List of products by brand Hasselblad

The Hasselblad : From Origins to Modern Innovation

Hasselblad, a name synonymous with photographic excellence, has built a storied legacy that spans over eight decades. Renowned for its medium-format cameras and exceptional image quality, the brand has maintained a prestigious place in the world of photography, particularly in professional and artistic circles. The journey of Hasselblad is one that intertwines heritage, innovation, and a commitment to quality.

Origins and History

The origins of Hasselblad trace back to 1841 in Gothenburg, Sweden, when F.W. Hasselblad & Co. was founded as a trading company. It wasn’t until 1908 that Victor Hasselblad, the grandson of the original founder, began focusing on photography. As an avid photographer himself, Victor became increasingly interested in camera technology, eventually opening a photo supply shop in 1937.

Hasselblad’s entry into camera manufacturing came during World War II, when the Swedish government commissioned Victor Hasselblad to develop an aerial reconnaissance camera. The success of this camera led to the development of the Hasselblad 1600F in 1948, the company’s first consumer camera, which quickly garnered attention for its innovative design and remarkable image quality.

Major Milestones and Highlights

One of the most iconic moments in Hasselblad’s history came in 1962, when NASA selected Hasselblad cameras for use on space missions. The Hasselblad 500C was chosen for its reliability, modular design, and superior image resolution. This partnership culminated in the legendary Hasselblad 500EL, which was taken to the Moon during the Apollo 11 mission in 1969. The image of Neil Armstrong's first steps on the lunar surface, captured by a Hasselblad camera, remains one of the most famous photographs in history, cementing the brand’s place in photographic lore.

Throughout the 20th century, Hasselblad continued to innovate and refine its medium-format cameras, becoming a favorite among professional photographers for fashion, portraiture, and landscape photography. The modular design of their cameras, which allowed photographers to change lenses, film backs, and viewfinders, gave unprecedented flexibility and creative control.

Modern Innovations and Current Products

Hasselblad’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of camera technology continues in the digital age. In 2002, the company introduced its first digital camera, the Hasselblad H1, a medium-format camera that brought the legendary image quality of Hasselblad into the digital era. This shift from film to digital was a pivotal moment, as Hasselblad adapted to the demands of modern photography while maintaining the medium-format quality for which it was known.

Today, Hasselblad’s flagship cameras include the X1D II 50C and the 907X 50C, both part of its innovative mirrorless medium-format system. The X1D II 50C, introduced in 2019, offers a 50-megapixel sensor, superb color accuracy, and a compact, ergonomic design, blending the portability of a smaller camera with the unparalleled quality of a medium-format sensor. The 907X 50C provides a modular experience reminiscent of Hasselblad’s legacy, allowing photographers to combine a modern digital back with a classic V-system camera body.

In 2023, Hasselblad released the X2D 100C, a groundbreaking camera featuring a 100-megapixel sensor, an improved autofocus system, and in-body image stabilization, a first for the brand. This model underscores Hasselblad’s continuous pursuit of image quality and technical precision, catering to photographers who demand the utmost detail and clarity.

Hasselblad Today

Beyond cameras, Hasselblad has expanded its ecosystem with high-performance lenses, such as the XCD lens series, which are specifically designed to complement its medium-format mirrorless cameras. The company also offers comprehensive software, Phocus, which provides professional-grade editing and tethering capabilities, ensuring that photographers can make the most of their Hasselblad files.

Despite the evolving landscape of photography and the rise of smaller, more affordable cameras, Hasselblad remains committed to its medium-format roots. The brand continues to be a symbol of precision engineering, Scandinavian design, and photographic excellence.

Hasselblad’s journey from a small family business to an iconic brand with a legacy in space exploration is a testament to its innovative spirit and dedication to quality. With cutting-edge products like the X2D 100C, the brand remains at the forefront of medium-format photography, inspiring professionals and enthusiasts alike to push the boundaries of their creative visions. Hasselblad’s combination of tradition and innovation ensures that it will continue to shape the future of photography for years to come.