The Hasselblad CFV‑50c digital back redefines the classic V‑system with contemporary digital performance while preserving the iconic aesthetic of the 500C/M.
By Adam Ryder | Published Nov 11, 2015 11:26 AM EST
A portrait captured with the Hasselblad CFV‑50c digital back. Fiona Gardner
Most modern medium‑format backs are designed for contemporary rigs, but the CFV‑50c bridges the gap by fitting any of Hasselblad’s V‑series cameras from 1957 to today. Its black leatherette‑wrapped, chrome‑finished body echoes the mid‑century design language of the original analog film backs, while a memory‑card slot replaces the old film‑advance lever. A 3‑inch colour screen at the rear offers a clear live‑view interface, complemented by a minimal set of buttons that navigate a streamlined menu system.
Using the back on the 500 C/M, a fully mechanical 6×6 SLR, required a brief adjustment period. Because the camera is an SLR, you must engage mirror‑lock‑up to view the sensor in live‑view mode. The CFV‑50c’s sensor only powers on after the shutter fires, and the exposure time is set through the back’s menu rather than the lens leaf shutter. Matching the sensor’s 4:3 (6×4.5 film equivalent) aspect ratio with the 500 C/M’s square viewfinder was easy thanks to Hasselblad’s supplied framing guides.
Initial quirks—such as the delayed sensor activation and the need to reconcile shutter speeds between the lens and the back—are expected when blending digital and vintage mechanics. Once acclimated, the workflow feels natural, and the tactile experience of winding the 500 C/M between shots adds a unique charm.
The CFV‑50c delivers 50 MP of digital resolution, supports ISO values up to 6,400, and records 16‑bit RAW files to CF cards. Its bare‑bones menu keeps the focus on image capture, though deleting files directly from the back can feel cumbersome. The inclusion of a FireWire 800 port makes tethered capture straightforward, reinforcing the back’s role as a studio asset.
In sum, the CFV‑50c is a distinctive piece of equipment that marries heritage design with high‑performance digital imaging. For enthusiasts who value the tactile feel of classic medium‑format cameras and can invest in premium gear, the back commands a retail price of $9,995.00.
A portrait captured with the Hasselblad CFV‑50c digital back. Fiona Gardner
A portrait captured with the Hasselblad CFV‑50c digital back. Fiona Gardner
A still life captured with the Hasselblad CFV‑50c digital back. Adam Ryder
A still life captured with the Hasselblad CFV‑50c digital back. Adam Ryder
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