Hasselblad 500c medium

The Hasselblad 500C/M is a Swedish medium format camera, renowned for its modular design and use in NASA space missions, as well as being an icon in fine art photography.

About this subject

The Hasselblad 500C/M was introduced in 1970 as an evolution of the legendary 500C, retaining the modular system that allows swapping film backs, viewfinders, and lenses. Produced by Swedish company Victor Hasselblad AB, the camera uses 120 medium format film to produce 6x6 cm negatives. Its robust build and reliability made it an essential tool for studio, fashion, and fine art photographers. The Carl Zeiss lens system, such as the Planar 80mm f/2.8, delivers exceptional sharpness and smooth tonal transitions, qualities prized in fine art photography. The 500C/M was the first camera to use the Compur leaf shutter, enabling flash sync at all speeds.

The Hasselblad's presence in space is one of its most remarkable achievements. NASA used modified versions of the 500C/M on Apollo missions, including Apollo 11, capturing iconic images on the Moon. The modular design allowed adaptations for the space environment, such as rubber-coated controls and special 70mm film. These cameras not only provided historic records but also raised the standard of photographic quality under extreme conditions.

In the fine art photography world, the 500C/M is revered for its tactile and visual experience. The waist-level viewfinder and the reflex composition process require patience and precision, qualities appreciated by photographers like Ansel Adams and Richard Avedon. Even in the digital age, the camera maintains a following among enthusiasts who value the texture of film grain and tonal depth that is difficult to fully replicate with digital sensors. The modular system also makes maintenance and customization easy, making each unit unique.

Interestingly, the Hasselblad 500C/M is still made to order by Hasselblad today, with original parts and hand assembly, a rarity in the vintage camera market. Its influence persists in the design of modern medium format digital cameras, which inherit the concept of high optical quality and modularity. For collectors and photographers, owning a 500C/M means possessing a piece of photography history and a tool that continues to produce timeless images.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between the Hasselblad 500C and the 500C/M?

The 500C/M, introduced in 1970, is an evolution of the 500C. The main difference is the film back locking system, which is more secure on the 500C/M and allows quicker swaps. Additionally, the 500C/M introduced a new mirror mechanism that reduces vibrations.

Why is the Hasselblad 500C/M so expensive in the used market?

The high price reflects its durability, build quality, ultra-sharp Carl Zeiss lenses, and the fact that it is still made to order. Moreover, its history with NASA and status as a fine art photography icon elevate its collector value.

Can digital lenses be used on the Hasselblad 500C/M?

Not directly, as the 500C/M is purely analog. However, there are adapters and medium format digital backs (such as those from Phase One) that can be attached to the body, turning it into a hybrid camera, albeit with some loss of modular functionality.