IDs MII & Hasselblad & Mamiya

I recently purchased a 1DsMII and while looking for more accessories on B&H, I noticed the Hasselblad H2D-39 and the Mamiya ZD cameras.

I was hoping someone could help me understand the different applications for these cameras. I want something I can carry around and shoot with and the 1DsMII and the Mamiya appear to be suitable for that purpose (I only say that becasue of the shape of the body...it seems more camera-like).

The Hasselblad looks more like a camera that would need to be mounted on a tripod and it also looks like its mainly for use in a studio. I can't really see myself running around a renfest with a Hasselblad taking photos for a web site if you know what I mean.

So, can someone tell me the different applications for these cameras?

Thank you.

Cliff

PS: Does the megapixel difference at this level make that much of a difference?

I have a 1dsmk2, and a Contax 645 w digital back. I mostly use the contax in studio, but from time to time I will bring it out in the field. They are all suitable camera for the type of work that I do.

It mainly depends what type of stuff you shoot. Animals and such you are not going to get the same manueverability with a 35mm SLR. Unless you can stalk your preys.

The Hassleblad's are pretty much studio cameras in my opinion. I would restrict them to that use if given the option. They're mostly huge monsters, and I wouldn't carry one around. Not to mention the nicest ones are what, $25k? The diversity, for what I like to do, is lacking, especially when I consider all of the Canon glass I could have for that much.

As for megapixels...for me, a comparison of actual numbers, regardless of pitch or quality, means either you can crop extensively and/or print billboards with ease. Heck...even my 30D could be used for poster shots. Hassy's are workhorses, but in my opinion, they belong in a studio.

I would agree that the Hassy belongs in a studio or the very least a static location. I don't see many people using this as a so-called "walkaround" camera as you have envisioned. Shooting RAW you get to capture 35 image per minute according to the Hasselblad website. The Mamiya site is still a little thin on details for their camera as it is still a "coming soon" item.

At what point do you have enough megapixels. You don't really say what you are shooting but the 1DsMKII will provide you ample opportunity to go large.

Of course there is the cost and perhaps that is not an issue for you but the Hassy that you mention is almost 30K on B and H's website. You can get the 1DsMKII and alot of glass and accessories for that much and you have greater versatility (IMO) using the Canon.

I've used medium format cameras for general scenic images and they do produce great shots but unless you know that you are going billboard with them the Canon would serve you well.

thanks ssim. that's a great response. I'm sticking with the canon's!

Actually, a 'Blad with the normal lens is probably smaller and lighter than a 1Ds with a 24-70L zoom mounted. I consider my film Blads to be my small camera for landscapes, when I dont have time to set up for shots with my 4x5 and 5x7 cameras. I'd love to have the new digital 'Blad if I could find clients with deep enough pockets to pay for it!