Hasselblad announced their new H5D series medium format cameras. Some of the improvements are:
- New compressed RAW files for faster and smoother workflow
- Even better focus correction with True Focus II
- Print-ready JPEG mode for quick preview and printing
- New Camera Configurator
- New improved grip surface
- Larger and more ergonomic buttons
- Larger, easier to read display style
- New menu and graphics design
- New programmable buttons
- New and improved weather sealing
- New, more durable eye cup
- New sensor unit safety lock
- New and faster processors for more rapid internal communication
- Support for new capture modes
- New and more accurate focus algorithms
- New motor drive algorithms
Hasselblad also announced a new HCD 4.8/24mm lens:
Hasselblad still has a press conference scheduled for September 18th where we may see more interesting products.
Press release
Hasselblad is set to launch a new flagship H5D medium format camera series.
Hasselblad's 'next generation' H System camera will be showcased at the Hasselblad press conference at photokina, Cologne, Germany (Tuesday Sep 18: 2pm-3pm). The H5D features a modernized design and a complete new electronic engine to pave the way for ultimate quality imaging, for print ready JPEG files, and for a smooth and intuitive user interface. The camera is billed by the Sweden-based company as 'the latest step in the evolution of the best high-end camera system in the world'.
Aimed at high-end professional users the H5D offers:
- New H System lens: HCD 4.8/24 mm, equivalent to 17 mm on 35 mm DSLR format
- New Macro Converter, for superb close-up performance with wide angle lenses
- RAW + JPEG mode for quick preview and print
- New True Focus II provides unique, accurate focus and Immediate Focus Confirm
- Full access to camera information and image preview on rear in tethered mode
- The largest, brightest viewfinder image on the market
- New larger, more ergonomic buttons and an easier to read display style
- New sealing for improved weather proofing plus new sensor unit safety lock
- Optional battery adapter for standalone operation of digital capture unit
- Ultimate image quality with Hasselblad Natural Color Solution
- A choice of software: Hasselblad Phocus 2.7 and Adobe® Lightroom® 4 both included
Peter Stig-Nielsen, Hasselblad's Director of Professional Camera Products said: "Customers will immediately notice the new-look and improved ergonomics and this progressive system also brings upgraded performance on a number of levels. Hasselblad is a world-leader with an unmatched and comprehensive range of lenses. Now that line has been extended with the new wide angle HCD 4.8/24 mm lens, which offers the same performance as the HCD 28 mm and is the equivalent of a 17 mm on 35 mm DSLR format. Additionally, our new Macro Converter provides excellent close-up performance with the HC 50, HCD 28 and HC 35 lenses - negating the need for additional macro lens purchase."
He added: "Our new True Focus II further advances focusing accuracy after re-compose, and an intuitive focus check has been added. The new hardware architecture allows for delivering print ready JPEG files in addition to the superb RAW files. And we have re-written the user interface to achieve a smooth and intuitive operation. All in all we believe the H5D Camera series will provide the ultimate high-end addition to any serious photographer's capture equipment."
The H5D Series will be available as models with 40, 50 and 60 megapixels as well as 50 and 200 megapixel Multi-Shot versions and will start shipping in December 2012.
