## Hasselblad: A Legacy of Excellence in Photography Hasselblad is a Swedish manufacturer renowned for its premium medium-format cameras, photographic equipment, and image scanners, based in Gothenburg, Sweden[4]. The company is celebrated for its unparalleled craftsmanship, optical quality, and innovative design, making it a favorite among both professional photographers and enthusiasts who demand the highest standards in image quality[1]. ## History and Evolution Hasselblad’s origins trace back to 1841, when Fritz Victor Hasselblad founded F.W. Hasselblad & Co. as a trading company in Gothenburg[1][2]. Initially focused on importing household and industrial goods, the company’s destiny changed dramatically during World War II. The Swedish government, in urgent need of aerial reconnaissance cameras, turned to Hasselblad. Victor Hasselblad, the founder’s grandson, responded by developing the HK7—a superior aerial camera that laid the foundation for the company’s future in photography[3]. Between 1941 and 1945, Hasselblad produced hundreds of specialized cameras for the military, but always envisioned creating a camera for civilian use[3][5]. In 1948, Hasselblad launched its first consumer camera, the 1600F—a groundbreaking 6×6 single-lens reflex (SLR) medium-format camera with interchangeable lenses and accessories[5][7]. This innovation set a new standard in photography. The company’s reputation was further cemented in 1957 with the introduction of the 500C, which featured a leaf shutter for flash synchronization and interchangeable components, becoming the basis for Hasselblad’s iconic 500 series[5]. These cameras became the gold standard for professionals, especially after NASA adopted modified Hasselblad cameras for the Apollo moon missions, capturing some of history’s most iconic images[4]. ## Key Achievements and Notable Aspects Hasselblad’s cameras are