Hasselblad X1D: Mirrorless Medium Format

Mirrorless medium format has arrived, and though the sensor is huge, the camera itself is comparable in size or smaller than full-frame DSLRs.

Hasselblad today introduced the X1D, the first mirrorless camera with a 43.8×32.9mm medium format sensor. (For comparison, the sensor’s surface area is approximately 67 percent larger than a full frame 35mm sensor, which measure 36x24mm.) Hasselblad states that the 50-megapixel sensor is capable of capturing up to 14 stops of dynamic range.

An ideal option for outdoor photographers who want the benefits of digital medium format in a compact system, the X1D is lightweight at 1.6 pounds, with dimensions of 5.9×3.9×2.8 (WxHxD) inches.

It can capture RAW, TIFF and JPEG image formats, as well as HD video, with an ISO range of 100 to 25,600. There are dual SD card slots for storage. The X1D also features a 3-inch, touchscreen LCD, WiFi and GPS.

Along with the X1D, Hasselblad is introducing a new range of XCD lenses designed for the system. Two new lenses in this line will be available at launch, a 45mm f/3.5 and a 90mm f/4.5, with additional lenses planned for future release. The X1D will also be compatible with 12 lenses from Hasselblad’s H System with an adapter.

The X1D, which is expected to be available in August, will retail for $8,995 for the body only. Two kits will also be offered: one with the 45mm lens for $11,290; the other with both lenses for $13,985.

For more information see: www.hasselblad.com/x1d

Read today’s Hasselblad X1D press release.