The True and Only Panoramic Camera - Hasselblad XPAN
Updated: Nov 7
(Photo credits to Chris Chu)
The Hasselblad XPAN is probably one of the most desirable, and unusual, film cameras ever made. Unlike the medium format cameras that have made Hasselblad famous, the XPAN used 35mm film to shoot panoramic images that were 65x24mm in size.
Hasselblad XPAN is just a all-round and perfect camera for rangefinders' users. It is very well built and solid, not to mention its functionality, it has aperture priority mode, reliable light meter, winding system etc. You can also switch from panoramic format to normal 135 format. Basically, it has everything that a rangefinder user will need. Not to mention it is basically the only camera that are designed for panoramic shots.
(Photo credits to FUJILOVE MAGAZINE)
The original XPan was launched in 1998, and over 16,000 of these cameras were sold. In 2003, an updated XPan II was produced, of which Hasselblad tells us there 5500 produced before the model was discontinued in 2006. Both models were produced as a joint venture with Fujifilm, which sold the cameras as the TX-1 and TX-2.
XPAN II has an updated EVF with exposure info that you might need and it also has a double exposure mode that allows you to create playful images.
Images
(Photo credits to Lomography)
XPAN is not like any other 35mm cameras that you might have used. Panoramic format is just something unique. It allows you to create some interesting cinematic images. The price of this camera has skyrocketed in the past few years. If you are interested in this piece and you can afford the price tag, don't hesitate you get your hand on the XPAN. You won't regret it.