Introduction
This manual provides essential instructions for the setup, operation, and maintenance of your Hasselblad 500 C/M Camera Kit. This kit is designed for film photography enthusiasts and professionals, offering a modular medium format system. Please read this manual thoroughly before using your camera to ensure proper function and longevity.
The Hasselblad 500 C/M Camera Kit includes:
- Hasselblad 500 C/M Camera Body
- Two A12 Film Backs
- Zeiss/Hasselblad 80mm F2.8 CF Lens
- Hasselblad Camera Reset/Repair Tool
- Fotofiox Pro Lens Hood for CF 80 Lens
- Op/Tech Pro Strap for Hasselblad Camera
- 80 mm Bayonet filter Adapter for Cokin System
- Miscellaneous Cable Shutter Releases
Setup
1. Attaching the Lens
Align the red dot on the Zeiss/Hasselblad 80mm F2.8 CF Lens with the red dot on the camera body. Gently insert the lens and rotate it clockwise until it clicks into place. Ensure the lens is securely locked.
Image: Hasselblad 500 C/M camera body with Zeiss 80mm lens attached, viewed from the front-right. This shows the camera's main body and the lens assembly.
2. Loading an A12 Film Back
- Open the film back by sliding the latch.
- Remove the film insert.
- Load a roll of 120 film into the supply spool chamber, ensuring the film leader is properly aligned.
- Thread the film leader onto the take-up spool.
- Advance the film using the winding knob until the number '1' appears in the film counter window.
- Reinsert the film insert into the film back and close the back securely.
3. Attaching an A12 Film Back
Slide the dark slide into the film back. Align the film back with the guides on the rear of the camera body. Push the film back firmly until it locks into place. Remove the dark slide before taking photographs.
Image: Side view of the Hasselblad 500 C/M camera with lens and film back attached. This perspective highlights the modular design and the attachment points for the film back.
4. Attaching the Op/Tech Pro Strap
Securely attach the Op/Tech Pro Strap to the strap lugs located on the camera body. Ensure both ends are fastened correctly to prevent accidental drops.
5. Using the Fotofiox Pro Lens Hood
Attach the Fotofiox Pro Lens Hood to the front of the 80mm CF lens by aligning it and twisting until it locks. This helps reduce lens flare and provides some protection to the front element.
6. Attaching the 80 mm Bayonet Filter Adapter
The 80 mm Bayonet filter Adapter for Cokin System can be attached to the lens bayonet mount to allow the use of Cokin filters. Follow the adapter's specific instructions for secure attachment.
Image: Complete Hasselblad 500 C/M kit components laid out on a white surface. This image displays the camera body, lens, film backs, strap, lens hood, and other accessories included in the kit.
Operating Instructions
1. Focusing
The 500 C/M uses a waist-level viewfinder. Open the viewfinder hood and look down into the focusing screen. Rotate the focusing ring on the lens until your subject appears sharp. The focusing screen often includes a split-image rangefinder or microprism collar for precise focusing.
Image: Top-down view of the Hasselblad 500 C/M camera with the waist-level viewfinder open, showing the focusing screen. This illustrates how to compose and focus an image.
2. Setting Aperture and Shutter Speed
The Zeiss/Hasselblad 80mm F2.8 CF Lens features rings for setting both aperture (f-stop) and shutter speed. Rotate the aperture ring to select your desired f-number (e.g., F2.8 to F22). Rotate the shutter speed ring to select the desired speed (e.g., 1/500s to 1s, plus B for Bulb). These settings are independent and must be chosen manually to achieve correct exposure.
Image: Close-up view of the Zeiss Planar 80mm f/2.8 lens, showing the aperture and shutter speed rings. This detail highlights the controls for exposure settings.
3. Winding and Firing the Shutter
After setting your exposure and focusing, use the winding crank on the side of the camera to cock the shutter and advance the film. The shutter release button is located on the front of the camera body. Press it gently to take a photograph. The camera features a leaf shutter, allowing for flash synchronization at all shutter speeds.
4. Using Cable Shutter Releases
For reduced camera shake, especially during long exposures or when using a tripod, attach a cable shutter release to the threaded socket on the shutter release button. Press the plunger on the cable release to fire the shutter.
Maintenance
1. Cleaning the Camera and Lens
- Use a soft, lint-free cloth to wipe down the camera body.
- For the lens elements, use a lens brush or blower to remove dust, followed by a specialized lens cleaning solution and microfiber cloth. Avoid touching the lens surface with your fingers.
- Keep the film back interior clean and free of dust or debris to prevent scratches on film.
2. Storage
Store the camera kit in a dry, dust-free environment, ideally in a camera bag or case. Avoid extreme temperatures and high humidity, which can damage the camera's mechanics and optics. If storing for extended periods, remove film from the film backs.
3. Using the Reset/Repair Tool
The Hasselblad Camera Reset/Repair Tool is provided for specific adjustments or minor repairs. Consult a qualified technician or official Hasselblad service manual for detailed instructions on its use. Improper use can cause damage to the camera.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Shutter not firing | Shutter not cocked; dark slide inserted; film back not properly attached. | Wind the camera; remove the dark slide; ensure film back is securely locked. |
| Film not advancing | Film improperly loaded; film roll finished. | Re-load film correctly; replace with a new roll of film. |
| Blurry images | Incorrect focus; camera shake; incorrect shutter speed for conditions. | Re-focus carefully; use a tripod or faster shutter speed; use cable release. |
| Light leaks on film | Film back not properly sealed; dark slide not fully inserted/removed correctly. | Check film back seals; ensure dark slide is handled correctly. |
Specifications
- Model Name: Hasselblad 500 CM
- Brand: Hasselblad
- Film Format Type: 120
- Included Components: Hasselblad 500 C/M Camera Body, Two A12 Film Backs, Zeiss/Hasselblad 80mm F2.8 CF Lens, Hasselblad Camera Reset/Repair Tool, Fotofiox Pro Lens Hood for CF 80 Lens, Op/Tech Pro Strap for Hasselblad Camera, 80 mm Bayonet filter Adapter for Cokin System, Misc. Cable Shutter Releases
- Max Shutter Speed: 1/500 seconds
- Viewfinder Magnification: 0.83x
- Compatible Devices: Camera
- UPC: 027075076686
- Date First Available: December 13, 2013
Warranty and Support
For information regarding warranty coverage, service, or technical support for your Hasselblad 500 C/M Camera Kit, please refer to the official Hasselblad website or contact their customer service directly. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase.