I'm listing my last two medium format digital cameras today, this one was probably my favorite I ever owned, with huge improvements of the H3d series especially with the True Focus feature.
I've owned this camera since new and have all original boxes and accessories including AC adapter with multiple style plug adapters, all body and lens caps, OEM strap, 2 batteries that still hold a good charge, and one CR123 battery adapter that is super useful.
Everything functions exactly as it should, sensor is clean and clear, no dead pixels, meter and focus are spot on. Lens is great, focus motor is quick and silent.
Hasselblad H4D-40—a medium-format digital camera that combines exquisite craftsmanship with uncompromising image quality. ✨
Design and Build:
- The Hasselblad H4D-40 is a work of art, both in terms of aesthetics and engineering. Its robust magnesium alloy body exudes elegance and durability.
- Measuring 6.0 x 5.2 x 8.4 inches (15.2 x 13.2 x 21.3 cm) and weighing approximately 5.04 pounds (2.28 kg) with the HC 80mm f/2.8 lens, it feels substantial in hand.
- The modular design allows for flexibility—the camera body, viewfinder, and lens are separate components that can be interchanged.
Sensor and Resolution:
- At the heart of the H4D-40 lies a 40-megapixel CCD sensor, measuring an impressive 33.1 x 44.2mm. This sensor size is nearly twice that of a full-frame 35mm DSLR.
- The large sensor captures exquisite detail, dynamic range, and tonal gradations. Each pixel is a treasure trove of information.
- The resulting image files are 16-bit raw files (in Hasselblad's proprietary 3FR format) that weigh in at around 50MB each. These files hold immense potential for post-processing.
Lens and Optics:
- The H4D-40 kit typically includes an 80mm lens—a classic focal length that provides a natural perspective. The HC 80mm f/2.8 lens is renowned for its sharpness and beautiful bokeh.
- Hasselblad lenses are meticulously crafted, ensuring minimal distortion, chromatic aberration, and vignetting.
- The lens mount is part of the camera's modular system, allowing photographers to explore other Hasselblad lenses tailored to their creative vision.
True Focus AF System:
- Hasselblad's True Focus system is a game-changer. It combines modern tilt-yaw sensors with sophisticated algorithms.
- When you recompose after locking focus at the central AF point, True Focus instantly adjusts the focus point. No more missed shots due to focus shift!
Handling and Ergonomics:
- The H4D-40 feels like a precision instrument. Its controls are intuitive, and the grip provides a comfortable hold.
- The bright optical viewfinder offers a clear view of your composition, and the large LCD screen on the back assists with menu navigation and image review.
Image Output and Workflow:
- The camera outputs 8-bit image files, averaging 120MB at full resolution. These files are rich in detail and color.
- Tethered shooting via FireWire 800 is possible, but the camera's processing engine and UDMA-compatible CF card slot allow standalone shooting.
- Hasselblad's Phocus 2.0 software accompanies the camera, providing powerful tools for raw conversion and image management.
In summary, the Hasselblad H4D-40 is a masterpiece—a bridge between tradition and cutting-edge technology. It invites photographers to explore the vast canvas of medium-format photography, where every frame becomes a work of art.