UPDATE: The new Hasselblad X2D II 100C has just launched, revolutionizing the medium format camera landscape for serious photographers. This stills-only camera is designed for artists who prioritize creative versatility over hybrid specs, offering significant upgrades that could redefine how you capture images.
Photographer Fritz dives deep into the camera’s transformative features in a newly released video review. He highlights how the X2D II 100C enhances shooting experiences, from capturing waist-level landscapes to tracking fast-moving subjects like cars and aircraft. Unlike its predecessor, this model introduces a new phase-detect autofocus system that promises faster and more reliable subject tracking, crucial for capturing dynamic scenes.
The upgraded 3.6″ OLED touchscreen now tilts, facilitating shooting from various angles—whether low to the ground or overhead. With a 5-way joystick for quick adjustments, photographers can easily shift focus points without fumbling with the touchscreen, a feature that streamlines workflow during crucial moments.
Fritz’s hands-on experience reveals that the X2D II 100C, equipped with a 100 MP BSI CMOS sensor, maintains exceptional image quality even when cropping significantly. He demonstrates this performance while shooting aircraft, illustrating how this medium format camera holds its ground against faster full-frame systems like the Canon EOS R5 and R6 Mark II.
The camera’s hybrid autofocus includes 425 phase-detect points and supports subject tracking for people, animals, and vehicles, making it much more versatile than its predecessor. Photographers can expect improved performance in fast-paced environments, a critical enhancement for those who often work with moving subjects.
Fritz emphasizes the camera’s positioning as an “artist tool,” underscoring its simplicity and focus on still photography rather than video features. The streamlined interface encourages creative exploration without overwhelming users with complicated settings—a refreshing change for those who prefer to concentrate on their art.
For potential buyers, the value proposition is significant. As many existing X2D owners upgrade to the X2D II 100C, used models of the original X2D are becoming more affordable. Fritz suggests that those who engage in less dynamic photography might find the original model sufficient, potentially saving money for high-quality lenses that enhance shooting capabilities.
The X2D II 100C supports HEIF, JPEG, and raw formats, with a single CFexpress Type B card slot and 1 TB internal storage. It also features a USB-C port for charging and high-speed data transfer, along with built-in Wi-Fi for remote control and file access via Hasselblad Phocus Mobile 2.
The release of the X2D II 100C marks a significant milestone for photographers seeking a reliable medium format option. With its compelling improvements and practical design, it’s poised to become a staple for artists aiming to elevate their photography game.
For the complete breakdown of the X2D II 100C features and performance insights, check out Fritz’s video review, which provides an in-depth look at what this new camera can deliver.
Stay tuned for more updates on the latest in photography technology!
