Hasselblad X1D Highlight Discrimination and Nuanced Detail Example: Mission Mural
Related: Hasselblad, Hasselblad medium format, Hasselblad mirrorless, Hasselblad X1D 50C, Hasselblad X1D II 50C, John G, medium format
In the Hasselblad X1D Imaging Quality section in my review of the Hasselblad X1D in Medium Format I present a deceptively simple example:
Hasselblad X1D: Distinguishing Nuanced Detail (Mission Painting)
Includes images up to full resolution.
This example shows a total sum quality that is remarkable, and worth studying at full resolution for all sorts of nuanced image quality aspects. Not a technical analysis at all—just an image that really impresses me, as have field images. I may have to go to a safe space, being so triggered by the results here and with some other images—oh yeah—the X1D loaner has to go back now so I can relax, sort of: I have just about reached the tipping point of lusting after an X1D, in spite of the autofocus issue. More images to come that support that idea.
What particularly impresses me about the X1D is the highlight discrimination, the subtle nuances of detail in high-key areas, a quality that I sense is lacking in nearly all 35mm format cameras, the sole possible exception being the Nikon D810 (and I am not sure on that count!).
This image really has to be seen at full resolution on an iMac 5K to be fully appreciated.
Hasselblad X1D + Hasselblad XCD 30mm f/3.5 @ 24.7mm equiv (30mm)
[low-res image for bot]
John G writes:
In your March 25 post, you’ve expressed expertly what I’m seeing in the Hasselblad files: Observable detail, nuance, and an expanded tonality in the high-key areas. I would add that these type of observations require a degree of open-minded empiricism—for which you should be applauded. I would also say, and I’m sure you’d agree, that the causes behind the phenomenon are not beyond technical analysis. We just need a way to do it, to measure it—a testing protocol that would explicate an aspect of IQ that is clearly—and repeatedly—observable in the images produced by the Hasselblads.
DIGLLOYD: I am pretty sure that the mapping over the dynamic range or the sensor (see notes in Shootout vs Nikon D810, Flowers) and the 16-bit gradation are involved.
