Hasselblad 907X Review | It's Not for Me

After having the Hasselblad 907X for a couple of weeks and having shot with it out in the field, I have concluded that this camera is not for me. In this video I review and discuss why I think the 907x is not for the landscape photographer.
𝐁𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐞 𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐜𝐡 𝐦𝐲 𝐄𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐫𝐞 '𝐎𝐧 𝐋𝐨𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧' 𝐂𝐚𝐭𝐚𝐥𝐨𝐠𝐮𝐞: • Binge Watch EVERYTHING...
My In the Field Video with the 907X: • Hasselblad 907X On Loc...
𝐌𝐲 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟏 𝐋𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐬𝐜𝐚𝐩𝐞 𝐂𝐚𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐫: thomasheaton.co.uk/product/20...
𝐌𝐲 𝐋𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐬𝐜𝐚𝐩𝐞 𝐏𝐡𝐨𝐭𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐩𝐡𝐲 𝐁𝐨𝐨𝐤: thomasheaton.co.uk/product/my...
𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐌𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐛𝐞 𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐢𝐧 𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐬𝐞:
Online Photography Course: f4roadtrip.com
My Instagram: / heatonthomas
My Website: www.thomasheaton.co.uk
My E-Book: geni.us/onlocation
𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐆𝐞𝐚𝐫 𝐔𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐢𝐧 & 𝐭𝐨 𝐌𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐕𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐨: 𝘛𝘩𝘦𝘴𝘦 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘢𝘧𝘧𝘪𝘭𝘪𝘢𝘵𝘦 𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘬𝘴.
My Office Camera: geni.us/xt-3
𝗠𝘆 𝗙𝘂𝗹𝗹 𝗞𝗶𝘁 L𝗶𝘀𝘁 𝗕𝗹𝗼𝗴: bit.ly/tomsgear
𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐌𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐜 𝐢𝐧 𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐕𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐨
None in today's video :(
𝘼𝙡𝙡 𝘿𝙤𝙬𝙣𝙡𝙤𝙖𝙙𝙚𝙙 𝙛𝙧𝙤𝙢 𝙃𝙚𝙧𝙚: share.epidemicsound.com/t2V7R
#LandscapePhotography Hasselblad907x

[@maor404]

I'm watching it like I can afford it.

[@blindsleep]

Aren’t we all?

[@jonjonckheer5063]

What blindsleep said 👍🏼

[@hiltsyartnstuff1142]

Even if I could afford it, I still wouldn’t buy it.

[@maor404]

@@hiltsyartnstuff1142 Exactly

[@MrShuaiGuy]

😂

[@PedroLauridsenRibeiro]

The older 500C, 500C/M and 503CX models in Hasselblad's V system have a time exposure lock-up function (small lever around the shutter release button) that was removed in the 501CM and 503CW. With that, you can shoot with the CFV II 50C in Live View using the electronic shutter without holding the shutter release button with your finger or a release cable - just set the shutter speed on the lens to B, set the time exposure lock lever to T and press the shutter button - both the lens' leaf shutter and the secondary shutter on the back of the body will remain open until you disengage the lever back to the O position, leaving the optical path open for the sensor to do its thing. This is nice even if you just want to be painstakingly accurate with your focus by appealing to the focus peaking and zoom functions on the back, disengaging the time exposure lock and then shooting the usual way (although you'll probably want to use a tripod setup for all that as well). On the other hand, the 501CM and the 503CW have the gliding mirror that prevents the viewfinder vignetting with longer lenses (above 150mm, it seems) that plagued the older V-system models - the viewfinder vignetting becomes immaterial for the lenses that matter (up to 250mm) with the CFV II 50C back due to the sensor crop, though - especially if you use a focusing screen with the framelines for that sensor (more on that below). Although the 907X manual doesn't make it clear, the camera and the XCD lenses are in fact weather sealed (this was clarified by The Photoblographer's review of the 907X), although I guess not to the level of rugged pro-level DSLRs like Nikon's D850 or D5 - otherwise Hasselblad would probably be more vocal about it. I'd wager it's about as weather sealed as the X1D II. A feature of the CFV II 50C back that handicaps both the 907X and the V-system bodies somewhat is the sensor format. 6x6 negatives in medium format mean that you don't have to rotate the camera by 90 degrees to shoot in portrait mode (after all, it is the same as landscape mode if your negative is a square), which is a necessity if you use the waist level finder that comes with the camera. This also applies to Live View in the 907X if you use the back screen facing up. This is not a problem for the X1D II since it has an EVF and a grip. However, it can be mitigated to a great degree in the V system bodies if you use a prism viewfinder accessory such as the PM45 (45 degrees), the PM90 (90 degrees) or their respective analogues equipped with TTL metering (the PME51 and PME90), possibly combined with a grip if you shoot handheld. In my opinion, a TTL meter-equipped prism viewfinder is an indispensable add-on to a Hasselblad V-system camera. As for the 907X, you can add the optional grip but the lack of a TTL viewfinder (be it optical or electronic) is indeed a bummer - Hasselblad seemingly tried to emulate their old SWC camera when they added only the non-TTL optical viewfinder as an option. I hope they go further than that in the future. The CFV II 50C also has a cropped square mode that does away with the portrait mode issues but that wastes a good deal of the sensor and the lens. The ideal situation would be having a full-frame 6x6 sensor (56mm x 56mm) but there has never been a medium-format digital back with a sensor that big, not even the far more expensive, state-of-the-art backs from Phase One and H-system Hasselblad. One thing I miss from the original CFV 50C back is that they downgraded the accompanying focusing screen with the cropping frames for both the full sensor and the aforementioned square crop to a focusing screen mask. The latter has the advantage that you can use any focusing screen you want (specially since Hasselblad recommends using split-image focusing screens with the CFV II 50C back for better manual focus accuracy, which becomes more critical than when using film), but you no longer have the framelines for the squared crop mode. You probably can find the focusing screen with the crop framelines to buy separately, though (either new or used) - _Update_ : the Acute Matte D focusing screen with the split microprism at the center and the CFV (II) 50C framelines _is_ being sold by Hasselblad separately, you can find it new e.g. at B&H. It's a great focusing screen (in my opinion, even the best one for the V system) and it costs _less_ than used Acute Matte D's, I recommend it even if you're not interested in getting the digital back. I don't see much sense in buying the 907X over the slightly less expensive X1D II if you are into Hasselblad (especially if you are considering using the superb XCD lenses) but don't already have a V-system film camera, and Hasselblad is clearly aiming at V-system owners with the 907X since the idea is to keep as much of the V-system experience and haptics as possible, for better or worse. Sure, the small form factor for medium format is cool, but ergonomics suffers. And yes, the Fujifilm GFX 50 has the same sensor, none of the cons of the 907X, and shoots faster for a bit more than half the price, but how do the software / color processing and glass of both systems compare? It's an honest question - after all, when all is said and done all that matters are the pictures. For V-system owners who want to have a digital option to it (and may even consider adding XCD glass to the legendary Zeiss lens portfolio of the V system), I think that the lackluster autofocus, fps and video capabilities of the CFD II 50C back are rather minor setbacks (hehe) since they will be shooting manual most of the time anyway, that's what the experience is all about (even if at the price of a probably less-than-ideal focus accuracy for 50MP digital standards). Having a metering prism viewfinder in your V-system camera would be immensely helpful when using the CFV II 50C back with it, though.

[@inter-linked]

The lock-up feature was simply moved to the right of body. The 907 ‘camera’ is a distraction. The real product is the back.

[@PedroLauridsenRibeiro]

@@inter-linked you are correct regarding the mirror lock-up button - it stays just below the film advance crank on all V system models (both old and new). I actually meant the _time exposure lock_ lever around the shutter release button, the mirror lock-up doesn't really have anything to do with what I meant to say, sorry for that - I've just edited the first paragraph of my comment above to make it clearer. That being said, I also meant that the 501CM and the 503CW really don't have the time exposure lock lever like the older V system models, and this piece of information is accurate (I don't have either model, but I've checked it in their manuals).

[@SangSamuel9999]

Your comment was very helpful to me. Thank you very much.

[@sirgengar1189]

Great post. I'm a proud owner of the 203FE and unfortunately I think my time with film is all but done. It's getting too expensive to have film developed and scanned (hobby Vs work) I've got a fair few unprocessed rolls loitering with intent and I'm at the point where I don't want to turn my back on the camera but don't want to keep putting into the money pit that is film photography. They have recently opened a Hassleblad store in Birmingham, the only one in the UK currently and I was able to try both the 907 and it's more standard looking sibling and I fell in love with the former (obviously being a V body owner I can't help but admire their workmanship and how fantastic it looks and feels). The 203FE has a built in meter and of course the 110 f2 lens, which feels like it would be a great combination with this digital back. I do also own the XPan II so initially when I walked into the shop I was expecting to pick up the XD1 II and come away happy with that being my new camera as I could always buy Thier (albeit expensive) adapters for the V / Xpan System. I didn't even know they had made (to my shame) the 907 and I left with a lot more to think about hah. Needless to say I'm still a little torn but my heart says go for the 907X 😅

[@jean-claudemuller3199]

Hi Thomas The 907x is indeed sealed ! Each XCD lens has a rubber gasket on the bayonet The back face of the 907x module is completely lined with rubber to seal it against the CFV II back The internal face of the CFV II side door (battery and cards) is internally rubber lined to seal it The connectors under the rear screen are covered with a rubber plug. The CFVII 50c is the cheapest MF back on the market, Fuji has no MF back. Operating the 500C wit CFVII in live view is not the normal way to use it. The normal way is to operate it like a film SLR, the exposure is measured by the prism lightmeter or external lightmeter the same way as with film

[@wadeduvall7026]

It's sealed between the body and back and at the lens mount but several reviewers have mentioned the sealing on the battery/SD door is very minimal which I think is what he's worried about as well.

[@SnapCracklePop1010]

It's a bit misleading to say the "CFVII 50c is the cheapest MF back on the market" because it is not for sale as a standalone product. You currently can't buy the back without the 907x body.

[@jean-claudemuller3199]

@@SnapCracklePop1010 Hasselblad says that in this package the cost of the 907x compared to CFVII is that random that they don't sell the CFVII alone right now. It's also a marketing strategy to sell more XCD lenses, and perhaps X1D bodies that are way more ergonomic in general use with XCD lenses

[@jean-claudemuller3199]

@@wadeduvall7026 If you show in details how it's made you will notice that the door itself isn't sealed but the SD card slots and battery have a compressed rubber bloc on top that prevents water to touch them even if water can go behind the door.

[@jean-claudemuller3199]

I even just found a 5th rubber seal. The CFVII can be powered by DC 12V to 24V, the socket is underneath and closed by a rubber plug.

[@angloart8410]

This review actually persuades me that this would be the camera for me (if I could afford it). I rarely work outside and produce studio based images in the conceptual/abstract photography realm - need none of the bells and whistles that most cameras have, just the highest quality image files that I can print very large (2m or more in some cases). And I've never looked at a histogram in my life.

[@atapourhassan7442]

Disagree, I have been shooting Hasselblad for a long time. I will not sacrifice the quality over comfort, specially when quality is the most important when you finally find a lovely composition. Zeiss lenses on the Hassy 's are the best thus far. As far as your issue with keeping the shutter open during live view you can use a locking cable release while lens is set on B. Some Hasselblad bodies like SWC have shutter locking mechanism, I use them all the time. For metering you can get a Hasselblad view finder which has light meter. Some 500 Hasselblad series like FE has metering built in and you may utilize Zone system in your light measuring. For most of your shots you use long exposures anyway- and for that having a handheld light meter is the best. Your honesty, however, is admirable.

[@ValentinoLuggen]

Open the hassy files in phocus software. Then open a gfx file in lightroom. See the difference. A proper raw converter can make as much difference as differences between sensors. I used to have several hasselblads, now shooting a gf50s. Still missing the colors hasselblad produces with their own software. Fuji is ok in Capture one though, and yes more sturdy and reliable, and cheaper.

[@obscurazone]

I just made the same comment on one of his other videos. Capture 1 is so much better for Fuji Raw than Lightroom, way more detail. I'm so intrigued to try this digital back on a Hassy 500CM!

[@tombuck]

Definitely an “absolutely stunning” camera, just a bummer about the quirks. Thanks for the genuine insight/review!

[@kurocamera]

You can shoot with the 500cm without pressing the shutter the whole time. Option 1) Set the lens to Bulb to use live view Option 2) Select the 500cm mode on the settings menu to use 500cm as you regularly would (without live view)

[@BenjaminKanarek]

Way too convoluted!

[@dennislee8253]

Thank you for an honest and straightforward review here. I fear I've been tempted by the glamour of this Hassy for doing my own industrial landscape work, but I'm going to rethink that a bit now. Actually, you may have put the nail in the coffin with the comment on weather sealing. It's not rain that's my primary culprit, (although I shoot for hours in the rain occasionally) but dust. That could be my nemesis with this camera. Thanks again. Very very much appreciated. Geez it is beautiful though. LOL

[@DannyChau7]

Love your honesty as every other reviews are all singing nothing but praises, the Fujifilm 50R and it's the perfect street camera for me.

[@keithratcliffe5576]

Out of my league but I applaud your honesty in this review. Just got your calendar - thanks.

[@antoniv01]

Thank's for your comment , solved a lot of doubts I had . You are honest and clear!!

[@RobLawson1982]

Great review. I just bought two based on your recommendation 👍🏻 thanks.

[@andrewporfyri559]

Not a studio camera at all,it’s a modular camera which was designed with V system photographers in mind and it’s also a great tool for Architectural photographers who can attach the digital back to almost any technical camera with movements for perspective & depth of field control not to mention being able to stitch panoramas for landscapes Different tools for different applications and this camera is not designed to compete with the likes of the GFX in any way at all, they are 2 totally different systems

[@jamesbrickert1301]

Being that I inherited a Hasselblad 500 C, 500C/M and a SWC, I am really interested in a digital back. Since Hasselblad won’t sell the CFV 50c II individually, I surmise that I will have to purchase the 907x. Enjoy your videos. Thanks.

[@svvancouver3307]

I came here to decide between the 907x 50c or the x1d ii. I know I would use the x1d ii with more ease but tried to convince myself the 907x is better in some way...but of course I am really torn because of the looks. Thank you for your honest review. You really hit the nail on the head on several fronts why this is not the greatest in the field. Also when you said it doesn’t feel complete I knew I shouldn’t be paying more for the grip and EVF, so I think I will go for the x1d ii.

[@russjt]

Upvoted & watched just because this was a reasonable review, without a clickbaity title. I wasn't actually interested in knowing much about this camera, but it's a breath of fresh air to not see straight up clickbait.

[@hybryd83]

I was really cheered up last year when they've announced this camera. Hearing your opinion I have to agree that Hasselblad sacrificed the functions. Thank you for sharing your thoughts.

[@domsphotography]

I thought when used with a 500 series camera you were supposed to focus through the bodies view finder no the lcd thus there was no need to keep the the shutter open.

[@jimgraves4197]

Nice and honest as always, Thomas.

[@NicholasAndre1]

This camera is primarily a digital back for those that want the ergonomic experience of a film camera with a 203FE and the 110mm F2 lens but also want a digital capture mode. It’s workflow is to use it identically to a film camera (set iso and then use the camera shutter, viewfinder, and meter). The shimming of a mini mirrorless digital “camera” onto the front of it seems like a bit of a gimmick or a “why not” afterthought bridge between their V system offering and the X system lenses. I believe the intent would be that people primarily purchase this for use on a 203FE and then consider the ability to work with X lenses a bonus. The 500cm has a shutter lock as well obviating the need for an external cable release as well. One of the other drawbacks is the lack of a shutter in camera, so even though the adapter is available you cannot effectively use the mirrorless camera with a V system lens.

[@tonymckeage1028]

Thanks Thomas, I always appreciate your unbiased opinion on Cameras. I still think the R5 could be the next step and in a competitive market, canon must sort out the bugs with the current version. My reason is Glass, the R glass looks very exciting, Thanks again

[@ronsteelman6025]

I agree with a previous comment...get the Canon EOS R5...although I have to say, you're 5D Mark IV has served you well...I prefer your videos when you are using it because I believe a large portion of your audience can associate with it including myself.

[@SummersSnaps]

Bought a 645D, cheapest entry into digital MF imo and its stunning, even still in 2020.

[@arrykitting7682]

Fujirumour says a smaller 100 MP medium camera is coming in Q2 2021. Stick around for a while Tom with your full frame. You can see later whether you should go to 50 MP or the new 100 MP medium format 🙂. Your Canon lenses can also be used in GFX; certainly with some limitation.

[@sweetdavey]

Why would you buy a 100 mp camera, honestly? Just out of curiosity. I don't get it :)

[@declannorton2023]

@@sweetdavey image quality/ size as you can crop loads and retain the detail. but you also get an extra stop or two of dynamic range with medium format compared to full frame

[@sweetdavey]

@@declannorton2023 yeah I get the draw of medium format due to the great DR and clean files, but 100 mp? Do you really crop that heavily, and if so how often? Also wouldn't you need to absolutely nail the sharpness of every shot to be able to take advantage of that? Higher mp cameras also tend to be more demanding in that sense, requiring perfect handling to get that sharp results (so I've heard). It just seems so excessive, and a hassle to handle such big files.

[@declannorton2023]

@@sweetdavey its not just to crop but you can, its mainly just for the highest image quality possible. MF is usually used in product photography and other studio work to get the up most quality. You'd still need to hit focus to achieve this and the file sizes aren't big if you have lots of storage.

[@stevemckenzie4731]

Nice to have a MF camera with a 100mpx sensor but as a landscape photographer, you may quickly find you'll need to focus stack just about everything if you shoot wide ...

[@manilamartin1001]

Thanks for this. I love looking at the hassies. Maybe just a gen or two and I will jump in.

[@robertcristi2008]

Looks like I will keep my Olympus EM-5 II as it is weather sealed. These cameras are way way out of my budget however I appreciate the work you put into bringing this info to us. Not everyone might afford them however it is good to know what is out there if the time hopefully comes to upgrade to something in that range.

[@mattm7831]

Still shooting with my OMD EM1 Mi. Same situation as you, could not justify spending that sort of money. If I upgraded I would probably jump to Sony's A7 line. Will miss the image stabilization on the Olympus though, it is pretty incredible.

[@mattm7831]

@@Jones607 I've heard incredible things about the EM5. My only gripe to the EM and OMD lines are that the sensors are not great for low light and the menu system drives me nuts. That being said Ill definitely look further into the EM5 for my next purchase. Thanks for the tip!

[@p.io7]

@@mattm7831 it is not worth it upgrading from MFT to full frame imo, you'll just get a bigger camera with a slightly better image quality. Better keep the system portable for day to day shooting. And get a medium format camera when the time is right for crating high quality art work.

[@MeOrNotMeWhoKnows]

@@p.io7 The image quality is noticeably better though, not slightly, especially when comparing the older 16mp mft sensor (from the OP's EM5-2) to the modern high-res FF. Hell, even the old a7rII from 2015 with its 42mp sensor takes images with a lot more details, dynamic range, and less noise than any MFT camera out there. But, of course, there are pros to the MFT system as well. Not much for the landscape photography, though, I'd never go with MFT if landscapes were my main focus, especially how the older Fuji's XT bodies are quite affordable now, and one can even get an older DSLR full-frame for ~ $1k (D750 is exactly $1k new, even 5DS sells for $1200 now on ebay). As a jack of all trades and mostly shooting video - yeah, MFT is still reasonable (Panasonic bodies though, not Olympus). And 2.8 zooms are relatively affordable and decent (pana 12-35/35-100, oly 12-40). Then again, MFT is a dead-end system, and most likely will be gone in a few years, so, while perfectly viable right now, investing a lot in lenses and accessories is probably not a good idea.

[@mattm7831]

@@Jones607 very true!

[@larrycloetta9816]

Thanks for the information. I had been considering one of these but had misgivings as most of the other reviews out there glossed over questions I had about operability. You answered those questions. Won’t work for me, good to know. Sticking with my SWC/M and Nikon Z7 for now.

[@edgarin]

I have both cameras. The Canon 5D MK III and the Hasselblad H5D wich is also a modular professional system and I tell you there´s no comparison. MEdium format is much more a photography camera than any other in the market and Hasselblad have definetly the best ones. I really love the 907X but i think my H5D is the same in quality. Nice review!

[@DB-nl9xw]

Very nice review. Very honest.

[@jacolman]

Great review, thanks for an unvarnished real review!

[@eriksellstrom2679]

This was actually a super helpful review. I've been lusting after the Hasselblad 907x since it was announced, but honestly, I think I just wanted it for how cool it looks. You've convinced me it just wouldn't be practical.

[@johnwatson4695]

It does have weather sealing, not sure how good it is but it has thin rubber seals inside the battery/SD card door and between the camera body and the back. It is small, light and takes amazing photographs fitted with the XCD 45p. It just doesn't fit Thomas Heaton's particular needs but it might fit into yours :)

[@TypewriterChicago]

I think I'd find it incredibly practical, as I come from a film background. I'd use it solely as a digital back. I enjoy the workflow of my camera, and would treat the back like film, set the ISO and ignore it. I wouldn't even check shots, I just would love the ability to have files readily available for product shoots etc, and to not worry about the cost of film. But 6k?? Ridiculous. Maybe it'll come down in five years or so. I'll wait.

[@zigatretjak75]

Glad you had the chance to evaluate a camera I’ll never use

[@paultaylorphotography9499]

My initial thoughts on your previous vid was I don’t like the look of the thing at all I don’t like the price I don’t like no weather sealing that’s insane these days I’d stick with film medium format or the Fuji for digi shooters. Nice work tom📷❤️

[@JamesLanePhoto]

I’ve used a GFX 50R for 20 months now. I love it so much. The colour, the image quality, the dynamic range and the lenses all amazing. Only thing that bothers me is the lack of a longer telephoto zoom - but of course this would be GIANT on a GFX. If you ever want to borrow my 50R or any of the lenses I have, please feel free. I’m in Yorkshire and would be happy to send them your way.

[@BenjaminKanarek]

That is why I use a couple of GFX50S's. One for the vertical tilt rear screen capability, Ergonomically perfect for my 250mm f/4.0 lens and the tilting viewfinder adapter.

[@IsmatToha]

How honest you are!!

[@johnwatson4695]

Yes, I agree he is honest but honesty doesn't make him entirely correct.

[@bikerdash27]

Fab review ! Thank you.

[@FDunst-xj8rn]

many thanks Tom for your honest opinion.👍👍👍 A lot of your colleagues talk about everything nicely. I do like your stile more!!

[@helgebrekke]

Thank for a great review! I drool over this camera, for studio-shoots, but now I can drool a tad bit less, thankfully 😅 Btw, I’m wondering if it would be easier/more compatible with the 555ELD-body than with your 501?

[@jeffreyhorton]

Have you tried Zeiss lenses on your Canon? I found that I much preferred Zeiss over Canon lenses, which eventually led to me leaving the Canon ecosystem.

[@garrycroy2896]

Hi Thomas. Good review of what I believe is a pretty specialist bit of kit aimed at commercial / studio snappers. If you're upgrading consider the new EOS R5 and give it a full in-field test - certainly a step up from the 5DMk4. PS - Adam is putting out some fab photos with the Fuji GFX. Thanks

[@hughsitton1]

You're very watchable and knowledgable, great review.

[@JoachimDyndale]

I couldn’t agree more with your assessment. I’ve used the X1D for 2+ years and ultimately switched to the GFX100 precisely because, for that price, the camera needs to be more versatile. Seeing as the one you just reviewed is even less versatile than the X1D, well... Also, you’re an amazing photographer, so you’ll definitely get a lot out of the GFX line - so I highly recommend that :)

[@iFlashasten]

I like this channel because of shooting mostly with 5d mk4. It's so good camera and I like he's still using it in time when mirorless is so popular.

[@mizuhokusuha]

Thank you for the honest review. Using it with a hasselblad 500 series was my real question and how did it handle.

[@jefft3814]

You may not like doing camera reviews, but let me tell you that you have made at least one excellent. Because I listened to at least fifteen reviews of this camera on KZbin (907X) before watching yours and yet, you are the first to have taught me that: 1) this camera is not weather sealed; 2) there is no histogram in the live view; 3) it shares the same sensor as the Fujifilm GFX that sells a lot cheaper! Thank you for this very valuable information!

[@nathaneverett4977]

Good review mate, called a spade a spade. Having a look at how it 'meshes' with V cameras was excellent and probably saved me AU$10K. Cheers mate!!!

[@Lydus3032]

Did you get a chance to use Hasselblad Phocus software with it? I was wondering if it makes image look even better then Lightroom - thanks for your perspective - i love your videos!

[@raycavicchiophotography4832]

It's a shame you didn't have a good amount of time to test out the camera. I think if you did, your opinion would have been much different. This camera isn't for everyone. It's not the type of camera we've become so used to, where you take a couple lightening fast photos, and then rush off to the next scene. It's a camera that allows you just a little bit more time to put a little bit more thought into the photo you're about to take. It's actually very refreshing to be able to slow it down a little like you do while using a film camera....but with some fairly basic, but important and usable tech, included. There is some weather sealing. The camera portion itself, has a large rubber gasket that seats inside the grooves of the digital back, that also helps protect the sensor from dirt and dust. There's a large rubber pad under the battery compartment lid that compresses when you slide the lid shut. I recently took a trip to Acadia National Park in Maine. I used this camera on a drizzly, foggy morning with no problems. I didn't allow it to get soaked because that would have been careless. Any camera that gets soaked is at risk for malfunction. The XCD lens line is weather sealed also. I have the XCD 45mm 3.5 which is weather sealed. You're complaining about ergonomics and how it feels in hand, but your 501cm is larger, and clunkier, AND you have to use the viewfinder since there's no flip screen. This confuses me because this camera is about 1/3 the size of your 501. This is just the digital version of your 501, in a much smaller, lighter weight package. One of Hasselblad's mistakes was they should have sent the optional viewfinder and grip that's available for this camera. I noticed with other photographers, they sent this camera out to test, Hasselblad didn't send out the viewfinder mask either, to be used with the film body. The mask goes inside your 501cm viewfinder to help you stay in frame with the digital sensor. The digi-back has that flip touch screen that simulates the waist level view finder on your 501cm. The simplicity and ease of use with the menu is perfection. If you used the mirror lock up and put the lens in bulb mode, you would have been able to use live-view with your 501cm. Also, turning on the cameras electronic shutter would have helped with that issue. I've used the back on my 500c and my 203FE with no problems. The software basically switches everything over for you when you choose which body you're using in the menu.There is a histogram overlay available while you're reviewing your shots. I'm happy you brought up the image quality, it is pretty awesome. Maybe I missed it .... one very important feature you didn't mention is the 16 bit color depth. SOOC they are close to perfect and need little adjustment. Highlight and shadow recovery is really impressive. The Fuji is close, with 14 bit. Since you brought up the Fuji, you can't slap a GFX on to the back of your 501cm. These are two different cameras with two difference purposes.

[@road_side_tog7906]

Nice to see you totally missed the point of his review and his opinion. Please tell us more how wrong people are?

[@raycavicchiophotography4832]

@@road_side_tog7906 ​I didn't say he was wrong. I clearly stated this camera isn't for everyone, and that he probably didn't have enough time to thoroughly test out the camera. It's part of my opening in my comment. What part of this didn't you understand? I added to this "review" because a lot of important info about the cameras features was left out, along with some incorrect information. People should be informed fully and accurately of it's features if they are considering buying one. This "review" was way off.

[@nathanhirschphotography871]

Great review, Thomas. For the money I think the older Phase One backs are a better choice for the Hasselblad 500.

[@willgreenphoto]

Amazes me how many minus points there are. When I finally upgrade from sony A7iii maybe next year I'm still very much unsure which direction to go in! Another great video too 👏

[@gregoirepainchaud]

I have the A7III too. If I where big time into photography, I would go A7RIV, but I'm more into video soo it's gonna be eventually the A7SIII of course ;-)

[@willgreenphoto]

@@gregoirepainchaud Yeah that's a beast and I guess my next step is bigger sensor. And defo not hasselblad... yeah thats the only choice right now video wise!!

[@highgainterritory]

I've got the 907x with the grip and don't regret it - the grip extends the usage a lot and the ergonomics are better than a classic camera design. I really don't miss the view finder and I doubt it would help a lot when focus is critical due to the huge resolution. But that's just me and my style, I like the slow motion style when shooting landscape and the workflow and experience is comparable with shooting my old 503CW. I agree with you though when using the digital back on the 503CW: there you have many limitations. I shot with the 907x several times during wet weather (foggy, snowy) and so far no problem. I wouldn't take it out during a heavy rain though, but I wouldn't photograph outside anyway with such weather conditions. I like the modularity of the system and that was one of the reasons for me to get it, plus a similar System V shooting experience and image quality. Color rendition, image quality and dynamic range are a dream.

[@forzalupapc]

Great and useful review

[@bassem500]

Hi Thomas, did you consider the Leica SL2? And if you did what are your thoughts on it?

[@QuietLightPhoto]

You know you want one Tom. I am seriously considering, just need to sell a kidney.

[@tamasnemeth2161]

I think he wants a Phase One XT. At least he should try one. I could even help hooking up him with a loaner myself. Maybe a nice, intact kidney would make the business possible. ;)

[@antonoat]

But you're using a GFX why would you want the Hasselblad?

[@AlessioMichelini]

after all, who needs two kidneys nowadays?

[@QuietLightPhoto]

@@antonoat I do but not the GFX100

[@antonoat]

@@QuietLightPhoto Oh yeah a slight typo from me! I don't think Thomas could cope with 100mp, lol. From my experience the R and the S deliver outstanding image quality especially when compared with 35mm sized digital sensors. I don't think many people need more image quality than either the GFX50r/s.

[@kkqqqqpppp]

This camera has an eye-level viewfinder. Just you have to buy it separately. And about the digital back on 501cm, you can connect them by a flash sync cable.

[@scotty4418]

Sounds like the days of the 5div are numbered. Have you considered the R5 or is your currently thinking solely moving towards Medium format?

[@mascmedia_]

It's nice to see a real review with reasoning, as opposed to someone just spouting off specs and hyping up the camera because they are sponsored. I'd personally love a Hasselblad with a digital back, but I probably would struggle with it given the style of work / images that I do.

[@JohnDrummondPhoto]

So if you love the medium format image quality and are open to upgrading from your 5D Mark IV, is an R5 or the rumored high-MP R5S in your future? I'm looking at both, myself (although the latter camera isn't in existence yet).

[@hauxon]

The juiciness of the MF files in post is a combination of pixel count, per pixel sharpness, fatter more malleable pixels and the general extreme high quality of MF glass. Canon is (finally) doing something great these days but Thomas would end up selling all his SLR glass for RF. The cost of the best RF lenses are on par with the Fuji GF lenses ..so why not take a full step into the image quality high end.

[@haraldselke]

Well, the advantage of switching to the EOS R system for someone coming from EOS SLRs is exactly that you don‘t have to sell all your glass. You would probably replace some of your lenses but you could also do that later rather than sooner as all the EF lenses work perfectly on the R cameras. And since Thomas probably has pretty good lenses, they should be good enough for the higher resolution of the R5 at least or maybe even higher resolutions than that. I am currently mainly using two of my Zeiss Milvus lenses on an R5 and they perform brilliantly. And focussing manually is so much more fun on the R5 than it was on any AF (D)SLR I have ever used. But of course you are right about the other advantages of medium format (though as a hiking landscape photographer I also see some disadvantage with respect to size and weight in particular).

[@hauxon]

@@haraldselke Yes ..and no. Using an adapter may work but it's not ideal especially when hiking, just unnecessary hassle. And speaking of hiking I find no problem hiking with my GFX gear. The 50S+GF23 are about the same size and weight as the 5D2+21ZE I used to have (and love). The camera hangs off a Peak design Clip on my backpack sholder strap. Fuji has made an effort of doing small (and slow) glass for this purpose. For me the GFX system is the ultimate system when it comes to hiking for landscape photography and I hike a lot.

[@haraldselke]

@@hauxon You are certainly right with respect to the Fuji system. For a medium format system it really is very small and lightweight. Whoever wants to see if that is a feasible alternative, should check with their priorities and way of taking photographs. Besides the lenses mentioned in my earlier post, my most used lens which I almost always carry with me is a 70-200mm f/4. Maybe a light-weight equivalent is available for medium format, I haven‘t checked. Also, I use a filter system which would probably also have to be bulkier for a medium format system. My main point, however, was that switching from EF to RF does not mean that you have to buy a whole lot of lenses. So far, my adapter has been sitting on the camera all the time - so no hassle at all. If I were to switch frequently between EF and RF lenses, I would probably buy a second adapter and would leave the adapters on the EF lenses. And since I rarely go hiking with more than three lenses, two adapters would be the maximum I‘d need. But then again: That‘s me. Your mileage may vary.

[@benjhaisch]

I believe you can use the electronic shutter on the digital back when using the film bodies, right?

[@joanna4237]

Thank you so much🙂 God bless you.

[@amorjun9547]

Thank you for your advice.

[@rathfarnhamD14]

Good review Thomas.

[@Sawta]

It's fun to hear people talk about gear many, many tiers above what I can afford! Currently using the Canon SL2, dreaming of getting the 5DSR some day, or possibly the Pentax K1. Love medium format too, but it's just so far outside of what I know, and can justify. I'm just starting to dip my toe into professional work, hoping to sell prints through my website...if only the cost of these things wasn't so absurdly high.

[@kierenblack_]

Awesome video. seems like you need an R5 and just adapt all your beautiful EF glass. Would be interested to see your opinion on high megapixel full-frame vs medium format for landscape?

[@markattardo]

Great report!

[@andrefelixstudio2833]

I have the impression that a Hasselblad has an ability to B set to B to keep the lens open and the mirror up you wouldn’t have to have your finger pushed on the button all the time, I think mine do that, and yes I shoot mostly in the studio with catalog work. These days I shoot mostly with my canon no need for a medium format those days for me a long gone! Nice video!

[@leemski]

Indeed, that Hasselblad looks beautiful. Turning an old film body into a modern era digital (sort of) camera is awesome. No histogram for shooting outside is very tricky. Shooting landscape, often under demanding weather conditions is what I would want to do with this kind of sensor - but no weather resistance of any kind sounds like a joke (what's more, for its price tag). In a fact there could be an option for an attachable digital viewfinder (another £1500?). Live view is insanely cumbersome when mounted on a film body. Shiny screen, outside, in full sun must be a pain in the neck too. Yeah, there is a lot of drawbacks in this Hasselbald body. And the PRICE tag? £5400? Bling bling, No other comments. FUJI GFX 50 R wins and is the right answer. Totally agree with you! Thanks for this honest review. Heading up to get FUJI ;) half price of the Hasselblad, YAY!

[@medes5597]

It has weather sealing. It's not as robust as a DSLR and pros are customising them to give them even better weather sealing so they can use them a bit more widely (although honestly why not use the X1D if that's what you want). The screen isn't shiny, it's anti glare and is designed to adapt to bright sunshine or poor light on the fly and it does a good job There *was* an EVF accessory planned but here two years later and it's been scrapped with the company now pushing the screen as a "TLR Style viewfinder" in recent literature pushing the company Honestly used one for two days, loved it, but also felt like it had an awful lot of drawbacks for it's price. If I was a wedding photographer though I would buy one in a heart beat. The look of it alone would justify your price to clients. I know this was an old comment. Just chipping in with my 2c.

[@brucecrossan2284]

That huge sensor looks very exposed. . . why didn't they incorporate a dark slide that you remove after fitting the camera to the body? Would protect the sensor and keep out most of the dust.

[@fredrikwasland7167]

There is mirror lockup on the hasselblad, that would have made it easier to use with the digital back:) but i can see that its not for everyone🤣 nice review and honest:) keep it ut. Greetings from Norway

[@scottishtornado1889]

Rent a GFX for a few weeks. Adam Gibbs might have some recommendations on what editing software to use to bring the most out of the files.

[@davidthompson8153]

Good honest review, lovely camera though.

[@gregorpichler5899]

Hi Thomas, I really like your reviews :)! I never used the 907x but I find the idea actually very nice, especially from a nostalgic point of view, but of course the price is really hefty and the camera alone faces many limitations. However, its versatility in combination with the modular system of the 500 Series is actually really great. Have you ever thought about using it with a Hasselblad Flexbody for landscapes? But of course the lack of weather sealing still might be a problem... Short note: On CF lenses you don't need to keep the shutter pressed in bulb mode, rather switch it to the "focal plane shutter mode" which is indicated by the green F beside bulb, then the shutter keeps itself open. Have a nice weekend and best regards from Innsbruck, Gregor

[@vijaychitte6921]

Dear i would super suggest go for GFX 50S if you really want to get switch over on medium format digital camera for landscape ...

[@sophietucker1255]

I use a rain sleeve even with my weather sealed cameras if the rain is coming down. Easy to use and less cleaning of a wet or dirty camera after a long day in the weather. I use them at the beach or really sandy locations too. The weather sealing isn't up to blowing sand and salt spray on most cameras. I do agree about the histogram. I have no idea how I ever made any images without staring at a histogram before pressing the shutter release.

[@cf3619]

Which digital camera as the best dynamic range? That’s the one I want 👍🏻

[@mostazameansmustard]

It's so cool to see Tom Yorke doing a camera review.

[@marknachmias423]

The points you make are valid and it’s certainly not a camera for everyone. I really like mine for the kind of shooting I do,. As part of the X ecosystem, it pairs nicely with the X1-D. They share the same native lenses, the same menu system and the same batteries. Yet, they are two distinctly different form factors intended for different purposes. I have followed your channel for some time now and it probably makes sense for you to move to a medium format digital camera. Fortunately, there are lots of good choices. You just need to find one that works for you. Figuring that out is part of the fun. At the end of the day, cameras are nothing more than tools that facilitate realization of one’s vision of the world... I did the research. Get a Fuji GFX100 or wait for the new one coming Q1 2021. You’re welcome

[@inthestudy]

Would you revisit it with a 51x51 square sensor?

[@Jensrnsholt]

Mr H, You simply got to keep up making Gear Tech Reviews!

[@BackFocus11]

Thomas thanks for being honest on this review. You didn’t fall victim to becoming a fanboy just so you can get free stuff from a camera maker like many youtubers do. I’m sure Hasselblad/DJI won’t be sending you anymore gear after this review. Who cares. Honesty sets you free. Thanks Thomas!

[@giac01]

Really interesting review. Seems like half of photography youtube is trying to tell you that you don't need anything more than micro four thirds sized sensor or an XT4, and the other half saying medium format is best :p I think right now digital 35mm seems like a good comprimise, in terms of lens/body affordability.

[@KevinAli66]

Are you going to try out the nikon Z7 ii ?

[@jaredwillson3769]

Why would he? He’d have to give up all his Canon glass. Why would anyone do that unless they were making a switch to another format?

[@silvere36]

@@jaredwillson3769 iso 64.

[@thomaseriksson6256]

Thank you for the review. I was thinking of getting one for my HB 503CW. I will upgrade to Nikon D850 then a D880/Z8 or a GFX 50R with a normal Zoom for Forrest and Lanscape..

[@johnfynphotography7928]

Thomas - If you were given that Hassy as a review unit or another promotion/benefit, then KUDOS to you for an honest review.

[@jaredwillson3769]

For a landscape photographer, either the GFX 50R or the Hasselblad X1D II would be a better choice simply because of the weather sealing. Both are easy to handhold. Both have the same sensor. Both have a good range of excellent native lenses and the ability to adapt additional lenses. The 907X, while beautiful and cool, is really intended for situations where you can control the environment better such as studio photography and event photography. Which to buy if you are a landscape photographer thinking of moving to medium format? X1D II or GFX 50R? Well, the Fuji is much less expensive as a system. Maybe a third or even a half off once you get camera, lenses, and accessories. Image quality is superb out of either. I prefer the colors out of the Hasselblad (though raw files in either are extremely adaptable, so you won’t have trouble getting the look you want with either, especially if you profile your camera and build a few presets). I also prefer the minimalist controls on the Hasselblad, but that is very personal. There is no getting around the price advantage of the Fuji. Tom, sounds like that may be the camera for you. By the way, Fuji has said something new is coming next year in their medium format lineup, but they have given any hints what it is. Assuming that it’s a 50R with a 100 megapixel chip is, well, a bit of a leap. It could be anything. Could be a monochrome GFX-100. Could be a 50S with IBIS (a great feature, but not really helpful for landscape).

[@desgardner7169]

Fair comment!.......but somebody will buy it though and think they will get better pictures with it. Thank you for your time...

[@JDubyafoto]

I agree with your assessment.

[@tonygreenwoodN10]

I was looking to upgrade my X-T2 - I guess that's the Hassy off the list :-)

[@CookedLight]

Nigerians have a the exact word for this conclusion...Gbam. Your book is superb by the way, choice of paper is particularly pleasing 👍🏻

[@ursbeerli9900]

Hello Tom, in order to open the shutter door for the live view with a V system, it should be possible to use the pre release button instead mounting a cable, or not? It remains open. Best Regards Urs

[@knudlindholmlau7570]

Yes, set it to T and then release, probem solved. Desribed in the manual.

[@NickGuttridge]

Leica s3 is weather sealed, with all the lenses! Three frames a second and it’s all about the optics. They out perform anything else I’ve tried. Even at 200% the images look perfect and the feel of the image has a more film like quality to it. It doesn’t feel digital. Ok, it’s about 30k. But you could spend 15-20k on a full Fuji system especially if you bought the gfx100. The Leica is a better camera for a ten year investment. Less likely to go wrong, much better made. Or just continue to use your film back, industry standard in the old days. Beautiful glass. Can’t beat that. Not weather sealed, that was my thought as you finished off.

[@redbank542]

Great review

[@DavidHarrisGRI]

Is it the format or the resolution that makes the difference you see in the images? It would be interesting to see you try a modern, high resolution full frame such as the R5 if you can find one, or A7r4 for comparison.

[@IanElson28]

Love your 2 videos, as you said the Fuji would be a brilliant camera, or Personally I'd go 5ds (r) myself. Canon glass I already have, so swings it that way for me.

[@KoenigF50]

So what's wrong with a Pentax 645Z as a rugged fully sealed medium format kit ?

[@stuartschaffner9744]

Nice review. I know little about the Fuji, as I have little personal interest in medium format. Still, I would bet that Fuji would be vastly more suited to your lifestyle and artistic needs. The biggest trouble I have with your review is that over many decades I have mostly bought into lens systems, with camera bodies being mostly an afterthought. Could you turn this around? Who has the best lens line and is there a decent camera body to attach to them?

[@danielb8877]

Thomas, any plans to test out a PhaseOne?

[@issue_1337]

Have you thought about the GFX50S?

[@RandomVictorGuy]

great review