July 15, 2008 The latest addition to professional camera specialist Hasselblad’s H-Series is the H3DII-50, and yes, the 50 in the camera’s model number does refer to 50 megapixels thanks to Kodak’s 50 megapixel 36×48mm sensor. This sensor is twice the physical size of the largest 35mm DSLR sensors with Kodak stating that, "at 50 [megapixels] the sensor captures digital images with unprecedented resolution and detail. For instance, with a 50 megapixel camera, in an aerial photo of a field 1-½ miles across, you could detect an object about the size of a small notebook computer (1 foot by 1 foot)." In addition to the increased resolution, the new sensor also provides the foundation for the development of advanced lens performance and optical corrections.
By providing a true integrated DSLR experience in a Medium Format camera, the H3DII-50 enables photographers to combine the full benefits of professional medium-format digital capture with the ease-of-use found in the best 35mm DSLRs. The H3DII-50 camera system is made for the high-end commercial photographer with high demands on both ultimate image quality and flexibility. With the H3DII-50 photographers can choose between eye-level and waist-level viewfinders, combining point–and–shoot and tilt/shift functions, working tethered and un-tethered, as well as choosing the image processing system and storage medium of CF card or SanDisk Extreme IV's. The camera can capture images at 1 frame per second in Hasselblad 3FR raw or DNG export. The H3DII-50 also features a 3-inch display, a CCD cooling sink, and can shoot at ISO ranges of 50 to 400.
There’s no word yet on a price or release date, but with the H3DII-50’s little brother the H3DII-39 retailing for more than US$30,000 they’re probably still adding the zeros.
For further info visit Hasselblad.