Luminous Landscape Forum

Equipment & Techniques => Medium Format / Film / Digital Backs – and Large Sensor Photography => Topic started by: John.Williams on October 06, 2009, 05:43:09 pm

Title: Hasselblad H3D rumors
Post by: John.Williams on October 06, 2009, 05:43:09 pm
There are a few rumors floating around regarding capabilities of the Hasselblad H3D, some of which are discussed on this board. If we accept the truth for what it is, then I cannot think of a better way to address some of these rumors than hands-on with a demonstration.
 
Oct 14 - After the Atlanta Hasselblad University workflow training, Greg Hollmann (Hasselblad USA) and I will have the H3DII cameras, lenses, HTS tilt/shift, and Phocus software required to prove or bust some of these issues starting at 6:00PM
 
Here are some of the rumors I have read on the forums:
I know Paul and David from Hasselblad have done a good job of keeping the facts out front - let's face it, it is not reasonable to come here for glowing Hasselblad reviews - but I feel that most of the readers aren't after that anyway and choose to get down to the nitty-gritty about what is relevant and what is not. It is a put-up or shut-up environment and that is not a bad thing.
 
Whether you don't believe lens corrections work, 35mm is just as good, or you are curious about what you have read/heard/thought about Hasselblad, we will be at Ambient + Studios in downtown Atlanta starting at 6:00PM and invite you to come see for yourself what interests you about the H3D - or even if you want to bring something to shoot head-to-head like the legendary "Real Deal" events.

John
hotwire-digital.com
Title: Hasselblad H3D rumors
Post by: gdwhalen on October 06, 2009, 06:14:33 pm
Quote from: John.Williams
There are a few rumors floating around regarding capabilities of the Hasselblad H3D, some of which are discussed on this board. If we accept the truth for what it is, then I cannot think of a better way to address some of these rumors than hands-on with a demonstration.
 
Oct 14 - After the Atlanta Hasselblad University workflow training, Greg Hollmann (Hasselblad USA) and I will have the H3DII cameras, lenses, HTS tilt/shift, and Phocus software required to prove or bust some of these issues starting at 6:00PM
 
Here are some of the rumors I have read on the forums:
  • Lens Corrections do not work;
  • Cannot shoot with Carl Zeiss lenses because H3D is a "closed system";
  • The digital back only works on the H3 body;
  • Phocus is slow;
  • MFDB/DSLRs are not better than 35mm
I know Paul and David from Hasselblad have done a good job of keeping the facts out front - let's face it, it is not reasonable to come here for glowing Hasselblad reviews - but I feel that most of the readers aren't after that anyway and choose to get down to the nitty-gritty about what is relevant and what is not. It is a put-up or shut-up environment and that is not a bad thing.
 
Whether you don't believe lens corrections work, 35mm is just as good, or you are curious about what you have read/heard/thought about Hasselblad, we will be at Ambient + Studios in downtown Atlanta starting at 6:00PM and invite you to come see for yourself what interests you about the H3D - or even if you want to bring something to shoot head-to-head like the legendary "Real Deal" events.

John
hotwire-digital.com


Any chances you guys are going to have an H4 to examine/shoot?  And a working beta edition of Phocus 2. I am doing the 10-4 seminar and would stick around if these opportunities are available.
Title: Hasselblad H3D rumors
Post by: Dick Roadnight on October 06, 2009, 08:51:48 pm
Quote from: John.Williams
Lens Corrections do not work;
I think they do - the end results are pretty good
Quote
Cannot shoot with Carl Zeiss lenses because H3D is a "closed system";
I have the CS adaptor, and have used Zeiss lenses (and posted results to this forum)
Quote
The digital back only works on the H3 body;
Edit: I think the H3D is the only DSLR body with which the H3D digiback is compatible.
Quote
Phocus is slow;
No too bad with a fast laptop
Quote
MFDB/DSLRs are not better than 35mm
Not worth discussing... see countless topics on this forum

Were these rumours started by the opposition? No I do not work for Hasselblad, and have never received anything from them free of charge.
Title: Hasselblad H3D rumors
Post by: derekhsu on October 06, 2009, 09:10:51 pm
Quote from: gdwhalen
Any chances you guys are going to have an H4 to examine/shoot?  And a working beta edition of Phocus 2. I am doing the 10-4 seminar and would stick around if these opportunities are available.

Rumors - No way.
People are usually like to Bad Mouth others when he/she didn't acutally having the real experience on the operation with the Phocus but never demonstrated the proof.  Bluffing is the World no.1 free of charge skill here.

I had used Imacon I96C + Rollei 6008(6008AF later on) since 2002 using with Flexcolor Version 3.x on Windows Platform.  It is really crap at that moment.
However, after Hasselblad acquired Imacon, I could really see their huge and significant improvement on the Software Development on Windows especially when on or after Version 4.6 to the final 4.88.  Flexcolor and Phocus is the 1st software to roll a true 64bit Platform running very well on XP64 and Vista 64.

For Others, I doubt and it is a 32bit application only.

I could always managed to run a batch job with around 500-800 shots and convert the 3F file to 16bit TIFF(230MB) without any problem with 3-5 hours.
Of course, I am using a pretty well configured system and High Performance Disk Array Storage.

When you are talking with Hasselbald R&D, Product Development, Production, Sales & Marketing, It is not likely to have any information leak to the public until the Press Release.  I really appreaciated how Hasselblad could control their staff, perhaps, they have to sign an NDA.

I had also visited Rollei Factory in 2005 before their official restructuring to F&H and also visited Leica Solms on the same Personal Trip.

I could realised Rollei had lost all its place on the market!

When I go back to Hong Kong and discussed with my friend Mr. Lxx, he is the parallel importer for Rollei in HK and China and dealed with Mr Haans from Rollei.  At that time, I had realised Rollei got serious financial problem becuase every month he suck and beg Mr. Lxx to remit money to Rollei to shelp them to solve the cash flow problem.  The hightest amount is around EUR200,000.00.

Because of this incident, I had surrenderred all my Rollei system and switch to H3D on 11/2006.

In addition, when I have noticed H3D is a more closed system oriented system which may significant impact PhaseOne and Leaf.
When I heard about a JV/collaboration with Rollei, PhaseOne and Leaf, I felt very sorry with PhaseOne and Leaf which they have boarded on a Pirate Ship.

I have expressed this statement in a HK Forum long time ago and it had proven my vision towards this interesting deal:
http://www.dchome.net (http://www.dchome.net)
http://www.digiback.net (http://www.digiback.net)

In addition, a possible repeated story will happen again for the Digital Back Industries..
Regards
Derek
Title: Hasselblad H3D rumors
Post by: BJNY on October 06, 2009, 09:12:34 pm
First of all, these are not rumors  
but misconceptions.
Title: Hasselblad H3D rumors
Post by: derekhsu on October 06, 2009, 09:22:43 pm
I have done quite an in-depth analysis on H System (from a End-User point of view):

It is in Traditional Chinese but shown with alot of pictures to proof Hasselblad had a long vision and effort to go through this:

Hasseblad V lens Vs H lens:
http://www.digiback.net/bbs/viewthread.php...;extra=page%3D1 (http://www.digiback.net/bbs/viewthread.php?tid=94&extra=page%3D1)

Hasselblad H4 launched and the background on H systems:
http://www.digiback.net/bbs/viewthread.php...;extra=page%3D1 (http://www.digiback.net/bbs/viewthread.php?tid=98&extra=page%3D1)

Regards
Derek
Title: Hasselblad H3D rumors
Post by: derekhsu on October 06, 2009, 09:27:23 pm
If Paul and David from Hasselblad USA don't mind, I could share more Hasselblad information here.
Those information was provided from Shriro Hong Kong exclusively to me!
Title: Hasselblad H3D rumors
Post by: Greg Hollmann on October 06, 2009, 09:28:32 pm
The Digital back only works on the H3 body

Quote from: Dick Roadnight
I think this is correct

Actually this is false, I can put the digital magazine onto a view camera, Alpa, etc., shooting either tethered or untethered with an external power source such as the bigwave power adapter.

Greg
Title: Hasselblad H3D rumors
Post by: Kitty on October 06, 2009, 10:24:28 pm
H3D back doesn't compatible with H1, H2, H1D, H2D.
It is very closed system to me.
I doubt H4D will compatible with H3D or not.
This is really not good for H users included me too.

Kitty
Title: Hasselblad H3D rumors
Post by: Eurotographer on October 06, 2009, 10:31:33 pm
Quote from: Kitty
H3D back doesn't compatible with H1, H2, H1D, H2D.
It is very closed system to me.
I doubt H4D will compatible with H3D or not.
This is really not good for H users included me too.

Kitty

Why would you want to take the back from an H3DII or H4D and use it on an inferior camera body?  These are integrated systems, properly aligned and individually assembled to give the absolute most precise images.

yeah, I can't put my back on a H2, but I can get another H3 body to use as a backup if necessary and continue to take advantage of the integrated system.
Title: Hasselblad H3D rumors
Post by: aaanorton on October 07, 2009, 01:18:07 am
Quote from: Eurotographer
Why would you want to take the back from an H3DII or H4D and use it on an inferior camera body?  These are integrated systems, properly aligned and individually assembled to give the absolute most precise images.

yeah, I can't put my back on a H2, but I can get another H3 body to use as a backup if necessary and continue to take advantage of the integrated system.

When traveling or on a tight schedule, it is wise to carry a backup body.
Where can one buy a H3 body only?
What's the difference between a H2 and H3 body, other than firmware?
Title: Hasselblad H3D rumors
Post by: erick.boileau on October 07, 2009, 02:19:24 am
Quote from: aaanorton
What's the difference between a H2 and H3 body, other than firmware?

it was only a way to close the system , nothing else
Title: Hasselblad H3D rumors
Post by: David Grover / Capture One on October 07, 2009, 02:34:17 am
Quote from: erick.boileau
it was only a way to close the system , nothing else

Absolutely incorrect.

The H3D 'body part' has the ability to power the digital magazine / 'sensor part' the H2 does not.

Plus each H3D is custom focus calibrated in the factory, hence you will see 'Focus Calib. ID' in the System Status menu.  This is a unique adjustment for every camera based on the individual AF system of each camera.

I have of course mentioned this here on this forum many times before.

Title: Hasselblad H3D rumors
Post by: David Grover / Capture One on October 07, 2009, 02:35:23 am
Quote from: John.Williams
There are a few rumors floating around regarding capabilities of the Hasselblad H3D, some of which are discussed on this board. If we accept the truth for what it is, then I cannot think of a better way to address some of these rumors than hands-on with a demonstration.
 
Oct 14 - After the Atlanta Hasselblad University workflow training, Greg Hollmann (Hasselblad USA) and I will have the H3DII cameras, lenses, HTS tilt/shift, and Phocus software required to prove or bust some of these issues starting at 6:00PM
 
Here are some of the rumors I have read on the forums:
  • Lens Corrections do not work;
  • Cannot shoot with Carl Zeiss lenses because H3D is a "closed system";
  • The digital back only works on the H3 body;
  • Phocus is slow;
  • MFDB/DSLRs are not better than 35mm
I know Paul and David from Hasselblad have done a good job of keeping the facts out front - let's face it, it is not reasonable to come here for glowing Hasselblad reviews - but I feel that most of the readers aren't after that anyway and choose to get down to the nitty-gritty about what is relevant and what is not. It is a put-up or shut-up environment and that is not a bad thing.
 
Whether you don't believe lens corrections work, 35mm is just as good, or you are curious about what you have read/heard/thought about Hasselblad, we will be at Ambient + Studios in downtown Atlanta starting at 6:00PM and invite you to come see for yourself what interests you about the H3D - or even if you want to bring something to shoot head-to-head like the legendary "Real Deal" events.

John
hotwire-digital.com

Have a great event!
Title: Hasselblad H3D rumors
Post by: David Grover / Capture One on October 07, 2009, 02:36:10 am
Quote from: aaanorton
When traveling or on a tight schedule, it is wise to carry a backup body.
Where can one buy a H3 body only?
What's the difference between a H2 and H3 body, other than firmware?

Any dealer can supply an H3 Body but it is matched to your digital magazine.  (See above post)

Title: Hasselblad H3D rumors
Post by: derekhsu on October 07, 2009, 03:33:02 am
Quote from: David Grover / Hasselblad
Absolutely incorrect.

The H3D 'body part' has the ability to power the digital magazine / 'sensor part' the H2 does not.

Plus each H3D is custom focus calibrated in the factory, hence you will see 'Focus Calib. ID' in the System Status menu.  This is a unique adjustment for every camera based on the individual AF system of each camera.

I have of course mentioned this here on this forum many times before.

I doubted that a lot of users still didn't realised the 'Focus Calib. ID'  is related to the feature Ultra Focus I and II for H3D, it is no meaning to buy a spare body without Calibration.
In case, you have connected the Back to a different H3D body, there may be precision problem on the focus which may lead to back focus or front focus issue.

This has been announced at 2006 Photokina when H3D launched.

If this forum users don't mind, you may browse on my Topic here using a TC to English Translation Tools:
http://www.digiback.net/bbs/viewthread.php...;extra=page%3D1 (http://www.digiback.net/bbs/viewthread.php?tid=98&extra=page%3D1)

Regards
Derek
Title: Hasselblad H3D rumors
Post by: erick.boileau on October 07, 2009, 06:29:37 am
Quote from: David Grover / Hasselblad
Absolutely incorrect.

The H3D 'body part' has the ability to power the digital magazine / 'sensor part' the H2 does not.

Plus each H3D is custom focus calibrated in the factory, hence you will see 'Focus Calib. ID' in the System Status menu.  This is a unique adjustment for every camera based on the individual AF system of each camera.

I have of course mentioned this here on this forum many times before.


Then why haven't you done a H3 ?
Title: Hasselblad H3D rumors
Post by: Dick Roadnight on October 07, 2009, 09:28:41 am
Quote from: Greg Hollmann
The Digital back only works on the H3 body
Actually this is false, I can put the digital magazine onto a view camera, Alpa, etc., shooting either tethered or untethered with an external power source such as the bigwave power adapter.

Greg
Of course, the main valid criticism of the H3D11-50 is that it still cannot do live video.

Apparently the retailers were told to point this out to the customers, but mine did not, even thought I told him I was buying it for use on a view camera.

Can we have an update on when we can expect the firmware update that will allow us to use the H3D11-50 with live video?
Title: Hasselblad H3D rumors
Post by: Paul_Claesson_HasselbladUS on October 07, 2009, 09:59:56 am
Quote from: erick.boileau
Then why haven't you done a H3 ?

Erick

I think this was already answered by David numerous times. The H3D/H3DII is an integrated DSLR. The H3D digital magazine is calibrated to a specific H3D body. This calibration takes place at the factory in Denmark. The Focus Calibration ID is indicated the Menu on the digital magazine. Menu > Settings > About > "Focus calib. ID" third line down.

Option I
The photographer that already owns an H3D/H3DII can purchased any number of spare H3D bodies that they wish. A photographer will need to make arrangements via their dealer to ship the existing H3D/H3DII body and digital magazine to the factory. This is done because the sensor in the digital magazine needs to be calibrated to each individual H3D/H3DII body purchased.

or

Option II
Place an order with your Hasselblad dealer for X number of backup bodies. Each H3D body will be calibrated to the H3D digital magazine. This order from the dealer will be placed with the Hasselblad factory and when completed the kit will be shipped to Hasselblad and in turn the dealer for pick up by the customer.

For reference to Ultrafocus previously posted to LL, go here. (http://luminous-landscape.com/forum/index.php?showtopic=37226&hl=ultrafocus)

Paul Claesson




Title: Hasselblad H3D rumors
Post by: Paul_Claesson_HasselbladUS on October 07, 2009, 10:04:51 am
Quote from: Dick Roadnight
Of course, the main valid criticism of the H3D11-50 is that it still cannot do live video.

Apparently the retailers were told to point this out to the customers, but mine did not, even thought I told him I was buying it for use on a view camera.

Can we have an update on when we can expect the firmware update that will allow us to use the H3D11-50 with live video?

Dick

It is being worked on, but I can not give you a specific target date.

Paul
Title: Hasselblad H3D rumors
Post by: Kitty on October 07, 2009, 12:32:40 pm
So you can't use H4D with H3D because of unique ID.
This is not very good for H3D or H4D user. If any H3D body has problem, how to find the spare body?
Have to wait until Hasselblad headquarter send the the new body which match the same unique ID?

It would take weeks for that.

If the unique ID is so special calibrate for each digitalback, then how I can be sure that the new body will match my digital back?

I am really like H3DII files and plan to get one. But Hasselblad always realease new model which not compatible with old version is really scary me.
H1D, H2D, H3D, H4D not compatible to its own version.
Even H3D body require unique ID for itself. This is really not good for user.

kitty
Title: Hasselblad H3D rumors
Post by: Paul_Claesson_HasselbladUS on October 07, 2009, 01:18:12 pm
Quote from: Kitty
So you can't use H4D with H3D because of unique ID.
This is not very good for H3D or H4D user. If any H3D body has problem, how to find the spare body?
Have to wait until Hasselblad headquarter send the the new body which match the same unique ID?

It would take weeks for that.

If the unique ID is so special calibrate for each digitalback, then how I can be sure that the new body will match my digital back?

I am really like H3DII files and plan to get one. But Hasselblad always realease new model which not compatible with old version is really scary me.
H1D, H2D, H3D, H4D not compatible to its own version.
Even H3D body require unique ID for itself. This is really not good for user.

kitty

Kitty

I took the liberty of copy and paste from my previous reply to this thread.

Option II
Place an order with your Hasselblad dealer for X number of backup bodies. Each H3D body will be calibrated to the H3D digital magazine. This order from the dealer will be placed with the Hasselblad factory and when completed the kit will be shipped to Hasselblad and in turn the dealer for pick up by the customer.

Hasselblad will be glad to arrange as many backup H3D bodies as you desire, each calibrated to your digital magazine. Therefore, should you encounter an issue with one body then simply exchange one H3D body for another and continue shooting and you rest easy that the integrated system you've invested in is working as designed and still utilize Ultrafocus.

You can contact me via PM and I can provide a dealer who can assist you.

My contact info:
Paul Claesson
e-mail: pclaesson@hasselbladusa
973-227-7320 x209

Title: Hasselblad H3D rumors
Post by: TimothyHyde on October 07, 2009, 01:40:34 pm
Quote from: Kitty
So you can't use H4D with H3D because of unique ID.
This is not very good for H3D or H4D user. If any H3D body has problem, how to find the spare body?
Have to wait until Hasselblad headquarter send the the new body which match the same unique ID?

Why do people have such a hard time understanding that this is an integrated system, which is why some of us chose it?  Photographers don't complain about their inability to remove the sensor ("back") on their D3x and put it on the backup D2x ("body").
Title: Hasselblad H3D rumors
Post by: Dustbak on October 07, 2009, 02:26:49 pm
I can understand why there is some reluctance for accepting the inability to combine the of use newer models with older ones. This is kind of my dilemma.

I have 2 H2F's with CF39MS. I can combine whatever back I want with whatever camera. I used to use other types of cameras as well but no longer so now I think I might be upgrading to 50MS (or 60MS if it comes).  When I do, will I be keeping one or more of the other ones (back & body)? Do I sell them both?

I don't want to end up with just one back even if I have 2 bodies. No use in having a spare body if the DSP of the back stops working. Do I need 4 bodies and 2 new backs? This makes upgrading a staggering costly affair even within the same system.

Interbrand compatibility would have meant a less higher investment for me. In a world where everyone wants more for less. Where there is a lot of pressure on budgets this idea makes me holding off any investment in a H4D50ms or the likes of it.

For the moment I have more than I need actually, any additional purchase would fall into the range of stuff I would like to have. I think I stick with light at this point in time  (or buy the small format version of the D3x when it comes).

Title: Hasselblad H3D rumors
Post by: aaanorton on October 07, 2009, 03:04:05 pm
Quote from: Paul_Claesson_HasselbladUS
Erick

I think this was already answered by David numerous times. The H3D/H3DII is an integrated DSLR. The H3D digital magazine is calibrated to a specific H3D body. This calibration takes place at the factory in Denmark. The Focus Calibration ID is indicated the Menu on the digital magazine. Menu > Settings > About > "Focus calib. ID" third line down.

Option I
The photographer that already owns an H3D/H3DII can purchased any number of spare H3D bodies that they wish. A photographer will need to make arrangements via their dealer to ship the existing H3D/H3DII body and digital magazine to the factory. This is done because the sensor in the digital magazine needs to be calibrated to each individual H3D/H3DII body purchased.

or

Option II
Place an order with your Hasselblad dealer for X number of backup bodies. Each H3D body will be calibrated to the H3D digital magazine. This order from the dealer will be placed with the Hasselblad factory and when completed the kit will be shipped to Hasselblad and in turn the dealer for pick up by the customer.

For reference to Ultrafocus previously posted to LL, go here. (http://luminous-landscape.com/forum/index.php?showtopic=37226&hl=ultrafocus)

Paul Claesson

Quote from: David_Grover
Absolutely incorrect.

The H3D 'body part' has the ability to power the digital magazine / 'sensor part' the H2 does not.

Plus each H3D is custom focus calibrated in the factory, hence you will see 'Focus Calib. ID' in the System Status menu. This is a unique adjustment for every camera based on the individual AF system of each camera.

I have of course mentioned this here on this forum many times before.

It seems like this focus calibration would be a better feature if it were user set-able. And even then, what about when someone needs to run out and rent a body? Or when they need to rent a back and 2 bodies for a job? Couldn't there be a function for setting a "base" value to accommodate and unmatched pair? Or better yet a "low, medium or high" system could be options to help photographers target their focus in a pinch.
Is this focus calibration a free service at Hasselblad? It just seems to me like Option I and II above involve spending more or more and more money to get into this system. And how does the H4 fit into this matrix? Would I be able to buy a H4D-xx and have a H3 body calibrated to that new back?

David,
I know that the back-power feature was added and imagine that the body had to be reworked some to get that working. But other than that we're still talking about firmware feature updates. This one power feature seems to me to be a steep price to pay for an evolutionary upgrade that renders your previous investments obsolete. As I mentioned above, a user-selectable calibration range would have provided a solid (if not perfect) backup strategy. I really don't understand this feature-crippling-through-software approach.

Guys,
If you don't want to repeat yourself, then by all means don't. My feelings won't be hurt!
Title: Hasselblad H3D rumors
Post by: Dick Roadnight on October 07, 2009, 04:43:32 pm
Quote from: TimothyHyde
Why do people have such a hard time understanding that this is an integrated system, which is why some of us chose it?  Photographers don't complain about their inability to remove the sensor ("back") on their D3x and put it on the backup D2x ("body"). being
The way things are going they may contemplate shipping the backs permanently attached to the cameras - less wear and tear, less cost to manufacture, less dust ... avoids users being able to take even better pictures by putting their backs on view cameras, increased sales of the HTS adaptor, and increases dealer's profits for cleaning sensors... how often do you take the back off yours?

The benefits of a modular professional system normally include:

Easy upgrade path for any component (e.g. new back on old body, without return to dealer)
Interchangeability between components manufactured decades apart

Are the backs more reliable than the Camera bodies? should we all carry complete spare systems? (I intend to buy a 39 Mpx back for my ELD/flexbody system... so I would then have a complete spare system for about £8k)
Title: Hasselblad H3D rumors
Post by: John.Williams on October 07, 2009, 06:27:18 pm
Quote from: Dick Roadnight
The way things are going they may contemplate shipping the backs permanently attached to the cameras - less wear and tear, less cost to manufacture, less dust ... avoids users being able to take even better pictures by putting their backs on view cameras, increased sales of the HTS adaptor, and increases dealer's profits for cleaning sensors... how often do you take the back off yours?

The benefits of a modular professional system normally include:

Easy upgrade path for any component (e.g. new back on old body, without return to dealer)
Interchangeability between components manufactured decades apart

Are the backs more reliable than the Camera bodies? should we all carry complete spare systems? (I intend to buy a 39 Mpx back for my ELD/flexbody system... so I would then have a complete spare system for about £8k)

There are benefits to modular design, but it is not without cost;

Since modular design by definition must maintain compatibility of existing equipment to function, it must forfeit some technology gain that has developed since the initial design of the system components. This is exacerbated when certain components of the modular system are unable to accept any technology advances and begin restricting the system from offering solutions that compete with newer systems using advanced materials, processes, and functions.

This may explain why do not see modular design in modern 35mm DSLRs, Operating Systems and Applications, and now medium-format camera systems. Advances in technology solve problems that are difficult or impossible to address with conventional tools leading to HD-video in a Canon 5D, 16-bit editing in Photoshop CS4, and a motion sensor in the Hasselblad H4D.

There are practical benefits to a system that can adopt and apply advances in technology. In the field, I have upgraded firmware in many Hasselblad H-systems (H1, H2, H3D, H2F) enabling these systems to do more than when originally purchased. Field firmware upgrades (another advancement) are not just for the H3D - firmware updates that are beneficial for all Hasselblad H-system owners (mirror delay, battery status, re-program user/ae-l/mirror-up/stop-down buttons for custom tasks.)

Again, better to show you to remove all doubt.

John
Title: Hasselblad H3D rumors
Post by: vjbelle on October 08, 2009, 04:59:51 pm
Quote from: David Grover / Hasselblad
Absolutely incorrect.

The H3D 'body part' has the ability to power the digital magazine / 'sensor part' the H2 does not.

Plus each H3D is custom focus calibrated in the factory, hence you will see 'Focus Calib. ID' in the System Status menu.  This is a unique adjustment for every camera based on the individual AF system of each camera.

I have of course mentioned this here on this forum many times before.
I just don't get that so few photographers on LL seem to think that this is a big deal..... I mean, focus is pretty critical to the outcome of an image.  I hear all sorts of complaining about DSLRs not focusing properly and yet I've never heard from anyone on LL saying that they were pleased/happy/glad that Hasselblad took the extra time and effort to deliver a product that is guaranteed to focus properly.  I've been there done that with my P45 and H2 combination that had to go back to Phase for calibration.  They did go the extra mile.... got my camera back to me in a very short period of time and made it so it focuses where I want it to focus....all of the time, every time.  Hasselblad does this automatically and as far as I'm concerned they deserve a degree of credit for recognizing and mitigating focus errors.  I don't know how this could be done without matching/calibrating all of the components.

Now if they would just have a program to lure Phase owners into the fold they might really get my attention
Title: Hasselblad H3D rumors
Post by: Greg Hollmann on October 08, 2009, 09:16:36 pm
Quote from: vjbelle
Now if they would just have a program to lure Phase owners into the fold they might really get my attention

Hasselblad does have a trade-in program for, not only Hasselblad owners, but also for Phase, Leaf and Sinar.  Let me know what you have and what you would like to move into and I can tell you what the trade-in value is.

Greg
Title: Hasselblad H3D rumors
Post by: stevenf on October 08, 2009, 10:26:08 pm
Quote from: Greg Hollmann
Hasselblad does have a trade-in program for, not only Hasselblad owners, but also for Phase, Leaf and Sinar.  Let me know what you have and what you would like to move into and I can tell you what the trade-in value is.

Greg
Hi Greg

I posted this question for Paul Claesson - maybe you know the answer.

Thanks Steven

I am considering purchasing the Hasselblad H3d-50 II - I noticed that Hasselblad is offering a free upgrade to the H4D-50. Does this mean a new camera and a new 50 MP Back with the new LCD? Or would one get a new camera and keep the old back from the H3dII-50 and not get the new LCD?

Reading on the Hasselblad website it seems to indicate a free upgrade to the H4d-50 - which to me would mean a new back with the new LCD.

Thanks Steven

www.friedmanphoto.com
Title: Hasselblad H3D rumors
Post by: Kitty on October 08, 2009, 10:55:32 pm
Quote from: TimothyHyde
Why do people have such a hard time understanding that this is an integrated system, which is why some of us chose it?  Photographers don't complain about their inability to remove the sensor ("back") on their D3x and put it on the backup D2x ("body").

I thought you can't compare D3x with MFDB. It is different story.

I am using 3 MFDB with 4 H bodies. You know no tool last forever.
It needs reparing and upgrade sooner or later.

If I were using 2 H3D with 4 bodies.
How to upgrade to H4D? It would cost a fortune.

I used to have H1D and Hasselblad trade in is not good.
The whole H1D set (DB, body, prism, 80mm lens, imagebank) trade-in could not get even one H zoom lens.

Don't get me wrong. I love H bodies and H lens quality so much that I still use H system.
But the compatibility with the old system is really scary me.

kitty
Title: Hasselblad H3D rumors
Post by: flashfredrikson on October 09, 2009, 03:49:54 am
Quote from: TimothyHyde
Why do people have such a hard time understanding that this is an integrated system, which is why some of us chose it?  Photographers don't complain about their inability to remove the sensor ("back") on their D3x and put it on the backup D2x ("body").

In our studio, we got seven H2 bodys and 4 PhaseOne Backs for the H System. Why so many backup Hs? Because nothing ever goes to the repair shop more often then the h system, the constantly break down. So on an average job I'll carry three bodies and two backs with me. So if again one of the Hs goes down, I'll just use another one, and then the next one. The broken Hs go to Hasselblad for repair and turn around time is weeks, not a day or two, so luckily there are some more bodies in the safe to use or I can easily rent a spare body when away from the homebase, all around the world. With the H3 or 4 that would mean we would need even more backup bodies as each of them is dedicated to one back only. That is a deal braker. And we are constantly reconsidering changing over to the H3 now 4 (phase ain't perfect either but that's an other story), but under those conditions it just won't happen.

That´s just not a problem with canon or nikon, just bring to bodys to the job, if both go down you just rent or buy another one and keep shooting.

my 2c

martin



Title: Hasselblad H3D rumors
Post by: Kitty on October 09, 2009, 05:33:23 am
Quote from: flashfredrikson
In our studio, we got seven H2 bodys and 4 PhaseOne Backs for the H System. Why so many backup Hs? Because nothing ever goes to the repair shop more often then the h system, the constantly break down. So on an average job I'll carry three bodies and two backs with me. So if again one of the Hs goes down, I'll just use another one, and then the next one. The broken Hs go to Hasselblad for repair and turn around time is weeks, not a day or two, so luckily there are some more bodies in the safe to use or I can easily rent a spare body when away from the homebase, all around the world. With the H3 or 4 that would mean we would need even more backup bodies as each of them is dedicated to one back only. That is a deal braker. And we are constantly reconsidering changing over to the H3 now 4 (phase ain't perfect either but that's an other story), but under those conditions it just won't happen.

That´s just not a problem with canon or nikon, just bring to bodys to the job, if both go down you just rent or buy another one and keep shooting.

my 2c

martin

Agree. Today one of our H2 just die during location shooting.  
Miror problem ID 17:1.
Dealer here said body must go back to factory for repairing at least one month.
This is the 3rd time bodies got problem on location.

kitty
Title: Hasselblad H3D rumors
Post by: derekhsu on October 09, 2009, 07:41:22 am
Quote from: Kitty
Agree. Today one of our H2 just die during location shooting.  
Miror problem ID 17:1.
Dealer here said body must go back to factory for repairing at least one month.
This is the 3rd time bodies got problem on location.

kitty


Hi Kitty,

Could you share your Body Counter usage when encountering the Mirror Problem?

Regards
Derek
Title: Hasselblad H3D rumors
Post by: Khun_K on October 09, 2009, 08:05:12 am
Quote from: Kitty
Agree. Today one of our H2 just die during location shooting.  
Miror problem ID 17:1.
Dealer here said body must go back to factory for repairing at least one month.
This is the 3rd time bodies got problem on location.

kitty
I have little romance, but not nightmares as yours with the H body.  I don't like the overall design but I can accept it as a camera. I think Hasselblad try to make the camera like a computer rather than making the cmaera a great camera. But overall there is some sense between the integration they are selling, but the truth is, if they are open to 3rd party backs with their communication data, it would be a truly nicer camera. Contax 645 is still the best classic camera, the design is still currnt, looks nicer than almost of the production camera today, regardless the format. It's sad it is discontinued, I use the Contax for over 10 years and to one point have to eventually part way with it if I want to continue to be up to date with some latest technogy and want to have a younger body, but saying that, it continue to produce astonishing images. Hy6 is the closest or might be as good as Contax 645, hopefully it somehow survive, and open to everyone.
The H system, close its own customers inside rather than closing the other customers outside, at least it is how I see it. The H users have no chice, but the customers outside have more choices, although choices today are quite limited.  I am lucky so far not having much issue wiht my H system (H3D and H2+P backs), hopefully won't. But the fact they can't authorized the user to self calibrate the focus and can't allow generations of back & camera work together is absurd.

Regards, K
Title: Hasselblad H3D rumors
Post by: Dick Roadnight on October 09, 2009, 11:13:17 am
Quote from: David Grover / Hasselblad
... each H3D is custom focus calibrated in the factory, hence you will see 'Focus Calib. ID' in the System Status menu.  This is a unique adjustment for every camera based on the individual AF system of each camera.
The problem will not go away ...pros (who would be in the market to buy several systems) want interchangeability.

Could you not incorporate three screws (or shims) into each back and body to allow users (or local support) to calibrate to a standard, so all bodies can fit all backs? This would be like a miniature tilt/focus adjuster... or why not build a T/S adaptor into each camera (yes - I remembered, this is because the lenses do not have enough image circle, and they have developed the T/S adaptor to overcome this, and how many people would use it?) You would need a smarter AF system that would not need the mechanics to adjust to it.

On the H3D I usually end up using manual focus ...can you buy a simple manual 60Mpx digiback (not designed for AF, DSLRs or point-and shoot) for a view camera?

... but they tell us that AF is better on the H4D.
Title: Hasselblad H3D rumors
Post by: ixpressraf on October 09, 2009, 11:21:29 am
Well...., you could also use simply a spare H3 body, one from a H3d-39 when using a h3d-31 with broken body. Although focus calibration will be very powerfull to some applications, it will be barable noticable in daily shoot. I have one of my bosdies used by an other photographer and it seems that it works perfect, after shooting 20000 shots still no complanes about unsharp images. I only hope my body will return soon because i now only have a back without a body :-(
Title: Hasselblad H3D rumors
Post by: Kitty on October 09, 2009, 12:03:57 pm
Quote from: derekhsu
Hi Kitty,

Could you share your Body Counter usage when encountering the Mirror Problem?

Regards
Derek

This is the 2nd dead counter 63525. Can't remember counter of the 1st dead.
The other body died around 30,000-40,000.

kitty
Title: Hasselblad H3D rumors
Post by: Paul_Claesson_HasselbladUS on October 09, 2009, 02:27:25 pm
Quote from: stevenf
Hi Greg

I posted this question for Paul Claesson - maybe you know the answer.

Thanks Steven

I am considering purchasing the Hasselblad H3d-50 II - I noticed that Hasselblad is offering a free upgrade to the H4D-50. Does this mean a new camera and a new 50 MP Back with the new LCD? Or would one get a new camera and keep the old back from the H3dII-50 and not get the new LCD?

Reading on the Hasselblad website it seems to indicate a free upgrade to the H4d-50 - which to me would mean a new back with the new LCD.

Thanks Steven

www.friedmanphoto.com

Steven

Any H3DII50 purchased after September 25, 2009 can be upgraded to an H4D50 at no charge.
This means you will receive a new H4D camera body with your same back. The body and digital magazine will need to be calibrated for Ultrafocus at the factory.



Title: Hasselblad H3D rumors
Post by: Willow Photography on October 09, 2009, 07:21:04 pm
Quote from: Paul_Claesson_HasselbladUS
Steven

Any H3DII50 purchased after September 25, 2009 can be upgraded to an H4D50 at no charge.
This means you will receive a new H4D camera body with your same back. The body and digital magazine will need to be calibrated for Ultrafocus at the factory.


So what you should have said, if I understand you wright, is NO new LCD
with the upgrade.

Then it is NOT an upgrade from H3DII50 to a H4D50 as you advertise.
It is an upgrade from H3D to a H4D with an "old" back.

Why not say it as it is???

And why no answer to my question on what kind of file is viewed on
the new and better LCD?

If it is the same unprocessed file as now, it will not be any better to judge
color and sharpness!!
Title: Hasselblad H3D rumors
Post by: pcunite on October 10, 2009, 09:29:59 pm
Quote from: Willow Photography
Then it is NOT an upgrade from H3DII50 to a H4D50 as you advertise.
It is an upgrade from H3D to a H4D with an "old" back.

Be thankful they are even giving you that... it is obvious that MFD has hit some kind of a wall with invocation. Either the tech can not be improved at this time, there is no R&D money, or customers are looking to other solutions leaving them without cash. I don't think they are trying to intentionally short change their customers. A true new H4D50 is probably more than they can afford to make. It has been obvious for so long now what MFD has needed outside the studio one can only wonder as they just won't come out and say what the problem is.
Title: Hasselblad H3D rumors
Post by: erick.boileau on October 11, 2009, 02:44:57 pm
Quote from: TimothyHyde
Photographers don't complain about their inability to remove the sensor ("back") on their D3x and put it on the backup D2x ("body").
I do
Title: Hasselblad H3D rumors
Post by: Professional on October 11, 2009, 03:01:56 pm
Nice topic!
Title: Hasselblad H3D rumors
Post by: John.Williams on October 12, 2009, 09:16:46 pm
This was brought up by a few other photographers from the firmware update mentioned a few posts back;

We will perform firmware updates to H1 and H2 bodies if you have not already updated your Hasselblad system to the latest version of 9.5.0

Wednesday, October 14th 6:00PM
Ambient + Studios, Atlanta GA

John

Title: Hasselblad H3D rumors
Post by: Eurotographer on October 13, 2009, 12:19:04 pm
Quote from: Willow Photography
Then it is NOT an upgrade from H3DII50 to a H4D50 as you advertise.
It is an upgrade from H3D to a H4D with an "old" back.

Why not say it as it is???

The upgrade is from an H3DII50 to an H4D50  -  The 50 portion does not change as there is no new 50, there is only a new H4D.
Title: Hasselblad H3D rumors
Post by: Dick Roadnight on October 13, 2009, 01:09:47 pm
Quote from: Eurotographer
... there is no new 50, there is only a new H4D.
The H4D-50 has been announced (with better screen) ... and the H4D-60 is also in the future.
Title: Hasselblad H3D rumors
Post by: Barry Goyette on October 13, 2009, 02:50:39 pm
Quote from: Dick Roadnight
The H4D-50 has been announced (with better screen) ... and the H4D-60 is also in the future.

this is the part that seems to be a little unclear. Paul (as did my rep) has stated that the upgrade to the h4d-50 is an upgrade of the body, not the back. Yet I believe it is also Paul who reported that the h4d-50 has a new screen. So there seems to be an inconsistency...unless there are two h4d-50s...the H4d-50U (upgrade)...and the h4d-50N (new).

Paul?