Capture One to support RAW processing and tethering for Hasselblad Cameras

Two industry titans have officially buried the hatchet. In a landmark announcement, Capture One and Hasselblad revealed a strategic partnership that finally introduces native support for Hasselblad’s medium format camera systems.

For years, the professional photography industry has faced a frustrating roadblock. Because of Capture One’s historic roots with Phase One – originally Hasselblad’s fiercest rival in the medium format sector – files from the iconic Swedish manufacturer were categorically locked out of the software.

Photographers trying to bring Hasselblad images into the application had to rely on cumbersome file conversions and workarounds that compromised colour fidelity and dynamic range. Or of course, use competitors software such as Lightroom Classic or Hasselblad's own software – Phocus.

It's almost strange to think that it has taken this long, but these two Nordic founded companies have considered themselves competitors for so long. Image: Hasselblad. — It's almost strange to think that it has taken this long, but these two Nordic founded companies have considered themselves direct competitors in the medium format space for so long. Image: Hasselblad.

That digital divide has ended. Starting with the release of Capture One 16.8.3, photographers can import, organise, and develop Hasselblad RAW files (.3FR) natively. The update provides bespoke, dedicated colour profiles and tailored lens corrections for 19 Hasselblad XCD lenses, initially supporting three of the brand's flagship 100–megapixel systems: the X2D 100C, the X2D II 100C, and the CFV 100C digital back.

Crucially, the partnership is also tackling the holy grail of commercial workflows: studio tethering. While the initial release focuses on native RAW development, both companies have confirmed that full Hasselblad tethered capture will be integrated into the platform before the end of the year.

According to Capture One CEO Rafael Orta, rebuilding this bridge was a top priority driven directly by user demand. The meticulous process involved analysing sensor performance and colour science to ensure that the integration maintains the uncompromising quality professionals expect from both brands.

For high–end studio, fashion, and commercial photographers, this integration is a major workflow victory. By uniting Hasselblad’s legendary image quality with Capture One’s industry–standard tethering and colour editing ecosystem, the partnership removes a long–standing (and annoying) industry barrier.

Capture One for Hasselblad is available for testing or subscription, while tethering will be available later in 2026.

You can read more on the Capture One website, or the Hasselblad website.