22 MPix 31 MPix 39 MPix User Manual Language version: English Manual version: 4 / 2007
C O N T E N T S Introduction 1 Function Control & Display 4 8 Grip LCD View f inder LCD 12 14 2 Camera Body 17 Carr ying strap Rechargeable bat ter y grip − general Bat ter y charger Charging the bat ter y View f inder screen Accessor y connec tion PC-connec tor Base plate 3 View finder Par ts & Components At taching and removing the view f inder Eyepiece adjustment Eye cup 4 Lenses Par ts & Components At taching a lens Removing a lens Lens cap Filter s Lens shades
Batch Default Approval Level 64 65 15 Flash Flash measure 11 MENU —Settings 110 66 User Inter face Camera About Default 67 68 73 73 12 Light Metering & Exposure Control 75 Metering method E xposure method Manual exposure mode Automatic exposure mode AE-L but ton E xposure compensation 76 77 77 78 79 80 13 General Functions 107 Power−ON Power−Standby Power−OFF Manual focus Manual focus mode Autofocus override in manual mode Autofocus Single Shot Continuous
Welcome to Hasselblad ! The H3D represents the forefront of medium format photography - both digital and analogue. The unrivalled position is based on an accumulation of experience spanning more than fifty years. By using Hasselblad equipment you share the decision made by of some of the world’s best and most famous photographers. Congratulations on a wise choice! The H3D is the world’s first full-frame, large-sensor, medium-format DSLR camera.
Unique Hasselblad Natural Color Solution Film users can take advantage of automatic film speed setting with bar code, instant 120/220 interchangeability, integral dark slide, independent LCD illumination on magazines, automatic film advance and film wind off, custom imprinting on frame edge including exposure data, name, symbols, etc.
FlexColor workflow in the field or in the lab. The Hasselblad H3D is fully integrated with the Hasselblad Instant Approval Architecture, bringing automated image classification into your digital workflow from the split second of capture. IAA is a Hasselblad trademark and Hasselblad has a patent pending on the invention.
Computer system requirements Digital files naturally end up on a computer for processing. Image-storage and correction requires a certain minimum standard regarding computer capabilities. Large images will require a high-performance computer with plenty of memory, advanced graphics capabilities and a recent operating system. In most cases, the computer should include a FireWire 800/400 connector, which will enable you to load images directly from the camera or ImageBank-II (see note below).
1 Function Control & Display � LCD display on camera � LED display on viewfinder � Upgradeable firmware � Rapidly accessible menu � Interactive display � Customizable functions All functions and settings on the H3D camera body are accessed and altered by the control buttons and wheels on and around the grip aided visually by the LCD user-interface. The information on the grip LCD is in menu format and has a great deal in common with those found in modern computers, cell phones, etc.
Below is an overview of the primary functions of the control wheels and buttons. Some controls have dual or triple functions according to the state of the menu or setting. A full description can be found further on in this manual. Shutter release button Releases shutter. Also activates camera from standby mode. FLASH / (CONTROL LOCK) button Locks settings to avoid inadvertent change. Also accesses flash settings. AF button Accesses focus modes. DRIVE button Accesses drive modes. MENU button Accesses menu.
Grip LCD Typical camera grip display. (The information in brackets describes this particular example only). Flash condition indication (No exposure compensation, normal flash synchronisation) Focus setting (Autofocus setting, single shot mode) Drive condition (Single setting) Shutter speed setting (1/400s) Aperture setting (f/5.6) ISO setting (50 ISO/ASA) Exposure Value display (EV 9.
The basic principle behind making changes is that the appropriate button is first pressed to access the menu and then settings altered by way of the control wheels. The appropriate control wheel is designated by arrowheads alongside the setting description. Some buttons have a toggle function, the ON.OFF button has a quick ‘click’ action as well as a longer (half-second) ‘press’ action and the shutter release has two positions: ‘half-press’ and ‘full-press’.
Viewfinder LCD Typical viewfinder display. Note the LEDs will only be visible when activated (by the camera or a setting). (The information in brackets describes this particular example only). Exposure method indication (‘aperture priority’ mode) Aperture setting (f/5.6) Exposure compensation setting reminder symbol Flash LED Warning triangle LED Metering method setting (Centre weighted) Focus Aid LED Exposure compensation setting (+0.
Menu charts – general Throughout this manual you will find charts to explain the steps and procedures required to alter the various settings. These charts are laid out to graphically illustrate in a simple manner how to navigate through the menus. While they include all the information that would be presented on the LCD relevant to that section, they cannot illustrate all the possible combinations of the various symbols seen on a screen at one time as that would be impractical and too confusing.
Shutter release button A A This button has half-press and full-press positions. By pressing half-way (or softly) the camera, auto focus function and exposure meter can be activated. By pressing all the way down (or more firmly) the shutter will be released (or the chosen exposure procedure will begin, as relevant. For example, the self timer is activated with this button) FLASH / (CONTROL LOCK) button / (EXIT) B This is a triple function button.
On the rear of the grip, as well as the rear control wheel, there are a further three control buttons: AE-L button J K L J This button can lock a light reading made in both automatic and manual exposure modes. It can also be used in Zone mode to take a new reading. Can be reassigned in Custom Settings to another function. See section on the AE-L button (“Light Metering and Exposure Control”) for full details. button K No function at present.
There are also two control buttons on the viewfinder, as well as the eyesight correction adjustment wheel: Eyesight correction adjustment wheel P The personal eyesight adjustment facility has a diopter range of -5 to +3.5, to suit most users. EV correction adjustment button Q Press this button to access the EV compensation screen. Settings are made with either the front or rear control wheels. An EV correction symbol appears on the grip and viewfinder LCD as confirmation.
2 Camera Body � Aluminium cast in one piece � Stainless steel shell � Integral Quick coupling plate � Digitally controlled � Upgradeable software � Modular design � Integral ergonomic grip � Pixel based LCD user interface The H3D camera body is a robust construction of cast aluminium with a stainless steel shell for extreme durability. The workings of the camera are controlled by silicon technology that provides tremendous opportunities for sophisticated operation.
1 Carrying strap 2 The carrying strap is attached by firstly withdrawing the safety collar. The hook is then freed and attached to the strap lug (fig. 1). Slide back the safety collar (fig. 2) to ensure the hook remains in the locked position between the small protruding lugs. The collar is purposely a tight fit and might need some effort to slide. Rechargeable battery grip 3 3, 4 The H3D requires battery power for all actions.
Please note that rapid flashing of the LED indicator is not to be expected. The battery will not normally be so deeply discharged because the camera will shut down automatically before complete battery discharge takes place. The indicator might also flash rapidly for a few moments in some instances when the charger is connected to the electrical supply. The normal indication is therefore either ‘not flashing’ or ‘slow flashing’.
Battery charger BC-H Li-ion 7.2 VDC: • Read the instructions before using the charger. • Use indoors only (protect against moisture). • Do not use charger for anything else than charging of Battery grip rechargeable 7.2 V (3043348). • Do not short-circuit the jack plug. • Do not alter the charger in any way other than changing the plug attachment. 9 10 Reserve lithium-battery grip 11 The reserve lithium-battery grip is attached and removed in the same manner as the rechargeable grip.
14 Viewfinder screen 15 14, 15, 16 The H3D is fitted with a Spherical Acute-Matte D viewfinder screen for extreme brightness, clarity and even illumination. An optional accessory screen with a grid pattern is also available. To change a viewfinder screen, remove the viewfinder to access the viewfinder screen. To remove the screen, place the tip of a ballpoint pen or similar in the viewfinder screen removal lug and pull upwards.
3 Viewfinder � Multi-mode light metering � Full exposure information � 100% image � 90° viewing angle for eye-line composition � Full image for spectacle wearers � Integral dioptre adjustment � Integral flash unit The HVD 90X viewfinder provides a laterally corrected 100% image at eye-line level. It features a wide-range diopter adjustment to suit most users. The viewing distance is designed to provide full frame view even for eyeglass wearers.
A B C D A. Rubber eye cup B. Hot shoe C. Eyesight adjustment wheel E F G D. Exposure compensation button E. Exposure method / mode button F. Integral flash unit H G. Flash unit button H.
4 Lenses � Rapid and accurate automatic focusing capability � Central electronic shutter � Instant manual focus override with natural friction � Instant automatic-focus return capability � Non-rotation of filter or accessory when focusing � Non-rotation of lens barrel in automatic focusing mode � Flash sync at shutter speeds for 18 hours to 1/800 sec with film magazine � Reversed lens shade serves as protection � Automatic detection of extension rings and converters All HC lenses have been special
1 Parts and components 1 2 A A. B. C. D. E. B C 2 D 1 E 3 Lens shade index Manual focus ring Focusing distance scales Depth-of-field scales Lens index Attaching a lens 2, 3 Remove the front protective cover on the camera body by depressing the lens release button and keeping it depressed while turning the cover counter-clockwise. Remove the rear lens cap by unscrewing it in a counter-clockwise direction.
Depth-of-field calculation 7 There are two distance scales (in feet and metres) visible through the focus distance window on the upper part of the lens barrel. There is also a central lens index mark and a depth-of-field scale. The focusing distance is read off the chosen scale from the central lens index. Depth-of-field can be calculated as follows: 1. Focus the lens as required. 2. Make an exposure reading (auto or manual) and note the aperture setting. 3.
Automatic focus setting Focus is correct when both arrowheads are visible together. Focus is incorrect if only one arrowhead is visible. If the focus cannot be established, then both arrowheads flash. CF Adapter The CF adapter is an optional accessory that allows virtually all C type lenses from the V-system to be used on H-system camera bodies. This automatically expands the potential lens range for H cameras by more than a dozen different focal lengths.
5 General overview of sensor unit � 3 operating and storage modes � Direct shooting to 3FR � FlexColor worklow efficiency � Instant Approval Architecture H system cameras were designed with digital photography in mind right from the outset so the H3D is a natural development within the world famous H system.
In very simple terms, a sensor unit holds a light sensitive sensor in place at the film plane. The electronic signals from the sensor are then processed and stored as a digital file. As an electronic colour image is made up of three components − red, green and blue which combine to form a so-called RGB image − the sensor’s task is to convert a multi spectrum light image into three digital files (red, green and blue) for combination later on.
A F B G C H D I E J K L M N O P Q R S Parts, components & control panel buttons The control panel with its bright OLED screen is the main graphical interface for image checking and sensor unit setting changes when not connected to a computer. However, the grip LCD is still the interface for focus and exposure settings. The buttons are used for browsing images and navigating the menu system.
available image batches, media (e.g., compact-flash, ImageBank, and value setting on the menu. Flash-card slot cover M Zoom-out button / SELECTION (– button) Safety catch N G Used when removing the sensor unit. Zoom-out button (to make the view smaller) for the preview image. You can continue to zoom out to view several small images at once and finally to view and select batches and media. Also acts as a selection button for value setting on the menu.
Simple introductory overview of menu access, navigation and settings choice. The menu is structured in a manner similar to cell phones and similar electronic devices. Various branches within the tree system are accessed by pressing the navigation button until you reach the point where a choice has to be made. The OK (Approve) button or SELECTION (Zoom-in/Zoomout) buttons are then used to confirm choice. After pressing the MENU button, the main menu list appears.
By using the buttons on the control panel you can navigate down through the various levels in the menu. It provides the source of information about image files and also provides a way of making custom settings so the digital back suits your way of working. Below is a simple overview of what is available and where it is situated on the menu. MENU ISO Sets the light sensitivity of the sensor. Equivalent to ‘film speed’. Set to match the color temperature of light used.
6 Initial General Settings and Preparation The initial general setting is language choice. This choice is retained but can be changed at any time. You can choose between: ENGLISH GERMAN FRENCH ITALIAN SPANISH JAPANESE CHINESE 1 Before each photographic session, just as in analogue photography, an ISO setting should be made, though in the digital world it matches the job in hand and circumstances as opposed to the sensitivity of the film chosen. A white balance setting should also be made.
Storage & Shooting Image storage modes / shooting The H3D can store captured images in three ways: 1. Untethered / Compact flash card mode In this mode the H3D acts independently of other connections. Images are stored on the internal, removable compact-flash card. • The main advantage with this mode is the freedom of cables and extra equipment. • The main disadvantages with this mode in the field are the battery power capacity and the size of the card’s holding capacity.
There are two ways of selecting the current storage medium: • See “Selecting the Current Storage Medium” for details. • Use the zoom-out button to zoom all the way up to the top level, which shows all connected media, and then zoom in on the appropriate medium and batch. See “Navigating Media and Batches” for more information about selecting media and batches in this way. Using compact flash memory cards When shooting to a compact-flash card, the H3D is completely self-contained.
Removing a card 1 2 3 4 1. Open the CF card slot cover on the sensor unit. Behind the cover, you can see the bottom edge of the card in its slot and a release button immediately below the card. 2. Press the release button a little way in to release it into the active position. 3. Press the now extended release button all the way back into the sensor unit again. Some force is required. As you do this, the card will be pushed out a few millimeters. 4.
Tethered to a computer When tethered to a computer, you can control many camera functions using the FlexColor software. Even if you never shoot while connected, you will probably connect the camera to your computer each time you want to download your images, though you might instead use a compact-flash card reader and/or connect your ImageBank-II or FireWire disk directly.
7 Storage overview– working with media and batches General Whichever way you choose to store your images, they should be filed in batches for efficient workflow. Organizing your work with batches Batches help you to organize your shots as you work. They function exactly as folders on a computer. Batches have the following properties: • When you create a new batch, you assign a name to it and it is created as a new folder.
Medium-type icon (Compact Flash) Medium name The MEDIA list. In this example a CF card and a FireWire disk are illustrated and therefore connected. The blue frame around the CF card symbol tells you that captured images will be saved to the CF card and not the FireWire disk.
1a To select the current medium and view batches using the browse controls: 1. Press the zoom-out ( ) button repeatedly until you are all the way at the top zoom level. If you start with the singleimage preview view, then you pass through the following views to get there: • Single-image preview (as in fig 1a) • Four-thumbnail view • Nine-thumbnail view (as in fig 1b) • Batch list (as in fig 3) • Media list (as in fig 4) 2.
Using Instant Approval Architecture The Instant Approval Architecture system helps you to evaluate your images as quickly as you take them. It works by supplying immediate audio feedback, which tells you instantly whether each new picture is exposed correctly or likely to be over- or underexposed. Thereafter, the system enables you to assign each image one of three status levels.
Note that some shots may trigger the warning even though they are exposed accord- ing to your intentions. You should consider these warnings only as a guideline. This feature can be turned off. 3. If no problem is detected, then the image is saved with green status. If you set Approval to ‘Auto’, all images will be stored as Green if judged as correct and Yellow if judged as technically doubtful. No images are ever stored as Red automatically! 4.
Browsing by approval status You can set the camera to browse by approval status, which means, for example, that you will see only green-status images as you browse a batch (or both green and yellow, or only red, etc.). The current filter setting is indicated on-screen, as illustrated. Filtered images are still there, but they will not be shown until you change the filter setting. Also, if you change the status of an image, the image may ‘disappear’ if it no longer passes the filter.
8 Overview of viewing, deleting and transferring images Basic image browsing The large, full-colour OLED display enables you to inspect your shots while you are still on-location. The display offers full-screen previews, high-magnification zoom, two levels of thumbnails and analysis tools including a full histogram and camera settings. When you first turn on the camera, the display opens in standard browse mode, showing the last image taken (if any) for the current medium and batch.
Zooming in for more detail The preview display has a much lower resolution than your images. You can therefore zoom very far into the images to inspect small details. To do this: 1 1. Browse to the image you wish to zoom into with the navigation button. 2. Press the zoom-in ( ) button to zoom in one step. The screen updates to show both a zoomed image and a thumbnail image that includes a red box outlining the portion of the images currently shown. 3.
You can cycle through all the available preview modes by pressing the View-Mode button. Preview Modes Choosing the Preview mode You can use the view-mode button to cycle through the available preview modes. The preview screen works in several different modes: • Standard preview: shows a preview image surrounded by a display of few important settings. • Histogram: shows a preview image overlaid with a histogram.
ISO setting White balance Current storage medium Approval status and browse filter setting Button label Image file name Storage capacity (Shots taken / shots remaining) The standard preview display is the one shown when you first turn on the camera and is probably the view you will use most often. It features a preview of your most recent shot and basic information about the settings and the image itself.
Battery-saver mode In this mode, the sensor unit is fully responsive, so you can take pictures but the screen is not lit up, thereby saving battery power. You can enter the menu system while shooting in this mode (which activates the screen until you exit the menu system again) but the approval, zoom and navigator buttons have no effect.
Deleting images − general Delete shortcut ! There is also a one-button shortcut for deleting single images. To use it, select a target image and then press and hold the until the confirm-delete dialog opens. The H3D enables you to delete images using any of the following techniques: • Delete the currently selected image only.
Don’t forget the menu shortcuts! To help you work faster, the digital back provides shortcuts to some of the most commonly used menu commands that do not otherwise have a dedicated button on the front panel. These are accessible by pressing and holding one of the front-panel buttons for a second or so. These are mentioned where appropriate elsewhere in this manual, but we summarize them here for your convenience.
9 Menu: • ISO • White Balance • Media • Browse Menu system overview The main menu contains those settings that you will need to access most often as you work on an assignment. It also provides sub-menus that give you access to all other settings, most of which you will need less often. Item name (in white) and current setting in yellow Selected item (indicated by blue frame).
Menu structure Items on the main menu 53
1 As a practical example, a MAIN MENU > SETTINGS > USER INTERFACE > Language item instruction would involve the following procedure: 1. Press the menu (MENU) button to open the menu. 2 2. Use and to select the SETTINGS sub-menu. 3. Press to open the SETTINGS menu. 4. Press to select the USER INTERFACE sub-menu. 3 4 or 5. Press either the (in this case Spanish). button to choose a new language 6. Press the MENU/EXIT button again to close the menu.
White balance / Grey Balance 1 1a 2a There are several ways to make a white/grey balance adjustment. When untethered on location you might prefer to make a quick preset adjustment setting at the same time that you check the ISO and Media settings. Tethered in the studio you might prefer to take the first shot of a grey scale and make the adjustment in FlexColor for that session. Alternatively, you might want to assign the User Button as a rapid white balance check in a mixed lighting situation.
To make a rapid User Button white balance setting: (Please note: this function works with a CF card or an ImageBankII only) 1. Assign the User Button (or AE-L, STOP DOWN or M.UP button) to activate Grey balance exp. (see later section – Advanced Features / Customizable button function list – for details). 2. While framing the centre spot in the viewfinder over a neutrally colored surface, press the assigned button. A small rectangle appears on the OLED marking that particular area.
Browse 1 The browse filter complements the instant-approval system by enabling you to browse through images according to their approval status. You have the following choices: • All: browses all of the images in the current batch, regardless of their approval status. This is the default. 2 • Red: browses only red-status images from the current batch. These are images that you have marked for likely deletion.
10 Menu: Storage This section describes file storage, file transference, storage organization, file classification and related subjects.
1 MAIN MENU > STORAGE 2 The Storage menu provides entries for working with storage media. Here, you can format media, copy images from the camera to a computer and create new batches on available media. You can also set the initial approval status (green or yellow) assigned to new pictures. The first item on the storage list is file deletion.
Menus for deleting several images from a batch. 1 Deleting several images from a batch 2 To delete several images from a selected batch: 1. Starting at the single-image preview display, Select MAIN MENU > STORAGE > Delete. (See also Navigating the Menu System for details about how to find this setting.) 2. Use to enter the Delete submenu. 3 B. C. A. or button to select: 3. Use the A. This image - deletes the current image only B.
5. You now return to the main menu. Either move on to another setting by using the navigator button or 6 5 6. Press the menu (EXIT) button to exit the menu system. Deleting several images from a selected medium 1 To delete several images at once: 1. Starting at the single-image preview display, press the button until you reach the media list. 2. Use and to select the medium from which you wish to delete. You will be deleting from all batches stored on that item.
Menus for deleting several images from all batches from a selected storage medium. 5. You must now select the approval status that you wish to delete. All images from the selected medium that are also of the status that you select here will be deleted by the operation. Use and to select All Red, All Red & Yellow or All. 5 6. Then press to open the delete dialog for your selected status. You are now asked to confirm the delete. 6 7 7.
FORMAT The camera is only able to read and write to media that have been formatted. However, new cards or disks sometimes arrive without any formatting, or you might want to convert media that are currently using a format that the camera cannot read. 1 Each time you get a new compact-flash card, it is recommended that you format it using the digital back as described below, even if the digital back is already able to read it. This will enable the digital back to use the card more efficiently.
BATCH Batches help you to organize your work. They are very similar to folders on a computer hard disk. Use the Batch command of the STORAGE menu each time you want to create a new batch. For more information about batches, please see Working with Media and Batches . 1 To create a new batch: 1. Press the MENU button. 2. Press to navigate down and select the Storage dialog. Press and then to navigate down and select Batch. 3 Press to open the Batch dialog.
DEFAULT APPR. LEVEL The Instant Approval Architecture system helps you to evaluate and mark each image based on how well it has come out. By default, the system assigns an initial approval status for each new shot based on an analysis of the distribution of exposure levels. In the factory configuration, the status of each new shot is assigned as follows: • Green (approved): The new shot seems to have been exposed correctly.
11 Menu: Settings There are a number of settings group ed under the general ‘Settings’ heading which are: • User Interface • Camera • About • Default Navigating the USER INTERFACE settings 66
MAIN MENU > SETTINGS > User Interface By altering the User Interface settings, you can control the way the digital back interacts to suit you and your preferred way of working. It also includes date and time settings. USER INTERFACE menu items The user interface menu includes both items and sub-menus. The following items available here are: • Language: The menu system can be displayed in any of seven languages. This menu item enables you to select your preferred language for the menus.
1 2 3 4 5 6 Setting the options under the User Interface menu Each of the above items can be set by similar menu navigation. Language, Power Down and Mark Overex can be set immediately by the or buttons while Sound, Date & Time and Display require another move to sub menu for final choice. Proceed as follows: 1. Press the menu (MENU) button to open the menu. 2. Use and to select the SETTINGS sub-menu. 3. Press to open the SETTINGS menu. 4. Press to select the USER INTERFACE sub-menu. 5.
Navigating the CAMERA settings Connectivity diagram Any shutter with X sync Flash sync input cable H3D sensor unit View camera adapter for Hasselblad H cameras (not available from Hasselblad) Any view camera with Hasselblad H adapter Horseman ISS electronic shutter with lens control 69 Rollei electronic shutter with lens control
1 Setting CAMERA model and options 2 Proceed as follows: 1. Press the menu (MENU) button to open the menu. 2. Use and to select the SETTINGS sub-menu. 3. Press to open the SETTINGS menu. 4. Use and to select CAMERA. 3 4 5. Press to open the CAMERA menu. 6. Press either the or button to select camera model. 7. Use and to select EXPOSURE TIME or CAPTURE SEQ. if required. 5 or button to make new settings if 8. Press either the required. 9.
1 Setting EXPOSURE TIME and CAPTURE SEQUENCE 2 Proceed as follows: 1. Press the menu (MENU) button to open the menu. 2. Use and to select the SETTINGS sub-menu. 3 3. Press to open the SETTINGS menu. 4 4. Use and to select CAMERA. 5 6 5. Press to open the CAMERA menu. 6. Press either the 7 button to select PINHOLE. 7. Press or to select EXPOSURE TIME. 8 8. Press either 9 or 10 or to make an exposure time setting. 9. Press to select CAPTURE SEQUENCE. 10.
11 12 11. Press either the or button to make an INITIAL DELAY setting. This setting controls the amount of time that elapses before the first exposure in the sequence. 12. Press to select DELAY. 13 14 or to make a DELAY setting. 13. Press either This setting controls the amount of time between each exposure in the sequence. 14. Press to select COUNT. 15 16 15. Press either or to make a COUNT setting. This setting controls the number of exposures in the sequence. 16.
MAIN MENU > SETTINGS > About 1 The About box Occasionally, Hasselblad releases updates to the internal software (“firmware”) of the digital back. These updates may fix small errors and/or add new features. You will probably receive additional assistance from Hasselblad technical support if and when a new update is available. In this case, it may be important to know the serial number and current firmware vision of your digital back. To find this out: 1. Select MAIN MENU > SETTINGS > ABOUT.
Don’t forget the menu shortcuts! To help you work faster, the digital back provides shortcuts to some of the most commonly used menu commands that do not otherwise have a dedicated button on the front panel. These are accessible by pressing and holding one of the front-panel buttons for a second or so. These are mentioned where appropriate elsewhere in this manual, but we summarize them here for your convenience. To set the browse filter Press and hold until your preferred filter is indicated.
12 Light Metering & Exposure Control � Three metering methods � Five exposure methods � Extremely accurate light metering The light metering system of the HVD90X is capable of selective sensitivity producing three reflective metering methods: Average, CentreSpot and Spot. All methods are measured in increments of 1/12 EV. Information transfer is rapid and automatic ensuring consistently correct exposure settings even in difficult and changeable lighting situations.
Light metering and exposure control Two primary factors have to be considered when making exposure control choice, namely, metering method and exposure method: Metering method determines in which manner the light measurement is made and how much of the image is taken into account( Centre Weighted, CentreSpot and Spot). Exposure method involves the parameters and deciding factors about how the light measurement is translated into aperture and shutter speeds.
1 Selecting metering method 2 Proceed as follows with the camera in active mode: 1. Press the EXP button on the viewfinder. 2. Turn the rear control wheel (in either direction 2a) to successively access the three choices: Average, Centre Weighted, and Spot 2b. 3. Press Save (DRIVE button) to retain the setting. EXP 2 3 Exposure method Exposure can be controlled either manually or by using one of four automatic modes.
A ‘+ 0.7’ above the scale in the display, as in illustration 4 for example, would indicate a ‘0.3 EV overexposure’ setting. Conversely, a ‘-2’ , for example, would indicate a ‘2EV underexposure’ setting. Note that the appearance of a +/- symbol on the grip and viewfinder LCDs in manual mode means that a change has been made to the exposure compensation setting. See later section on ‘Exposure compensation’.
AE- L button 1 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 This button has two main functions that can be incorporated in various working methods involving exposure locking. It also has an extra function for the flash meter capability (see AE-L section under Flash). The AE-L button can: a) lock an EV setting in manual and automatic modes. b) be used as a brightness range checking facility in standard terminology or Zone System terminology.
Alternatively, you can also pre-set the initial zone reading in order to save time and effort where there is no freely available ‘zone 5’ subject for light measuring. For example, you might be on a sandy beach where you know that sand is normally classified as zone 6. You can pre-programme the zone placement by holding down the AE-L button while choosing the new zone value and turning the front control wheel until zone 6 appears.
13 General Functions � Manual and autofocus modes � Two drive modes � Quick adjust wheel � Profiles This section describes the basic and general functions used in most situations. By understanding the capabilities of the H system you will be able to gain a great deal of control of how you work in the future. By taking advantage of the many features available, you might well find your normal practices changing for the better.
Power The camera can be set at two active power modes − ON or Standby − as well as OFF. In active modes, battery consumption is least in Standby mode and most in ON mode. The camera enters Standby mode automatically after 10 seconds (default) to preserve battery consumption but this interval can be changed in Custom Options. Also, after 10 seconds, the display on the OLED on the sensor unit is dimmed and after 30 seconds the display is turned off completely.
Manual focus mode 1 The Manual focus mode is set by the front control wheel on the grip in the following manner: In camera active mode: 1) Press the AF button on the grip. 2) Turn the front control wheel to: Manual 3) Press Save to store the setting. $2)6% AF 3AVE You can also use the shutter release button ‘half-press’ function to save a new setting and automatically return to the main screen.
Continuous At Continuous setting (AF C), the shutter can be released rapidly before the lens is focused in order to capture a split-second shot (in Single Shot, an exposure cannot be made until the camera has had time to focus). However, the camera will continue to focus if a moving subject is within the focusing zone or if you recompose, even though the shutter release button is half pressed.
Drive There are two drive modes, Single and Continuous, accessed by pressing the DRIVE button on the grip. Single In Single mode, an exposure is made when the shutter release button is pressed and the camera is made ready for the next exposure. To make the next exposure however, you must first release the shutter release button and then press again. In camera active mode: 1) Press the DRIVE button on the grip. 2) Turn the front control wheel to: Single 3) Press Save to store the setting.
Profiles The profiles feature allows rapid access to pre-determined combinations of settings that increase the speed and security of workflow. One example might be in a social situation where there might be a need for formal outdoor portraiture followed by informal indoor handheld flash-assisted wide-angle shots, both situations requiring very different settings in a stressful environment.
4) Press Save (DRIVE button). The Profile name screen is then displayed where you can rename the profile to what suits you (see section Imprint / Text 4.2.2 further on in this manual for procedure details). 5) Press Save (DRIVE button) to keep the combination of settings with the new name. 2 1 To use a profile from the main screen, press the PROFILES button to reach the profiles screen again. Scroll down the list to the profile you want and then press the Load (AF) button.
14 Advanced Features � Programmable self timer � Programmable bracketing � Programmable interval setting � Over 30 custom options � Data and text imprinting with film magazine This section describes the features that might not need to be used on every occasion but can be exploited wisely to obtain the optimum from the system. Some features are a little more special, bracketing for example.
General overview of camera menu -%.5 Accessible only when the sensor unit is attached. Accessible only when a film magazine is attached. Text options Self timer options Bracketing options Interval options Settings options With film magazine only ! Info options With film magazine only ! Digital options Custom Settings All 32 options are available when a film magazine is attached. Only 30 options are available with the sensor unit attached. See later secton for more details.
There are a number of more advanced features that while not necessarily used every day still remain immediately accessible through the menu system. They provide the integral finesses that make the H3D a powerful and sophisticated tool to satisfy a variety of professional demands. There are four main functions: 1. Self timer 2. Bracketing 3. Interval timer 4. Settings 5. Digital An important point to remember is that certain options are only available when the relevant screen has been accessed.
1 Self timer setting 2 The Self timer function is set in the following manner: & -%.5 1) 2) 3) 4) Delay 4 3 $2)6% Press the MENU button on the grip. Turn the front control wheel until Self Timer appears. Press ENTER (DRIVE button) on the grip.
Bracketing options available 2 frames or 3 frames or 5 frames options available options available 1/3 EV or 1/2 EV or 1 EV 2 Bracketing The bracketing facility provides an automatic series of exposures; one at the standard exposure setting (Manual or Auto) and the others with pre-determined deviations in EV from the standard exposure. This is particularly useful for images containing a very wide tonal range, for example.
1 Bracketing setting 2 The Bracketing function is set in the following manner: 1) Press the MENU button.
Interval options available 2 frames − 255 frames options available 1 second − 1 hour 1 3 Interval 2 & -%.5 By using the interval setting, you can allow the camera to take a series of exposures automatically over a set period. This is often required for time and motion studies, security surveillance, nature study, etc. The exposure and focus settings (Manual or Auto) will be according to the camera settings at the time of exposure.
Settings / Custom Options options available CUSTOM OPTIONS 1 4 Settings 2 From the Settings screen you can access three main sub-settings: Custom options, Image Info and System status by turning the front control wheel. From each of these three sub-settings you can access further screens. Custom options has more than 24 screens, Image info has two more screens each with more choices and System status has two more screens.
User button function Please Note • None • Standby (enters standby) • Stop Down• Flash Measure • Interval timer • Self Timer • Bracketing • AF drive (lens in MF or AF) • Mirror up • B mode • T mode • Histogram (displays last histogram) • Grey balance exposure • Cycle LM mode • Delete last image • Dig. foc. check The H3D can accept a film magazine and to cater for that it offers two extra Custom Options for film magazine use only.
Control wheel direction Out of range exposure lock 11/12 8/8 • Clockwise • Counter clockwise • Yes • No Determines the effect the direction of the controls wheels have on a setting. For example, by moving the front control wheel to the left you can alter the aperture setting from f/8 to f/6.8 to f/5.6 and so on.
Focus aid in MF 14/15 Control lock 17/18 • All controls • Wheels • Off • Half press • Always • Off Sets the amount of locking used when the Control Lock button is pressed. Sets how the focus aid arrowhead LED symbols appear in the viewfinder display in manual focus mode. All controls locks control wheels and buttons. Half press makes them visible when the shutter release button is pressed half way. Always makes them visible all of the time when camera is active. Off disables them completely.
AE lock / Quick adjust 21/23 Low flash warning 26/28 • Exp reset • Saved • On • Off Allows either the AE-Lock or Quick adjust mode to remain active after an exposure or immediately return to standard setting. Exp Reset clears the settings and produces an automatic return to standard setting after an exposure. Saved retains the AE-Lock or Quick adjust settings after an exposure. Controls the display of the ‘Low flash’ warning message and triangle. ON enables the function. OFF disables the function.
Image Info / Imprint type Applicable only when film magazine attached. 1 4.2 Image Info (film magazines only!) 2 & -%.5 The Imprint facility controls the text that will appear along the edge of each frame on a film. It is possible to imprint approximately 40 characters at one time. Imprint Type records technical information automatically created by the camera. Text records information created by the user. 4.2.1 Imprint type 4 3 $2)6% The following can be chosen as an option: & • Imp.
‘Image Info’ only applicable when film magazine attached 1 4.2.2 Text 2 & -%.5 In Image info you can compose your own combination of letters, words, symbols, etc to be included in the metadata. The same procedure is also used to change a Profile name. Text setting / Profile name changing 4 3 $2)6% & %NTER 5 1) 2) 3) 4) 5) 6) 6 $2)6% %NTER • • • • 101 Press the MENU button on the grip. Turn the front control wheel until Settings appears.
2 1 AF $2)6% 3AVE Sel. 2 4 3 & AF $2)6% 3AVE Sel. 2 So, to write and store the characters, proceed as follows: 1) You can firstly clear an unwanted line of text by highlighting the X symbol in the box and repeatedly pressing the Sel.(AF) button. 2) Find the character you want by scrolling with the rear control wheel until it appears on the screen. (The ‘space’ character is the ‘empty space’ to the left of the exclamation mark, top row furthest to the left).
Date & Time Applicable only with film magazine attached Alert message when sensor unit is attached 1 4.3 Date & Time (film magazines only!) 2 & -%.5 Adjust date and time settings by the following procedure: 1) Press the MENU button on the grip. 2) Turn the front control wheel until Settings appears. 3) Press the DRIVE (Enter) button on the grip. 4 3 $2)6% & 4) Turn the front control wheel to access Date & Time. %NTER 5) Press the DRIVE (Enter) button.
System status 4.4 System status 2 1 & Check component usage and general servicing information as follows: -%.5 1) Press the MENU button on the grip. 2) Turn the front control wheel until Settings appears. 3) Press the DRIVE (Enter) button on the grip. 4 3 $2)6% & %NTER 5 5) Press the Enter (DRIVE) button 6 $2)6% %NTER 7 4) Turn the front control wheel to access Info. 6) Press the Enter (DRIVE) button.
Digital options available options available 1 ISO 50, 100, 200 or 400 Daylight, Cloudy, Shade, Flash, Fluorescent, Tungsten and Manual. 5 Digital 2 & -%.5 From the Digital screen you can choose between various white balance and ISO settings. These camera settings will override any such settings made on the sensor unit and will show up on the OLED as new sensor unit settings. ISO Setting & White Balance 4 3 $2)6% & %NTER 5 6 2 2 1) 2) 3) 4) Press the MENU button on the grip.
Customizable button function list • The USER, AE-L, STOP DOWN and M.UP buttons can all be reassigned to different functions. • The USER button has no function until specifically assigned one (default is ‘None’). The AE-L, STOP DOWN and M.UP buttons, however, by default are assigned the function appropriate to the name, until assigned otherwise. The buttons can be assigned or reassigned to the following functions: None Mirror up The user button has no function.
15 Flash � Sync at all shutter speeds to 1/800s � Integral fill-flash � SCA 3002 compatible � Flash measure capability � Rear sync capability The H system meets professional demands for a variety of situations where flash is required. It includes an integral flash primarily intended for fill-flash use but strong enough for simple close work.
The H3D can be used together with most flash units in manual mode. However, to make use of a TTL automatic function, you must ensure the flash unit is compatible with the SCA 3002 system. Connection is either by the PC socket or by the hot shoe (see warning note below). The viewfinder houses an integral fill-flash with a guide number of 12 and features OTF/TTL flash control.
1 2 FLASH -%.5 & 4 3 To access the controls: 1) Activate the camera and press the FLASH button once. 2) Turn the front control wheel to set the amount of compensation required: • from +3EV through -3EV • press Clr (AF button) to clear the setting quickly if required.
5) If the settings were incorrect to match the output of the flash unit, the viewfinder LCD displays a red triangle alongside a flashing green ‘flash’ symbol plus a warning message - ‘Low flash’. The grip LCD will also display a warning message ‘Low flash’. Conventional measures should then be taken to correct the situation. (That is: move closer to the main subject, use a larger aperture setting or use a higher ISO setting).
16 Optional Accessories � Converter � CF adapter � Extension tubes � Proshade � Release cord � Flash adapter � Filters � HV 90 viewfinder � Tripod quick coupling � HVM waist level viewfinder � Support strap � HM 16-32 Film magazine � Camera strap � HMi 100 � Focusing screens Optional accessories provide the opportunity to extend the capabilities of your system or just to add extra convenience to suit your way of working.
Support strap H Flash adapter SCA 3902 (3053623) (3053393) For connecting flashes compatible with the SCA 3002 system to the Hasselblad H3D. Improves comfort and security with hand-held photography. Camera strap H (3053616) HVM waist level viewfinder Extra wide camera strap with anti-slip backing. (3053328) The HVM waist level viewfinder allows a comfortable lower viewing angle either for effect or where eye contact with the subject is desirable in portrait photography, for example.
HC lens range HCD 4/28 mm HC 3.5/35 mm HC 2.2/100 mm HC 4/210 mm HC 3.5/50 mm HC Macro 4/120 mm HC 4.5/300 mm HC 2.8/80 mm HC 3.2/150 mm HC 3.5-4.5/50-110 mm HC 1.
Connectivity diagram This diagram illustrates the compatibility of the H3D resulting from the modular concept. Even large format cameras can be used in conjunction with the sensor unit to maximise the useability and extend the range even further.
17 HM 16-32 Film Magazine (Optional accessory) � Automatic 120/220 compatibility � Automatic wind on / wind off � Automatic film advance � LCD information panel � Integral darkslide � Customizable data imprinting � Illuminated LCD � Barcode recognition � Count-up or count-down film frame reminder choice The film magazine is a sophisticated semi-independent unit within the modular system. It has its own power supply for individual information storage, LCD panel, illumination, etc.
A F G H B I J K L C D E Parts and components A. B. C. D. E. F. LCD panel LCD illumination button Change up button Change down button Function selector Film plane index LCD panel A B D F B The LCD can be illuminated by pressing the display illumination button, which is accessible when the magazine is not attached to the camera. The LCD will remain illuminated all the time you keep the button depressed, up to a maximum of 10 seconds.
E F G H Function selector Selects the four functions that can be changed on the magazine. The functions are on a menu loop so that repeated pressing of the selector button will successively access all functions in turn. After a time-out of five seconds of non-activity, the display returns to the main screen. Changes can only be made when the settings lock switch is in the unlocked position.
Operation Battery 1 The magazine uses a battery to retain information and settings when unattached from the camera. When attached to the camera body, the magazine takes its power requirements from the camera batteries. The magazine battery will normally be effective for 1-2 years depending on use (off camera illumination, for example). When the battery is in a very low condition, (approx. 1 month of use left), a low-battery symbol appears on the magazine LCD as a warning.
Magazine settings C A B D E 1 2 3 4 5 Press the function selector ( button ) repeatedly to successively access: A. Film speed (ISO / Bar Code) B. Film length (120/220/ Number of frames) C. Data (on/off ) D. Frame counter (count down / count up) E. Low-battery warning symbol Film speed setting / Barcode The film speed (ISO / ASA) can be set automatically or manually. Automatic setting uses a Barcode (only some films have this feature, notably Fujifilm). This is the default setting.
Data imprint setting Manual film speed setting. 220 film length setting. Data imprinting can be activated or deactivated through the magazine menu. To access data setting: 1) Ensure the magazine settings lock is in the unlocked position. 2) Press the button until the Data symbol appears. 3) Press either the or the button to reach On or Off. 4) The new setting will be saved automatically after a time out of five seconds. 5) Return the magazine settings lock to the locked position.
Film loading 1 2 The film magazine can be loaded either on or off the camera. Regularly check the interior of the magazine and remove dust, particles or any scraps of paper from previous rolls of film. Load and unload film magazines away from direct light sources. 1) Fold out the film holder key and turn it counter-clockwise 90°. Withdraw the film holder completely.
Film wind on and off 6 6, 7 Wind on: See ‘Film wind-on’ under Custom Options for a setting choice. Wind off: When the last frame has been exposed, the film will automatically be wound off. However, to wind off a film sooner, press the film wind off button (fig. 6). Use a ballpoint pen or similar to activate it. You must also confirm the message on the grip LCD (fig. 7) before the film winds off. 7 Unloading a film To remove a film, remove the film holder in the same manner as when loading a film.
18 Appendix � Glossary of Terms � P and Pv explanatory charts � Technical specifications � Equipment Care, Service & Guarantee This section provides an insight into the more technical aspects as well as some important reference information.
Glossary of Terms Half-press / Full press – Shutter release button For the sake of clarity, here are short and simple explanations of several terms, items and features mentioned in the manual that may be unfamiliar to some. The shutter release button can be depressed in two different ways. This distinction is referred to in the text as half-press and full-press positions. A half-press is a rapid, soft press whereas a full-press is a firmer and longer depression of the button.
OTF Tethered / Untethered Off The Film - the original literal description of the light measurement mechanics regarding flash exposure measurement that now applies to digital sensors too. When the H3D saves digital files to an external storage source - an Imagebank or a computer - it is described as tethered (connected by a cable). When files are saved to an internal CF card only it is described as untethered (no external cable connections).
True exposure Shutter position T3 = T1 Open Exposure at max aperture (e.g. f/2,8) Exposure at aperture f/4 Exposure at aperture f/4 adjusted with true exposure Closed T1 T2 Time True exposure The effective shutter speed for a central lens shutter is defined as the length of time between the opening and closing when measured at the half height position when expressed in diagram form (see diagram).
Automatic exposure — P & Pv Mode P Mode EV -5 2 3 50 50-110 @ 50 80 120 50-110 @ 110 210 150 210 150 -3 -2 -1 1 0 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 18 19 8s 4s 2s 1s 2 4 8 15 30 60 125 250 5 6 7 8 9 10 13 14 15 16 17 11 18 16 90 64s 500 1000 19 20 21 22 23 32s 16s 8s 4s 2s 1s 2 4 8 15 Shutterspeed Shutter speed Shutter speed Shutterspeed P-mode Pv-mode 30 60 125 Light metering method sensitivity distribution with a HVD 90X Centre Weighted (23
Technical specifications Camera Type Auto-focus, auto-exposure digital SLR camera with interchangeable viewfinders and lenses. Construction One piece stainless steel shell. Die-cast aluminium internal structure. Tripod sockets (1/4 and 3/8”) and quick coupling tripod plate for rapid mounting. Lenses Hasselblad HC lenses with built-in electronically controlled shutter and aperture. Automatic or manual focusing with instant manual focus override.
User interface Both basic and advanced functions are set using buttons and control wheels on the camera body in conjunction with the grip and viewfinder graphic interface LED’s. Sensor unit menu visible and controllable from unit’s OLED and from FlexColor on a tethered computer. Battery grip rechargeable 7.2 V Li-ion type. 7.2 V / 1850 mAh output. Battery charger Li-ion 7.2 VDC Uses DV charge termination technique to prevent over-charging.100–240 VAC / 50–60 Hz input. 6.0–7.
Default Settings (“Standard” profile) Exp.mode LM mode Exp. adjust Focus mode Drive mode Flash sync Flash adjust A (Aperture priority) Centre weighted 0 AF-S S Normal (beginning of exp.
Care and maintenance of sensor unit Handling and storage • Always replace the protective CCD/filter cover when the sensor unit is not mounted on your camera. • Do not touch the exposed CCD/filter with your fingers. • Keep all foreign objects out of the camera opening. • Store your sensor unit away from moisture and excessive heat. Please see “Technical Specifications” for complete operational and storage requirements. • Protect your sensor unit from impact—do not drop it.
2. Fold the tissue several times to match the width of the IR filter—you might use two or three tissues at a time if necessary (to give you a better grip). Be sure to fold the paper so that the coated glossy side faces outwards—do not use the other side, as it can do more harm than good! 3. Gently place the folded tissue onto the edge of the filter using two or three fingers. Be sure to wipe the entire surface evenly. Sweep the filter only once.
CAUTION Problems, Equipment Care, Service & Guarantee The H3D is a very sophisticated camera that relies on much information being passed and processed to and from each modular unit to produce the correct behaviour. It is therefore essential that reasonable care is taken in attaching, detaching and storing the viewfinder, lenses, extension tubes, etc to ensure that the databus connections are not damaged or soiled in any way.
The information in this manual is furnished for informational use only, is subject to change without notice, and should not be construed as a commitment by Victor Hasselblad AB & Hasselblad A/S. Not all the images in this manual were taken with a Hasselblad H3D. They are used for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to represent the image quality produced by a Hasselblad H3D.
Victor Hasselblad AB Hasselblad A/S Box 220, Hejrevej 30, SE - 401 23 Göteborg, DK - 2400 Copenhagen, Sweden Denmark 99
