The Yashica Electro 35 GS is a rangefinder camera. The Yashica company built the camera from 1970 to 1973. It is the successor of the Yashica Electro 35 GT and the predecessor of the Yashica Electro 35 GSN.
The Yashica Electro 35 GS comes with a lens that cannot be changed. The lens is named “Yashinon”. The focal length is 45 mm. The largest aperture is f/1.7. The lens is focused manually. The Yashica Electro 35 GS does not have an autofocus. The correct distance is indicated by the built-in rangefinder. The closest focusing distance of this lens is 0.8 meters.
The camera has a built-in light meter. The light meter is built for films with sensitivity from ISO 25 to ISO 1000. The aperture can be freely selected on this model. The exposure time is set by the camera.
A Bulb setting is available on the Yashica Electro 35 GS. In this mode, the film is exposed as long as the shutter button is pressed. The use of a flash is possible via the PC flash socket.
Films for the Yashica Electro 35 GS
The Yashica Electro 35 GS exposes small-bid films. Films of this format are still readily available today and are still being developed.
Possible films for the Yashica Electro 35 GS are Kodak’s Portra 400 for color photos and Ilford Delta 400 for B&W photos. The development of the color film is done in the C-41 process. This development process is performed by all photo labs that offer development of 35mm film.
The area of the 35mm camera negatives is 24 mm × 36 mm. On a normal roll of film at this size fit about 36 pictures. The film in the camera must be rewound manually by the photographer.
The 35 mm camera has a built-in self-timer. In addition, there is a connection for a cable release and a thread for a tripod.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Rangefinder camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Manual |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Focal length | 45 mm |
| Widest aperture | f/1.7 |
| Minimum focus distance | 80 cm / 2.624 ft |
| Focus | Manual |
| Rangefinder | Yes |
| Exposure times | 1/500 second to 30 seconds, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 25 to 1000 |
| Exposure modes | Aperture priority |
| Manual exposure settings | No |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | No |
| Date imprinting | No |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | PC-Flash |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | Yes |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Country of production | Japan |
| End of production | 1973 |
| Production duration | 3 years |
| Estimated value / Used price | 111,24 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 33 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 136,33 Euro (147.21 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 119,35 Euro (128.81 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 114,88 Euro (123.39 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Yashica Electro 35 GS
Is this camera easy to use for a beginner?
The Yashica Electro 35 GS is relatively simple to operate. It has automatic exposure, meaning you mainly choose the aperture, and the camera sets the shutter speed. Manual focusing is involved, but the rangefinder makes it easier.
What kind of film does this rangefinder use?
This classic camera uses standard 35mm film, readily available and developed at most labs. You can use color films like Kodak Portra 400 or black and white films like Ilford Delta 400.
How many pictures can I take with one roll of film?
A standard 35mm roll typically holds 36 exposures. You'll have to advance the film manually after each shot.
Does the camera have a way to control the flash?
Yes, it features a PC flash sync socket for connecting external flash units. This allows you to use a flash to take pictures in low-light conditions.
Can I change the lens on this camera?
No, the Yashinon lens is fixed and cannot be interchanged. This 45mm f/1.7 lens is integrated into the camera body, which makes it compact and user-friendly.