Hasselblad 907x & cfv 100c review

Thinking about stepping up your photography game with something truly exceptional? The Hasselblad 907X and CFV 100C isn’t just another camera.

It’s a statement, a meticulously crafted piece of engineering designed for those who truly appreciate the art of image-making.

This system brings together Hasselblad’s legendary medium format heritage with cutting-edge digital technology, offering a unique blend of classic handling and modern performance.

For serious photographers looking for unparalleled image quality, a distinct shooting experience, and a tool that inspires thoughtful composition, this combination is a compelling choice. It’s not just about megapixels.

It’s about the entire workflow, the tactile experience, and the stunning visual output that truly sets it apart.

You can dive deeper into the specifics of this remarkable camera system right here: Hasselblad 907x & cfv 100c review.

Unpacking the Hasselblad Legacy and Modern Integration

When you talk about Hasselblad, you’re not just talking about a camera. you’re discussing a pivotal piece of photographic history. For decades, Hasselblad cameras have been synonymous with unrivaled image quality, especially in medium format, used by titans of photography and even NASA astronauts. The 907X and CFV 100C system is a brilliant testament to this legacy, seamlessly blending the classic V-system aesthetic with modern digital capabilities. This isn’t just a nostalgic nod. it’s a thoughtful evolution.

The 907X is the smallest medium format camera body Hasselblad has ever made, serving as the bridge. It’s a control unit, an adapter, and a modern interface all rolled into one minimalist package. Attached to it, the CFV 100C is the digital back housing the heart of the system – a 100-megapixel medium format sensor. What this means in practical terms is that you get the immense detail and tonal richness characteristic of medium format, but with the convenience of digital capture, instant review, and vast dynamic range.

• Historic Pedigree: Hasselblad’s heritage is steeped in professional photography, known for robustness and optical excellence.
• Modular Design: The brilliance of this system lies in its modularity. The 907X body can be paired with older V-system lenses, while the CFV 100C back can even be mounted on classic Hasselblad V-system film bodies, breathing new life into vintage gear.
• Tactile Experience: Unlike many modern mirrorless cameras, the 907X and CFV 100C encourages a slower, more deliberate photographic process, appealing to those who enjoy the ritual of shooting. This isn’t a spray-and-pray machine. it’s a tool for considered compositions.

The CFV 100C Digital Back: A Sensor Masterclass

At the core of the 907X system’s immense capabilities is the CFV 100C digital back, a technological marvel that truly sets this camera apart. This isn’t just any sensor. it’s a 100-megapixel medium format CMOS sensor 43.8 x 32.9 mm, significantly larger than full-frame sensors found in most high-end DSLRs or mirrorless cameras. The larger sensor size translates directly into a host of image quality advantages that are immediately apparent in the final output.

• Exceptional Low-Light Performance and Dynamic Range: Despite its high resolution, the CFV 100C boasts impressive low-light capabilities, thanks to its larger individual pixels. It supports ISO sensitivities ranging from ISO 64 to ISO 25600, making it surprisingly versatile in varied lighting conditions. More critically, its 15 stops of dynamic range allow for incredible flexibility in post-production, enabling photographers to pull out detail from deep shadows and rein in blown-out highlights, ensuring rich, nuanced images even in high-contrast scenes. This is particularly valuable for architectural or product photography where precise light control is paramount.
• Internal Storage and CFexpress Type B: The CFV 100C includes a 1TB internal SSD, a significant upgrade that offers convenience and speed, especially when dealing with the large file sizes generated by 100MP images uncompressed RAW files can easily exceed 200MB each. Additionally, it supports CFexpress Type B cards for external storage and rapid data transfer, ensuring you’re never waiting for the camera to catch up.

The sheer quality of the sensor in the CFV 100C is perhaps its most compelling feature. It’s designed for those who demand the absolute best in image fidelity, offering a level of resolution, dynamic range, and color accuracy that few other cameras can rival. For those focused on fine art prints, commercial advertising, or high-end archival work, the CFV 100C provides a bedrock of image data that allows for unparalleled creative control and output quality.

Ergonomics and User Experience: A Unique Tactile Journey

The Hasselblad 907X and CFV 100C system offers an ergonomic experience unlike most modern cameras, deliberately designed to encourage a slower, more contemplative approach to photography. This isn’t a camera you pick up and instinctively operate if you’re used to traditional DSLRs or mirrorless systems. Instead, it invites you to slow down, compose carefully, and savor the process.

• Compact and Lightweight for Medium Format: Weighing in at approximately 620 grams 1.37 lbs with the CFV 100C back and battery, and without a lens, the 907X is remarkably compact and lightweight for a medium format camera. This makes it significantly more portable than traditional medium format DSLRs like the Hasselblad H6D-100c or even some full-frame mirrorless setups with large lenses. Its small footprint encourages handheld shooting, though its design still feels more natural with a tripod for critical work.
• Minimalist Design, Maximum Touchscreen: The 907X body itself is incredibly minimalist, devoid of many physical dials and buttons. The primary interface is the 3.2-inch tilting touchscreen display on the CFV 100C back. This screen, with its 2.36 million dots, is bright, clear, and highly responsive. It allows for intuitive navigation through menus, quick adjustments to settings, and effective live view composition. The tilt functionality is crucial for waist-level shooting, replicating the classic V-system experience, which is particularly beneficial for street photography or low-angle compositions without getting on your knees.
• Waist-Level Shooting Emphasis: One of the most distinctive aspects is its strong encouragement of waist-level shooting, especially when paired with older V-system lenses. This provides a different perspective on the world, often leading to more candid and interesting compositions. The optional optical viewfinder can be added for eye-level shooting, but it’s clear the system is designed around the tilting screen.
• Intuitive X-System Interface: Despite its unique form factor, the camera leverages Hasselblad’s well-regarded X-system user interface. This UI is known for its clean, logical layout and ease of use, even for those new to the Hasselblad ecosystem. Menu items are clearly labeled, and critical settings are readily accessible, minimizing the learning curve once you adapt to the tactile difference.
• Physical Controls are Sparse but Functional: While screen-centric, there are a few essential physical controls, including a shutter button, a control wheel, and a few customizable function buttons. These are well-placed and have a satisfying tactile feel. The focus is clearly on simplicity and letting the photographer focus on the image rather than fiddling with numerous controls.

For photographers coming from modern mirrorless systems, the 907X/CFV 100C’s shooting experience will feel refreshingly different. It encourages deliberate shooting, a thoughtful approach to composition, and a deep appreciation for the image captured. This isn’t a speed demon. it’s a precision instrument for those who value the journey as much as the destination.

Lens Compatibility and Optical Excellence

The Hasselblad 907X is an incredibly versatile platform when it comes to lens compatibility, opening up a world of optical excellence for photographers.

Its inherent design as a bridge allows it to tap into both Hasselblad’s modern XCD lens ecosystem and their legendary V-system optics, offering a unique blend of cutting-edge performance and classic character.

• Native XCD Lens Mount: The primary and most direct compatibility is with Hasselblad’s own XCD lens series. These are modern, autofocus-capable lenses specifically designed for the X-system medium format sensors.
  • Leaf Shutters: A key feature of XCD lenses is their integrated leaf shutters. This is a significant advantage, allowing for flash synchronization at all shutter speeds, up to 1/2000s. This is incredibly useful for studio photographers using strobes, as it enables them to freeze motion and control ambient light more effectively, even in bright conditions.
  • Optical Quality: XCD lenses are renowned for their exceptional sharpness, minimal distortion, and beautiful rendering. Hasselblad maintains extremely tight quality control, and the lenses are designed to resolve the immense detail captured by the 100MP sensor. Popular choices include the XCD 45P a compact “pancake” lens, XCD 80mm f/1.9 for incredible bokeh, and XCD 21mm a wide-angle marvel.
• V-System Lens Compatibility via Adapter: This is where the 907X truly shines for heritage enthusiasts. With the optional XPan Adapter for XPan lenses and the V Lens Adapter, the 907X can mount virtually any lens from Hasselblad’s classic V-system, including the iconic Carl Zeiss optics.
  • Manual Focus Only: It’s crucial to note that V-system lenses are manual focus only on the 907X. This caters to photographers who enjoy the tactile experience of manual focusing and have the patience for it. Focus peaking and magnification tools on the CFV 100C screen make this process manageable and enjoyable.
  • Unique Character: V-system lenses often possess a distinctive rendering and “look” that modern lenses sometimes lack. They can have beautiful swirly bokeh, unique flare characteristics, and a vintage charm that appeals to fine art and portrait photographers seeking a specific aesthetic. Popular V-system lenses include the Planar 80mm f/2.8, Distagon 50mm f/4, and Sonnar 150mm f/4.
  • No Leaf Shutter with V-System Lenses: When using V-system lenses, the camera relies on its electronic shutter, or you’d use a mechanical shutter that’s part of the lens if applicable, but not the same as the XCD leaf shutter sync. This means the flash sync speed might be limited to what the sensor can handle electronically, typically lower than the XCD leaf shutter capabilities.
• Third-Party Compatibility: While less common, some third-party lens manufacturers offer adapters for other medium format or even full-frame lenses to be mounted on the 907X, further expanding creative options, albeit usually with manual control.

The ability to switch between modern, convenient XCD lenses and classic, characterful V-system glass provides photographers with an unparalleled creative toolkit. Whether you prioritize sharpness and speed relatively speaking for medium format or a unique vintage aesthetic, the 907X offers the flexibility to achieve your vision. This extensive lens ecosystem is a significant draw for anyone investing in the Hasselblad system.

Performance and Workflow Considerations

While the Hasselblad 907X and CFV 100C excel in image quality, understanding its performance characteristics and workflow implications is crucial. This isn’t a camera built for speed demons or continuous burst shooting. rather, it’s designed for deliberate, high-fidelity capture. Hp omen pc case

• Shooting Speed and Buffer:
  • The camera’s internal 1TB SSD and support for CFexpress Type B cards ensure that once an image is captured, it’s written quickly. However, the sheer size of the 100MP RAW files which can be over 200MB each means the buffer will fill quicker than on lower-resolution cameras. After a short burst, you’ll experience a brief delay as the buffer clears. This is a trade-off for handling such immense data.
• Autofocus System:
  • The autofocus system on the 907X, particularly when paired with XCD lenses, is contrast-detection based. While not as lightning-fast as the latest phase-detection systems found in high-end full-frame mirrorless cameras, it is highly accurate and reliable for its intended applications. It performs admirably in well-lit conditions for static or slow-moving subjects.
  • Low-light autofocus can be slower, and hunting may occur in very challenging scenarios. For critical focusing, especially in low light or with very shallow depth of field, many professional users still opt for manual focus with focus peaking and magnification, which the CFV 100C’s screen excels at.
• Battery Life:
  • Battery life is respectable for a medium format system, but not groundbreaking. Hasselblad uses a proprietary battery, and typical usage will yield around 300-400 shots per charge depending on screen usage, live view, and temperature. For extended shoots, carrying multiple spare batteries is highly recommended, especially when working in remote locations or during long studio sessions.
• File Management and Post-Processing:
  • The enormous 100-megapixel RAW files 3FR format demand significant storage space and robust computing power for post-processing. A single uncompressed RAW file can be 200MB+, leading to terabytes of data over time. This requires careful consideration of storage solutions external hard drives, cloud storage and backup strategies.
  • Processing these files in software like Adobe Lightroom, Capture One, or Hasselblad’s Phocus requires a powerful computer with ample RAM 16GB minimum, 32GB or more recommended and a fast processor. The detail and dynamic range offer immense flexibility in post-processing, allowing for aggressive cropping and extensive tonal adjustments without image degradation.
  • Tethering Capabilities: The 907X supports USB-C tethering, allowing for live view and direct image transfer to a computer using Hasselblad’s Phocus software. This is an essential feature for studio photographers who need immediate review and client feedback. Phocus offers robust raw processing tools and is often preferred by dedicated Hasselblad users for its color science interpretation.

In essence, the performance of the 907X/CFV 100C is optimized for image quality and deliberate execution, not for speed. It’s a tool that rewards patience and careful planning, delivering results that are difficult to achieve with smaller sensor formats. The workflow implications are significant – demanding more storage and computational power – but the end product often justifies the investment for professionals and serious enthusiasts.

Image Quality: The Hasselblad Difference

When you invest in a Hasselblad 907X and CFV 100C, the primary motivation is almost always the unrivaled image quality it delivers. This system isn’t just about high resolution. it’s about the complete picture: detail, dynamic range, color fidelity, and the overall aesthetic rendering.

• Exceptional Dynamic Range: With 15 stops of dynamic range, the CFV 100C excels at capturing scenes with extreme contrast. You can expose for the highlights and still recover significant detail from deep shadows, or vice-versa. This is invaluable in challenging lighting conditions, such as bright sunny days with deep shadows, or indoor scenes with bright windows. The latitude this provides in post-processing is a must, allowing for nuanced tonal adjustments without introducing noise or artifacts. Reviewers often highlight its “clean” shadow recovery, which means less visible noise even when pulling up underexposed areas.
• Hasselblad Natural Colour Solution HNCS: This proprietary color science is a hallmark of Hasselblad and one of its most celebrated features. HNCS aims to render colors as they appear in reality, with a natural, pleasing aesthetic that often requires minimal post-processing.
  • Natural Skin Tones: For portrait photographers, HNCS delivers beautifully accurate and lifelike skin tones without the need for complex color grading. This is a huge time-saver and contributes significantly to the natural look of portraits.
  • Subtle Gradations: HNCS excels at rendering smooth tonal gradations, especially in skies or areas with subtle shifts in color, avoiding banding and delivering a natural transition.
• High ISO Performance for a Medium Format: While not a low-light king compared to dedicated full-frame cameras with lower resolution, the CFV 100C performs commendably at higher ISOs for a medium format sensor. Usable images can be captured at ISO 3200 and even ISO 6400 with manageable noise, especially when downscaled. This expands its versatility beyond strictly well-lit studio or outdoor scenarios.
• Shallow Depth of Field Medium Format “Look”: The larger sensor size inherently contributes to a shallower depth of field at equivalent apertures compared to smaller formats. This allows for incredible subject separation and the highly sought-after “medium format look” with smooth, creamy bokeh that beautifully isolates the subject from the background. This characteristic is particularly cherished by portrait and fashion photographers.

In summary, the image quality from the Hasselblad 907X and CFV 100C is truly exceptional.

It’s designed to deliver images that are not just technically superb but also possess a unique aesthetic quality that sets them apart.

For those who demand the pinnacle of photographic fidelity and appreciate the artistic nuances of medium format, this system delivers in spades.

Target Audience and Investment Value

The Hasselblad 907X and CFV 100C system is undeniably a premium product, and as such, it caters to a very specific and discerning segment of the photographic market. Understanding its target audience is key to appreciating its investment value.

• Target Audience:

  • High-End Portrait and Fashion Photographers: The “medium format look” with its shallow depth of field, creamy bokeh, and incredibly natural skin tones thanks to HNCS makes it a favorite for creating stunning, high-impact portraits and fashion editorials. The leaf shutters in XCD lenses are also a huge advantage for studio flash work.
  • Fine Art and Archival Photographers: For artists creating large-format prints for galleries or museums, or for institutions undertaking high-resolution archival work, the 100MP files provide an unparalleled level of detail and longevity.
  • Enthusiasts and Collectors: Serious photography enthusiasts who appreciate the craft, history, and unique tactile experience of Hasselblad will find immense satisfaction in this system. It’s often a personal investment in a tool that inspires a slower, more deliberate approach to image-making.
  • Commercial and Product Photographers: For commercial studios requiring ultra-high resolution images for advertising, product catalogs, or e-commerce, the 907X/CFV 100C offers the necessary fidelity and color accuracy.

• Investment Value:

  • High Initial Cost: Let’s be direct: this is a significant financial investment. The price point for the 907X and CFV 100C combination typically places it firmly in the “luxury” segment, often starting around $8,199 USD or more for the body and back alone, with XCD lenses adding several thousand dollars each. This isn’t a casual purchase. it’s a calculated decision for those who need or deeply desire its specific capabilities.
  • “Future-Proofing” to an extent: While no camera is truly “future-proof,” the 100-megapixel resolution offers a substantial margin for technological advancements. This level of detail will remain relevant for many years, allowing for significant cropping and large prints without degradation. The modularity also adds to its longevity, allowing the CFV 100C back to be used on classic V-system bodies, extending its utility.
  • Resale Value: Hasselblad cameras, particularly medium format systems, tend to hold their value relatively well compared to mass-market consumer cameras. Their niche appeal, build quality, and enduring image quality contribute to a stronger secondary market.
  • Tool vs. Hobby: For professionals, the 907X/CFV 100C is a business investment. Its ability to deliver superior image quality can directly translate into higher-paying jobs, more satisfied clients, and a competitive edge. For serious enthusiasts, it’s an investment in their passion, a tool that elevates their artistic output and enhances the joy of photography.
  • Not for Everyone: It’s important to acknowledge that for many photographers, a high-end full-frame system might offer better value for money, especially if speed, video capabilities, or a vast lens ecosystem are higher priorities. The 907X/CFV 100C is a specialized tool, and its investment value is highest for those whose specific needs align perfectly with its strengths.

Ultimately, the Hasselblad 907X and CFV 100C offers tangible value in its unparalleled image quality and unique shooting experience. For its target audience, the investment translates into superior results, enhanced creative control, and a distinct aesthetic that can justify the premium price tag. For anyone else, it might be an aspirational item, but not a practical one.

The Verdict: Who Should Invest in the 907X and CFV 100C?

After deep into the capabilities and characteristics of the Hasselblad 907X and CFV 100C, the question remains: who is this sophisticated system truly for? It’s not a camera for everyone, and its strengths lie in specific areas where it truly shines. Google passwords on android

• You should consider investing if:

  • You Demand Uncompromising Image Quality: If your priority is the absolute highest resolution, dynamic range, and color fidelity for still photography, the 100MP medium format sensor delivers. This is for those who create large prints, high-end commercial work, or require extreme detail for archival purposes.
  • You Appreciate a Deliberate and Tactile Shooting Experience: This camera encourages you to slow down, think about your composition, and enjoy the process. If you find joy in manual focus especially with V-system lenses, the unique ergonomics, and the classic waist-level shooting style, this system will resonate deeply with you.
  • You Value the Hasselblad Heritage and Ecosystem: For those who are drawn to the history, prestige, and unique color science of Hasselblad, this system represents a modern embodiment of that legacy, offering compatibility with both new XCD lenses and classic V-system optics.
  • You Have the Budget and Infrastructure: This is a significant financial investment, and handling its large RAW files requires robust storage solutions and powerful computing resources. If your workflow and finances can support this, the rewards are immense.

• You might want to look elsewhere if:

  • You Prioritize Video Capabilities: While it can capture some video, the 907X/CFV 100C is fundamentally a still photography camera. If professional-grade video is a key requirement, there are far better and more affordable options.
  • You’re on a Tight Budget: This is a luxury item. For many, a high-end full-frame mirrorless camera like those from Sony, Canon, or Nikon will offer 90% of the practical performance at a fraction of the cost, often with more versatile features.
  • You Prefer a Traditional DSLR/Mirrorless Ergonomics: If you’re accustomed to deeply recessed grips, numerous physical dials, and eye-level EVFs, the 907X’s minimalist and screen-centric design might feel counter-intuitive or even awkward initially.
  • Portability is Your Absolute Top Priority: While compact for medium format, it’s still larger and heavier than many full-frame mirrorless setups, especially with larger XCD lenses.

In conclusion, the Hasselblad 907X and CFV 100C is a highly specialized, premium tool that delivers extraordinary results for the right user. It’s a testament to Hasselblad’s enduring commitment to image quality and a unique blend of classic appeal and modern technology. For those who are serious about the art of photography and whose work demands the absolute best in resolution, dynamic range, and color, it’s an investment that can truly elevate your craft and distinguish your work.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Hasselblad 907X & CFV 100C?

The Hasselblad 907X is a compact mirrorless medium format camera body that acts as a control unit and lens mount, while the CFV 100C is a 100-megapixel digital back that attaches to the 907X body, forming a complete digital medium format camera system.

How many megapixels does the CFV 100C have?

The Hasselblad CFV 100C features a 100-megapixel 100MP medium format CMOS sensor.

What is the sensor size of the CFV 100C?

The sensor in the CFV 100C measures 43.8 x 32.9 mm, which is significantly larger than full-frame sensors 36 x 24 mm.

What types of lenses are compatible with the 907X?

The 907X is natively compatible with Hasselblad XCD lenses autofocus with leaf shutters and can also use classic Hasselblad V-system lenses via an adapter manual focus only.

Does the 907X have autofocus?

Yes, the 907X supports autofocus when paired with Hasselblad XCD lenses.

When using V-system lenses via an adapter, focusing is manual.

What is the dynamic range of the CFV 100C?

The CFV 100C boasts an impressive 15 stops of dynamic range, allowing for extensive recovery of detail in both shadows and highlights. Good gaming pc under 1500

What is the Hasselblad Natural Colour Solution HNCS?

HNCS is Hasselblad’s proprietary color science designed to render colors as they appear to the human eye, with natural skin tones and smooth tonal gradations, often requiring minimal post-processing.

Does the CFV 100C have internal storage?

Yes, the CFV 100C comes with a built-in 1TB SSD for convenient internal storage of your high-resolution images.

What type of memory card does the 907X/CFV 100C use?

In addition to its internal SSD, the CFV 100C supports CFexpress Type B memory cards for external storage and high-speed data transfer.

What is the flash sync speed with the 907X?

With XCD lenses that feature integrated leaf shutters, the 907X can achieve flash synchronization at all shutter speeds up to 1/2000s, which is a significant advantage for studio photography.

Is the Hasselblad 907X & CFV 100C good for video?

While it can record some video, the 907X and CFV 100C is primarily designed and optimized for still photography. It is not considered a dedicated video camera.

Is the 907X a compact camera?

For a medium format camera, the 907X is remarkably compact and lightweight, making it one of the most portable medium format systems available.

What is the battery life of the 907X/CFV 100C?

Typical battery life is around 300-400 shots per charge, depending on usage.

It’s recommended to carry spare batteries for extended shooting sessions.

What kind of display does the CFV 100C have?

The CFV 100C features a 3.2-inch tilting touchscreen display with 2.36 million dots, which serves as the primary interface for live view and menu navigation.

Can I use my old Hasselblad V-system lenses with the 907X?

Yes, absolutely. Google docs sheets and slides

The 907X is specifically designed to be compatible with classic Hasselblad V-system lenses via a dedicated adapter, allowing you to use vintage glass with a modern digital back.

What is the weight of the 907X & CFV 100C combination?

The 907X body and CFV 100C digital back combined weigh approximately 620 grams 1.37 lbs without a lens.

Is the 907X & CFV 100C suitable for action photography?

What software is recommended for processing Hasselblad files?

Hasselblad’s own Phocus software is highly recommended for processing 3FR RAW files and is known for its excellent interpretation of Hasselblad’s color science.

Adobe Lightroom and Capture One also support Hasselblad files.

Why is the 907X & CFV 100C so expensive?

The high cost reflects its premium build quality, advanced medium format sensor technology, Hasselblad’s renowned optical quality, and its position as a specialized tool for high-end professional and artistic photography.

Is the 907X & CFV 100C a good investment for a beginner photographer?

No, it is generally not recommended for beginner photographers due to its high cost, specialized workflow, and emphasis on deliberate shooting.

Beginners are often better served by more versatile and affordable full-frame or APS-C systems.