PHASE ONE IQ4 150 SETS THE IQ STANDARD

For anybody pursuing the ultimate in digital image quality, the Phase One IQ150 capture backs are without peer. The total pixel count is 151 million, giving a maximum image size of 14,204x10,652 pixels which, at 300 dpi, represents an output size of 120.26x90.19 centimetres. The IQ4 150 is for colour capture while the IQ4 150 Achromatic is a dedicated B&W capture device.

The 150 megapixels IQ4 backs employ a backside-illuminated (BSI) CMOS with an imaging area of 53.7x40.4 mm which Phase One calls a “full frame medium format” sensor to differentiation from the 33x44 mm devices used in the mirrorless medium format camera systems. The Phase One sensors are 1.5x larger and, for the record, represent a 22 percent increase in resolution over the 100 MP models.

The sensitivity range for the colour version is equivalent to ISO 50 to 25,600 while the Achromatic model’s spans ISO 200 to 102,400. Phase One’s Achromatic sensors don’t have a Bayer colour filter grid and, consequently, deliver increased sensitivity, but they also lack an IR cut-off filter, enabling infrared B&W photography as well. RAW files can be captured with either 14-bit or 16-bit data. The pixel size is 3.76x3.76 microns, and the dynamic range is 15 stops.

The IQ4 backs feature dual memory card slots for the CFexpress Type B (and XQD) and SD formats. File management options include simultaneous recording for back-up purposes or a designated format assigned to a particular card slot.

The IQ4 backs have HDMI, USB-C and Ethernet ports along with WiFi, giving a choice of tethering and powering options. There’s an 8.1 cm TFT LCD touchscreen monitor, and a sensor-based electronic shutter.

Capture One image processing is built into the IQ4 backs to delivers enhanced RAW file workflow management with editing and processing functions controlled within the capture back. It also gives an improved preview quality, in-camera JPEG processing, ‘IIQ Styles’ implementation and various functions including time-lapse shooting, HDR capture and an exposure calculator for long exposure. There’s a range of powerful focusing tools, including Focus Trim, Hyperfocal Point Calculation and Focus Stack Calculator.

The IQ4 capture backs are optimised for Phase One’s XF SLR camera body which is a fully upgradable platform to accommodate future technological advances. Full integration between body and back allows features such as ‘XF Powershare’ which enables the hot swapping of either the camera battery or the back’s battery. The XF camera is ruggedly built – Phase One backs it with a five year warranty – and features interchangeable viewfinders, while the system is built on high-performance Schneider Kreuznach leaf shutter lenses which are able to optically match the capture resolution.