The Hasselblad X2D: A Medium Format Dream for Landscape Photography

If you're into landscape and portrait photography, finding the right camera for your needs can make all the difference. While fast-action shooting and convenience matter in many situations, there’s also something to be said for slowing down, being intentional, and capturing the perfect shot. The Hasselblad X2D might just be the camera to help you do that.

Coming to you from Samuel Elkins, this insightful video discusses the Hasselblad X2D, a medium format camera that offers an impressive shooting experience. Elkins emphasizes the tactile nature of the camera, making it feel like you’re painting with light rather than just snapping a picture. The X2D’s large sensor and 55mm lens provide incredible depth and detail, perfect for portraits and landscapes. But one of its most standout features is the built-in 1TB SSD storage, eliminating the need for memory cards—a convenience you’ll appreciate when you're out shooting and don’t want to deal with swapping or formatting cards.

Elkins goes on to discuss how the X2D fits into his workflow. For travel photography and slower-paced projects, the camera shines. It encourages a more deliberate, thoughtful approach to composing shots. Elkins notes that while this camera may not be ideal for fast-paced action or sports photography, it excels in other areas, making it perfect for those looking to create detailed, high-quality images. He compares the experience to shooting with a Mamiya 7, a medium format film camera known for its slow and deliberate style. This comparison highlights the unique rhythm of using the X2D, which might be unfamiliar to some but rewarding for those willing to take their time.

One of the X2D’s major selling points is its stunning image quality. Elkins raves about the level of detail and character the camera produces, especially when capturing portraits and landscapes. While the camera’s price may be steep, it’s clear that you’re getting a high-end piece of equipment designed for those who prioritize quality. He also touches on the practical side of using the camera, such as its quiet performance during regular usage, making it ideal for settings where silence is important.

The video further explores how the X2D works best in controlled environments or specific genres like landscape photography. Its design makes you slow down and think through every shot, which can lead to more intentional and polished images. Elkins also emphasizes that while the camera isn’t built for every scenario, it’s a powerful tool for creating breathtaking images in the right hands. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Elkins.

Alex Cooke is a Cleveland-based photographer and meteorologist. He teaches music and enjoys time with horses and his rescue dogs.

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1 Comment

Given the recent bombshell /not-bombshell (based on video by Gerald Undone) disclosure from Roman Fox (whose video should've been named "How to torpedo your reputation & integrity 101" instead) that Hasselblad is GIVING these cameras to what now amounts to paid shills on YouTube and other social platforms, NOT ONE WORD of any Hasselblad "review" should be trusted IN THE SLIGHTEST. And the fact Hasselblad is majority owned by CCP-entity DJI, this should send alarm bells ringing.

This also explains why I've suddenly started seeing the Hasselblad showing up in the hands of not only other street photgraphers, but also landscape photographers like Thomas Heaton, Nigel Danson, Gavin Hardcastle, Adam Gibbs... Based on this new insight, they've all been bought and paid for by Hasselblad / DJI / CCP with a "gift" worth $14,000 USD (or more), with the stipulation of "if you really have something negative to say about the camera, do be sure to run it by us before letting it be known"...

To Roman's credit however, at least he was up front about it and admitted to this reality. You could almost see the look on his face he knew this would damage, if not end his career, so at least I give him that.

For reference: DJI purchase of Hasselblad - https://www.theverge.com/2017/1/6/14188914/dji-acquires-hasselblad-majo…

Roman's video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VERs8tMHip0