The Yashica Electro 35 is a rangefinder camera. It was built by the traditional Japanese company Yashica from 1966 to 1968. It is the predecessor of the Yashica Electro 35 G.
The camera comes with a fixed lens. It is labeled “Yashinon-DX 1:1.7 f = 45 mm.” The focal length is 45 mm and the maximum aperture is f/1.7. There is no autofocus function on this model. The focus is set manually. The rangefinder helps with focusing. The minimum distance to the subject must be 0.8 meters.
For shooting, the Yashica Electro 35 has a light meter. One works in aperture priority mode. The exposure meter is designed for an ISO range of 12 to 400. If you want to take long exposures, you can use the Bulb setting. The shutter remains open as desired. An external flash unit can be connected to the PC flash socket.
Films for the Yashica Electro 35
The Yashica Electro 35 is designed for 35mm format. This type of film is still in production and can be handled by most photo labs without any problems. One option for color images is the Kodak Gold 200* and the Ilford HP5* for black and white photos. Both films are wonderful for taking souvenir photos with a still camera.
The color film is designed to be developed using the C-41 process. The C-41 process is offered by almost every photo lab.
The Yashica Electro 35 negatives have a size of 24 mm × 36 mm. With the mentioned films, so 36 pictures fit on one roll of film. The film must be rewound manually by the photographer.
A tripod can be connected to the bottom. A cable release can also be used with the camera. In addition, the self-timer can be used for taking pictures.
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 12 to 400 |
| Exposure modes | Aperture priority |
| 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 | 1968 |
| Production duration | 2 years |
| Estimated value / Used price | 107,57 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 98 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 116,03 Euro (125.56 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 114,27 Euro (123.39 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 107,38 Euro (115.82 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Yashica Electro 35
Is the Yashica Electro 35 an automatic camera?
No, it's a manual focus camera. You adjust the focus yourself using the rangefinder. It doesn't have autofocus.
What kind of lens does this rangefinder camera have?
It has a fixed Yashinon-DX lens with a 45mm focal length and a maximum aperture of f/1.7. This means it's good in low light conditions.
How do I take long exposure pictures with the Electro 35?
The camera offers a bulb setting. This allows you to keep the shutter open for as long as you need, perfect for night photography.
What film format does the camera use and how many pictures can I take?
It uses standard 35mm film. Each roll holds 36 exposures, and you advance the film manually after each shot.
Can I use a flash with this photographic device?
Yes, it has a PC flash sync socket for connecting an external flash. This expands your shooting options, especially in darker environments.