RB over the RZ if I'd known at the time. I prefer manual too. I enjoy the Hassy's when I use them and have quite a few lenses that I collected to use over the years. Tonight's video is on a Zeiss lens so look out for that soon.
The true cost of any used film camera, including the Hasselblad V series, may need to include a CLA (cleaning, lubrication, and alignment). I just picked up an essentially unused Hasselblad 500c (1969 vintage), a chrome Zeiss 80 mmm f/2.8 lens, and two A12 film backs from a local camera shop. The store took all the components apart and did a CLA. The light seals on one of the film backs were replaced, and the lens and camera body were cleaned and re-lubed.
Hey Matt! Great video as always. One little additional info on lenses. C lenses work on 500 bodies only. CF also work on bodies with focal plane shutters (200 and 2000 series bodies). Then there are the CFE series lenses. They are basically the same as the CF with addition of electronics that make them able to work with bodies having automatic exposure functionality, like the 202 or 203FE. The last generation is the CFi series which is generally identical to the CFE with the addition of an improved anti reflection material to further reduce stray light. One of the greatest Hasselblad Landscape Photographers that I know is Michael Kenna. I have several of his books. His work is just amazing. I believe there are a couple of interviews and some videos showing how he works here on YT. Cheers... Michael
Thanks Michael! Yes good point sorry I forgot to mention that regarding CF lenses. I totally overlooked CFE so thats for sharing that. Great info on CFi too, thanks. I may have seen MK's work in the past, I think I watched many of the good Hassy videos in my early days! :)
Hi Matt, I have been following you on Flickr for a while but only until recently discovered your RUclips channel. The 'half naked girl' style and MrLeica personal brand set me off initially. Still you had me a little curious by reviewing and shooting so many vintage camera's and lenses. After watching your videos I feel like I have come to know your MrLeica channels a little bit better, and I at least owe you a comment, just to say I do highly appreciate all of your content and effort you put in them! There's loads of other photo vloggers out there but you have a genuine and authentic approach and speak from a photographers experience (not just from a single photowalk). I can see you like to experiment with different photo kits and that you are not afraid to break off from Leica now and then - or at least put them in perspective. Am excited to see more of your vids. If you would be inclined I would very interested to see a vlog about your development as a photographer (since starting this channel); the kit that you have used, type of photography and where you want to go with your work. Keep up the good work! Cheers and regards from the Netherlands, Tim
Thanks Tim! I might get onto videos about me in the future if the demand is that but for now I will keep to reviewing the equipment I use. As to your question I only started RUclips last year so nothing to tell really. It’s not changed me or my work at all yet. Maybe it will in the future. I use a lot of the stuff I review but also gear not yet re hewed as I need to test it first. Currently mostly 35mm still. Thanks Matt
Hi Matt , love your videos they are really cool. I’m in the market for a Hasselblad 500 cm I think is the one I’m after or the 500 c earlier version … Any tips on where to buy one. Keep on shooting on. Kindest regards Tommy.
I love the look of my chrome 501CM with the waist level finder and I have used it for 10 years. I also own a prism, exactly the same, black one Matt has on his Hasselblad and I hate how the camera looks with it. And I dislike the bulk in my backpack with that thing on. Sadly, since I now get closer to 50 and need reading glasses now and then the waist level finder does not work for me anymore. Now the prism is fixed to the camera. Not a pretty camera anymore, but still a great one. I owned and sold many film cameras when they became cheap between 2008 and 2015 when everybody jumped onto digital cameras. The HB 501CM is the one that will never be sold. That and my Nikon F2AS, black, near-mint, regularly sovered (F2 fans know what I mean), that was built in the month I was born (I looked for a well looking, black F2A or AS built in my birth month for ages - nerdy, I know).
In my opinion, central shutters do not have enough fast exposures for shooting outdoors. I am using an Exakta 66 focal plane shutter camera with a Xenotar MF 2.8/80 lens (7 elements in 6 groups, Pentacon Six bayonet).
Nice, comprehensive review thanks Matt. Superb machines with beautiful lenses. When I looked at Michael Kenna's body of landscape work spanning decades, almost all of it shot on a 500 series, it inspired me to get one and whilst I loved the images and the camera itself as a work of art I never truly bonded with it despite lusting after one for many years. For me it was too cumbersome, too heavy when I could put a Mamiya 6 and all 3 lenses in a small shoulder bag and cover almost everything I needed. That's not to put a Hasselblad down in any way, it is what it is. The images look great from the Zeiss glass - I loved your images Matt, especially the model on the balcony taken from an overhead view. Really strong images. As I've said before, I just wish I could have the Zeiss lenses on my Mamiya and the Contax G system lenses for my Leica. I'd never look at another camera system ever again....probably! 😁👍
Thanks CG.. I can confess that after multiple sources confirmed to me that the Mamiya 7 43mm is better than the amazing SWC Hasselblad, I just ordered one to see what it can do. I wish it was in the Mamiya 6 but plan to shoot probably mostly 35mm pano on the 7. That to come! :)
To whom using a Zeiss Planar 80 mm lens, a set of different extension tubes is needed. to make an extension of 80 mm to go for 1 : 1.shot, Tubes lengths 8 10 16 21 32 55 56 mm.
I’m not sure if it’s proven but the 120 definitely makes great images. I struggle with the 80 and use 100 if need a smallish lens when shooting overseas.
Hi Matt, loving your videos. Have a 500cm with an 80mm C lens. Wanting a portrait lens and intrigued by your suggestion of the 120mm rather than the 150mm. Would you be able to show us some photos taken with each - perhaps with a critique? Would be greatly appreciated! Best wishes
There are a 500 C/M and a 500 EL/M with AUTO MODE actually. Once you could send your lenses to Hasselblad in Sweden for installing an auto exposure unit. The electro motor powered unit with an inbuilt lightmeter was settiing the correct aperture and exposure speed. The units were powered by the EL/M battery. Or from the battery holder on slit at the left set of the 500 C/M body Sorry, the name Mr. Hasselblad is not vacant anymore.................i think
Two different ways to mount a camera to a LF camera. 1. The expensive way and being a not universal system for LF brands. 2. The cheap and simple way and being universal for all LF brands. Some 35 mm camera and mediom format brands does not produce or sell a spare lens mount, so a macro extension tube is needed. In the rear standard of the LF camera a board has been mounted, holding the frame with the ground glass. Sometimes blind boards are for sale. If not, go for model 2, take off the frame with the ground glass. Your DIY board must have the same size as a 4 x 5 film holder ( ur 545 Polaroid back), 121 mm x 174 mm and 3 mm thick. Mount the macro extension tube in the middle of the DIY board. Mark the position of the needed hole. Take off the macro tube. Drill the hole. Paint the board non glossy black. Remount the macro tube. . Place the DIY board and fix it with the two Graflock gliders. Mount your 35 mm or medium format camera on your LF camera. Any LF optic can now be used for your own gear You will get a genuine DOF and BOKEH. Of course you will need a tripod.
Thanks Jaco! I used to freelens MF glass on digital 35mm (when I was already bored of the Nikon D800 sensor and was looking for imperfections). I shot like that for maybe over a year and then thankfully I found Leica.
Hello Matt great review of the Hasselblads, not sure where you found one for £850 I'm guessing as an average? Following your link and my own research, the average price inc 80mm lens 1x back and WLF is from £1000 upwards. When I was looking for one previously bodies are easy to come by, however, the 80mm lenses CF or CFE started at £500 if you're lucky to find one. Even looking today they more scare then hens teeth lol #Londonlovesyou
twotwofresh thanks yes it was average price on the day I looked. I did think it was cheap! 80mm C is cheaper than CF..but all Hassy gear is pricey sadly.
Seriously? I see Hassy kits going for 3000$ today. And that's cheaper than buying parts separately, since even the acute focusing screen will cost you 200$. Not to talk about buying a lens separately. So, I dont know where you got 1000£ from...
Any thoughts on or experience with the Fuji Fujifilm GX680? Another beast, even bigger than the RZ67 I imagine, but given the large format and Fuji's generally remarkable lenses, I imagine the quality would be spectacular. Not exactly a street photography set up and I imagine pretty tough to run with ...
Ha thanks! Yes I know of it. Yes probably not a camera to run with haha but nice for sure. I’ve never used one but if I get the opportunity one day I’ll be sure to share it!
What? The pm90 has guide lines for 645 built in? Also, i actually saw more people writing the pm45 is better than the 90. They didn't detail why. I could only guess one of the benefits the 45 gives you is better lower angles..
90° prisms allow normal viewing without turning the head aside for vertical framing with 4,5x6 hassy made a lot of different types of 90° prisms, even with meetering (PME90) I prefer the HC4 "Hensoldt" 90° prism with a fine dioptric setting, also compatible with digital backs (PM90 isn't compatible).
Hello. Thx for sharing your thoughts.... great work! please let me ask a question about your favorite lenses: you mentioned a small lens which you prefer over the 80mm Planar. Could you shortly comment on this lens. I have not understood your recommendation. Thx again!
Thanks Michael, I will do a second video on the lenses but it short I don’t use the 80mm normally. I think most lenses are better. I use 60mm or 100mm for a lens close to 80mm FL.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Thx for your rapid response! Really enjoy your thoughts and your insights! Would appreciate whether you could produce a video of your "journey" as photographer/vlogger as suggested by a commenter before! Thx again!
@@michaelchrist4297 Thanks, erm there is not much to tell with regards being a vlogger as i'm a newbie so nothing has really changed yet. I feel it is too soon to start talking about myself on the channel as i'm sure 99% people really don't care. They are not here to see me, they just want the info/ photos. As the channel grows I would be happy to do so in the future if the demand is there but for now I will just keep putting out hopefully value add content. (If you want to see the real me watch the photoshoot videos.. that's what i'm like off camera (on camera) if that makes sense. Tenerife or Harriet video especially.
Matt Osborne dear Matt, thx again for your response. I understand what you mean, nevertheless do not underestimate the interest of the audience to hear a personal story ;-) But let me ask an additional question to your choice of HB lenses: what version of the 100mm distagon do you use? C T or CF lens? The housing is different, but Are there really differences in the image quality/rendering?
I've seen your photos on Flickr and that is what has lead me to looking at hasselblad's for medium format. Thanks for making this video. Any notes on the best lens? I know you touched on it a bit at the end but I really would like to know why you think the 100 is more preferred than the 80. Also do you think the 120 is better than the 100? Thank for making this
Spencer Kimura hi thanks for tracking me down from Flickr! Yes if you’ve seen I’m now on Patreon too (see link in recent Flickr or RUclips videos). From. As little as £1 a month/ 25p a week I share much more content including videos planned for coming weeks. All I will say is 😉 ..I’m on it. Soonish! :)
To minimise the 500 C/M do exchange the plastic transport crank for an "old fashioned" metal one. Plus the A16S back; 16 exp. in 4 x 4 cm (38x38mm) on a 120 spool film. Plus a 24 x 56 mm back for a 135 - 36 film. The original name of that film format was MINIATURE fIlm or Zeiss-Retina-Leitz film.. Are you provoking about the weight of the 500 C/M ? The Haasselblad is not heavy. With three lenses, some backs, meter and films the set has less weight than a fat vulgar NIKON with some lenses.
It's more the bulk.. without the prism finder the size and weight is ok with a small 80mm lens (especially C vs CF) but I really struggle to see without the prism now so for the last trip I took the Hasselblad H2 with AF HC80. Great camera.
Great question, I was dumb and didn't know any better in the early days. I was buying all the most hyped cameras at the time. RZ, Mam6, Mam7, XPan, SWC, Contax 645.. Most were sold but I still have the RZ. It's good except the batteries.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom oh man, how did I not know that you need an F body for that lens? I think that cures my GAS, I have a 503cx so I can't even use it 😅 Thanks Matt!
@@godscola Ha no problem! :) F models have a faster max shutter speed (focal plane shutter cameras).. I guess that saved you some cash! :) ..I'll try to do more Hassy vids in the future
I got a Hasselblad 4x4 film back for 120 film which allows also 16 frames instead of 6x6 back with 12 frames. I still prefer the 6x6 back because the viewfinder is uncropped. I use it in 80% of cases for landscape photography, the rest for close-up/macro with extension tubes and portraits. Only advantage of the RZ67 Pro is rotating back with option to go 6x7.
Hi there are various models available. From my research I bought the one I have. I’m not saying it’s the best but it works for me. Some have a light meter. This one is without as I meter handheld. Check eBay for listings.
My favorite combo is the 30mm on a 555ELD body with PME 45 and digital back on. Drawback is the weight, it is heavy and bulky (like the Mamiya 67). But it is no worse than dragging a 4x5 setup out. If one want to try the system, then you can find a cheap 500el with 80mm C lens. It will get you far under £500. I have seen them for under £250. If you want one with regular AA batteries, then look for 500ELX, 553ELX or 555ELD. Those are cheap as well, maybe with exception of the 555ELD.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom The SWC is not only great it is outstanding. I have the 903SWC that I use mainly with film back. The digital back with 30mm is eq to about 39mm.
Hi Matt, Medium format seems crazy and it's a new thing to me. I've seen a HASSELBLAD 205FCC on sale. Do you know this model and have you already tried it? Is there a way to put a digital back making them become Digital SLR? I've seen this on their website. Does it work well on a 200 series? Thanks for all the hard work you do.
Thanks Didier, I don't own any F bodies but I know about them. They let you use additional lenses so can be good. The new Hasselblad digi back will fit most Hassy bodies. (Sorry for late answer!)
On the face of it, no serious photographer would choose a camera like this over a GFX or even an A7R III, SL2, etc. However, if you show up to a job with this camera, people will know that you mean business! Perception matters.
@@Biosynchro thanks and I think if you use it within its limits and shoot I alongside any high end camera for say portraits/fashion it might win. A pro fashion/beauty tog/ viewer says he uses the next model up for paid commercial work. CCD just wins for skin tones/ rendering, especially 50or60MP and the larger sensor vs x2D gives a more pleasing luck. The likes of Peter Coulson uses these over modern Hassy X too. Sensor size beats MP for portraits.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Perhaps larger sensors have better shadow rendering. I have heard that before. Some, including one Hollywood cinematographer, say that more surface area = lower contrast. It could be worth investigating?
@@Biosynchro I remember the old Nikon D700 with its ‘big pixels’ and that was always excellent even years later. I’ll shoot it against an X2D at my first opportunity and likely vs Leica before that..
Thank you for your interesting videos. How do you calculate exposure compensation if you attach the say, 21mm extension tube on your Hasselblad with the 120 Macro?
Thank you Jake! If i'm honest I never bother. I don't shoot slide film too often and most other films have enough latitude to cover it. Just over expose slightly if worried.
You're saying there's reciprocity if you use an extension tube? I heard it's like that on the Mamyia RZ67 with it's bellows, that you have to add 1/2 or full stop sometimes to your exposure reading. Don't know how much for a 21 hassy extension ring. Google search doesn't bring up some info?
@@eladbari hey mate, I don’t bother for shorter extension tuned as film has enough latitude. You could over exposure half a stop to be safe. Think of it like a road tunnel, the longer the tunnel the Smaller the light at the other end hence people often talk about compensating. I’ve only used small tubes on film cameras though I used to do a lot of macro with digital in my early days with stacks of tubes.
I do not like your classic Hasselblad 500 C/M when it looks like a London Panda Morris Minor police car. The set seems to be a kind of Airfix construction kit, with a black plastic crank on the right side of the body, with a olastic waist level finder knob, with a plastic sun hood.
Mount your Hasselblad to a Linhof, SINAR or MPP 4X5 camera. Take off the frame with the ground glass from your LF camera, Mount the plate with the male Hasselblad 40037 bayonet to the LF. Shoot the Hasselblad with any old or soft focus LF lens. Even tilt, shift, rise and fall will be possible. It was on purpose I did not mention the LF brand Cambo, made in Holland. I do not like that toplofty Dutch brand, I am at war with it since 1965. The moment I think I can hit them, they are bankrupt or a new management arrives. They deny my remarks on the design faults of their ballheads, SC and ACTUS.
A Hasselblad beauty contest. I do not like a black 500 C/M with a chrome A 12 back I do not like the plastic film advance crank. I do not like the plastic Hasselblad sun hoods.
Stripping the 500 C/M to a basic Hasselblad? you also have to remove the viewfinder, the focusing screen and the film transport crank. Never buy a Hasselblad 500 C/M with its "standard" lens. First think it over how you want to create your photographs. You might start with a 60 mm, a 80 mm or a 100 mm lens. Perhaps a set of two lenses; a 50 mm plus a 150 mm? Never buy just one extension tube; you need the 8 mm, 16 mm, 32 mm and 56 mm tubes The A16s back is for 4 x 4 cm negs and slides. The slides will fit in any top quality 35 mm slide projedtor like Leitz and Kodak. What is a Hasselblad for? "YOU CAN TAKE A HASSELBLAD ANYWHERE" This line sounds like a 1965 Whisky advertisement. Read thee Hasselblad Book and the job sheets; the Hasselblad is not just for portrait andd studio. The Hasselblad is NOT a heavy camera. You can not compare the Hasselblad to any camera. Auto Exposure can be done with the Hasselblad by using the Zeiss Auto Exposure lenses. I prefor the Hasselblad 500 C/M over any Leica camera. You need a TTL prism for the Hasselblad when shooting macro with the Zeiss 120 mm. ( Or a pocket calculater plus a metric ruler.) Please, can you explain what is the vintage rendering of the Zeiss 150 mm lens? Have you compared the quality of a single and a multi coated Hasselblad Lens? I did; the difference is minor. Why did not NASA send the astronauts with a Leica camera to the moon? The first American camera in space was a low budget Minolta rangefinder camera; bought at the local drugstore the day before count down. By the way, I happen to be Mr. Hasselblad since 1965. Beware, do not risc a fifth Dutch war. The chain over the Thames never has been repaired; it is a pleasant voyage to Chatham.
Thanks Jaco, yes C vs CF lenses, CF flare less and better contrast. Both fine in good light/ with the light. Yes my 150 just seems to have a less modern rendering verses say the 120 I use the most. I need to use it more! (The Hassy)
Thank you Matt Looking into a 500cm primarily for portraits & some landscapes. Can you recommend a sharp beauty lens;80or 50? Never mind watched til end. Thanks 60mm sound like a gem
I do not like your classic Hasselblad 500 C/M when it looks like a Panda Morris Minor police car. TYour set seems to be a kind of Airfix construction kit, with a plastic black crank on the right side of the body, with a olastic waist level finder knob, with a plastic sun hood. Do not forget to take with you a tube of Humbrol glue. Mind the correct way to write c/m; the fonds must be capitals: C/M. It is impossible to compare a 500 C/M to a SWC/M. You can not compare a saloon car to a race car, being of the same brand. Can you proove / show any difference betwee the quality of the Zeiss lenses, made for the Hasselblad 500 slr? The SWC/M 38 mm lens is a kind of copy of a pre WW II Zeiss Topogon lens is and so is the Mamiya Sekor 65 mm wide angle of the Mamiya 23 Press Universal Press camera.
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Why Hsbd. Cameras not in market rsace. ?
Thank you for doing these. I love the fact that you’re a seriously talented photographer and not just a RUclips vlogger.
Thank you Mark.. yes if anyone asks me i'm a photographer not a RUclipsr.. i'm not a natural speaker as you see but it's nice to share some of these older cameras I use. Most videos contain portraits if you want to compare camera A vs B etc. ..or just want to see photos I guess ha.
Matt is not only a photographer, he is an artist. His portraits are some of the very best I have ever seen. And the models who work with him seem so relaxed in his presence, which allows him to capture their natural beauty.
Your videos are seriously addictive.
Ha thanks, there are over 220 to binge watch so far!
A photographic one man band, an artist, a businessman and a walking photography encyclopedia. I always enjoy your videos and often learn from them. FWIW I have never seen fanboys of any marque carp about your reviews. That is a very short list and means that you are fair, even-handed and knowledgeable. Thanks a lot and keep up the great work!
Thanks Zoltan, much appreciated!
Thanks for the video.
I love the Zeiss lenses used on Hasselblad cameras. I own and use eight Zeiss lenses on my Leica, Nikon, Contax, and Fuji small format cameras. On two separate occasions, I considered purchasing a Hasselblad 6x6cm medium format SLR.
The first was when I needed to replace the Yashica TLR that a studio had provided me for taking wedding events. The Yashica was a good camera, but it was so used and abused by other photographers that it was no longer reliable. I considered the Hasselblad but decided against it because:
1. It was too noisy for my taste.
2. It was too expensive for my budget.
Instead of the Hasselblad, I purchased three Mamiya TLR bodies with 55/80/180mm lenses. For decades, I used this Mamiya setup for weddings and portraits.
When it became time for me to replace my worn-out Mamiya cameras (I owned the C3, C22, and C220), I again considered the Hasselblad. However, I decided against it for the following reasons:
1. It was still too expensive for my budget.
2. I tried it but I never bonded with it ergonomically.
3. I preferred the larger 6x7cm aspect ratio.
Instead of the Hasselblad, I purchased two Mamiya RB67 SLR bodies with 50/90/140 macro/150 soft focus/180/250/ and 100-200mm zoom lenses. I primarily use my RB67 cameras for portraits, tabletop, macro, still-life, and product shots. My health prevents me from shooting weddings like I once could.
I never considered the RZ67 because I preferred manual/mechanical cameras instead of automatic/electronic cameras.
Thanks, I would have got the RB over the RZ if I'd known at the time. I prefer manual too. I enjoy the Hassy's when I use them and have quite a few lenses that I collected to use over the years. Tonight's video is on a Zeiss lens so look out for that soon.
The true cost of any used film camera, including the Hasselblad V series, may need to include a CLA (cleaning, lubrication, and alignment).
I just picked up an essentially unused Hasselblad 500c (1969 vintage), a chrome Zeiss 80 mmm f/2.8 lens, and two A12 film backs from a local camera shop. The store took all the components apart and did a CLA. The light seals on one of the film backs were replaced, and the lens and camera body were cleaned and re-lubed.
Thanks John, yes 100%, especially for old cameras.
Flash sync speeds are also a consideration.
True, thanks!
hello matt nice video again - like the comparaison on key criterias kepp on doing good job ! thansk
Thanks for feedback Daniel, appreciated.
Hey Matt! Great video as always. One little additional info on lenses. C lenses work on 500 bodies only. CF also work on bodies with focal plane shutters (200 and 2000 series bodies). Then there are the CFE series lenses. They are basically the same as the CF with addition of electronics that make them able to work with bodies having automatic exposure functionality, like the 202 or 203FE. The last generation is the CFi series which is generally identical to the CFE with the addition of an improved anti reflection material to further reduce stray light.
One of the greatest Hasselblad Landscape Photographers that I know is Michael Kenna. I have several of his books. His work is just amazing. I believe there are a couple of interviews and some videos showing how he works here on YT.
Cheers...
Michael
Thanks Michael! Yes good point sorry I forgot to mention that regarding CF lenses. I totally overlooked CFE so thats for sharing that. Great info on CFi too, thanks.
I may have seen MK's work in the past, I think I watched many of the good Hassy videos in my early days! :)
...hi Matt! Deine Potrait Fotos sind echt super ich habe auch die 500cm es ist eine wunderbare Kamera!
Thanks!
Great video. Motivating me to take out my 503 and xpan.
Thanks Gregory! Happy to hear I could inspire you to shoot with your Hassy!
Hi Matt, I have been following you on Flickr for a while but only until recently discovered your RUclips channel. The 'half naked girl' style and MrLeica personal brand set me off initially. Still you had me a little curious by reviewing and shooting so many vintage camera's and lenses. After watching your videos I feel like I have come to know your MrLeica channels a little bit better, and I at least owe you a comment, just to say I do highly appreciate all of your content and effort you put in them! There's loads of other photo vloggers out there but you have a genuine and authentic approach and speak from a photographers experience (not just from a single photowalk). I can see you like to experiment with different photo kits and that you are not afraid to break off from Leica now and then - or at least put them in perspective. Am excited to see more of your vids. If you would be inclined I would very interested to see a vlog about your development as a photographer (since starting this channel); the kit that you have used, type of photography and where you want to go with your work.
Keep up the good work! Cheers and regards from the Netherlands, Tim
Thanks Tim! I might get onto videos about me in the future if the demand is that but for now I will keep to reviewing the equipment I use. As to your question I only started RUclips last year so nothing to tell really. It’s not changed me or my work at all yet. Maybe it will in the future. I use a lot of the stuff I review but also gear not yet re hewed as I need to test it first. Currently mostly 35mm still. Thanks Matt
Dream machines... I own the 500cm and 503cx.
Thanks Richard, ah very nice! I've not tried the 503cx.
Hi Matt , love your videos they are really cool.
I’m in the market for a Hasselblad 500 cm I think is the one I’m after or the 500 c earlier version …
Any tips on where to buy one.
Keep on shooting on.
Kindest regards
Tommy.
Thanks Tommy, try eBay and any used camera shops online. I normally buy my cameras online. Good luck!
I love the look of my chrome 501CM with the waist level finder and I have used it for 10 years. I also own a prism, exactly the same, black one Matt has on his Hasselblad and I hate how the camera looks with it. And I dislike the bulk in my backpack with that thing on.
Sadly, since I now get closer to 50 and need reading glasses now and then the waist level finder does not work for me anymore. Now the prism is fixed to the camera. Not a pretty camera anymore, but still a great one.
I owned and sold many film cameras when they became cheap between 2008 and 2015 when everybody jumped onto digital cameras. The HB 501CM is the one that will never be sold. That and my Nikon F2AS, black, near-mint, regularly sovered (F2 fans know what I mean), that was built in the month I was born (I looked for a well looking, black F2A or AS built in my birth month for ages - nerdy, I know).
You can get around the need for a prism by fitting a split prism screen + WLF. I use this for non-portraits without glasses
Love the Hasselblad videos :)
Thanks Steve! :)
In my opinion, central shutters do not have enough fast exposures for shooting outdoors. I am using an Exakta 66 focal plane shutter camera with a Xenotar MF 2.8/80 lens (7 elements in 6 groups, Pentacon Six bayonet).
Thanks John, Hasselblad made the focal plane F bodies too but I don’t have one.
Nice, comprehensive review thanks Matt. Superb machines with beautiful lenses. When I looked at Michael Kenna's body of landscape work spanning decades, almost all of it shot on a 500 series, it inspired me to get one and whilst I loved the images and the camera itself as a work of art I never truly bonded with it despite lusting after one for many years. For me it was too cumbersome, too heavy when I could put a Mamiya 6 and all 3 lenses in a small shoulder bag and cover almost everything I needed.
That's not to put a Hasselblad down in any way, it is what it is. The images look great from the Zeiss glass - I loved your images Matt, especially the model on the balcony taken from an overhead view. Really strong images. As I've said before, I just wish I could have the Zeiss lenses on my Mamiya and the Contax G system lenses for my Leica. I'd never look at another camera system ever again....probably! 😁👍
Thanks CG.. I can confess that after multiple sources confirmed to me that the Mamiya 7 43mm is better than the amazing SWC Hasselblad, I just ordered one to see what it can do. I wish it was in the Mamiya 6 but plan to shoot probably mostly 35mm pano on the 7. That to come! :)
Matt Osborne - Good stuff, I have the panoramic kit but I've yet to use it on my 6MF. Must try it out sometime.
CiderGuy I got the pano kit for the 7 so I’ll try to get some nice shots to share in a future video.
To whom using a Zeiss Planar 80 mm lens,
a set of different extension tubes is needed.
to make an extension of 80 mm to go for 1 : 1.shot,
Tubes lengths 8 10 16 21 32 55 56 mm.
Thanks, thanks my I use the 120mm more
Mind the way to write c/m correct;
the fonds must be capitals: C/M.
Ah thanks Jaco, I was not sure what is correct
Hey I'm doing a portrait project similar to Phil Borges. You mentioned 3D pop. He used 80 and 100 you reckon 120 is better yes?
I’m not sure if it’s proven but the 120 definitely makes great images. I struggle with the 80 and use 100 if need a smallish lens when shooting overseas.
thanks for the video. time to take out my 501c. 😊😊😊
Ferdinand Manuel no problem! Happy if I was able to inspire you to shoot yours. I will do more Hasselblad videos going forward too so more to come!
Now thanks to comparison, I am intrigued with Mamiya RZ67. Please do the review of Mamiya RZ67!
Thanks. I did! See the RZ vid :)
Hi Matt, loving your videos. Have a 500cm with an 80mm C lens. Wanting a portrait lens and intrigued by your suggestion of the 120mm rather than the 150mm. Would you be able to show us some photos taken with each - perhaps with a critique? Would be greatly appreciated! Best wishes
Hi Pete, yes I was planning a follow up video showing portraits from each lens so it is on my list.
There are a 500 C/M and a 500 EL/M with AUTO MODE actually.
Once you could send your lenses to Hasselblad in Sweden for
installing an auto exposure unit.
The electro motor powered unit with an inbuilt lightmeter was
settiing the correct
aperture and exposure speed. The units were
powered by the EL/M battery. Or from the battery holder on slit
at the left set of the 500 C/M body
Sorry, the name Mr. Hasselblad is not vacant anymore.................i think
Thanks Jaco, regarding autofocus and haha regarding the name. Thanks for your long sorry email in dutch too!
When I bought my Hasselblad in the Sixties it had no history yet.
Today in 2022 the camera has made me a lot of negatives and slides.
Nice
Those are some hefty looking cameras. I like the look of the Hasselblad.
Thanks Jesse! Yes compared to a Leica for sure ha. Nice though and extremely fun to use!
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom They do look really fun to use.
love the red dress model !
Thanks! Red always makes good photos :)
Two different ways to mount a camera to a LF camera.
1. The expensive way and being a not universal system for LF brands.
2. The cheap and simple way and being universal for all LF brands.
Some 35 mm camera and mediom format brands does not produce
or sell a spare lens mount, so a macro extension tube is needed.
In the rear standard of the LF camera a board has been mounted,
holding the frame with the ground glass. Sometimes blind boards
are for sale.
If not, go for model 2, take off the frame with the ground glass.
Your DIY board must have the same size as a 4 x 5 film holder
( ur 545 Polaroid back), 121 mm x 174 mm and 3 mm thick.
Mount the macro extension tube in the middle of the DIY board.
Mark the position of the needed hole. Take off the macro tube.
Drill the hole. Paint the board non glossy black. Remount the
macro tube. .
Place the DIY board and fix it with the two Graflock gliders.
Mount your 35 mm or medium format camera on your LF camera.
Any LF optic can now be used for your own gear
You will get a genuine DOF and BOKEH.
Of course you will need a tripod.
Thanks Jaco! I used to freelens MF glass on digital 35mm (when I was already bored of the Nikon D800 sensor and was looking for imperfections). I shot like that for maybe over a year and then thankfully I found Leica.
Hello Matt great review of the Hasselblads, not sure where you found one for £850 I'm guessing as an average? Following your link and my own research, the average price inc 80mm lens 1x back and WLF is from £1000 upwards. When I was looking for one previously bodies are easy to come by, however, the 80mm lenses CF or CFE started at £500 if you're lucky to find one. Even looking today they more scare then hens teeth lol #Londonlovesyou
twotwofresh thanks yes it was average price on the day I looked. I did think it was cheap! 80mm C is cheaper than CF..but all Hassy gear is pricey sadly.
Seriously? I see Hassy kits going for 3000$ today. And that's cheaper than buying parts separately, since even the acute focusing screen will cost you 200$. Not to talk about buying a lens separately. So, I dont know where you got 1000£ from...
Any thoughts on or experience with the Fuji Fujifilm GX680? Another beast, even bigger than the RZ67 I imagine, but given the large format and Fuji's generally remarkable lenses, I imagine the quality would be spectacular. Not exactly a street photography set up and I imagine pretty tough to run with ...
Ha thanks! Yes I know of it. Yes probably not a camera to run with haha but nice for sure. I’ve never used one but if I get the opportunity one day I’ll be sure to share it!
There’s a PM90 prism to be used with the 6x4.5.
Thanks Julio!
What? The pm90 has guide lines for 645 built in? Also, i actually saw more people writing the pm45 is better than the 90. They didn't detail why. I could only guess one of the benefits the 45 gives you is better lower angles..
90° prisms allow normal viewing without turning the head aside for vertical framing with 4,5x6
hassy made a lot of different types of 90° prisms, even with meetering (PME90)
I prefer the HC4 "Hensoldt" 90° prism with a fine dioptric setting, also compatible with digital backs (PM90 isn't compatible).
theres also a16s backs and they r 4x4 in size
Thanks, yes I use A16 backs but I've never seen a 4x4
Hello. Thx for sharing your thoughts.... great work! please let me ask a question about your favorite lenses: you mentioned a small lens which you prefer over the 80mm Planar. Could you shortly comment on this lens. I have not understood your recommendation. Thx again!
Thanks Michael, I will do a second video on the lenses but it short I don’t use the 80mm normally. I think most lenses are better. I use 60mm or 100mm for a lens close to 80mm FL.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Thx for your rapid response! Really enjoy your thoughts and your insights! Would appreciate whether you could produce a video of your "journey" as photographer/vlogger as suggested by a commenter before! Thx again!
@@michaelchrist4297 Thanks, erm there is not much to tell with regards being a vlogger as i'm a newbie so nothing has really changed yet. I feel it is too soon to start talking about myself on the channel as i'm sure 99% people really don't care. They are not here to see me, they just want the info/ photos. As the channel grows I would be happy to do so in the future if the demand is there but for now I will just keep putting out hopefully value add content. (If you want to see the real me watch the photoshoot videos.. that's what i'm like off camera (on camera) if that makes sense. Tenerife or Harriet video especially.
Matt Osborne dear Matt, thx again for your response. I understand what you mean, nevertheless do not underestimate the interest of the audience to hear a personal story ;-)
But let me ask an additional question to your choice of HB lenses: what version of the 100mm distagon do you use? C T or CF lens? The housing is different, but Are there really differences in the image quality/rendering?
Michael Christ thanks! I use all CF lenses + an extra 80 C lens I have
i wish Hasselblad has build a 6x9. Never liked the square format… But most beautiful camera ever
Yes! I have folding cameras or 4x5 for 6x9
I've seen your photos on Flickr and that is what has lead me to looking at hasselblad's for medium format. Thanks for making this video. Any notes on the best lens? I know you touched on it a bit at the end but I really would like to know why you think the 100 is more preferred than the 80. Also do you think the 120 is better than the 100? Thank for making this
Spencer Kimura hi thanks for tracking me down from Flickr! Yes if you’ve seen I’m now on Patreon too (see link in recent Flickr or RUclips videos). From. As little as £1 a month/ 25p a week I share much more content including videos planned for coming weeks. All I will say is 😉 ..I’m on it. Soonish! :)
To minimise the 500 C/M do exchange the plastic transport crank for
an "old fashioned" metal one.
Plus the A16S back; 16 exp. in 4 x 4 cm (38x38mm) on a 120 spool film.
Plus a 24 x 56 mm back for a 135 - 36 film.
The original name of that film
format was MINIATURE fIlm or Zeiss-Retina-Leitz film..
Are you provoking about the weight of the 500 C/M ? The Haasselblad is
not heavy. With three lenses, some backs, meter and films the set has less
weight than a fat vulgar NIKON with some lenses.
It's more the bulk.. without the prism finder the size and weight is ok with a small 80mm lens (especially C vs CF) but I really struggle to see without the prism now so for the last trip I took the Hasselblad H2 with AF HC80. Great camera.
Why didn't you choose the RB67 [no batteries] as opposed to the RZ67 [batteries]
Great question, I was dumb and didn't know any better in the early days. I was buying all the most hyped cameras at the time. RZ, Mam6, Mam7, XPan, SWC, Contax 645.. Most were sold but I still have the RZ. It's good except the batteries.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom I still have my 503cx along with my newly acquired RB67 lol Thanks for sharing
Hey Matt, have you ever used the 110mm F2 lens? I've been lusting after one, but they're bloody expensive!
Hey Jacob, no but mainly because you need a F model Hassy for those fast lenses. I use a 100mm f2.2 on my H2 though so that gives me my fix ha.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom oh man, how did I not know that you need an F body for that lens? I think that cures my GAS, I have a 503cx so I can't even use it 😅 Thanks Matt!
@@godscola Ha no problem! :) F models have a faster max shutter speed (focal plane shutter cameras).. I guess that saved you some cash! :) ..I'll try to do more Hassy vids in the future
I got a Hasselblad 4x4 film back for 120 film which allows also 16 frames instead of 6x6 back with 12 frames. I still prefer the 6x6 back because the viewfinder is uncropped. I use it in 80% of cases for landscape photography, the rest for close-up/macro with extension tubes and portraits. Only advantage of the RZ67 Pro is rotating back with option to go 6x7.
Thanks Martin, ah nice I’ve not used the 4x4 backs. Good to hear you have both too! :)
Hello Matt i see your video to hasselblad. What is the best pentaprism? I would to buy it. thank you
Hi there are various models available. From my research I bought the one I have. I’m not saying it’s the best but it works for me. Some have a light meter. This one is without as I meter handheld. Check eBay for listings.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom what is your model?
@@Stesalti please see MrLeica.com and the Hasselblad 501 posts as I can remember I’m afraid. It’s 45 degree non TTL but I forget the model
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom ok ty
which lense was the photo at 10:45? :)
120mm Macro
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom thanks Matt!
My favorite combo is the 30mm on a 555ELD body with PME 45 and digital back on. Drawback is the weight, it is heavy and bulky (like the Mamiya 67). But it is no worse than dragging a 4x5 setup out. If one want to try the system, then you can find a cheap 500el with 80mm C lens. It will get you far under £500. I have seen them for under £250. If you want one with regular AA batteries, then look for 500ELX, 553ELX or 555ELD. Those are cheap as well, maybe with exception of the 555ELD.
Thanks that is a great tip for anyone looking. the ELs offer great value. I use the 38mm Biogon on the SWC for wides. Also great.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom The SWC is not only great it is outstanding. I have the 903SWC that I use mainly with film back. The digital back with 30mm is eq to about 39mm.
eksund1900 yes I love the images but equally it seems commonly appreciated that the 43mm Mamiya is better optically
do you use any light meter (external) or how is your hasselblad workflow? stay safe and thx for another great vid! cheerz
Yes Sekonic handheld light meter
Hi Matt, Medium format seems crazy and it's a new thing to me. I've seen a HASSELBLAD 205FCC on sale. Do you know this model and have you already tried it? Is there a way to put a digital back making them become Digital SLR? I've seen this on their website. Does it work well on a 200 series?
Thanks for all the hard work you do.
Thanks Didier, I don't own any F bodies but I know about them. They let you use additional lenses so can be good. The new Hasselblad digi back will fit most Hassy bodies. (Sorry for late answer!)
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom thanks Matt. Have a good day
850 pounds for a complete 501cm system! Everything was so cheap before COVID. Now the same system costs $2000.
Yes sadly all the prices are up but Hassy as normally up less than some other cameras.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom yeah, contax T3 probably had crazier pice hikes. I am just glad I got a Leica M6 when the price was not crazy like this.
On the face of it, no serious photographer would choose a camera like this over a GFX or even an A7R III, SL2, etc. However, if you show up to a job with this camera, people will know that you mean business! Perception matters.
@@Biosynchro thanks and I think if you use it within its limits and shoot I alongside any high end camera for say portraits/fashion it might win. A pro fashion/beauty tog/ viewer says he uses the next model up for paid commercial work. CCD just wins for skin tones/ rendering, especially 50or60MP and the larger sensor vs x2D gives a more pleasing luck. The likes of Peter Coulson uses these over modern Hassy X too. Sensor size beats MP for portraits.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Perhaps larger sensors have better shadow rendering. I have heard that before. Some, including one Hollywood cinematographer, say that more surface area = lower contrast. It could be worth investigating?
@@Biosynchro I remember the old Nikon D700 with its ‘big pixels’ and that was always excellent even years later. I’ll shoot it against an X2D at my first opportunity and likely vs Leica before that..
compare apples with orange ...
Thanks, I can't remember what's in the video but I thought it was mostly Hasselblads
Thank you for your interesting videos.
How do you calculate exposure compensation if you attach the say, 21mm extension tube on your Hasselblad with the 120 Macro?
Thank you Jake! If i'm honest I never bother. I don't shoot slide film too often and most other films have enough latitude to cover it. Just over expose slightly if worried.
You're saying there's reciprocity if you use an extension tube? I heard it's like that on the Mamyia RZ67 with it's bellows, that you have to add 1/2 or full stop sometimes to your exposure reading. Don't know how much for a 21 hassy extension ring. Google search doesn't bring up some info?
@@eladbari hey mate, I don’t bother for shorter extension tuned as film has enough latitude. You could over exposure half a stop to be safe. Think of it like a road tunnel, the longer the tunnel the Smaller the light at the other end hence people often talk about compensating. I’ve only used small tubes on film cameras though I used to do a lot of macro with digital in my early days with stacks of tubes.
I do not like your classic Hasselblad 500 C/M
when it looks like a London Panda Morris Minor police car.
The set seems to be a kind of Airfix construction kit,
with a black plastic crank on the right side of the body,
with a olastic waist level finder knob,
with a plastic sun hood.
Thanks, I forget, did I have a non-matching back on during the video?
Mount your Hasselblad to a Linhof, SINAR or MPP 4X5 camera.
Take off the frame with the ground glass from your LF camera,
Mount the plate with the male Hasselblad 40037 bayonet to the LF.
Shoot the Hasselblad with any old or soft focus LF lens.
Even tilt, shift, rise and fall will be possible.
It was on purpose I did not mention the LF brand Cambo, made in Holland.
I do not like that toplofty Dutch brand, I am at war with it since 1965.
The moment I think I can hit them, they are bankrupt or a new management arrives.
They deny my remarks on the design faults of their ballheads, SC and ACTUS.
Thanks I will look into it. I've seen Arc Swiss and Cambo
A Hasselblad beauty contest.
I do not like a black 500 C/M with a chrome A 12 back
I do not like the plastic film advance crank.
I do not like the plastic Hasselblad sun hoods.
Yes all black or all black and chrome looks better
plastic B60+ hoods are on CF series lenses, metal B50+ hoods are on C series lenses, no choice
Stripping the 500 C/M to a basic Hasselblad?
you also have to remove the viewfinder, the focusing screen and the film transport crank.
Never buy a Hasselblad 500 C/M with its "standard" lens. First think it over how you want
to create your photographs. You might start with a 60 mm, a 80 mm or a 100 mm lens.
Perhaps a set of two lenses; a 50 mm plus a 150 mm?
Never buy just one extension tube; you need the 8 mm, 16 mm, 32 mm and 56 mm tubes
The A16s back is for 4 x 4 cm negs and slides. The slides will fit in any top quality 35 mm
slide projedtor like Leitz and Kodak.
What is a Hasselblad for?
"YOU CAN TAKE A HASSELBLAD ANYWHERE"
This line sounds like a 1965 Whisky advertisement.
Read thee Hasselblad Book and the job sheets; the Hasselblad is not just for portrait andd studio.
The Hasselblad is NOT a heavy camera.
You can not compare the Hasselblad to any camera.
Auto Exposure can be done with the Hasselblad by using the Zeiss Auto Exposure lenses.
I prefor the Hasselblad 500 C/M over any Leica camera.
You need a TTL prism for the Hasselblad when shooting macro with the Zeiss 120 mm.
( Or a pocket calculater plus a metric ruler.)
Please, can you explain what is the vintage rendering of the Zeiss 150 mm lens?
Have you compared the quality of a single and a multi coated Hasselblad Lens?
I did; the difference is minor.
Why did not NASA send the astronauts with a Leica camera to the moon?
The first American camera in space was a low budget Minolta rangefinder camera;
bought at the local drugstore the day before count down.
By the way, I happen to be Mr. Hasselblad since 1965.
Beware, do not risc a fifth Dutch war. The chain over the Thames never has been
repaired; it is a pleasant voyage to Chatham.
Thanks Jaco, yes C vs CF lenses, CF flare less and better contrast. Both fine in good light/ with the light. Yes my 150 just seems to have a less modern rendering verses say the 120 I use the most. I need to use it more! (The Hassy)
Micheal Kenna has always used a Hasselblad how can you show Thomas Heaton who has barely used one and not Micheal Kenna ! OMG man
Ha sorry Terry, it was more to show new photographers picking up the Hassy and enjoying them.
Thank you Matt Looking into a 500cm primarily for portraits & some landscapes. Can you recommend a sharp beauty lens;80or 50? Never mind watched til end. Thanks 60mm sound like a gem
60mm gives 35mm so a useful length yes!
do you have instagram?
Yes @MrLeicaCom :)
lovely
Thanks!
I do not like your classic Hasselblad 500 C/M when it
looks like a Panda Morris Minor police car.
TYour set seems to be a kind of Airfix construction kit,
with a plastic black crank on the right side of the body,
with a olastic waist level finder knob,
with a plastic sun hood.
Do not forget to take with you a tube of Humbrol glue.
Mind the correct way to write c/m;
the fonds must be capitals: C/M.
It is impossible to compare a 500 C/M to a SWC/M.
You can not compare a saloon car to a race car,
being of the same brand.
Can you proove / show any difference betwee the quality
of the Zeiss lenses, made for the Hasselblad 500 slr?
The SWC/M 38 mm lens is a kind of copy of a pre WW II
Zeiss Topogon lens is and so is the Mamiya Sekor 65 mm
wide angle of the Mamiya 23 Press Universal Press camera.
Thanks Jaco (about the lenses), yes the SWC lens is fantastic. 500s are great too ofc.
bravo!
Thanks Claudio and welcome!