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Hasselblad has taken another step towards the total switch to CMOS sensors with the introduction of new multi-shot versions of the company’s H5D 50c, including a model that outputs images of up to 200 million pixels. The H5D-50c MS and H5D-200c MS are 4-shot and 6-shot bodies that use pixel shifting to create higher resolution images than their 50-million-pixel sensors could in a single shot.
The new bodies replace the existing H4D 50MS and 200MS, upgrading with the new 50-million-pixel CMOS sensor used in the H5D 50c and the recently announced CFV-50c V system back. The multi-shot models offer single shot modes that capture images in the same way as the H5D 50c, but in addition allow photographers to gain more detail via combining information from a series of captures into one file. During this series of captures the camera shifts the imaging sensor by increments of 1/2 and 1 pixel’s width to effectively record detail that would otherwise fall between pixels.
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While this increases the detail resolution of the file, the multi-sampling exercise also allows the camera to collect more colour data as points in the subject are viewed via each of the red, green and blue filters of the standard Bayer filter array. According to Hasselblad, multi-shot modes reduce the need for colour interpolation, and thus produce colours much more faithful to the scene. The additional detail sampled also avoids the moiré patterning that can occur when the resolution of the subject exceeds that of an AA filter-free sensor.
The 43.8x32.9mm sensor uses a 5.3 micron pixel pitch and outputs images measuring 8272 x 6200 pixels. Raw files output at 75MB in single shot mode but up to 400MB for 6-shot images, while the maximum size of a 6-shot TIFF image will be ~600MB, measuring 16,544x12,400 pixels. Images taken with the 6-shot mode open to a full size of 1.2GB according to a Hasselblad technical spokesperson.
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The company says that the switch from CCD to CMOS makes its multi-shot cameras more flexible, and allows photographers to use them in a wider variety of settings. The CMOS sensors offer ISO sensitivity up to 6400, while the previous CCD models could only manage ISO 800. A Hasselblad spokesperson explains that while the 200 million-pixel multi-shot feature will mostly be used for fine detail recording in flash-lit indoor conditions, such as a museum’s reproduction department, the fact that the camera can also be used at ISO 6400 and in single shot mode means it can then be used in low light outside or to boost flash impact when lighting larger areas or with moving subjects.
Like the H5D 50c the multi-shot models feature on-grip controls, a shutter speed range of 12 minutes to 1/800sec, a maximum frame rate of 1.5fps and are compatible with the company’s 12 H series lenses.
The H5D 200c MS will cost £29,895 / $45,000 plus tax, while the H5D 50c MS will be £23,895 / $36,000 plus tax. The standard H5D 50c costs £18,700 / $27,500.
For more information visit: http://www.hasselblad.co.uk
Or download Hasselblad's data sheet