Hello there,
I have a huge dilemma here
Nah, I just don't know what to get.
So, the situation is this: I have some money to spend on camera gear, but I don't know what to get.
I already own 2 x Hasselblad 500 CM, and thinking about getting something new. I was thinking of either getting a fully automatic 645 system like the Hasselblad H1, a 11 megapixel Leaf Valeo back for my Hasselblad V or a used Canon 1ds Mark II with a wide angle zoom (like a Canon 17-40).
I know they are completely different things, but they are all tempting in their own way. So let me break down the pros and cons about each system.
Hasselblad H1Pros: World Class Ergonomics and Design, Unsurpassed Image Quality, Brilliant AutoFocus on MF (always wanted that), Very bright viewfinder which may be missing on my 500 CM, I can rent a Phase One P25+ anywhere.
Cons: Super expensive lenses and accessories, I will only be able to afford an 80mm lens, difficult to find accessories, I will be shooting 120 film most of the time (meaning cost in film and processing) until I can afford a decent digital back.
Price: 1800-1900 dollars (estimated)
Leaf Valeo 11 (for my Hasselblad 500 CM)Pros: Nice design which fits with the rest of my Blad, I can use it with equipment and lenses I already invested in, I'm will be able to shoot digital with my Blad' (meaning no cost in film and processing)
Cons: Ridiculous small 36x24 sensor (no point in shooting MF), image quality so and so, 11 megapixel is not impressive for medium format, I have to carry around my Macbook Pro in order to use with it (tethered), crop factor on my Zeiss lenses, difficult to switch to film back back because of the viewfinder mask.
Price: 1200 dollars
Canon 1ds Mark IIPros: Nice ergonomics, overall fine image quality, portable, nice features and shoots 16 megapixel, good value for the money
Cons: It's not a Blad', image quality not nearly as good as medium format, I'm not familiar with Canon DSLR's and never used one.
Price: 1400 dollars (body) + 600 dollars (Canon 17-40)
I know they are completely different things, but all very tempting. Like I said, I have some money to spend, so I would appreciate it if anybody could give their thoughts/advice?
Thank you,