How can a pure picture digital camera nonetheless evolve in 2025? Whereas many producers push for brand spanking new video options, images itself has felt prefer it hit a technological plateau. Actual improvements have been uncommon. So what ought to a brand new model of the Hasselblad X2D, already top-of-the-line cameras on the planet, really carry to the desk?
As an architectural photographer, I by no means felt something was lacking from the unique X2D: the picture high quality was very good, the physique was stable, the interface elegant, and the dealing with among the many most intuitive I’ve ever skilled. So what does Hasselblad do when the core of the digital camera is already near good, they usually’re not making an attempt to seize headlines with video specs? The reply is the brand new Hasselblad X2D II.
As a substitute of heading overseas for this shoot, I stayed nearer to dwelling in central Germany, exploring 4 extraordinary buildings that mix daring design with the calm of untouched countryside. My topics: the Palaeon and Nebra Ark by Holzer Kobler Architekten, the long-lasting Phaeno by Zaha Hadid Architects, and the poetic Mirror Ark by Kathrin Siebert. Every tells its personal story, and within the smooth glow of an extended summer time day, their character unfolded in entrance of the X2D II with hanging magnificence—proof that you just don’t all the time have to journey far to search out world-class structure.
What really set this collection aside, although, was a brand new characteristic I had by no means had at my disposal earlier than: HDR imaging straight out of the digital camera. On trendy screens, these recordsdata reveal a depth that feels nearer to being there in individual, highlights that maintain, shadows with element, richer coloration, and a brand new sense of dimensionality.
New Options of the Hasselblad X2D II
Hasselblad has clearly been listening to its neighborhood. As a substitute of chasing each business development, the X2D II refines the small print that make a distinction in day by day work.
At Final: A Joystick
The X2D II introduces one thing many photographers have been asking for: a joystick. Till now, I used to be pleased to maneuver the autofocus level through the touchscreen, however I’ll admit, I’ve come to make use of the joystick extra typically than I anticipated.
It’s not restricted to focus management, both. You may transfer the picture part in playback mode and even navigate the menu with out touching the display screen. That’s an actual win in winter, when gloves make touchscreens a trouble.
Extra Freedom With Customized Buttons
Customization has taken a giant step ahead. Out of 14 buttons, 7 can now be reassigned, together with 3 management dials (together with the customized lens dial). In complete, you’re taking a look at greater than 35 assignable features. The lens dial alone can maintain as much as 5 settings, good for switching between completely different focus targets, like face or topic recognition.
A brand new button has additionally been added beneath the joystick, and each the joystick and entrance management dial are actually pressable and assignable. The one downside: Auto Publicity Lock and AF-D mode stay fastened, which seems like a missed alternative. Personally, I not often use both.
Auto ISO in Handbook Mode
One of the vital requested options is lastly right here: Auto ISO in handbook mode. You set shutter pace and aperture and let the digital camera deal with ISO. It’s a small change with a huge impact, particularly in shifting mild situations. Professionals have been asking for this for years, and now it’s lastly accessible.
