MATHIAS ELMESKOG

IMAGE QUALITY TEAM LEADER

GOTHENBURG, SWEDEN

A former student at Chalmers, Mathias was a member of the photo association during his studies, photographing various events at the university. In 2012, he arranged a field trip with the photo group to visit the Hasselblad headquarters. As soon as he walked in, he knew he wanted to work there one day. By chance, in 2015, Mathias was at an interview for another company through a consulting firm. Ten minutes in, the interviewer interrupted the meeting, opened his laptop, and said, “You are going to apply to this position at Hasselblad.” After having discussed Mathias’ photo interest and his knowledge in optics, image technology and algorithms, image quality specialist was clearly the perfect position for him. And ever since January 2016, that’s been his role.


FAVORITE CAMERA: HASSELBLAD H6D-100C

Tell us about what you do at Hasselblad.

I am responsible for image quality – I develop methods in order to improve the images our cameras capture and also test new sensors that we receive from different manufacturers in order to see if they can work for our cameras or how we can improve them further.


In your opinion, what is it that makes the difference in a Hasselblad image compared to other cameras?

We do everything we can to ensure that our image quality is the best – it’s our highest priority. If we encounter a technical obstacle, we make it our mission to never let any small error get past us.

We work very hard in all aspects to keep the image quality high, so it can sometimes get very technically messy, but we choose that battle.

You mentioned that you enjoy photography. Is there anything special you like to take pictures of?

Portraits and landscape or a combination of the two, I would say. Even though I test image quality, I would say I photograph more outside of work than I do at work. I’m also trying out taking pictures with film, which I enjoy. I’m a very visual person, no matter if it’s photography, film or art – it doesn’t matter. Photography is not just about equipment; it’s about recreating what the eye catches and the image you have in your head.


In your own words, how would you describe Hasselblad?

I would say it’s innovative, and also there is a feeling of togetherness at the company. Together we create such a high-quality product that some of the biggest photographers actually want to use. Our images must be at the top; it’s Hasselblad that is supposed to drive image quality and camera design forward and not mimic others. Everything we do is very functional, without distracting or being in the way of the photographer, which I believe is unique for a camera manufacturer.


Tell us something that most people don’t know about you.

I trained in MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) for six years and actually competed in a few matches. Now I train in Krav Maga instead.