Help with first Hasselblad camera

[Bryan Murray]

I just bought a Hasselblad 501cm from KEH and this is my first medium format camera and i have a few questions.

1. Where is the best place to find a quick focus lever for my lens--50mm F4 C T*. Do they fit all the lenses or do i need one made specifically for this lens?

2. What is the best/brightest focusing screen to get. Mine has the split image rangefinder circle in the middle but still seems pretty dark. (i am using the waistlevel viewfinder)

3. What is the best (nonmetered since i use a spot meter) viewfinder to buy for ease in focusing but not too heavy.

4. Should i get a UV filter for this lens? I read that they have only gelatin filters on a holder for this lens, so it probably doesn't provide the same type of protection right?

Any help would be appreciated,
thanks!

[arigram]

Originally Posted by Bryan Murray

I just bought a Hasselblad 501cm from KEH and this is my first medium format camera and i have a few questions.

1. Where is the best place to find a quick focus lever for my lens--50mm F4 C T*. Do they fit all the lenses or do i need one made specifically for this lens?

From what I understand they used to make a lever for the 060 lenses but its out of production so I guess you should check out the used equipment places. I am not sure if it would fit the 50 correctly.

2. What is the best/brightest focusing screen to get. Mine has the split image rangefinder circle in the middle but still seems pretty dark. (i am using the waistlevel viewfinder)

The 501CM should have the latest Acumatte D screen. Make sure it is that one installed. You can't get a brighter one.

3. What is the best (nonmetered since i use a spot meter) viewfinder to buy for ease in focusing but not too heavy.

Most people recommend the 45 degree one in contrast to the 90. It fits the Polaroid back too in case you need one.

4. Should i get a UV filter for this lens? I read that they have only gelatin filters on a holder for this lens, so it probably doesn't provide the same type of protection right?

You can get a Hassebland branded bayonette type UV filter for the lens.

[PatTrent]

Hi Bryan:

Looks like Arigram pretty much covered the bases in his reply. The one thing I would add, though, is that I still prefer the waist-level finder on my 500C/M because it folds down flat and makes the camera more "compact." That means I can go out with just the standard lens, 1 film back, the WL finder, and stash it all in a small bag cinched around my waist. The other finders would require a bigger bag and be less convenient when I'm just out for a stroll with my dog (and sometimes not even carrying a meter!). Perhaps you don't plan to tote it around with you like that, just it's a thought. Even if you buy another finder, you might want to keep the WL, too.

Enjoy your new camera!

Pat

[Terence]

As to where to get this stuff, I have found KEH to have the best selection and prices. And unlike eBay, they have a great return policy. Aside from film backs, their "bargain" grade stuff is perfectly usable and better than most places would rate 9/9+ items. Their backs are good, but film backs are finicky and I've been better served by "excellent" rated ones.

[eddym]

I'm with Pat on the WL finder. All the prisms are heavy.

[bdial]

An f4 lens pretty small for a split image screen, also for it to give a clear image your eye must be on the optical center of the prism, otherwise you see a dark circle. A camera like the Hasselblad gives you a lot of room to move your eye to the wrong place. Framing with the magnifier up may make it easier. If you elect to go the prism finder route, I too would recommend the 45 degree over a 90, but you should try both to determine what fits your body the best.
Barry