In the highly specialized field of destination photography and high-end visual content production, the distinction between a standard travel photo and a museum-grade editorial portrait is not limited merely to perspective or lighting; rather, it is rooted in optical physics and the tools of image engineering. Eidos Photography's commitment to capturing the true essence of the ancient city of Rome and the unique identity of all our international clients—whether solo travelers, couples, corporate executives, fashion models, or families—demands the utilization of the world's highest level of imaging technology. For the 2026 editorial season, we are proud to announce a significant upgrade to our medium format arsenal: the integration of the Hasselblad XCD 2,5/90V portrait lens.
This article details the technical capabilities of this extraordinary piece of Swedish optical engineering and explains why it sets a new standard for couple sessions, secret proposals, and fine-art portraiture in Rome.

Rome is a city of unparalleled architectural grandeur, but it is also characterized by extreme visual clutter and pedestrian density. To create our signature cinematic portraits at landmarks like the Trevi Fountain or the Colosseum, "Subject Isolation" is critical.
The XCD 2,5/90V is a moderate telephoto lens, equivalent to a 71mm focal length on a full-frame system. When combined with its large $f/2.5$ aperture, this lens acts as a precision tool for optical separation. It compresses the ancient Roman backgrounds while generating a stunning, soft bokeh that melts away distracting elements. The result is a hyper-sharp subject perfectly framed against a creamy, ethereal backdrop, elevating the romantic narrative of the image.
One of the greatest challenges of shooting in the Mediterranean climate is managing the harsh, high-contrast sunlight. Traditional focal-plane shutters severely limit flash synchronization speeds, often resulting in blown-out skies or underexposed subjects.
The XCD 2,5/90V is equipped with an upgraded, in-lens leaf shutter capable of reaching speeds up to 1/4000s. More importantly, it delivers complete flash synchronisation at all speeds. This is a game-changer for our technical workflow. It allows our photographers to use high-speed studio strobes on location, overpowering the midday Roman sun to maintain deep blue skies and perfectly exposed skin tones, delivering a flawless high-dynamic-range (HDR) aesthetic in a single 16-bit frame.
Capturing the subtle nuances of haute couture wardrobe against the textured travertine of the Pantheon requires uncompromising resolving power. The XCD 2,5/90V features a complex internal focusing design comprising nine elements in six groups, including one specially crafted aspherical element.
This configuration is engineered specifically to meet the stringent demands of our 100-megapixel medium format sensors. It delivers an apochromatic effect for perfect color correction, ensuring that the warm ochres of the Roman streets and the natural chromatic fidelity of our clients' skin are reproduced with zero chromatic aberration.
Despite its massive resolving power, the XCD 2,5/90V is an engineering marvel in terms of weight, coming in at only 551g. For dynamic sessions like a "Secret Proposal"—where the photographer must move swiftly and discreetly through the cobblestone alleys of Trastevere—this 11% reduction in weight (compared to its predecessor) provides crucial agility.
The lens features a newly designed focusing module utilizing a linear stepping motor, which, when paired with Phase Detection Autofocus (PDAF), ensures the lens locks onto the subject instantly and silently. Furthermore, switching from autofocus to manual focus is executed through a brilliant push-and-pull mechanism on the focus ring, allowing our photographers to take absolute manual control in complex lighting scenarios instantly.

The optical design and focal length of the Hasselblad XCD 2,5/90V make it an unrivaled asset for two of our most sought-after experiences:

At Eidos Photography, our professional philosophy is rooted in delivering imagery that remains technically and aesthetically flawless not just today, but for decades to come. We make absolutely no compromises on the tools we utilize to document your personal, commercial, or family history.
The integration of the Hasselblad XCD 2,5/90V lens into our arsenal guarantees that every project in Rome—whether you are a solo traveler, a family, or a professional elevating your personal brand—is captured with unprecedented resolution, breathtaking bokeh, and world-class studio-level lighting control. This lens eliminates distracting environmental variables, rendering you with the highest possible chromatic fidelity.
Book Your 2026 Medium Format Photoshoot for All Clients
Experience the difference of true optical engineering. Whether you are planning a corporate portrait, a solo modeling session, or documenting family memories in the heart of Italy, our 2026 calendar is now officially open for reservations. Allow us to capture your Roman legacy with museum-grade standards.
View 2026 Packages and Book Online
