User Manual
H2F
 
Introduction 
Parts & Components  
1  Function Control & Display 
Grip LCD 
Viewfinder LCD 
2  Camera Body 
Carrying strap 
Battery holder 
Fitting batteries 
Battery life 
Viewfinder screen 
Accessory connection 
PC-connector 
Protective base plate 
3  Viewfinder 
Parts & Components 
Attaching and  
Removing the viewfinder 
Eyepiece adjustment 
Eye cup 
4  Lenses 
Parts & Components 
Attaching a lens 
Removing a lens 
Lens cap 
Filters 
Lens shades 
Shutter and aperture control 
Depth-of-field calculation 
Depth-of-field / visual preview 
Infrared focus settings 
Focus aid 
CF adapter 
Specific-lens information 
5  Film Magazines 
Parts & Components 
LCD panel 
LCD illumination button 
Change up button   
Change down button  
Function selector 
Film plane index 
3 
6
8
10
12
17
18
18
18
18
19
19
19
19
20
21
21
21
21
22
23
23
23
23
23
23
23
24
24
24
24
25
25
26
27
27
27
27
27
27
28
49
50
51
53
55
56
56
61
62
64
65
66
67
68
71
72
75
76
80
84
C  O  N  T  E  N  T  S
28
Darkslide indicator 
28
Darkslide key  
28
Film tab holder 
28
Film holder key 
28
Magazine settings lock 
28
Databus interface 
28
Magazine operation 
29
Battery 
Battery replacement 
29
Attaching and removing the magazine  29
30
Magazine settings 
Film speed setting 
30
30
Film speed setting / Barcode 
30
Film length/number of frames  
31
Data imprint setting 
Frame counter setting  
31
31
Low-battery symbol 
32
Film loading 
Film wind of f 
32
9  Advanced Features 
General overview of camera menu 
Self Timer 
Bracketing 
Interval 
Settings 
Custom Options 
Image Info / Imprint type 
Text 
Date & Time 
System status 
Digital 
Customizable button function list 
10 Flash 
Flash measure 
11 Optional Accessories 
6  Digital Photography 
33
12 Appendix 
Glossary 
Technical specifications 
 Equipment care and service  
 
7  Light Metering &                      
36
37
38
38
39
40
41
Exposure Control  
Metering method 
Exposure method 
Manual exposure mode 
Automatic exposure mode  
AE-L button 
Exposure compensation 
7  General Functions     
42
43
Power−ON 
43
Power−Standby 
43
Power−OFF 
43
Manual focus 
Manual focus mode 
44
Autofocus override in manual mode  44
Autofocus  
44
44
Single Shot 
45
Continuous 
45
Autofocus mode 
Drive  
46
46
Single 
46
Continuous 
46
Multi exposure 
Profiles 
47
47
Making a profile 
Changing a profile name  
48
2    
Welcome to Hasselblad! 
Hasselblad had its beginnings during the last fifty years of the last millennium. Within twenty 
years it was present as mankind took the first small step on the moon. Now, Hasselblad has 
made its own giant leap forwards into the future by developing the H system. It is a new foun-
dation on which to build, ensuring the utmost in image-quality, handling and versatility re-
sulting from the most reliable and efficient solutions to meet photographers’ expectations. 
The specifications and capabilities of the H system exceed the demands of most photogra-
phers. This allows the system to expand and develop. It’s one of the reasons that so many pro-
fessional photographers around the world are discovering, or re-discovering, the creative and 
professional possibilities provided by the Hasselblad system.
The H system is the result of the most intensive technical development programme ever under-
taken by Hasselblad, the most prestigious medium-format camera manufacturer in the world. 
It reflects an unprecedented wealth of knowledge and experience tightly interwoven with the 
latest technological developments that combined to produce an unrivalled world-class crea-
tive tool for the discerning photographer.
The H2F offers the best choice in a medium format platform where maximum choice of cap-
ture method or make is first on the list. Regarding features, what was once considered option-
al is now integral. The potential of this outstanding professional equipment straight out of the 
box is tremendous. 
But there is no trade-off in quality for the sake of the latest technology. The three pillars of the 
Hasselblad reputation remain: Reliability, Versatility, Interchangeability. Stainless steel and 
aluminium for no-nonsense professional use and durability. Silicon chip control for basic prac-
tical support as well as sophisticated facilities to span all demands. A system to trust and build 
on, that will develop and grow in pace with tomorrow’s discoveries.
The list of features is long, varied and comprehensive. For example: automatic focus with in-
stant manual override, dot-matrix LCDs, rapid button and control wheel user interface, inte-
gral grip, integral fill-flash, multi-mode exposure metering, TTL flash control, automatic film 
speed setting with bar code, instant 120/220 interchangeability, integral dark slide, automatic 
film advance and film wind off, custom imprinting on frame edge including exposure data, 
name, symbols, etc., immediate cable-free compatibility with digital backs, presentation of 
digital information such as histograms and grey balance on the LCD, extremely accurate elec-
tronic leaf shutter, flash sync at all shutter speeds to 1/800s, eyeline viewfinder with 100% view, 
dot matrix viewfinder LCD, lithium or rechargeable battery options, shutter speeds from 18 
3    
hours to 1/800s, user customization of functions. And that’s not all! Bracketing, interval timer, 
rapid access user button, flash measure, independent LCD illumination on magazines, integral 
diopter adjustment in viewfinder, zone system capability, time-lapse photography, customized 
profiles and so on. 
In digital photography, the advantages of larger format cameras become particularly obvious. 
The 6 x 4.5 cm window allows the Hasselblad H2F to use the largest image sensors currently 
available in digital photography – more than twice the size of a 35mm camera sensor. The sen-
sor therefore holds more and larger pixels, which secure a high-end image quality in terms of 
moiré free color rendering without gradation break-ups in even the finest lit surfaces.
When using a digital back you have the advantage of features such as Hasselblad Natural Color 
Solution, DNG workflow, Instant Approval Architecture, “Instant” user interface, three modes of 
operation and storage as well as FlexColor or Phocus software for professional level workflow. 
Furthermore, apart from the practical aspects, the H2F also exudes a feeling of superb design 
and ergonomics that makes the camera a pleasure to own as well as use. For handling and con-
venience of use it is second to none.   
So Hasselblad, the most distinguished pioneer in medium-format photography, yet again takes 
the vanguard position. We are confident that you are going to incorporate this camera insepa-
rably into your photographic life. We are also confident that you are going to produce images 
you are proud of. Some of these will remain as a documentation of the history of our world, 
perhaps even beyond. That’s how it is with Hasselblad.          
            sssssssssssssss
The primary goal of all camera development is of course the seamless and unobtrusive produc-
tion of superb images, regardless of situation. The H2F has abilities and features that you may 
not think you need, yet. Each individual has their own way of working. But the H2F has tremen-
dous scope for fine-tuning your technique possibly beyond your present ambitions .
The Quick Start Guide should have you up and running in minutes. The H2F will function equally 
well as an automatic point-and-shoot or as a total-control, ultra-professional instrument. 
The user manual is intended to be the standard reference manual. In it you will find full user de-
scriptions, LCD charts, specifications, etc. For the sake of simplicity, a film magazine and stand-
ard lens are normally shown in most illustrations.
Take your time to learn the intricacies and potentials of the H2F. Go at your own pace and ex-
plore the possibilities when you feel ready for the next step. Results will be good from the word 
go, that’s guaranteed, but when you want to make improvements or work more efficiently per-
haps, the H2F can provide support.
The supreme Hasselblad potential is there, it’s up to you to exploit it!
            sssssssssssssss
Finally, please check occasionally on the Hasselblad website — www.hasselblad.com — for any updates re-
garding user instructions, changes, news, or other information concerning the H system. If you have no Internet 
access, please contact your Hasselblad dealer or distributor for the latest information.
4    
  What’s in the box  
Your new Hasselblad camera may have been supplied in kit 
form or as separate items. There are a number of possible 
combinations depending on factors such as offers, bundles 
etc. Please ensure that all the items noted on the accompany-
ing packing information have been supplied and are correct. 
Contact your Hasselblad dealer or distributor immediately if 
anything is missing or seems faulty in any way, quoting the se-
rial numbers and purchase details where appropriate.
Familiarise yourself with the various parts and components. 
Leave protective covers on as much as possible and avoid 
touching glass surfaces and inserting fingers into the cam-
era body. The H2F has a robust construction and is capable 
of withstanding fairly rough treatment but nevertheless is a 
precision instrument and will serve you longer if treated with 
respect from the beginning.
Please keep purchase details and the warranty in a safe place. 
  
5    
1.   Flash unit hot-shoe
2.   Rubber eyecup
3.   Exposure mode and metering  
  method selector button
4.   Exposure compensation button
5.   Eyepiece adjustment dial
6.   Magazine LCD
7.   Magazine LCD illumination button
8.   Magazine control buttons
9.   Magazine settings lock
10.  AE-L button
11.  Film wind-off button
12.  User button
13.  Rear control wheel
14.  Grip LCD
15.  Support strap lug
16.  Camera control buttons
17.  Magazine databus
18.  Front control wheel
19.  Shutter release button
20.  Battery holder button
21.  Release cord socket
22.  Stop down button
23.  Battery holder retaining lever
24.  Mirror up button
25.  Battery holder
26.  Flash unit
27.  Viewfinder screen
28.  Focus assist light
29.  Mirror
30.  Distance and depth-of-field scales
31.  Focusing ring
32.  Lens shade bayonet
33.  Filter screw thread
34.  Databus connection
35.  Viewfinder release button
36.  Flash unit catch
37.  Viewfinder attachment hook
38.  Viewfinder databus connection
39.  Magazine release button
40.  Flash PC socket
41.  Camera strap lug
42.  Lens release button
43.  Magazine support
44.  Databus connection
45.  Quick coupling tripod plate 
46.  Film tab holder
47.  Magazine darkslide key
48.  Film holder key
49.  Magazine support groove
50.  Databus connection
  Parts & Components  
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
24.
25.
35.
36.
37.
38.
39.
40.
41.
42.
43.
44.
45.
6    
26.
27.
28.
29.
30.
31.
32.
33.
34.
46.
47.
48.
49.
50.
  Familiarize yourself with the H2F
Take a few minutes to familiarize yourself with the H2F and its various controls. Note the difference 
between a long press, a short press and a ’click’ with some buttons. For example from the main screen 
a click of the ON.OFF button will take you to Profiles while a longer press will turn the camera off. 
With your right hand holding the ergonomic grip for security and control, your thumb and fingers 
have immediate access to all the controls without letting go. The H2F sits comfortably in the palm of 
your left hand for support but leaves your fingers free for eventual manual focus adjustments. 
Note the changes on the LCD as you press the various buttons and rotate the control wheels. Notice 
too the changes in the viewfinder LCD as you do the same. You cannot damage the camera by 
pressing the wrong buttons or controls or using them in the wrong order. The worst that can hap-
pen is that you might get ‘lost’ in the menu or you might activate a certain action that takes time to 
complete. In this case simply click on the escape button (ON-OFF - PROFILES / ESC) to return to the 
‘main’ screen again.
Attempt a half-press with the shutter release button with the camera set at autofocus too see how 
the lens focuses and the light metering reacts. Notice that the lens barrel does not revolve in auto-
focus but you can immediately change the focus manually and immediately revert to autofocus 
again by using a half-press again. 
Note the readily accessible customizable buttons that provide direct access to most functions (in-
vestigate how you can exploit this excellent function to the full in a later section).
Note the safety features integral in the magazine so you cannot remove a magazine without the 
darkslide in place or (unless set otherwise) make an exposure with the darkslide in place.
Feel for the stop down button positioned between the lens and the grip. 
Press the AF button and then turn the front control wheel to change from AF single to AF continu-
ous to Manual to try out the differences in how the camera behaves in these different modes, for 
example.
Press the EXP button on the viewfinder and then turn the rear control wheel to change the metering 
method to see the changes in sensitivity of the exposure meter. 
Quite simply, just explore the camera for a little while to feel at home with the general handling and 
the idea of control buttons and wheels and LCD information, etc. The sooner you become accus-
tomed to moving the controls instinctively the sooner you will be able to effortlessly use the finesses 
on offer. 
The remainder of this manual will slowly take you through, stage for stage, each feature and setting 
so that you can master this marvellous piece of photographic equipment and exploit it to the full.
Finally, remember to check occasionally with your camera dealer or on the Hasselblad website to 
see whether a firmware update is available. The functions and options described in this manual 
refer to the firmware version the camera was shipped with. The ability to update camera firmware is 
an advantage you should not forget to make full use of to maximize the capabilities of your H2F!
7    
Function Control 
& Display
1
 LCD display on camera 
 LED display on viewfinder
 Upgradeable firmware
 Rapidly accessible menu
 Interactive display
 Customizable functions
All functions and settings on the H2F 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. It is pixel 
based and therefore has a greater capacity to pro-
duce user-friendly symbols for rapid and secure  
interpretation.
8