Intro
This page focuses specifically on macro tools and configurations, complementing the broader Hasselblad lens overview.
Hasselblad offers several ways to approach macro photography with the 500 series, from specialized lenses to bellows and extension tubes. Two standouts in my own kit are the CFi 120mm f/4 Makro-Planar T* and the CF 135mm f/5.6 Makro-Planar T*.
The 120mm is the more versatile of the two, focusing from half-life-size (1:2) to infinity. It’s excellent for product photography, digitizing film, and even creating abstract images. I’ve used it with the FlexBody and now mainly pair it with the 64–85mm variable extension tube on a copy stand, where it performs beautifully with both film and digital.
The 135mm is designed to work with bellows or the variable extension tube and can achieve life-size (1:1) magnification. While it lacks its own focusing mechanism, in the right setup it delivers superb results, especially for high-magnification work.
Both lenses reflect Hasselblad’s strength in precision optics—offering different paths to macro photography, whether you prefer the convenience of the 120mm or the specialized versatility of the 135mm.
For an overview of the lenses used here, see the Hasselblad Lenses page.
Hasselblad Auto Bellows (40517)
The Hasselblad Automatic Bellows (AB) connects the camera to the lens, allowing the camera to function as if the lens is directly attached. The AB features adjustable knobs and an extension range from 63.5mm to 202mm. When used with the CF 135/5.6 Makro-Planar lens, it provides a focusing range from infinity to a 1:1 reproduction scale. Also shown above with the AB & CF 135/5.6 is the Lens Shade (40525), which has the transparency holder attached.
Extension Tubes: Variable & 56mm
Hasselblad produced a range of extension tubes for the 500 series in various millimeter lengths, including 8, 10, 16, 21, 32, 55, and 56. They produced a variable tube, the 64-85mm, which I use with the CFi 120/4 and 135/5.6. Tubes can be used individually or combined with other tubes. I have used two 56mm tubes together (pictured above) for macro work. It is not recommended to use more than three tubes at once. Extension tubes must be attached to the camera body before the lens is mounted on the tube. When using multiple tubes, attach the first one to the camera body, then add additional tubes, and finally attach the lens. To remove the lens, first detach it from the extension tube, then remove the tube from the camera body. If using several tubes, remove the one closest to the lens first, then work back toward the camera body
The 2XE Converter
The 2XE Converter is compatible with all Hasselblad V fixed lenses, except the CF 135/5.6. It doubles the lens’s focal length. For example, using 2XE with the CFi 180/4 changes the focal length to 360mm. Since teleconverters magnify the lens, they also highlight quality faults. They can produce excellent images when paired with top-quality lenses, such as Hasselblad lenses. The “XE” in 2XE indicates that it has an electronic Databus connection for the metering system in 200-series cameras. I use the 2XE converter for macro work and creating abstract digital images.
NOTE: I'm Not a Typical Macro Photographer
Images Captured With Hasselblad Macro Equipment
