Hasselblad 501CM Medium Format
Hasselblad 501CM Medium Format
USER REVIEWS
[Nov 23, 1999]
Chris Long
Intermediate
Model Reviewed:
5010-CM Black Body
Strength:
It is a well built camera that takes great pictures.
Weakness:
When I first received it the lens was almost impossible to remove. It took all my strength to get it off. I sent it in and they had to replace a part on the lens. A decent camera at a very high price. This was my first medium format camera and I didn't much care for it. It worked fine, but not worth the extra money compared to other systems. It also lacked some usefull features and accesories were also very expensive. I will admit it is a beautiful machine, but why should a camera be a beautiful machine. I would rather have a camera that works just as well and has more features at a better price then this. Basically, I have been to the land of Blad.....it wasn't as great as it is hyped up to be. Customer Service When I spoke to customer service they told me that my problem with getting the lens off was normal. They blew me off for a long time untill I finally told them that I was sending it in for warranty repair. Similar Products Used: Bronica ETRSi |
[Oct 20, 1999]
Doug Baker
Expert
Model Reviewed:
5010-CM Black Body
Strength:
I am really happy with this camera! Quality contruction, easy to handhold for a MF SLR. This camera gets my respect!
Weakness:
No problems.It is simple and built like a tank. If you want fine equipment which will last for decades and not be obsoleted by a disloyal company,then the 501CM is a great choice! The standard kit is very resonable in price. Build the system slowly, as you can afford it, with either used equipment or well timed new purchases with free equipment offers by HUSA. The later course is what I have done and have buit a small system with one body and two lenses (resulting in a $1700 savings with a free 45 degree prism and extra A-12 film back). Customer Service None needed, but Hasselblad USA has a very good reputation. Similar Products Used: Rolleiflex 6003,Mamiya 645, Pentax 645 |
[Oct 08, 1999]
Kevin Rohrman
Intermediate
Model Reviewed:
5010-CM Black Body
Strength:
easy to use, easily handheld for a medium format, feels right in my hand, simple to take apart.
Weakness:
You have to remember to hold the secondary shutter open at shutter speeds slower then 1/8 sec., film drive could be smoother. Excellent camera, easy to use and lightweight, image quality with Hassy optics is absolutely the best...I thought I knew what "tack sharp" was until I saw the results of my pictures. The camera system itself has made me a better photographer. Customer Service Excellent, Top rate. My new purchase had a speck of dust inbetween the lens elements, Hasselblad rolled out the red carpet and replaced the whole camera kit with no hesitation. Similar Products Used: Mamyia 645, Mamyia RZ67, Bronica |
[Aug 23, 1999]
Joe Donnelly
Casual
Model Reviewed:
5010-CM Black Body
Strength:
Ease of use
Weakness:
None Great starter camera for entry level medium format. Expandability a plus. Pricey, other brands cost much less. Customer Service Haven't had the need Similar Products Used: none |
[Sep 06, 1999]
Dana
Professional
Model Reviewed:
5010-CM Black Body
Strength:
Incredible Optics, solid and reliable, simple to use, availablity of rental gear-- extra lenses, backs, etc....
Weakness:
NONE a truly great camera system that will make you a better photographer. Similar Products Used: Mamiya RZ, Bronica SQ |