Hasselblad 500c medium

The Hasselblad 500c is a legendary medium format camera, renowned for its optical quality and use in the Apollo program.

About this subject

The Hasselblad 500c was launched in 1957 by Victor Hasselblad AB in Sweden, revolutionizing medium format photography. Unlike 35mm cameras, it uses 120 roll film to produce 6x6 cm negatives, offering extremely high resolution and detail. Its modular design allows swapping lenses, viewfinders, and film magazines, making it highly versatile for studio, fashion, and landscape work.

The camera achieved global fame when NASA selected it for the Apollo missions. A modified version, the Hasselblad 500 EL, was used on the lunar surface during Apollo 11 in 1969. The images captured by astronauts, including Buzz Aldrin's iconic footprint, were taken with Zeiss lenses and Hasselblad cameras. This feat cemented the brand as a symbol of reliability and optical excellence.

Technically, the 500c features a focal plane shutter with speeds from 1 to 1/500 second and flash sync at all speeds. Its standard lens was the Carl Zeiss Planar 80mm f/2.8, known for exceptional sharpness and low distortion. The waist-level finder offers a unique framing experience with a laterally reversed image, requiring practice but rewarding with precise composition.

Today, the Hasselblad 500c is highly sought after by collectors and analog photographers. Demand for well-preserved units has grown with the resurgence of film photography. Models with Carl Zeiss lenses and original accessories are hotly contested at auctions. Beyond its historical significance, the camera continues to produce stunning image quality, rivaling many high-end digital systems.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference between the Hasselblad 500c and a 35mm camera?

The Hasselblad 500c uses 120 medium format film, producing 6x6 cm negatives, much larger than 35mm's 24x36 mm. This yields higher resolution, less grain, and more detail, ideal for large enlargements and professional work.

Why was the Hasselblad 500c used in space?

Because of its rugged build, reliability, and superior image quality. NASA needed cameras that could withstand extreme space conditions and provide sharp photos for scientific documentation. The Hasselblad was modified with silver coating to reflect heat and simplified controls for use with gloves.

Can I still buy a new Hasselblad 500c?

No. Production of the 500c ended in the 1970s. Hasselblad later released models like the 501C and 503CW, but not the original 500c. To acquire one, you must search the used market, specialty stores, or online auctions, with prices varying by condition and accessories.