Digital Camera Review

September, 2009: With the release of the new H4D-60, the first H4D camera and most recent addition to the Hasselblad H System, Hasselblad marks the beginning of a new chapter in the history of medium format DSLRs. The H4D-60 will feature True Focus with APL (Absolute Position Lock), making auto-focus substantially easier and more accurate for photography professionals.

As part of the celebration honoring the first manned lunar landing and the first lunar photography, camera manufacturer Hasselblad is announcing another first, the launch of the H4D camera series. The first model in the new series is the H4D-60, featuring a 60 Megapixel medium format sensor.

“We are thrilled to be able to announce the introduction of the H4D,” says Christian Poulsen, CEO of Hasselblad. “This step represents the natural evolution of our H System and of our photographic strategy in general. As part of our efforts to inspire 35mm photographers to step up to the quality found in high-end DSLRs, the H4D series is built upon the successful H3D platform and features our revolutionary True Focus technology. The H4D also comes bundled with our new Phocus 2.0 imaging software.”

True Focus and Absolute Position Lock
“True Focus helps solve one of the most lingering challenges that faces serious photographers today,” he continues, “true, accurate focusing throughout the image field. Without multi-point auto-focus a typical auto-focus camera can only correctly measure focus on a subject that is in the center of the image. When a photographer wants to focus on a subject outside the center area, they have to lock focus on the subject and then re-compose the image. In short distances especially, this re-composing causes focus error, as the plane of focus sharpness follows the camera’s movement, perpendicular to the axis of the lens.”

The traditional solution for most DSLRs has been to equip the camera with a multi-point AF sensor. These sensors allow the photographer to fix an off-center focus point on an off-center subject, which is then focused correctly. Such multi-point AF solutions are often tedious and inflexible to work with, however, and do not really solve the problem, claims Poulsen.

“Photographers have grown accustomed to using auto-focus systems in their day to day work and we see increasingly higher numbers of focus points advertised in each new wave of AF products. The term ‘multi-point auto-focus’ is a bit misleading, however, for cameras with sensors larger than APS,” claims Poulsen. “Due to the physics of an SLR-camera, the off-center focus points that are offered are all clustered relatively close to the center of the image. To set focus outside of this center area, the photographer is still forced to focus first, and then shift the camera to reframe, with the resulting loss of focus as a result.

To overcome this problem, Hasselblad has used modern yaw rate sensor technology to measure angular velocity in an innovative way. The result is the new Absolute Position Lock (APL) processor, which forms the foundation of Hasselblad’s True Focus feature. The APL processor accurately logs camera movement during any re-composing, then uses these exact measurements to calculate the necessary focus adjustment, and issues the proper commands to the lens’s focus motor so it can compensate. The APL processor computes the advanced positional algorithms and carries out the required focus corrections at such rapid speed that no shutter lag occurs. The H4D’s firmware then further perfects the focus using the precise data retrieval system found on all HC/HCD lenses.

“This technology takes AF to an entirely new level, correcting for the vertical and horizontal focus-shift that results from the rotation of the camera around an axis close to camera,” says Poulsen, “In simple terms, True Focus allows the photographer to concentrate on their composition, to focus on their creativity, while True Focus takes care of the other, more mechanical focus.”

True Focus on the H4D can be set to work at a half press of the camera release button, or via any user button programmed to AF-drive when the camera is in manual focus mode. This, the first release of True Focus, only corrects the horizontal and vertical positioning of the camera, and does not correct for any focus-shift which results from larger lateral movements of the camera during recomposing. The True Focus technology and APL (both patent pending) mark a significant milestone for Hasselblad’s high-end DSLR strategy and represent the result of many years of development work.

Faster Software, Shorter Learning Curve
The new user interface in Phocus 2.0 drastically reduces the learning curve for high-end imaging. The average photographer will be up to speed in less than 15 minutes, claims Hasselblad CEO Christian Poulsen. Functionality has not been lowered, however, with Phocus 2.0 matching or bettering the speed, functions, and usability found in Lightroom, Aperture, and Capture One.

“We’ve increased speed, increased functionality, and dramatically increased the speed at which photographers can learn to use this advanced software,” says Poulsen. “In less than 5 minutes an amateur photographer can learn to work with our images. In less than 10 minutes, learn how to setup for production of high-res files for Photoshop. In less than 20 minutes learn how to shoot tethered as a professional studio photographer. The new version of Phocus is just another step in our efforts to make complex functionality simple to use, allowing photographers to focus on their shooting.”

This philosophy lies behind a range of the features found in the H4D, including Hasselblad Natural Color Solution (HNCS), which achieves consistent color reproduction using a single color profile, and digital lens correction (DAC) which perfects each image captured through the HC/HCD lenses, by removing any trace of distortion, vignetting or chromatic aberrations. It was also the key motivation for what will surely be the most attractive feature in the new H4D, Hasselblad True Focus, explains Poulsen.

The Hasselblad H4D-60 will be available for delivery in January 2010 at a price of 28,995 €.
The Hasselblad H4D-50 will replace the H3DII-50. Delivery of the H4D-50 will begin in Q1, 2010 at a price of 19,995 €. H3DII-50 cameras purchased between now and Q1, 2010 will be upgraded to the H4D-50 free of charge. A program is also being announced for owners of H3D-31 and H3D-39 cameras to step up onto the H4D platform.

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Featuring Kodak’s 50 Mpixel 36×48mm sensor, which measures, twice the physical size of the largest 35mm DSLR sensors, the H3DII-50 camera system has been specially designed to meet the most exacting demands of high-end commercial photographers who require the ultimate in both image quality and performance.

The H3DI-50 camera system has been especially designed to meet the demands of the high-end commercial photographer who demands both flexibility and ultimate image quality. The H3DI-50 includes:
• highest image resolution from 50Mpixel sensor
• the freedom to choose between eye-level and waist-level viewfinders
• the choice of combining point-and–shoot and tilt/shift to solve creative commercial challenges
• the ability to combine working tethered and un-tethered to get the most of your camera system both on location and in the studio
• the option of processing your images in Hasselblad’s Phocus imaging toolbox, or working with your raw images directly in Apple’s Aperture.

Ultimate DSLR Advantage
- Integrated 50 Mpix capture units with 3” display
- Ultra-Focus: integral optimization of digital lens performance
- Hasselblad Natural Color Solution
- Integrated CCD cooling sink for lower noise
- Direct ISO/WB control
- Thumbwheel control of digital menus
- GPS accessory option
- Full Digital APO Correction for improved image sharpness and detail

Ultimate Flexibility
- Market’s most versatile lens program
- Choice of eye-level or waist-level viewfinders
- Field FW upgrade of H3D camera
- Choice of media: CF card – Image Bank II
- Easy sensor cleaning
- View camera option
- Un-tethered and tethered operation
- Hasselblad 3FR raw – or DNG export

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Specifications

Camera Type
Medium Format Interchangeable Lens Camera with Reflex Viewfinder and Integrated Digital Back

Image Quality

Image Sensor
33.1 x 44.2 mm, 31 Megapixel CCD

Effective Resolution
31 million pixels

Color Depth
48-Bit RGB

Color Modes
Full Color

Image File Formats
RAW 3FR
TIFF (8-bit)

Recorded Resolution
4872 x 6496 pixels

Video Recording
No

Audio Recording
No

Optics

Lens Mount
Hasselblad HC lenses with integral leaf shutter

Focal Length Multiplier
1.3x

Optical Image Stabilization
No

Focus Control

Focus Type
AF metering with passive central cross-type sensor (EV 1 to 19 at ISO100)

Focus Modes
Autofocus, Ultra focus digital feedback, Instant manual focus override.

Exposure Control

Sensitivity
Selectable ISO (100, 200, 400, 800)

Shutter Type
Electronically controlled lens integrated shutter

Shutter Speed
32 – 1/800 second

Mirror Lock-Up
Yes

Exposure Metering
Spot, Center Weighted, Center Spot (EV1 – EV21 Metering range)

Exposure Modes
Manual [M], Aperture priority [A], Shutter priority [S], Program [P], Program variable [Pv], AE Lock [AE-L]

White Balance Modes
Manual, Flash, Daylight, Tungsten

Scene Modes
No

Flash

Built-in Flash
Integral fill-flash (G.No. 12 @ ISO100) with HVD 90x reflex viewfinder

Effective Flash Range
Not Specified by Manufacturer

External Flash Connection
Hot shoe for Metz SCA3902-system flashes with HVD 90x reflex viewfinder

External Flash Control
Automatic TTL center weighted system (Metz SCA3902-system)
±3EV Flash Compensation for manual flashes and a built-in metering system is available

Maximum Flash Synchronization Speed
Flash can be used at all shutter speeds

Performance

Start-Up Time
Not Specified

Shutter Lag
0.04 seconds (AF on)

Time Between Shots
1.2 seconds

Burst Capability
No

Self Timer
Programmable (2 – 60 seconds)

Interval Recording
Yes (2-32 frames with interval duration of 1 second – 24 hours)

Date & Time Stamp
No

Memory & Power

Built-in Memory
No

Compatible Memory Cards
CompactFlash Card (type I & II) (High Speed Card with write speed >20 MB/sec required)
Image Bank 100GB Portable Hard Drive Unit
Record directly to PC Hard Drive when tethered

File Size
RAW 3FR     TIFF
31 Megapixels     40MB     95MB

Battery Type
Rechargeable Li-ion battery (7.2v, 1850mAh)
3x CR-123 Lithium batteries with optional cassette

Power Adapter
No
Can be powered via Firewire 800 (IEEE1394b) interface

Input/Output

Computer Interface
FireWire 800 (IEEE1394b)

Direct Print Capable
No

Remote Control
Remote Release Cord H (optional)
PC Control when tethered via FireWire 800 (IEEE1394b) interface

Video Output
No

System & Software Requirements
Mac OS X (10.1 or later)
Windows NT, 2000, XP, XP64, Vista, Vista 64

Display

Viewfinder
HVD 90x reflex viewfinder with diopter adjustment (-5 to +3.5D).

Viewfinder Info
Exposure method, Aperture, Shutter speed, Exposure compensation, Metering method, Flash LED, Warning triangle LED, Focus aid LED,         Film magazine status

Depth-of-Field Preview
Yes

LCD Display
3.0″ TFT Color LCD display (230,400 pixels)

Information Display
Grip LCD: Flash condition indication, Focus setting, Drive condition, Aperture setting, Exposure Value display, Exposure mode indication,             Shutter speed setting, Film speed rating, Metering method indication White balance, Low battery symbol

Language Options
English (other languages available via firmware download)

Playback Options
Single Image (with Histogram and/or shooting metadata), Playback Zoom

Physical

Dimensions (HxWxD)
5.2″ x 6.1″ x 8.4″ (131 x 153 x 213 mm)
Complete camera with 80 mm lens

Weight
80.8 oz. (2290 g)
Complete camera with 80mm lens, Li-Ion battery and CF-card

 Features

The Hasselblad H3DII-31 SLR Digital Camera has been developed around a unique digital camera engine producing increased lens performance and an unsurpassed level of image sharpness. By focusing solely on digital camera architecture, Hasselblad is able to offer photographers the full benefits of professional medium-format digital cameras as well as the ease of use of the best 35mm DSLRs. The H3DII design has also made possible the launch of a 28mm lens, designed and optimized solely for digital image capture. Click here for more info!

The H3DII-31 delivers outstanding digital performance, taking full advantage of the virtues of medium format photography. The result is flexibility for the professional photographer, including the freedom to choose between eyelevel and waist-level viewfinders, digitally APO corrected lenses, and on-the-fly classification of images. Furthermore, the H3DII-31 offers the photographer the freedom to work with film to allow shooting under extreme conditions, and Hasselblad’s Natural Color Solution delivers out-of-the-box image quality only achievable in a true digital camera system. Click here for more info!

The H3DII is the 4th generation of the Hasselblad H-system, and provides improved controls and functionality, better sensor cooling, a more intuitive user interface, and a bright, 3″ display. When combined with the latest Hasselblad’s image processing software – Phocus by Hasselblad – H3DII will set a new standard for digital photographic quality. Featuring a range of new techniques and features. Phocus will provide the power and finesse needed to serve and support the latest Hasselblad camera developments and to enable groundbreaking levels of image quality – all in a modern and easy-to-use environment. Every aspect of Phocus has been developed and designed to reflect the way that photographers work and to help ensure that you can spend as much time as possible taking images – not processing them. Click here for more info!

• Large Format 33x44mm Digital Capture

Today’s digital photography demands higher resolution, less noise, and improved compositional choice, The H3DII-31 image sensor provides 31 Megapixels and is more than twice the physical size of today’s 35mm sensors. Consequently the sensor holds more and larger pixels, which ensures the highest possible image quality and moire free color rendering without gradation break-ups – in even the most subtly lit surfaces. Click here for more info!

• Ultra-Focus and Digital APO Correction

Information about the lens and exact capture conditions is fed to the camera processor for ultra-fine-tuning of the auto-focus mechanism, taking into account the design specifications of the lens and the optical specifications of the sensor. In this way the full HC lens program is enhanced to perform at a new level of sharpness and resolution. Digital correction for color aberration and distortion is also added. Digital APO Correction (DA C), is an APO-chromatic correction of the images based on a combination of the various paramaters concerning each specific lens for each specific shot, ensuring that each image represents the best that your equipment can produce. Click here for more info!

• Three Modes of Digital Operation and Storage

Optimum portability and image storage are critical for the professional photographer. The Hasselblad H3D offers a choice of storage devices: portable CF card storage, the flexible Firewire driven Hasselblad Imagebank or tethered operation with extended, special capture controls, and image capture directly to a computer hard drive. With these three operating and storage options, you are able to select a mode to suit the nature of the work in hand, whether in the studio or on location. Click here for more info!

• FlexColor Workflow for the Professional Photographer

FlexColor offers an image processing workflow with the highest degree of control for the studio photographer. In tethered operation, tools like overlay masking help bring productivity to advanced set composition. The latest FlexColor version allows the photographer to manipulate color temperature and compare image details across multiple images for precise image selection. FlexColor processes the raw 3FR files generated by the Hasselblad H3D. FlexColor runs natively on both Macintosh and Windows computers and is licensed to allow you to provide free copies for all your co-workers and production partners. Click here for more info!

• Unique Hasselblad Natural Color Solution

Normally troublesome subjects such as various skin tones, metals, fabrics, flowers, etc. are easily captured by using the powerful color profile – the Hasselblad Natural Color Solution (HNCS). It works invisibly in the background in conjunction with the FlexColor imaging software, producing outstanding and reliable out-of-the-box results. In order to support our new unique color system, we have developed a custom Hasselblad raw file format called 3F RAW (3FR). The file format includes lossless image compression, which reduces the required storage space by 33%. Click here for more info!

• DNG workflow

3FR files can be converted into Adobe’s raw image format DNG (Digital NeGative). In order to optimize the colors of the DNG file format, conversion from the 3FR must take place through FlexColor. The DNG file format enables RAW image files to be opened directly in Adobe Photoshop. Hasselblad image files carry a full set of metadata, including capture conditions, keywords and copyright, facilitating workflow with image asset management solutions. Click here for more info!

• Instant Approval Architecture (IAA)

Building on the success of its Audio Exposure Feedback technology, Hasselblad has created Instant Approval Architecture (IAA), an enhanced set of feedback tools, designed to liberate the photographer from the selection process and to concentrate on the shoot. Audible and visible signals as well as recorded information in the file and in the file name all promote a quick and easy classification in the field or in the lab. Sorting becomes automatic, accessible and very fast, facilitating reviewing the best images for immediate client presentation. Click here for more info!

• GPS Recording Flexibility

Hasselblad’s Global Image Locator (GIL) is an accessory to any H-based Hasselblad digital capture product. Using the GIL device all images captured outside are tagged with GPS coordinates, time and altitude. This data is key to a number of future applications involving image archiving and retrieval. One example is the direct mapping of images within the coming Phocus software to Google Earth. Click here for more info!

• Modular Design for Flexibility and a Choice of Bright Viewfinders

One of the important traditional advantages of medium format is the extra large and bright viewfinder image. The H3D comes with the HVD90X viewfinder designed for full performance over the large 33.1 x 44.2mm sensor. It is interchangeable with the HV90X viewfinder and the HVM waist-level viewfinder. For increased usefulness, the digital capture unit of the H3DII can also be detached and used on a view camera by way of an adapter. In this case the unit is controlled by the flash sync signal from the view camera shutter. A clean and dust-free sensor is essential and the modular design of the camera allows for easy access for cleaning, saving you hours of retouching work later. Click here for more info!

• Free Upgrade to Phocus by Hasselblad

Over the years, the image processing engine in Hasselblad’s FlexColor software has evolved into a powerful raw converter. The upcoming release of Phocus by Hasselblad adds an entirely new processing engine – featuring a range of new techniques and features and the power to support the latest Hasselblad camera developments and to enable groundbreaking new levels of image quality. Every aspect of Phocus has been developed and designed to reflect the way that photographers work and to help ensure that you can spend as much time as possible taking images – not processing them. Some of the features of Phocus include:

• Moiré Removal
  Even very high resolution images can exhibit moiré under certain circumstances. With Phocus, moiré is effectively removed without the need to make special mask selections or other manual procedures, and is performed directly on the raw data.
• Expanded Metadata
  The metadata included in Phocus images follows the IPTC Core standard with XMP Plus, with added GPS data functions, Phocus links GPS data directly to Google Earth, making geographic reference a snap and image storage and retrieval much easier.
• Hasselblad DSLR Camera Preparation
  Any photographer knows that the more prepared you are for a shoot, the more likely things are to go according to plan once in the field or on the shoot. Phocus is designed to make pre-planning easier than ever before, allowing you to pre-set camera parameters and folders and the like.
• Enhanced Tethered Operation Control
  Phocus provides special extended controls of your Hasselblad camera, such as the ability to control the lens drive for focusing when the camera is in a remote position or when the digital capture unit is mounted on a view camera.
• Improved GUI
  The GUI includes straightforward options for customizing your set-up to suit a number of different workflow situations, such as choice of import source, browsing/comparing functions, file management, image export in a range of file formats, pre-set of options for coming shoots, and much more.
• Improved Views
  The Phocus view section allows layout and composition to be tailored to suit the current workflow, providing a wide range of options including full view, compare, browse, horizontal or vertical view, and so on. Plus multiple folders can be open at the same time for simultaneous viewing, comparison and selection.

 

Click here for more info!

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