Hasselblad X2D Ten Months Later: A Higher Resolution, Medium Format ILC Leica Q3, or Something Else?

Three years ago, I thought of the X2D's older brother -- the X1D Mark II -- as an EVF-based Leica M. But the X2D now? How about as a higher resolution, ILC Leica Q3? A smaller, lighter, higher resolution, articulating screen-equipped Leica SL2? A STEAL compared to Phase ONE's $62,500 XC? What do YOU think? Pricing & availability here:geni.us/BW4p
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[@gordoncahill1170]

I love your perspective on gear. It’s uniquely from a slightly different slant than most. But I’m not sure I’m completely on board with your assessment of the X2D. 1. You put up a slide mentioning zone focus. The new XCD=V lenses excel at zone focusing and are IMHO, better than the Q cameras in manual focus. With these lenses I don’t see how street and travel are at all difficult. Sure the 45P isn’t an ideal street lens but the 38V certainly is. Also the X2D excels as a high end travel camera for those who like to travel with two or three lenses. And the cropping capabilities are vast. 2. You skipped over the IBIS. I have a few 24x36mm systems and the IBIS in the X2D is better than all of them. Only my OM-1 comes close. Being able to shoot tack sharp images at 100MP and 1/10th of a second is revolutionary. It also has the best EVF and rear screen quality on the market. Some have more resolution but they still aren’t better. The inbuilt storage is incredible and file transfer is ludicrously fast and easy. 3. The new lenses are, in practice, as good as the old ones. I have every available XCD lens and I’d choose the 38 over the 45P every day. Results, apart from field of view, are virtually indistinguishable. The 38 and 55 focus around twice as fast as the 45P and are completely silent AND have excellent manual focus. Also some of the old lenses focus well. SOme not so much. The zoom, 90 and 21mm are great. The others vary. The 45P isn’t one of the good ones. 4. You don’t seem to think the new glass is good enough but when I compare to my SL2 and 28, 50 and 90 APO’s or my M11 and M 50 APO Summicron it’s still a clear win to the X2D, with any of it’s lenses, new or old. The difference is not small. Some of the GFX lenses (which I also have) are as good. But not all. And the GFX100S AFC is far from perfect. It is very inconsistent. And it’s not like the SL2 has great AFC. I do agree the X2D should have had a joystick though and if they can get even basic eye AF then great. Even in AFS. I’d pay for a b&w preview in the EVF as well. 5. I just don’t see why the X2D needs to have the feature set of the R5 or A1. Those smaller sensor systems excel in flexibility. The X2D and GFX are scalpels that excel in their domain. I think with the new lenses street is one of those. A few reviews have gone on about what the X2D doesn’t have. Very few really try to find where the X2D works well. We’re so used to do it all cameras we seem to expect that’s what they all should be. But like the M11 the X2D are specialist camera. Not for every one and should be celebrated because of that. The X2D is the best travel camera I’ve ever used. Ever. The IBIS makes the shooting envelope huge. Places where a Sony will struggle without a tripod the X2D shoots with ease. 6. If you have a X2D you’ll likely know it’s not a swiss army knife and have another system for that. Just like M shooters often do. Not all systems need to be do it all. It isn’t close to perfect. We all have things we’d like to see improve. I’m just not sure it needs to compete wit an A7R5 or R5. 7. In XPan mode you get a 50MP file! Just sayin….. This can actually be used as a digital XPan replacement. For me the X2D is the Q2.5 on steroids I wanted. I like my Q3 but 26-28mm isn’t my preferred focal length. I love my M11 but sometimes my eyes get tired. My SL is incredible but a big system. Canons and Sonys are great but are like operating a computer terminal. The X2D with 55 is only somewhat larger than a Q3, has better IBIS (more useful to me than the Q3 or even R5 AF), sublime controls, menses and EVF in a camera that just makes you want to pick it up. I loved my XPan but I’m not going to shoot film. This camera is a full replacement for that. The colours are sublime. My GFX, Q’s, M’s, SL’s and Canons take 2nd place to the X2D except in special usage cases. I’ve taken it all over the world in the last 10 months and to me it’s camera heaven. The X2D is a portrait, street, travel, studio, astro daily carry camera that prints huge and is a joy to use. For sports, wildlife and pictures of your cat I can use a Canon or an SL2. Just maybe this time, you spent more energy on what it can’t do rather than all the things it can. Stay safe. Happy shooting.

[@moderngentlemanschool]

Can you tell me more about AF point selection in the X2D? I can't seem to grasp it. I don't really need AFC while doing street or portrait work, but I do need to pick my AF point quickly. Thanks!

[@AgostinoMaiello]

@@moderngentlemanschool I use the touch screen to pick the AF point; most of the times is the fastest way.

[@3BMEP]

@AgostinoMaiello yep.

[@andreasoberg2021]

Great post. What lenses would you recommend. I was looking at 28mm and 45mm f4 because they are cheap to start with but I read you do not like the 45mm? Im used to Otus lenses and Leica. We have thebold 503 with 50, 100 and 150mm lenses as well so plan to get the 100C

[@gordoncahill1170]

@@andreasoberg2021 I don't care for the 45P because it's not a focal length I care for. The lens is fine. Just remember the original XCD lenses mostly won't focus as fast as the newer XCDV lenses, if you can find any. I like the 28 a lot and use it with the 55 and 90V as my three lens carry

[@shyamalganguly3598]

It's a legacy of a camera's journey from top notch to remain in the same league it's been renowned for! The question is what you want for your needs to fulfill your kind of hunger which is the driving factor to go for medium format or other formats! It's not just the size of formats it's also the size of your capacity to fulfill anything your photographic demand call for and owning Hasselblad may for some a fancied buy which makes it a kind of satisfaction of having it more than needing it for photography and for some others who really need them, the bigger the sensor the better for the reason of photography! You need huge enlargements, say industrial photography, or advertisement, or only for the sake of art needing even bigger sensors than medium format! The issue lies in the fact that the bigger the sensor the costlier they are and the cause of its being so is that upto full frame we have achieved compelling technology to make them extremely fast and versatile in terms of IBIS and focusing! But the problem to stabilize a medium format sensor and make it equally fast focussing is still a hunt in the camera industry! We are witnessing a mercurial surge of huge megapixel and nimble focussing system working together in a few cameras and no two companies have all the versatilities in a single equipment of their full frame and lesser format cameras, not to mention the availability of abundance of lenses for mirrorless cameras and the problem gets bigger when the formats are larger! Now think about why still you don't need to buy even mirrorless ones unless you are compelled for your photographic needs! Some of us are astonished why after paying astronomical price for an X2D a slow, bulky, scanty lens option camera?! Well, it's not those factors that is retarding the X2D Hasselblad system but it's the urgency that is the driving force to buy it and use it to its fullest and as according to you, it's compelling picture production for landscape, architecture, portraits, fashion, food, and to some extent street photography is so unique of its kind! ❤❤

[@JayToGo]

Jazz and NYC photos. Pure delight. For me a camera like the X2D means extra awesomeness, but if the conditions are right you are able to shoot awesomeness with minor and older equipment as well.

[@JS-shim]

You get the sense that they are getting very close to producing the medium format camera with the capabilities of a Q3, but with interchangeable lenses. If they pull it off, it may ended up being the perfect camera.

[@3BMEP]

Agreed!

[@thomastuorto9929]

You mean with a tilt out rear scren?

[@derrickdu]

The image from the Hasselblad is so good that I am willing to deal with the shortcomings. It is not for everyone. I completely understand the negatives you mentioned. I love your B&W photos! Ironically, Hasselblad is more known for its color.

[@3BMEP]

I am primarily a B&W photographer, but the Hassy color is so good it inspired me. 😊🖖🏻

[@andrewward7042]

Even though you are a Yankee fan Hugh, I still love your perspective on photography. I own an X-1Dii and have thought long and hard about the X2D. There are numerous niceties about it, but if you use a tripod primarily as I do, I think the advantages of the X2D shrink somewhat.

[@tor2919]

Nice video. X2D is a dream camera. So effing nice in the hand. And nothing beats those tones

[@KelvinSchwartzGrunlicht]

Your thumbnails are so good I wish you'd re-use them as opening frames for each video. And your stills montages and choice of music alongside is so nice I watch them in videos about systems I'd probably never ever use. Great channel - thanks.

[@ashvarma2486]

Great review. For me, the Hasselblad HNCS and 102MP sensor are more than sufficient reasons to have one for my landscape photography. The amazing new IBIS is a huge bonus as well. Many thanks for sharing

[@3BMEP]

Reasonable people may disagree, but for me the overarching points have little to do with lens size, price or sensor resolution and instead everything to do with 1) the contrast fall-off as one moves from the center to the edge of the frame; 2) the difference between sagittal and tangential line pairs; and 3) what I see with my own eyes as I own both as well. But again: that’s just me. The 90V is my favorite XCD lens; the APO Summicron SL 90 is my favorite L mount lens. In the end, which one prefers is a personal matter of taste, priorities and budget.

[@tesshu2000]

so far some of the best Images i`ve seen on your cannel. Great work 👏🏻

[@3BMEP]

Thanks. The camera did speak to me!

[@jacquesgude]

Despite having watched every other X2D review out there on KZbin, it was yours I was really waiting to watch (ever since your first video on the XD2 about 10 months ago). I've really been struggling with whether or not to upgrade from my beloved X1DII to the X2D and now... well, you just saved me a lot of money! As much as I love some of the new features in the X2D (especially IBIS, as I really do prefer shooting hand held), I REALLY do not need or want 102 MPs.

[@whateverrandomnumber]

I understand you. I have an original X1D and I still wouldn't upgrade. Maybe to a 907X (so I could digitize my 503CW), but the huge crop factor makes me go meh.

[@gordoncahill1170]

I still have my X1D and X1DII. Haven’t used them since getting the X2D. It’s a lot more than a sensor upgrade. I do still take out my 907x though.

[@David-my3uu]

Spot on, Hugh. I enjoy my X1Dii for the format, colors (!), aesthetic, and the wonderful 45p and 90 lenses, which make up my kit (used for less than the price of the new body alone). With no significant upgrade in the speed, and irrespective of nice to have storage and articulating screen features, the x2D just isn't worth it in my use case. I can still get great forest, landscape, and moose-in-the-stream shots all day long without missing anything the x2D offers. Cheers!

[@peterfritzphoto]

I just want a medium format camera with an orange shutter button! Delightful video, as always. No surprise, there.

[@3BMEP]

Hey, Peter!

[@peterfritzphoto]

@@3BMEP Been a while, I know. Damn work gets in the way of all the good stuff.

[@NickGuttridge]

Excellent review. I think it is an excellent system. I held off with the XD1/XD2 and found a less expensive solution which really suits me. I bought a brand new discounted Leica S 007 which can shoot three frames a second for £ 6000.00. Then four second hand Leica S lenses for £ 2000.00 each, Leica changed the autofocus motors in them without charge. This is a system which cost me £ 14k and would have been over £ 40k brand new. I like the quick single point and recompose autofocus on the Leica S. Brilliant when shooting portraits. When I shoot dance I just focus once and continue the shoot. The best thing about the Leica S system is that it doesn't over heat and the batteries last through a 2000-3000 frame shoot (two batteries with the grip). Mirrorless cameras chew up battery life. I also use the S lenses on the SL2, they are amazing on that camera. Autofocus can be abit slow at times depending upon the lens, but I manual focus mostly anyway. I've owned the Q and Q2 and loved them. I'm considering buying the Q3 which I would agree is a sweet spot for performance and cost. The Leica S lenses are about second hand, photographers seeking lens performance should consider using them on SL2 system or a second hand S. Leica has proven to be cost effective for me, which I really appreciated as I am driven by profit in my business. I never thought I would be able to say those words about Leica!

[@Lastman10101]

My M11 stopped working so I got the X2D with the 38 instead. This was very interesting.

[@314LA]

I have m11 too. For my street photography needs, Leica's system is much better because of the speed of manual focus, the way you see the subject with two eyes, and the quality of the lenses. Plus the weight, of course, x2d is one and a half times heavier. And the color rendering is very close between them due to the same sensor.

[@di4378]

Eye opening and convincing review, thanks!

[@3BMEP]

😊🖖🏻

[@cesarebonazza]

Love this honest review, but what I like the most is your passion for this art form. This was a great analysis of large format 😂 against full frame. That why I stick to full frame and yes I’m a common mortal that all I can afford and make sense for every day commercial photography portrait fashion and STREET Photography 😮

[@3BMEP]

😊🖖🏻

[@edwardferry8247]

Eugene Atget walked Paris with a 10x8 plate camera sustained only by a slice of bread. Josef Sudek walked Prague with plate cameras and had only one arm. Both men lived in poor health and difficult circumstances. Their work has outlived them and is now in the pantheon of great work. If we have access to any of the cameras mentioned in this (as always) excellent review, I have the Hasselblad, rejoice for we have all we need, onward to the work or fun, we are indeed blessed 😇.

[@anthonymulcahy1166]

The series of photos shown at the beginning. You could have told me they were taken on a Sony A6000 and I'd believe you. Pixel peeping is where this $8,000 beast will make you happy.

[@kwisatz_haderach]

The Hasselblad Natural Colour Solution is outstanding good, the central shutter has so many advantages if it comes to flash against the sun with the V series lenses up to 1/4000, the M11 has no 7 stop IBIS. The recently released GF100 II changes again everything, the new GF tilt shift lenses also.

[@paulscinemareel5671]

Looking at a X2D right now. So it does do 1/4000 sync with the new V lenses ?

[@rolandrickphotography]

@@paulscinemareel5671 I recently got one and I'm blown away. It's 1/2000 with the XCD 2.5/38 and 55 V and 1/4000 with the XCD 2.5/90 V. It makes no sense to me why it's only 1/2000 with the 38 and 55 because the moving parts a smaller and lighter as well the diameter is smaller, however, it is like it is.

[@rolandrickphotography]

@@paulscinemareel5671 PS, the Hasselblad page is very well documented. You'll find easy the data sheets for each product.

[@Oculus729]

In this day and age, the reason to buy Hassy is the color science.

[@stephensears7483]

As always, thanks for your well-considered commentary! Even while owning a Leica Q2, I lust for the X2D. The resolution and color science are most appealing, though I have never in my life printed larger than 11"x14". The AF seems like a limitation now, though I never noticed an AF problem with my Fuji GA645 point and shoot. I anticipate that my Hasselblad arc will be much like that with Leica - I will wait for the release of the X3D so I can buy a used X2D.

[@LoFiAxolotl]

the AF is really not bad... it's just REALLY bad compared to the competition.... it's absolutely useable and quick enough for anything that doesn't involve high speed movement

[@gordoncahill1170]

AF is variable. New lenses are quick. Some but not all older lenses are OK to very good. The 80, 120 and 45P are still slow. 45, 65 and 135 are improved. 21, 30, zoom and 90 are much improved. Just no AFC at all, even for the new lenses. Maybe later but I’m not counting on it.

[@paul_meulemans]

For me: Hasselblad H6D is still my favorite camera. I have the H6d-50, the leica SL2 and the sony A7R4. But in the studio I love my H6D. Only the sound of the shutter is amazing :-) in comparison with the other ones. And yes, a H6D has no fancy possibilities, it's heavy, it's slow, but I never stop using it (until it breaks down). If I ever buy the X2D-100.... I don't know. Maybe a used X2-50 mark 2. So I can shoot medium format outside the studio. But the leica SL is amazing for shooting in daylight. (I bought the Leica SL for shooting in daylight). Btw: I'm not a professional, but just an amateur with a expensive taste :-)

[@3BMEP]

😉🖖🏻

[@seal-nowweretalking6753]

Spectacular photographs brother Hugh ✌🏾&💜

[@3BMEP]

Thank you, man!

[@landonpraught9170]

I am just starting out taking pictures. I have been using my Canon. camera finding out that it takes great pictures. Great video thanks for all you do. Landon

[@amaimani]

Isn’t it time to have 908x 100c digital back?

[@ETamJP]

I heard from the salesperson at my local Hasselblad store today that the 100 MP back is being announced in late December 2023. Price point should be around the same as the X2D body.

[@wenqianwang4949]

907*

[@TCMx3]

I'm late to this but I think your MTF comparison is pretty spurious even beyond comparing these calculate charts. Of course the Leica 90 SL APO Summicron has higher contrast at 40 lp/mm (if we take these charts as comparable, which they're not as you correctly point out); it covers a smaller image circle. For any given output size, you enlarge the X2D image only 80% as much as you enlarge the Leica (they have similar pixel density so this is a bit easier to logic about). Despite this, the 90V is not only pushing a similar contrast at 40 lp/mm, it's physically smaller than the 90 SL. If you want better than what Hasselblad is selling today then you will need to wait 5 or 6 years for more technological development; the V lenses are about as good as is realistically possible with today's technology. Oh and the Summicron is also 1500 more expensive which I get at these levels who even cares but that's still a 25% upcharge. I own and use both company's stuff fwiw and this is not trying to diminish what Leica can do with their lenses.

[@Daniel-eh7iq]

My old 500C/M has no autofocus, no 4K video, no...whatever...not even a battery. Speed....?? Well, as fast as my hands.... It works! Every Hasselblad is made to last forever. Using mine always gave me a special feeling....like I'm part of a small elite group carrying a legacy (I don't even know if this is proper English... :-) but I hope you get my point) I don't get the same feeling using all those new high tech FF camera's such as the Z9 or R8 etc.. They're just....camera's.. Recently I ordered a X1DII ....yes, it's expensive, and yes, I have to wait about 6 months....and even after using a Leica CL for a couple of years....which is really a fantastic camera by the way....I'm happy to be back at Hasselblad ! Very nice video Mr Brownstone....as usual.

[@3BMEP]

😊🖖🏻

[@girliedog]

I think you're forgetting how long it took Sony to add lenses to their line in the beginning.

[@RickMentore]

Eagerly awaiting review of that Phase One. Stellar job as usual, HB! . Fantastic

[@Master-Grammar]

Those images are incredibly sharp. I have a Fujifilm XH2, and although I really want to buy the GFX 100s, I've decided to bide my time, hopeful that a newer iteration of the GFX would come out. Admittedly, I have thought about the Hasselblad X2D. Having said all of this, your pictures are simply quite superb. 👌 One thing is to be said: once one sees and uses a medium format camera and its resultant images, there is no going back. Once you go medium format, you can't go back. 😉

[@3BMEP]

😊🖖🏻

[@jean-claudemuller3199]

It's only after having tried in real life both brands that you can decide what's the best for yourself, because even if they have the same sensor they are very different cameras when shooting. I'self could never cope with Fuji as a tried them in real life, but many people swear only on Fuji. 😀 Medium Format gives only better results for specific subjects and final use. Even on film days I used FF and MF and lF together and so it remains today I use the best tool for each case MF FF APS-C or iPone

[@frstesiste7670]

Maybe a stupid question but I'm curious about what you mean with color science. I assume color science can make quite a difference when shooting JPG, but does it influence the quality of the RAW-files too?

[@3BMEP]

Yes.

[@mikelyon5595]

Thanks for your always-appreciated evaluation! I think the Q3 is a better fit for my use case...

[@jakubstrumillo]

Photos reminds me a lot my grandfather Andrzej Strumiłło photo album "Manhattan" based on his pictures from early 80s.

[@lindstrem]

Cant stress enough the viewers to understand that this video goes towards street photography. Regarding portrait and fashion photography, the Hasselblad X series with the 80mm 1.9 prime lens is still as good as it gets. The same goes towards the remark of the Canon Primes, rf primes may be limited but the 85mm 1.2L DS lens is better than just about anything else out there from competition. Its a pitty however that the new Hassy V lenses are not complete and by the looks of it, the V 90mm will never be released which is a true bummer as many people are waiting on it...

[@videorezensent]

As for the MTF measurements, Leica says that their graphs show the lens without the sensor stack, which is actually part of the optical system. I don't know how Hasselblad approaches this issue. A meaningful comparison can probably only be made by comparing the complete optical system, including the sensor stack.

[@andrewrichards576]

One very important thing that you do not mention at all about the CF100V is that it can be used on a large format system such as a Linhof Techno. That opens up a whole new slew of opportunities that the X2D cannot match. Adding in the 907X and the odd XCD lens (such as the 45 f4) makes for quite a versatile rig. I wish Hasselblad would develop the old V series cameras further and provide some new lenses. A mono CF100V would turn on a lot of photographers.......

[@PavlosPapageorgiou]

I wonder if we'll be expected to hold any thoughts during this episode... 4:16 aha!

[@bradl2636]

A number of clear QC issues with these cameras (hot pixels/dead pixels). Viewfinder is very slow to activate. AF speed is middling. 1/4000 max shutter speed somewhat limiting in full sun with fast glass.

[@benokanruzgar8863]

Sir, as a follower of your channel, I wish to see more portrait by this Hasselblad review. I saw and witness to that camera's predecessor in Helsinki photo & camera fair in 2019, details that it captured amazed me. This new version, no doubt must be even better! Wish to see more portraits in your review, maybe one more episode by this purpose, why not!

[@3BMEP]

See my Instagram for a couple of wonderful portraits from the Hassy!

[@benokanruzgar8863]

@@3BMEP thanks, I will.

[@ArminHirmer]

Awesome video. I am happy now with my Q3 and my FPL fits in the bag too, just incase in need a longer or vintage lens :) stills only, for video I use Sony A7c :D

[@gurugamer8632]

When is the X2D replacement due ?

[@petermendelson5839]

I agree with pretty much everything you said, as a Q3 and X2D owner (they complement each other very well - Q3 for when I need speed, faster AF, smaller size and X2D for the rest of the time when I want more lens options). Only thing I am missing personally is tilt-shift (I tried adapting a Canon TS-E 17mm to the X2D and the results are not great). When Leica comes out with a SL3 with an updated sensor like the Q3 has, it will be killer (I didn't love the SL2 sensor).

[@3BMEP]

😊👍🏻

[@walkingmeditation61]

Regarding your AF comments, is exactly why I'm keeping and enjoying my Hasselblad X1D Mark 2. Now in 1-2 years the Leica SL3 with its significantly improved AF combined with that 60MP sensor is a different story, I predict a glut of SL2's being sold/traded. That said, in the spirit and nuance of this video I would say compare the Nikon Z7/2 OR Z8 with the 24-120S to the Leica SL2 & 24-90 all the same arguments/comparisons can be said the way you compared the Hasselblad to all the rest. The image quality of the Leica when viewing 8x12 prints to the Z7 will be ever so slightly different

[@3BMEP]

I understand; I suspect you're right.

[@Breizh1532]

Hello Hugh, If I understood well, the xcd 90mm f3.2 is one of your favorite lens at the time of this video. I was wondering why, especially comparing it to the xcd 80mm. Thanks in advance for your feedback.

[@3BMEP]

It’s the 90V (f/2.5), not the 3.2. Half the weight, smaller, superior functionality, industrial design, AF motors

[@Breizh1532]

⁠@@3BMEP thanks for your quick answer and clarification. I was asking as in the video at 4:45 min you are showing the 90mm f3.2 in your 3 favorite xcd lenses. I got in the meantime you felt in love with the 90v anyway😊. BTW, thanks for your video and great content. Always appreciated to watch your videos, and photos.

[@coolboy_studio]

The most serious defects are: No video filming function; no JPG exporting to Android phone directly.

[@AndyMillerPhotoUK]

LUV your work and style.

[@3BMEP]

Thank you so much!

[@AndyMillerPhotoUK]

@@3BMEP - I own the X2D-100C and 6 XCD (including 2 XCD V) and a bunch of HC/HCD lenses and the HSE tilt/shift + a Cambo Actus and a few Actus lenses. The new FW 2.0 for thre X2D added "almost all: the capabilities we had with the X1D ii and a few more; but did not address the Continuous Auto Focus issue. Like WHERE IS IT !!! Right now I just would like: a) Hasselblad to survive the year (now it is owned by DJI); and b) Hasselblad deliver solutions for 2 major irritations to be fixed: i) We still cannot see Live View in Phocus when tethered -- although this WAS promised a long time ago; and ii) basic continuous autofocus (AF-C) -- surely it must be possible for H to give us JUST this - it was one reason to buy the V lenses. Otherwise when shooting handheld and moving subjects we are forced in to stopping down a lot and zone focussing. AND I am lousy at it -- I move a lot. Come on H - I am not asking for tracking YET -- just give us AF-C / Servo or whatever you want to call it. ANYTHING as a ray of hope. [ok later subject and Eye detection etc..... But NEVER video] Wild speculation about what H will do next now the "H" line is ended. "We" had hoped to see the XCD 2.5/90 V by now as well -- but apparently there are issues that mean it is not at the standard H wishes to release. Production has been ended the AWESOME XCD 4/21 -- well if H came out with an EVEN more special version then I may sell mine. BUT no way never unless there is clear blue water. The 3 other top lenses are all heavy -- XCD 1.9/80 (a really STUPID lens and well worth trying); the very sharp 3.5/120 macro and the 2.8/135+1.4 TC - all should be tried and with AF-C will perform well - with AF-S as you said it is tough. Now the amazing "thing" is that the IBIS on the X2D makes the HC 4/300mm usable -- horrible without IBIS/VR/Stabilisation. Much better with -- HUGE heavy lense. AND I had to pay to have it upgraded to allow Lens FW 18 (now 19.1) so it could AF on the X1Dii.

[@JasperBunschoten]

As a shooter of (true) 645, 6x6 and 6x7 cameras, the first time I got to shoot MF digital is was quite frankly a bit dissapointed with DOF. But you know, that's just one side of the equation. I just want solid manual focussing lenses though...

[@farhadfarajov8030]

Overall nice video Hugh, but I disagree on MTF chart comparison. On paper, although there is falloff of IQ close to edges of the frame, new V lenses perform better in comparison to previous XCD lenses.

[@3BMEP]

Not all of them. 😊🖖🏻

[@kronkite1530]

Irrespective of camera system, some beautiful images here… but! Framing the colour photos (near the start) with a wide white border didn’t do them justice. When I used my hands to hide as much of the ‘background’ as I could brought them to life. This on a mid to large (47” iirc) size 4K tv. Just a thought for the future?

[@3BMEP]

Thanks for the input! 🖖🏻

[@thomaseriksson6256]

I'm aiming for a Fuji GFX 100s system for woodland photo after I have update my Nikon system to D850 standard . I got a 400mmF2.8 VR and 19mm PC lens left to get. I can use my old Mamiya 7 lenses and HB 503 CW lenses on the Fuji using adapters, they will be soft at the edges..

[@savagefrieze4675]

Hugh I love this video. I've watched several times to get the nuances. The firswt time I held an X1D camera I just "got it", It is such a compelling camera. I've wanted one ever since. Now that I've given up sports photography perhaps I can sell all the Nikon equipment... Question: When you print, or have printed, images from full frame and this mini medium format what dpi do you use? How much does DPI with your cameras impact the visible detail of the images from full frame and this larger sensor size??

[@neostefanides]

Great analysis much appreciated. You have influenced my opinion. Also. unusual question, who makes those eye glasses?

[@3BMEP]

Zenni or Oakley.

[@mikegannon812]

nice presentation , alot to take in

[@3BMEP]

Glad it was helpful! :)

[@AgusBayu-bh3vr]

Hugh...would mind to make a comparison between X2D and X1D II also...a triangle comparison with GFX 100s

[@3BMEP]

I understand, but too much in my plate. Look at my previous videos.

[@gurugamer8632]

Any ideas for shooting a documentary film?😊

[@CalMukumoto]

Hasse needs to join forces with Sony and develop the next medium format. :)

[@farhadfarajov8030]

For street photography what you say might make sense but for commercial studio work, MF camera with 16 bit color depth, stunning tonality, leaf shutter capability cannot be matched with any FF camera.

[@thomassanio8745]

I see your quandry on this review. For this camera to be a slam dunk at its price point it needs better lenses, and quicker electronics. Might the electronics be fixed by a firmware update? Hmmm 🤔. I think you review shows us that it needs to be just a bit better with the full frame market nipping at its heels. Well done Hugh.

[@maheshg212]

They could have kept the resolution to 50MP and improved focus instead.This situation is like it was with Fuji before XT3.

[@gordoncahill1170]

No. Unfortunately the old sensor didn’t support PDAF. I agree the 100MP is the smallest of the upgrades to the camera but it’s not really an issue either. The camera is faster despite having more resolution.

[@markfarber4571]

My core work is tripod-mounted landscape (primarily urban landscape), and I print as large as I can. My S1R has been the best I've ever had for this use case, but sooner or later I'll step up to the next MP plateau for print size. (Burtynsky, Misrach, and Shibata are heroes.) The Fuji100S is the current contender, but after several visits to B&H something about Fuji remains offputting. What would you pick for this use case? Sounds like this might be it: image quality, beautiful build and ergonomics and menu, and the negatives of AF and speed aren't relevant to me though the small size is not particularly valuable to me. Price aside for the moment, what would you pick?

[@3BMEP]

I agree with you. I’ll put it to you this way: if someone were to GIVE me one or the other, I’d prefer the Hassy for your use case.

[@ChrisThe1]

I don't see the point with the gfx 100 ii being a thing now. Better lenses, equal if not better iq, an actually usable focus system and many more good features.

[@natloz760305]

As for myself I started with a compact digital, then turned towards the analogue, especially the MF. The object separation is on an other level with the 6x6 comparing the 35mm. Now I only own filmcameras (Yashica-D, Pentacon Six, and a Minolta SrT200) I love to shoot portraits. I can only dream about these MF digitals, but cannot afford one. I know I could do magic with one of these. Unfortunately the raw material gets more and more expensive, rollfilms are not scanned anymore plus my flatbed scanner is dead and service says no repair is available...

[@winedemonium]

Spot on Hugh.... though I'm still tempted. This was the review I had been waiting for because our preferences generally are quite similar. Quick questions - when you compared files of people SOOC did you prefer the X2D enough to leave the files alone; b. Q3 close enough for you, or more work?; on the new f/2.5 lenses, with manual focus clutch engaged, did you find manual focus quick (close to M lens on SL), or hard to do quickly because of lag / variable response? I don't need 100MP (actually if it was 50MP I'd prefer it), but if the manual focus can be moved quickly AND precisely, then X2D design and colour science might keep it a frontrunner. Thanks for this review - it was the one I was waiting for. It's much appreciated.

[@3BMEP]

A) yes. B) close enough, sometimes…

[@3BMEP]

Manual focus does NOT feel like mechanical focus, but the degree to which that matters is a personal preference. 😊🖖🏻

[@patrickmolloy6994]

I get what you're trying to say, but when those of us get the X2D, while some of us are lucky enough to afford a Nikon Z8, and some great Nikon Z glass, then the X2D is not a business tool, but a wonderful return to photography. The simplistic controls, and the wonderful Hassy colours, make it a joy to use. Slow AF? no eye detect? SO WHAT!! That's not what it's about.....it's a HASSELBAD! It's not a race, it's creative perfection....photography. I love mine.

[@3BMEP]

Delighted for you!

[@artbyraboff]

You’ve probably covered this in at least one previous installment of which I cannot seem to find. I am curious as to what the workflow consequences from the X2D's RAW files would have on my 2017 iMac (2TB SSD/64GB RAM) as compared with, say, the 50MP my Canon 5Ds produces? I know, I know, it’s time to upgrade. But still, would I be in twice as much pain by trying to edit 100MP files in Lightroom?

[@ArthurIve]

200MP

[@thanyawong]

Hasselblad has been owned by DJI, China for many years. DJI are young and active company. I expect to see the innovative step from Hasselblad. What's about idea of fixed lens medium format camera like Q3. I would love to step in medium format world if it will be available.

[@3BMEP]

Interesting idea. 😊

[@6884]

your videos are always a soothing trip, have you studied as hypnotist?

[@3BMEP]

You’re getting sleepy… sleepy… 😊🙏🏻

[@jochenkraus7016]

​​@@3BMEPmust ... buy ... X2D :-D

[@Jagrajagra]

I too want Hasselblad to do well and succeed. Even with all its faults, it is so, so… covetable! I only ever shot with them at college/university long before digital. They were too expensive then and still are today. My perfect camera would be a mix of Hass and Fuji with some Sony/Canon focussing thrown in. And affordable. Call me mad, but what I’d love more than anything is a 4/3 full frame system. One that maybe Hass, Fuji and others that aren’t Nikon/Sony/Canon all subscribe to. I know, I know, mad….

[@datdudeinred]

Just look at the x2d lenses then look at the perfect arri signature primes. You see the difference? The size. There is no way anyone can beat physics. The fact that a smaller but still medium format lenses are smaller & way lighter than great sony ff or nikon ff lenses should give you the ans immediately. Then you add arri signature primes to the table & their bigger than ff image circle & 0 vignetting(which even sony & nikon best lenses can't manage maybe zeiss otus) then you realise just how Hasselblad lenses will perform. Ofc arri is 4x the price but that's for a reason.

[@costelloandsilke7321]

Excellent summation of the X2D, Hugh. It is simultaneously the most frustrating and enchanting camera I've ever owned. The frustration is mainly down to the autofocus - how anyone can make a phase detection system that is so slow and inconsistent, mystifies me. But the ergonomics, built quality and colour science are absolutely sublime. I pulled out my GFX 50S the other day and it just felt so clunky and massive by comparison. That said, the price / performance balance of the Fuji GF lenses totally trounce the Hasselblad's lenses. And I will say that there is still something about the images from both systems that I find more appealing than that from FF digital cameras.

[@3BMEP]

Thanks for sharing! 😊🖖🏻

[@tor2919]

The Hasselblad lenses aren’t too bad when considering they all contain a leaf shutter. Priceless for flash work

[@NotAnotherChannel_Channel]

I would watch Hugh’s videos for just the jams and the frames. Sweet music choices. How does the X2D compare with the GFX100?

[@3BMEP]

X2D for color science, industrial design and menu system; Fuji for AF and operational speed.

[@NotAnotherChannel_Channel]

@@3BMEP Got it. Thanks, Hugh!

[@memcrew1]

@@3BMEPare you able to expound on the color science differences between the Fuji and Hass? Thanks

[@NineVoltDigitalCinema]

I want to be excited about digital “Medium Format” cameras, but this and the GFX line are really more like crop sensor MF. I just got a used SL2, and with the 180mp multi-shot and amazing lenses, it’s gonna take a lot more from MF to impress me.

[@3BMEP]

I hear you.

[@johnkasianowicz6536]

MTFs from different manufacturers may or may not include diffraction effects.

[@3BMEP]

Correct.

[@marcusnz232]

I wish you’d stuck to the 4,000 word script! 😀

[@drthompson65]

Don’t know why Hassie doesn’t license Sony’s AF. I went with a a7r5 and all g/g master glass and still was out the door at least cost than a hassie.

[@3BMEP]

AF is not a software-only issue…

[@Random415510]

Yeah but it doesn't work with capture one. I would love to shoot with the X2D for my commercial clients but no can do because they use capture one & software on the backend that works within capture one.

[@randytesch7664]

I edit all of my Hasselblad images using Capture One. I import to Phocus, do just the most basic and quick edits, output at 16-bit TIFFs into Capture One for any future edits.

[@GregoryDai]

in the video it is obvious that the af is worse than almost all its competition, but how would it stack up against the lica Mseries ? as some of its lense are designed with MF in mind and the x2d can be seen as a higher resolution M series camera with aditional AF

[@3BMEP]

This is PRECISELY how I thought of the XID II (an EVF-based, higher resolution M), but I think performant AF has become more important with the arrival of the Leica Q3 (and I already have an M11, which I love).

[@GregoryDai]

@@3BMEP 🖖

[@GregoryDai]

@@3BMEP 🖖

[@mawavoy]

Can one zone focus the H2D? Also, would you comment on whether or not its color science can be replicated.. This requires considerable futzing , but only once. As an aside, I think Sony employs a second software chip to handle writing to memory. I hope Hasselblad considers this. It is unfortunate they’re a camera company, whereas Sony is a software designer and developer. In my opinion that’s why they dominate the autofocus market. Great review, thanks. Did I miss a review of Sony’s new 70-200 f4?

[@3BMEP]

No, I missed getting one to review. 😎🖖🏻

[@gordoncahill1170]

Hasselblad individually calibrate their sensors, so no, it’s not that easy.

[@250157andyw]

Thanks as always Hugh for your reviews. Detailed, real world, insightful, topped with exquisite delivery. It seems unlikely that ‘work of industrial art’ design and construction are sufficient compensation for such stifled performance. A company of such heritage has abandoned its historic products with no future support or maintenance … which might otherwise facilitate a refuge for the existing hard core pro user base, until further iterations of the X2D. Oops, big mistake, huge.

[@112mikomiko]

Man sollte in das Gehäuse der X2D einen %0 Megapixel - Sensor einbauen und auf Video verzichten . Den Preis bei 3000 Euro, dann könnte es was werden. VG. B. Miko

[@RayLombardi]

After 3 generations of cameras, Hasselblad still can't get it right, and we are, as usual, hoping for the next generation(at the wake of this camera's announcement) to address this basic issues that should have been resolved by now. I am sorry, there is no excuse for anyone, least of all Hasselblad, to overlook such basic photographic needs thad lead to such massive issues. I'll stick to Full Frame, they are getting right...

[@mcelliot]

Interesting viewpoint but worthless unless you specify what you perceive these deficiencies as being

[@LoFiAxolotl]

I was lucky enough to try the X2D last month... the biggest problem as a Documentary photographer for me was... design of the Hassleblad is so unique... way too many people start talking to me... i was barely able to get any candid pictures in 3 days... i'll stick with the SL2... even 47MP feel excessive for print and i can continue to not get noticed

[@jeremygouge]

I am an SL2S user and I'm torn between the previous x1dii or investing in better glass for my system. I love MF and the max flash sync speed of 1/2000 is very intriguing to me.

[@tt-ew7rx]

Thumbnail looks like Jeremy Corbyn...

[@XtianApi]

Next time please show this black-and-white low key images on a black background not a white background it's killing me I can barely see the image

[@phatpurrly]

We went to the Roy Decarava show in NYC a few years back. The gallery absolutely ruined the subtle print statements with harsh high key lighting. We had to shield the prints from directed lighting with my day bag just to see them.

[@XtianApi]

@@phatpurrly oh no! That's terrible. On one hand, the artist is capturing great images, but on the other, somehow these dumb mistakes get made!

[@mostfrequencies4981]

So you're not a fan of Canon

[@3BMEP]

No, I am not.

[@mostfrequencies4981]

Two negatives in the one statement bit confusing, Yeh or Nay, when it comes to Canon?

[@Loop1Photography]

Hasselblad is failing miserably in product development and has been for years. Just look at the X1D & 907 if you need more proof - what a joke. Hasselblad has also struggled with building an autofocus system that performs among many other things. In a camera like the X2D, I'd be ok with AF slowness by comparison, to say a Nikon Z9 or any modern DSLR or mirrorless, but the lack of a joy stick on a new camera is beyond comprehension. This company, from what many have experienced, does not listen to their customers who are actually shooting regularly with the cameras. They seem to think they are so smart they will define what we want. They have abandoned their H series professional customer base and have built a camera that now competes with every other mainstream manufacturer's mirrorless offerings at more than 2x the cost. Image quality and build quality are useless if you have to fight the camera for focusing. Their X1D customer base was basically soccer moms with a lot of $$ and I guess they are continuing to target that market with the X2D, it's certainly not the professional market. I'm not sure how one would use this in the studio either because there are so many limitations. The H6 has it's shortcomings and so does every other camera, but the X2D camera is a step backwards in real-world usability and causes more problems than it solves. If they weren't owned by DJI they would have died years ago due to a lack of vision.

[@NickDevlinPhoto]

After waiting almost a quarter century for a digital answer to the user experience of my all time favourite camera, the Mamiya 6, I can say the X2D is it. It has the same form-factor, physical beauty, hand-feel, and joy of use that the Mamiya 6 did. Except with better than 4x5 IQ, IS so good it melts my brain and makes my tripod dusty, and the first digital colour I can find no fault with. Use case limited? For sure. But I disagree with your assessment of the AF and the XCD glass. In my experience, the latter is superb, even wide open, and years ahead of the rest of the line in every other way.Likewise, I've found the AF to be accurate on static subjects in a way Fuji AF has never been. Add that the 4x3 frame yields more proportionately more usable pixels in most applications than the face-palmingly idiotic 3x2 "FF" format, and this is a win if it's the sort of beast you want and can afford. Viable in the long term? Who knows. ut thank goodness they made it. Just my 2c.

[@davetv8171]

I thought I was crazy to sell quite a few things for this X2D. I’ve made a lot of camera switching mistakes that cost me. I even had the gfx 50R/100s and had to sell them when 2020 happened. I definitely thought I had made a mistake with the x2D as it has a less tilting screen than the A1, no joystick and only one AF point. It was far different than the GFX. But since owning it now for several months, I think it may have been just the camera I needed.

[@3BMEP]

Delighted for you - use it well! 😊🖖🏻

[@papalovesguitars3337]

Great video. To me the the most important element to my photography is the image quality specifically color and dynamic range and I have owned many great cameras in my lifetime including Nikons, Canons, Sonys, Fujifilms and currently own 4 Leicas including the M11 and no camera has ever delivered the image quality that I get from my Hasselblad X2D and 907x. Therefore I am very willing to overlook the shortcomings of the Hasselblads.

[@3BMEP]

Delighted they work for you!

[@BenjaminSandness]

I keep wanting to find a reason to sell everything and get a medium format digital compact body with standard lens (45P for instance). I can never make it makes sense.

[@ignaciocruzatcorrea3595]

I don’t know why, but I love the Hasselblad look & feel, craftmanship and their colors too. I’m a Leica shooter, but Hassy is always walking around. Thank you Hugh for a video review after 10 months of usage (and with some objectivity). However, this camera is still rounding my head… I can't stop it.

[@3BMEP]

😊🖖🏻

[@johnhjic2]

Hello, I think I like what you're saying. I have the X1D if fact I got after borrowing both if and a Fuji GFX for a day the looking at the results, then checking how them with the way I work. I choose the Hasselblad X1D. After talking to people I know at Hasselblad I chose not to upgrade to the X1D II. Than when the X2D came out I order one, after hearing that they had removed focus peeking I though what have I done. But then after seeing the camera at a trad show some mouths after ordering and seeing how Hasselblad replaced the focus peeking with a new and much improved method I was happy. It did take a number of mouths before my camera arrived. I for one am first to admit it is not the camera for all jobs. but for the ones it is, its just amazing.

[@3BMEP]

Enjoy!

[@samuelbarringer715]

I like Sony A6000. It takes good images with a good lens attached, an is much more affordable.

[@Bayonet1809]

Almost a year after release and the X2D is still missing basic features like continuous autofocus. I can't help but feel that by the time Hasselblad gets to feature parity with the full-frame competition, that competition might have likewise reached megapixel parity considering the pace of iteration in the full-frame field.

[@3BMEP]

This IS the challenge, and I'd LOVE to see Hasselblad meet it.

[@thedarkslide]

There are diminishing returns of increasing the pixel count on a given sensor size - diffraction limiting aperture! On 24x36mm sensors, those limits are already becoming relevant around 50MP and up with diffraction already kicking in at around f8. There is a penalty through the laws of physics when adding up to 100MP to 24x36MP - at some point more megapixels will not result in more resolution and more detail anymore at practical aperture ranges. The ceiling on the larger Hasselblad sensors (I refuse to call them medium format) is still considerably higher than with so called full frame. I am also not sure why continuous autofocus is a feature required on a camera like the Hasselblad. Will you also be asking for a high-speed drive mode for sequential shooting as well?! Such a camera is never meant to be used for fast paced action, just adding continuous auto-focus by itself may be a basic feature, but it's useless on its own.

[@nelsonclub7722]

THere is a much more fundamental flaw than this - its missing the 90mm 2.5 - I ordered mine in September after selling all my other gear for it, the X2D and the 38mm and the 55 - even all my filters - is that a bit shortsighted of me or Hasselblad announcing something they could not deliver? Perhaps both is the answer - the X2D is probably the best camera on sale today though - so I can wait - and a s aPro for 35yrs+ I have had them all - even Sinar 10x8

[@philipflower1931]

I just don't get the criticism of the AF performance of the X1d and now the X2D. Starting from the Nikon F1 and then the Hasselblad 500cx autofocus is a true revelation. But no photographs I made with the manual focus cameras failed - you just have to know what and when to focus. I have wandered around the world - Cambodia, India (many times), Sri Lanka, Poland, Italy, London and made street shots with the X1D and never once cursed the "slow' Af. Now I have the X2D it is a major improvement IBIS is a game changer for me. Sure if I wanted a camera to make photos of people running round a football field, or my toddlers playing or my dog - this is not the camera for that - although I would point out that Sally Mann did a pretty good job with a view camera in that genre. But to criticise it for its failure to meet those criteria misses the point. No camera can do that and match the output from the X2D. I have a Sony A7Riv - horrible menu system, took me weeks to work out how to set it up but whilst it can do better AF it simply is not omparable. Fast and continuous AF is pretty much irrelevant unless you are a sports, wedding or events photographer - in which case you really don't need a medium format camera because most of what you do is going to be on social media or A4 size. By the way I can tell at A2 print size a serious improvement over the X1D.

[@chasereed7141]

I use a sony a7Riii currently for all my work. I primarily shoot wildlife and need the better AF. But I'm going to be moving to northern GA soon and want to start shooting more landscapes. Debating getting a medium format or something that forces me to take my time and truly enjoy the process of photography. Something like this Hasselblad would work wonders for that. Very tempting, but very expensive. Perhaps I'll wait for the next model to come out and get it then.

[@__-lt4hm]

I have recently come to realize, choosing a digital camera is fundamentally choosing film. What other aspect differentiate one camera from another is what Hugh have mentioned here like heritage, build quality, color science, IBIS, Autofocus, internal memory. The darkroom during the film days are now our computers and software. With programs like pure raw3, we really don't need high ISO performance in a camera (only several higher base ISO). RAW files are raw, ultimately just capturing the shadow and light, color we see in RAW are already processed in camera so in essence, they are not RAW anymore. As mentioned here, unless you are printing huge or cropping, need to zoom in to see things, we are at a point with excessive pixels which is already hindering our photography (mainly speed), and processing. My RD-1s is making a comeback!

[@AdamCzarnowski]

Too many held thoughts can cause this old duffer to buffer.

[@3BMEP]

😜

[@jochenkraus7016]

Now hold THAT thought :-D