The Hasselblad X1D II 50C is a groundbreaking medium-format mirrorless camera that reflects Hasselblad’s legacy of exceptional craftsmanship and innovative technology. Released in 2019 as an upgrade to the original X1D 50C, the X1D II 50C builds upon its predecessor’s strengths, offering photographers a combination of high-resolution imaging, portability, and user-friendly functionality. This overview will explore the specifications, features, and performance of the X1D II 50C, highlighting what makes it a standout choice for professional photographers.
Design and Build Quality
The design of the X1D II 50C combines elegance with functionality, making it both aesthetically pleasing and practical for professional use.
- Dimensions and Weight: The camera measures 147 x 163 x 102 mm (5.8 x 6.4 x 4.0 inches) and weighs 1,270 grams (2.8 pounds) with the battery and memory card, making it relatively lightweight for a medium-format camera.
- Materials: Constructed from robust aluminum alloy, the X1D II 50C is built to withstand the rigors of professional use. The weather-sealed body offers protection against dust and moisture, making it suitable for various shooting conditions.
- Ergonomics: The camera features a well-designed grip and intuitive layout, with customizable buttons and dials that enhance user experience. The large, high-resolution touchscreen display further facilitates navigation and control.
Image Sensor and Quality
At the heart of the X1D II 50C lies its impressive imaging capabilities.
- Sensor: The camera features a 50 MP CMOS sensor, with a size of 43.8 x 32.9 mm, delivering exceptional image quality with remarkable detail, dynamic range, and color accuracy.
- ISO Range: The ISO sensitivity ranges from 100 to 25,600, allowing for excellent performance in a variety of lighting conditions, from bright daylight to low-light environments.
- Image Processing: The X1D II 50C utilizes Hasselblad’s proprietary Image Processing Engine, which optimizes image quality and allows for faster processing, resulting in quicker response times and reduced shutter lag.
Autofocus System
The X1D II 50C employs a sophisticated autofocus system designed for precision and reliability.
- Autofocus Points: The camera features 225 autofocus points, including face and eye detection, enabling accurate focus on subjects in various compositions.
- Focus Modes: Users can choose between single-point AF, dynamic AF, and manual focus, providing flexibility for different shooting scenarios.
- Performance: The improved autofocus performance over its predecessor enhances tracking capabilities, making it easier to capture fast-moving subjects or portraits with precision.
Lens Compatibility
Hasselblad offers a range of lenses designed specifically for the X1D system, ensuring that users can achieve the desired creative results.
- XCD Lenses: The X1D II 50C is compatible with XCD lenses, including wide-angle, standard, and telephoto options, providing versatility for various photography styles.
- Adaptability: The camera can also use lenses from other Hasselblad systems with an appropriate adapter, expanding creative possibilities for photographers who may have existing glass.
Viewfinder and Display
The camera’s display and viewfinder contribute significantly to its usability.
- Electronic Viewfinder (EVF): The X1D II 50C is equipped with a 3.69 million-dot EVF, providing a clear and detailed view of the scene with minimal lag. The EVF offers a real-time preview of exposure, white balance, and depth of field.
- Touchscreen LCD: The 3.6-inch touchscreen display has a resolution of 2.36 million dots, allowing for easy navigation of settings and functions. The touchscreen enables quick focus point selection and menu access, enhancing the shooting experience.
Video Capabilities
While primarily designed for still photography, the X1D II 50C also offers impressive video recording features.
- Video Resolution: The camera can record Full HD (1080p) video at up to 30 fps, catering to users who may want to capture high-quality video content alongside stills.
- Video Features: It includes features such as manual control over exposure settings, providing filmmakers with the flexibility to achieve their desired look.
Battery Life
The X1D II 50C is powered by a robust battery that supports extended shooting sessions.
- Battery Capacity: The camera uses the BP-11 battery, which provides approximately 420 shots per charge under CIPA standards, ensuring reliable performance during lengthy shoots.
- Charging Options: The battery can be charged using an external charger or via USB-C, providing flexibility for photographers on the go.
Connectivity
The X1D II 50C includes various connectivity options to enhance usability and workflow.
- Wi-Fi: Built-in Wi-Fi allows for wireless image transfer to smartphones or tablets, facilitating easy sharing and remote shooting capabilities through the Hasselblad app.
- USB-C: The camera features a USB-C port for data transfer and charging, supporting high-speed connectivity with compatible devices.
- HDMI Output: An HDMI output allows for external monitor connection, useful for studio settings or when shooting video.
Software and User Experience
The X1D II 50C runs on Hasselblad’s user-friendly interface, designed to streamline operations for photographers.
- User Interface: The menu system is intuitive, with a customizable layout that allows users to prioritize their most-used settings for quicker access.
- Firmware Updates: Hasselblad provides firmware updates that enhance functionality and performance over time, ensuring the camera remains current with new features and improvements.
Ideal Use Cases
The Hasselblad X1D II 50C is suited for various photography applications, making it a versatile tool for professionals.
- Portrait Photography: With its high resolution and excellent color rendition, the camera is perfect for capturing detailed portraits with stunning skin tones.
- Landscape Photography: The dynamic range and clarity of the images produced by the X1D II 50C make it an excellent choice for landscape photography, allowing for breathtaking imagery in natural settings.
- Commercial and Product Photography: The camera’s precision and detail are ideal for commercial work, where high-quality images are paramount.
- Artistic Expression: The X1D II 50C caters to artists looking to push creative boundaries with medium-format imagery, providing the tools to realize their vision.
Conclusion
The Hasselblad X1D II 50C stands as a testament to the brand’s commitment to excellence in the field of photography. With its stunning image quality, robust build, and user-friendly design, it provides photographers with the tools they need to create exceptional work across various genres.
While it is primarily designed for still photography, the X1D II 50C offers versatility in video capabilities and connectivity, making it a valuable addition to any photographer’s toolkit. Its sophisticated autofocus system, high-resolution display, and customizable features contribute to a seamless user experience that caters to both professionals and enthusiasts alike.
For those seeking a medium-format camera that combines high performance, beautiful design, and exceptional image quality, the Hasselblad X1D II 50C is an outstanding choice, embodying the spirit of Hasselblad’s rich heritage and innovative future in photography.