Hasselblad

For decades, Hasselblad has been synonymous with the highest quality and innovation in medium format photography. The Swedish company was founded in 1841 by Fritz Viktor Hasselblad as a trading company in Gothenburg, but it wasn't until 1941 that it entered camera production under the leadership of Victor Hasselblad, the founder's grandson. Victor, a passionate photographer himself, pursued the vision of developing the best camera in the world – a goal Hasselblad achieved spectacularly with the introduction of the first medium format camera, the 1600F, in 1948. This camera, with its modular design and impressive image quality, laid the foundation for the company's legendary reputation.

The history of Hasselblad is inextricably linked to milestones in photography. The brand became particularly famous for its role in space exploration: in 1969, NASA took Hasselblad cameras on the Apollo 11 mission, and the iconic images of the moon landing were taken with a Hasselblad 500EL. This moment cemented the company's status as the gold standard for professional photographers worldwide. Over the decades, Hasselblad continued to develop its technology, for example with the introduction of the 500 series, prized for its mechanical precision and versatility, and the H series, which, starting in 2002, marked the transition to digital medium format photography.

Today, Hasselblad offers a range of medium format cameras, such as the X2D 100C and the H6D, which set new standards with sensors of up to 100 megapixels and exceptional dynamic range. The cameras are known for their rich image detail, natural color reproduction, and robust yet elegant design – ideal for studio photographers, landscape photographers, and anyone who demands the highest standards from their equipment. The system is complemented by high-quality lenses from the XCD and HC series, specifically designed for the demands of medium format.

A new chapter in the company's history began in 2017 when the Chinese drone manufacturer DJI acquired a majority stake in Hasselblad. This partnership brought a significant boost to innovation. DJI, itself a technology leader in aerial photography and videography, invested in the further development of Hasselblad's portfolio, enabling the integration of cutting-edge technologies. One example is the X1D II 50C, released in 2019, which offers a more compact and affordable medium format option without compromising on quality. This collaboration is also evident in products like the Hasselblad camera on DJI drones, such as the Mavic 2 Enterprise, which delivers professional image quality in the air.

For us at Optik Foto Rutz, Hasselblad embodies the perfect blend of tradition and innovation. The acquisition by DJI has not only brought the company financial stability but also a surge of innovation, allowing Hasselblad to solidify its position as a leading manufacturer of medium format cameras. Whether for artistic projects or technical applications, Hasselblad remains a guarantee of unparalleled image results and a tool for the most demanding photographers worldwide.