Hasselblad 500c medium

The Hasselblad 500c is a legendary medium format camera, used by NASA and professional photographers since the 1950s.

About this subject

The Hasselblad 500c, released in 1957 by Swedish company Victor Hasselblad AB, revolutionized medium format photography. Its modular design allowed interchangeability of lenses, viewfinders, and film magazines, offering unparalleled flexibility for studio and outdoor work. The focal-plane shutter and Carl Zeiss lenses delivered exceptional sharpness, making it the standard choice for fashion, advertising, and landscape photographers.

The camera achieved worldwide fame when NASA selected it for the Apollo program. The Hasselblad 500c (and its successor, the 500EL) traveled to space, capturing iconic images of the Moon and Earth. Neil Armstrong used a modified version, the Hasselblad 500EL Data Camera, to record the first lunar footprint. These photographs demonstrated the equipment's robustness and reliability in extreme conditions.

The Hasselblad V system, of which the 500c is part, remained in production for over 50 years, influencing camera design for generations. Its ergonomics, with the box-like body and waist-level finder, fostered a more contemplative photographic experience. Even today, the 500c is highly sought after in the used market and continues to be used by enthusiasts and professionals who appreciate the quality of 120 film images.

Fun fact: the Hasselblad 500c was the first medium format camera to feature a focal-plane shutter capable of speeds up to 1/500s. Its interchangeable back system allowed switching between color and black-and-white films mid-roll, an innovation at the time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between the Hasselblad 500c and the 500cm?

The 500cm (released in 1970) is an updated version of the 500c. It features an improved lens locking system and a quieter shutter, but the basic design and optical quality are similar.

Is the Hasselblad 500c still used today?

Yes, many photographers still use the 500c, especially for medium format film photography. It is valued for its build quality, modularity, and distinctive image characteristics.

What type of film does the Hasselblad 500c use?

It uses 120 roll film, producing 6x6 cm negatives. Each roll yields 12 exposures in this format.