Hasselblad expands the X system with two much needed accessories: a release cord to put an end to camera vibration, and a battery charging hub, so you can shoot for longer periods of time.

Essential in a photographer’s tool kit, a way to activate the shutter remotely can happen in two ways: either wirelessly, through one of the usual options available, or with the use of a release cord. Hasselblad took the second path on developing the new Hasselblad Release Cord X,  which allows for remote shutter actuation  and is an invaluable tool when eliminating shake or vibration is paramount.

A durable cloth-wrapped 90cm (36 in.) cable connects to the X1D-50c’s microphone input port and the remote’s simple single button operation allows photographers to keep vibration to a minimum. When autofocus is enabled on the camera, a single action swiftly starts autofocus and then releases the shutter. Holding the button down when in Continuous Capture mode allows for multiple frames to be captured, whilst setting the camera in Manual Focus mode allows for Release Cord X to fire the shutter without delay.

The round shaped Hasselblad Release Cord X is a nice addition to any Hasseldblad X photographers’ kit. Its durable metal construction matches the adventurous endeavours of Hasselblad’s X System users and its slim, ergonomic design fits comfortably in the hand. For seamless functionality, the X1D should be updated to the latest 1.22 firmware available at My Hasselblad.

A charger and battery tester

The second accessory introduced, the Hasselblad Battery Charging Hub, makes it possible for a Hasselblad photographer to streamline the battery charging process, allowing X1D photographers to go further with their creative pursuits. Featuring dual slots support, the hub makes it easier to charge two batteries simultaneously, while an integrated USB Type-C connector supports mains power via an included power supply or from common external USB battery banks (sold separately).

The hub has front-facing LEDs indicate status and capacity when charging,  and it also doubles as a solution to check battery levels, simply by inserting a battery and pressing a single button. Hasselblad indicates that the Battery Charging Hub supports both first-generation 3200mAh X System batteries and current 3400mAh batteries, the latter of which support quick-charging up to 25% faster than the former. This equates to a completely replenished single battery in 2 hours 18 minutes, or dual batteries in 2 hours 48 minutes. First-generation 3200mAh batteries recharge completely in approximately 3 hours and completed charging cycles are indicated by an audible chime in either situation. With a durable metal construction and compact design, the Battery Charging Hub is posed to simplify a critical aspect of photography and ensure that maximum creative vision can be achieved.

The Hasselblad Release Cord X is priced at $80 and the Hasselblad Battery Charging Hub is available to purchase with a price of $155.