Macros lenses for Hasselblad 501CM series

ted_smith · May 28, 2012

I am hoping to raise funds in the future for a Macro lens for my Hasselblad 501CM.

Other than very expensive limited edition lenses that Carl Zeiss released, I am looking at those listed here :

http://www.ffordes.co.uk/category/Medium_Format/Hasselblad/Hasselblad_V_Series/C/CF/CFE_Lenses

There is big difference between 135mm F5.6 C Macro (~£250ish) and the 120mm F4 CF Macro (~£850ish).

So I'm curious to know if the price difference is all that comparable to results? I am used to using a 2.8 60mm Nikon Nikkor Macro lens (before it was stolen) with my F5 and I had great results with that - I am looking for a Macro lens of similar optical quality of that for my Hasselblad. I appreciate a 2.8 Carl Zeiss is gonna cost big, but I hoped the quality of say an f5.6 might still be pretty good in the Hasselblad world?

ruilourosa · May 28, 2012

it does not exist such thing as a 2.8 macro lens for hasselblad 501, and the 135 is an excellent lens as is the 120, or any macro lens for hasselblad

brucemuir · May 28, 2012

I think the 135 Macro has no focus helical and needs to be mounted on a bellows attachment.

ruilourosa · May 28, 2012

segedi · May 28, 2012

You may want to try some extension tubes. The 8 and 16 mm extensions allow you to get much closer at a much better cost.

Slixtiesix · May 29, 2012

Yes, the 135mm can only be used with a bellow unit, since it has no built-in focussing helicoid. If you only intend to do some close ups in studio/at home this won´t be much of a problem, but carrying it around may be a bit awkward. I would go for the 120/4 CF. There is also an older version (120/5,6 S-Planar) available as C or C T* Lens. It is the predecessor of the 120/4 Makro Planar and every bit as good optically, apart from only being f 5,6. In case you want to save some money, this would be my recommendation. Just make sure the shutter is working properly.

http://www.ffordes.co.uk/product/11110312464181

Leigh B · May 29, 2012

I have the 120mm/4 CF Makro lens, and it's absolutely outstanding.

Use it with either bellows or extension tubes if you need closer than 1:4.5 (10" square subject), which is what it will do in its regular mount.

As others have said, the 135mm Makro lens has no focusing helicoid and must be used with a bellows. Very specialized lens, which I don't own.

- Leigh

ted_smith · May 29, 2012

Thanks for the help and info guys...I will probably go with your recommendation Slixtiesix...once I have enough spare pennies not to annoy the wife by "another photographic expense"!!

tnabbott · Jun 3, 2012

segedi said:
You may want to try some extension tubes. The 8 and 16 mm extensions allow you to get much closer at a much better cost.

I agree that extension tubes are a good way to go. I was using the Mamiya RZ system and love macro. The bellows focusing allows almost any lens to be used for close up and extensions tubes increase the magnification. Initially, I was frustrated with the Hasselblad because it does not have the bellows focusing. Then I discovered the extension tubes. With these, I can get great macro shots regardless of the lens.

film_man · Jun 3, 2012

Just get a 150 and a 16 or 21mm tube.

Mark Fisher · Jun 3, 2012

If you already have a 150, I'd agree with others that you should try an extension tube. If you don't, the macro is more convenient. Either way, the Hassy macro isn't close to 1:1 so you will probably want tubes anyway. Dead Link Removedis the Hasselbald page that compares extension tube vs lenses. Worth the read.

pgomena · Jun 4, 2012

The Makro-Planar is an outstanding lens. It is my favorite for many reasons. I find it matches my particular photographic vision more closely than the 80mm. It is not the same as a macro or macro-zoom lens on a 35mm, however. You'll need extension tubes to get really close.

Peter Gomena

Macros lenses for Hasselblad 501CM series

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