Hasselblad 500c medium

The Hasselblad 500c is a Swedish medium format camera that revolutionized professional photography and was used by NASA on Apollo missions.

About this subject

The Hasselblad 500c was introduced in 1957 by the Swedish company Victor Hasselblad AB. It became an icon of medium format photography due to its modular construction, which allowed changing lenses, film backs, and viewfinders. The system used 120 film, producing 6x6 cm negatives known for their high quality and detail. The camera featured a focal-plane shutter and high-precision lenses such as Carl Zeiss.

During NASA's Apollo missions from 1968 to 1972, the Hasselblad 500c was adapted for space use. Modified cameras, with silver plating and simplified operation, were used by astronauts to capture historical images, including the iconic photo of Buzz Aldrin on the Moon. The reliability and quality of the 500c made it the preferred choice for space exploration.

In the civilian market, the 500c was widely adopted by portrait, wedding, and landscape photographers. Its robust design and modularity allowed it to remain in production for decades, with successors like the 500c/m. The camera is valued by collectors and enthusiasts today, exemplifying precise Swedish engineering. Even with the advent of digital, the Hasselblad 500c remains a benchmark for image quality in medium format.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between the Hasselblad 500c and the 500c/m?

The 500c/m is an updated version released in 1970, featuring an Automatic Mirror system and some internal improvements. Both share the same modularity and image quality.

How many photos were taken with the Hasselblad 500c on the Moon?

Astronauts on Apollo missions used modified Hasselblad 500c cameras to capture thousands of images. The camera left on the Moon during Apollo 11 was later recovered and is now on display.

Can I still buy a Hasselblad 500c today?

Yes, the Hasselblad 500c is available on the used market. Many units still work perfectly, and 120 film backs are easy to find. It is a classic camera highly sought after by collectors.