Film photography has a timeless charm that continually fuels my creativity. By the end of 2024, I gathered a selection of film rolls for the Hasselblad 503CXI and was eager to dive in. I’m excited to share the initial images comparing the stunning results of the 503CXI using Kodak Portra 400 alongside the digital back of the Hasselblad V907x. 

I acquired the Hasselblad 503CXi about a year ago, and it has truly transformed my photography experience. This medium-format film camera is celebrated for its outstanding build quality, remarkable versatility, and stunning image fidelity. A true classic in the realm of professional photography, it delivers exceptional detail and a breathtaking dynamic range.

Discover the Hasselblad 503CXi –

• Format:** Captures medium format (6×6 cm images) using 120/220 film, ensuring rich visual depth and clarity. –
• Lens Compatibility:** Works seamlessly with Hasselblad V-mount lenses, featuring the world-renowned Carl Zeiss optics for unmatched sharpness. –
• Innovative Shutter System:** Includes leaf shutters within the lenses, providing reliable flash sync across all shutter speeds for creative flexibility. –
• Versatile Viewfinder Options:** Comes with a standard waist-level finder, plus optional prism finders for comfortable eye-level shooting. –
• Durable Construction:** Built with a rugged, modular design, enabling effortless interchange of lenses, film backs, and viewfinders to suit any shooting scenario.

I recently visited Grobet in Antwerp to pick up three fantastic types of film that are sure to enhance my photography. First on my list was Kodak Portra 400, the go-to professional film stock that’s dominating the market right now. Its outstanding features—extremely wide exposure latitude, fine grain, stunning skin tones, and impressive shadow detail—make it a must-have. Can you imagine the possibilities? Whether capturing the magic of sunny weddings or the vibrant energy of cityscapes at night, Portra 400 excels in any setting! I can’t wait to give this film a try.

Next, I added Kodak T-MAX 400 to my collection. This continuous-tone, panchromatic black-and-white negative film is perfect for any photographer who needs to capture fast action or dimly lit subjects. It effectively extends flash range and is ideal for scenes that require great depth of field and quick shutter speeds—all while delivering exceptional image quality.

As a bonus, I also picked up ILFORD HP5 PLUS. This high-speed, fine-grain, medium-contrast black-and-white film is perfect for journalism, documentary storytelling, travel, sports, and even indoor photography with available light. With these films in hand, I’m excited about the incredible moments I can capture!

With two film rolls loaded and my digital back ready, I set off for the enchanting forest of Postel in Belgium. This would mark my first venture into film photography in over 30 years, and I couldn’t be more excited. As I stepped into the forest, the anticipation started to build, and I felt ready to embrace this challenge. Back to basics, I faced the fact that my camera lacked a built-in light meter, which required me to rely on an external one for proper setup. The true magic of shooting with film is in the suspense of waiting to see the results unfold.

We meticulously adjusted our settings based on the light meter’s readings, and with that, I captured my first image. Now, the question loomed: what would the outcome be?

Hasselblad 503CXI with Digital back

Hasselblad 503CXI with film Porta 400

Hasselblad 503CXI with Digital back

Hasselblad 503CXI with film Porta 400

Here are the first images, and I must say, it feels different for me. I’m used to seeing the fruits of my labor instantly on the back of the camera, so this waiting game was a unique challenge. I had to wait over a week as I sent my first roll of film to my friends at Grobet in Antwerp, but let me tell you, it was absolutely worth it.

As I began to review those initial images, I realized something profound. I needed to let go of my control—an essential step in the creative process. There was no immediate feedback, so I had to trust my instincts that the settings I chose for my camera and lens were spot on. I had to believe that these images would accurately convey my emotions, even if I couldn’t see that instantly.

This journey was about trust, trusting in the moment and in my craft! I also took the opportunity to experiment further with more images using both the digital back and another roll of film on my grandfather’s farm, a place rich with memories. Embracing this process has opened up new dimensions in my photography.

Hasselblad 503CXI with Kodak Porta 400

Hasselblad 503CXI with Hasselblad 907X II

Seeing the images next to each other truly pulls me toward film photography. It evokes an emotional feeling that simply makes me happy. The simplicity and patience required to capture these moments have taught me to embrace silence and step back in these busy times.

It is a test, that is for sure, but I think and feel there is more to come. I am especially excited to explore black-and-white photography, eagerly anticipating my first portraits with that beautiful grain.

Less is more, I guess!

Thank you.