I just picked up a Electro 35 GSN the other day and used it for the first time! It's an amazing camera, sharp lens like you said and the aperture priority and auto exposure really keeps it simple. But it still slows me down. I actually uploaded my very first YT video ever today about my experience and day shooting with this camera with sample images! It's a video Short only a couple mins or so... Love your images.
Another fan of the camera here. One thing; The red light is showing overexposure, but the yellow light is a warning light for slow hand-held shutterspeed (1/30), not underexposure. It will always meter automatically, but gives the yellow light warning if it meters under 1/30 shutterspeed. So, you have to use the iso dial if you deliberately want to underexpose your shots.
Nigel, this was so well presented . Thank you for your excellent use of our lovely English language - your God- given intellect and powers of camera/art analysis. You are a treasure in our lives.
Thanks David that's very kind! My reviews are generally subjective, but I do try to present those subjective impressions in as much detail as I can. Glad to know it seems to be working!
Another great video Nigel! I wanted to comment on this one since I have an Electro 35 G and truly love it! As my first rangefinder it took a while to get used to the focusing diamond, but after that it was off to the races. I have run a handful of rolls through it and, apart from a small light leak that seems to have worked itself out, the images are outstanding! I enjoy shooting black and white with it the most and have produce some wonderful shots with it. Also - the sounds of life in the video were music to my ears!
I bought my first "good" camera in Hong Kong in 1977 when I was a student and doing 6 months of practical training there as part of my engineering degree. My final choice was between the Yashica Electro 35 and the Canon QL17 and I went for the Canon because of the compact size and a more convenient battery. I was never disappointed with my choice and used it until it was stolen at Heathrow airport in 1996. However, I later found a Konica Auto S2 in a Tokyo junk shop (2002) and the 45/1.7 Hexanon lens on that is amazing. In fact, I was so impressed with the IQ that I went on to buy a couple of Konica SLR cameras and the Hexanon AR lenses have since become my favorites for using on my mirrorless digital cameras. If you get the chance, I recommend you take a look at the Konica Auto S2.
Someone down to earth. Nigel great video. I have an old GT only goes to 500 but really great pics. I spent 5 wonderful years in England. My family from Cornwall and Ireland originally. The light in the UK seems to saturate all the colours compared to the U.S. This is a camera to take advantage of that.
Great presentation and especially great photos! No wonder Zeiss chose to work with Yashica-Tomioka. I buy every Electro 35-series I can find cheaply, especially if they're malfunctioning. I now have Yashinon DX 35mm/1.8, 40mm/1.7, 45mm/1.7 and 45mm/1.4 all extracted and converted to Sony E-mount. I've managed to cut the close focus in half. In sharpness tests against top vintage SLR lenses, they perform at least as well in every way I like. Even the pentagon blades render smooth almost always, and they give stunning 10-pointed sunstars. My two mistresses are Canon FD and Tomioka.
My mother had one of these in the 70's ...unfortunately, hers is nowhere to be found, but I just picked one up a very clean one for $100. I love the layout and the lens. I also really like the fact that it is inexpensive....I bought it as my go-to camera for when I am travelling and I don't want to risk taking my more expensive gear with me, but I want a great film camera. Thanks for the helpful review....well done.
this was my first serious camera bought in 1969 or so. I only used it briefly till I got the bug for interchangable lenses which let me to a Spotmatic Pentax. I agree with you, tho' that the Yashica is a great, simple to use rangefinder, gloriously quiet, and forces you to work within its limitations, which is a very good thing for a photographer.
Oh man, I love this line of cameras. I've got the GSN but I think the GT and GN look really sharp in black. It's amazing what you can get out of this camera in low light. Also, I believe the CDs sensor will adjust if you put a filter on the lens making your selective DOF even easier to create in the freak world. Thanks for the video!
Thanks for taking the time to explain the focus process. This is the dirst time i heard that the view finder is not xonnected to the lens. That helped. We found a GSN cleaning out the inlaws house in San Jose. I am refurbishing the camera and hope to have it ready for Christmas. I appreciate the time and effort you out into this video. This project made me pull out my Minolta Maxxum 7000. Clean it up and get aome film ordered.
Man those photos look lovely. I have never ever used a film camera before but after watching your channel I may have to dip my toes. There is something magical about the older analogue cameras.
Enjoyed the video. Watched it here in Ft Worth Texas. I bought one of these cameras at the start of the pandemic and shot a couple of rolls. Impressed by how sharp the lens is. This was the second one. The first had the dreaded corroded battery compartment. I do have the auxiliary lens adapters as mentioned below, but have not used them yet. Will give them a try. Keep up the good work!
I always like to watch your videos because you are so exited about those old cams and so am I. I got a GS this week for 59 Euros, good optical condition but it had all the usual illnesses that this camera can have. The minus on the battery compartment was corroded and broke, the POD (Pad of death) has deteriorated and the light seals were gone. I had to take the camera apart and luckily got it back together again. Looking forward to run the first film through it next week.
This (the GSN, not the GT) was the camera that sent me forever down the rangefinder rabbit hole. Mine died (not the POD problem) after about six months of hard use, but it gave it's life for a "good" cause (emptying my wallet on far more expensive RF gear): my next camera was a (modern) Zeiss Ikon and a 35/2 Biogon ... and the rest (even more money gone) was history. The lens is fantastic, the camera overall is simple to use, the auto exposure was excellent. The only (minor) negatives were the size (it's a bit bulky -- not horribly so, but compared to other RFs); felt hollow-y / cheap when compared to the brick-like solidity of Leica; and the limited ability to push film (because of the narrow ISO range), otherwise it was a perfect camera for my purposes. Always kind of wanted to splurge for the black (GT) version again to relive my early RF days!
Thanks for the content. I just got my hands on an Electro 35 GS in pristine condition. Have yet to finish the first roll and see the results, but all the controls are beautifully smooth and easy to use. And that smooth, quiet shutter action!
Nice presentation. I used this camera thru my teen ages. One thing I would like to add. Flare from this lens was spectacular. As you do not see it in view finder, only in final result, it was always unprevisible. Usually, contrast was still very good, but forms made by light were amazing.
The locking ring around the shutter release is also an on/off switch for the exposure meter so if it's left open it will drain your battery. This camera has a little brother - Electro 35 GX. It's smaller - about the same size as a Canonet - and has a very nice 40mm (not 45mm) f1.7 lens. They're very difficult to find though and are therefore a lot more expensive.
My Yashica GT is in the process of replacing "pad of death" but I use Yashica GSN, the younger sister of GT models and I can only agree with you: perfect exposure every time, perfect focus every time, extremely easy to use, the lens is wonderful, because has automatic parallax correction there is never a parallax error, whether I am near or far from the subject being photographed. I use a 4LR44 battery that I insert into an adapter I bought a couple of years ago and the camera with this battery works great. Wonderful camera, I highly recommend it to everyone, especially those who like old cameras and love slide film, I think these are the only old cameras that will perfectly expose even a slide film, whether it is GT, GSN or GTN model 🙂
The Pad of Death is easy to fix, and well worth the fix. Mine was repaired in 2016, when the original pad failed. So I should get a few more decades out of the camera.
Hiya. May I ask whether the voltage of modern batteries being slightly out of spec causes metering underexposure, perhaps requiring dropping the ISO slightly to compensate? Thanks
Very good presentation of a very nice camera. I have two I used to use quite a bit, had them serviced a few years ago just to keep them humming. I remember my cousin bought one new, and was forever complaining about the quality of the lens. Meanwhile I noticed her photos were always sharp and well exposed, even the slides. They only drawback is the size.
got a e35 GSN from a second hand shop for $30. they thought it was broken. (the timer was stuck, i fixed it in the shop and bought it) Yashica seems to be my brand of camera. my favorite is an FX3 super. been shooting with the e35 for a week. its been super enjoyable. the limitations are welcomed. fixed lens. unless lighting changes, pretty much only have to worry about the focus. the alignment was weird at first. wish the diamond was a liiiittle bit bigger. im glad you liked it too! im glad our experiences with it were reflected in our opinions! a damn fine camera.
Great video on a great camera, Nigel! I'd like to tip about three other great looking fixed lens rangefinders with excellent lenses worth checking out; Yashica Minister 700. All manual, from the sixties, Yashinon 45 mm 1.7 lens. Konica ee-matic, from the sixties, silicon cell powered apperture priority auto exposure. 40mm Hexanon 2.8 lens. Zeiss Ikon Contessa folder, from the fifties, silicon cell light meter. Zeiss Opton Tessar 45mm 2.8 lens. Three fantastic rangefinder cameras, yet with a very different caracter.
Great helpful video Nigel, just what I've been searching for a "modern" rangefinder with lightmeter. Just bought a yashika 35 gtn in super condition. Going to off load all my other 35mm slrs now. Thank you.
Hi Nigel, I'm a german photographer and i bought an Electro 35 GSM. I love this Kamera so much, and i like your English languange, that you use in this Video.
Great review. I enjoy hearing the world as you walk around. I have an earlier Yahica Lynx 5000 with a similar lens but with a less striking design. The meter on mine has failed but it allows for manual selection of aperture and shutter speed using an external meter. You've inspired me to finally do some troubleshooting!
I will second these cameras being fantastic. These cameras can be bought for a song if the light meter is not working, they can be very often repaired by resoldering the battery wire that got corroded off the battery terminal from leaky dead batteries. This is by far the most common fix needed. There is also a tiny rubber pad that dries out and falls apart on the internal recocking pin, also a very easy fix. There are several vids on how to do the repairs. I have seen these for as little as ten dollars US in this nonworking condition. If you are handy with jewelers screwdrivers it is a great way to get a good shooter for very cheap!
Thank you for the video about the Yashica! I picked up an Electro 35 GSN in the last couple of months as my first film camera, also on your reccomendation - going to try 100 iso film on it soon!
I actually missed this video when you released it a couple of weeks ago. so you can imagine how surprised I was to see it pop up on my feed 2 days after I ordered a GTN on ebay. I have wanted to try one of these for ages. I actually got one a year ago, only to find I actually bid on the wrong one I was watching by mistake, and the one that I got was a parts camera with lots of bits missing. at least I've got lots of spares for my new one lol. Great video as always. let's hope mine works as well as yours.
Yasicas are nice cameras, as you rightly point out Nigel. I have the forerunner to the Electro range, the Minister series, they are a manual camera, with a coupled EV system, I have the Minister III and the Minister D, both great 35mm cameras, I also have just got an absolutely mint Yashica-Mat 2 1/4 square TLR, made in 1957 it is stunning in its condition, it hardly looks to have been out of its case. I'm pleased I got the Yashica bug before your episode, because I can see this driving up the prices online. Waiting for next week now, sigh. George
I think the best feature of Electro 35 is that it has some good old japanese electronics that perfectly adjusts the voltage coming from its battery. I think this was designed so as to guarantee perfect operation of the light-meter as the batteries are running out. It also enables to retrofit different new batteries (or combinations) to mimic its original mercury containing batteries that are not available today. A few volts of difference just does not matter. It still works perfectly. Not only very dependable but also very precise.
Hi Nigel, Thank you for a superb review. Yashica once offered an Auxiliary lens set for these cameras, one of which reduced the 45mm focal length of the standard lens to 37.7mm, and the other, which extended it to 58.4mm. I have no idea as to optical quality however. There was an adfitional finder that came with them, and fitted into the accessory shoe. There was also the 'Auto Up' lens, which allowed focussing between 18-32 inches.
Hi Peter, I didn't realise that. I guess they would make the camera that bit more flexible, although it's so nice as it is, and feels so all in one, as it were, that the extra bits and bobs might get in the way? Interesting to know though, thanks.
@@zenography7923 Hi Nigel, I had one of these cameras in the 1970's-80's, I think!, it wasn't new when I bought it. I remember the very crisp images it gave though. At the time I was heavily into photographing vintage aircraft, and it was all about telephoto lenses, SLR's etc, so I stupidly sold it, however, the instruction manual has stayed with me all these years. I read it last night, and again this morning, after looking at your review for a second time, and I thought why not!, so the review has inspired me to buy another. I can't wait for it to arrive, and to run a film through it.
Optical quality of those two modifier lenses are perfect. However they are too bulky (to have any practical value) and the (little) change they make do not worth it. It is much logical to take a step or two forward or backward to/from your subject (and avoid the extra glass). They are very nice collector items though; especially that little finder adds a sort of steam punk look.
Hi thanks for the great video I must tell you this story between 1969 -1974 I worked as a camera technician for Wallace heaton in Bond Street London in the workshop behind the shop when a yashica electro 35 came in we all ran to the toilet a long queue!!! No one wanted to work on them topcon was another camera !!! Lol now after your video I’ve got one and what a lovely camera a bit of a clean up now looks new on reflection I wish I have stayed at my bench
Yes they had a reputation for being somewhat difficult to set up after repair it was because Wallace heaton had such a high standard for speeds / meter And in those days setting up speeds in electronic cameras Was frightening to say the least We were all used to cameras with escapements or blinds
A very thorough review. I was interested because I have just inherited my father in laws's old Yashica Electro AX which looks to be in perfect condition, I have never seen him use it in the last 40 years! I literally just worked out my battery problem. The original battery is no longer available so I am using a CR123 and 3/4n I think in series. I just realised that the second small battery wasn't making contact with the CR 123 as the positive connection is actually recessed! Your vlog has inspired me to go out and get some shots.
I recently just picked up two 70s rangefinder cameras, which are the Yashica Electro 35 GS and a Miranda Sensoret. I got each of them for $38. Both are in working condition and just need to replace the light seals and fix the mercury battery problem. Excited to see what photos come out of these cameras!
I grew up with this camera and kodachrome slides : my father bought one in 1966 and it was the family camera up until the early 80's… I remember the rangefinder patch, the framelines, the gentle but decisive click of the shutter and the the red/green lights for exposure metering. We couldn't ajust the speed as it was chosen by the camera...
Great review! I love my Yashica GTN as it easy to use, reliable and the lens is excellent. It is the main one I use for street work, but have used it foe model shoot.
I don't know anything about this camera or Yashicas in general but I used to own a Contax G2. It's very different of course but you can see it's from the same stable, and I think it's reasonable to consider the Contax to be a descendant of the GT.
Just got one on ebay for 15 bucks. Needs new light seals and I had to make a diy battery adapter out of an old lip balm stick but it works. Cant wait to test it out :)
I agree with what you said. Great camera and a joy to use. One thing that I consider very good is the accuracy of the light meter. Worth considering. Much better than average cameras of all sorts.
Awesome video. Thank you. I am very new to this camera and was wondering what settings can I use outdoors on a sunny day and in the evening? Would really appreciate if anybody could tell me the basics here. Thank you.
Hello! You didn't mention one of the important advantages of this camera - it has a centre shutter - that is, no shutter curtains. That means it is quiet and less vibration. Pay attention to a similar camera - Konica S2. It has no automatics, only a selenium exposure meter, but it is simpler - less electronics that can fail. It too has a centre shutter, Copal, and a Hexanon F2.0 lens.
Fabulous presentation of this camera. I am curious to know what your scan process is, the images look amazing on RUclips. When I started back into film camera photography a couple years ago, this was one of the first 35mm rangefinders I could purchase for very little money. I was also,able to learn a bit about camera repair and refurbishment after going through 4-5 of these. I’ve sold all but one off and Have yet to shoot a roll through it. This video has inspired me to do so sooner than later!
Under your influence, just got myself a 35GT. Gorgeous camera, although massive. Can't wait for the rain to stop to start shooting :) Thank you for this video!
If you like the electro range pick up a GX smaller with a 40mm F1.7. If you don't mind zone focus, look at the Yashica MC. So small, the ultimate street shooter. Another great autoex camera is the Minolta Himatic E.
I always price up film cameras, more rangefinder or point and shoot as I’m looking for one myself, when I see them on here and other channels, noticed this one seems to be mainly from Japan on EBay at the moment. I’ll be honest and say I know next to nothing when it comes to rangefinders, that’s why your channel, plus just one or two others I find invaluable, even just for a guideline on prices. The last thing any of us wants is to be ripped off.
Absolutely, research prices before buying. A good source of info are completed listings on ebay - these will show what items are actually selling for, rather than asking prices, which are sometimes inflated.
Hi Nigel, well presented video. Thank you Can you advise how you dealt with the batteries for the camera? What did you use, would love your insights as I have ordered a GSN model Cheers Andrew
Any 5v-6.5v battery can be used, I just use a piece of aluminium foil to make up the difference. Excell S28PX battery and I tell a lie, I use three nuts [M6?]. Works a treat
There's a very cheap adaptor available that allows the use of a 4lr44 6v battery - loads of them on ebay, amazon etc. The camera seems to work fine on 6 volts and I had no problems at all. Glad you enjoyed the video by the way!
@@zenography7923 There is one on sale in Sweden, ships worldwide, bidding is up to 41 SEK (£3.30 GBP) at the moment, auction ends on Sunday. I could send the link if you'd like?
I used my Yashica Electro 35 GS with the same lens, in the studio, using studio flash, back in the 1980s. Scary beautiful images. Sharp, with beautiful contrast. I liked the camera before that, but that experience made me gain more respect for the camera and its lens.
I wish I had the tools and skills to clean the lens on my gsn 35 . No repair guy around who wants to touch it . I’ve used a red scaled film with it just once and the results were not the best . Needs a new light seal I can sort that out but the lens 😢
I found one of these beauties on a flea market today for just 30 euro's. 😊 Now I just have to put some batteries together to get it alive. Hope it will work 🤞 Thanks for this video!
I like the outside episode. One question, how to do with the battery? This camera works with which battery? Doesn’t it use mercury type? Which modern battery one needs to use? Does it need an adapter? Thanks!
There are adaptors available that enable a 6v battery to be used, which does the job just fine. I've even heard of people taping 3 lr44s together and packing out with aluminium foil, which seems to work too!
I think many are put off by not having full manual control like its rival the Canonet QL17 which is also a lot smaller. It's the lens that really makes this one stand out though and because there are other similar options with manual control it's often overlooked. It's still a bargain as a result.
Hello, i just got this camera for about 100 USD, actually, GSN, and before I install new batteries, does the shutter remain at the same level without the batteries? Because it doesnt seem to open much no matter what settings I choose, so I guess it should change its speed and opening when batteries are in I was first confused and almost lost sense when I couldn't see the aperture blades, but then when I checked the back of the camera, I can now see the blades fine. Wow that was a close one for my mental state lol
THere are lots of cheap and simple adaptors available that permit the use of a 6v 4lr44 battery - the camera seems fine on 6v and I had no problems. Sorry, should have mentioned it in the episode!
Sorry to hear that. Are you sure the rangefinder's in good order? If it's definitely ok I guess the lens is the next logical step - always assuming the film is seated correctly?
@@zenography7923 Both images match at infinity. If the range finder is off, then something should be sharp, just not my subject. Nothing is really that sharp. It never gets as sharp as my Electro GL which sports the 40mm f/1.7. It could be my copy.
I found it really simple, and very quick too. I shot iso 200 film and most of the time just left it at f5.6 - worked fine on a very bright day, and just open up a little if the light drops. After all, you'd face the same exposure limits (for a given film and lighting conditions) with any camera!
I still prefer FILM. Here in America, not long ago, thousands of folks found out that their own, personal "Digital Images" stored on "the Cloud" had been SOLD and were appearing in adds and commercials without their consent! It was quite a brewing scandal, but then, very suddenly disappeared from the News! My guess is that the cyber thiefs responsible were trying for a QUICK "out of Court" settlement, just to kill all the bad press ! So, though the numbers of these crimes seem reduced, their still happening. One good thing about my actual Photographs, you'd need to physically "Break into" my house to get them! I NEVER put them or other personal data on line.
I just picked up a Electro 35 GSN the other day and used it for the first time! It's an amazing camera, sharp lens like you said and the aperture priority and auto exposure really keeps it simple. But it still slows me down. I actually uploaded my very first YT video ever today about my experience and day shooting with this camera with sample images! It's a video Short only a couple mins or so... Love your images.
Thanks for looking in, good luck with the channel.
Another fan of the camera here. One thing; The red light is showing overexposure, but the yellow light is a warning light for slow hand-held shutterspeed (1/30), not underexposure. It will always meter automatically, but gives the yellow light warning if it meters under 1/30 shutterspeed. So, you have to use the iso dial if you deliberately want to underexpose your shots.
Nigel, this was so well presented . Thank you for your excellent use of our lovely English language - your God- given intellect and powers of camera/art analysis. You are a treasure in our lives.
Thanks David that's very kind! My reviews are generally subjective, but I do try to present those subjective impressions in as much detail as I can. Glad to know it seems to be working!
Another great video Nigel! I wanted to comment on this one since I have an Electro 35 G and truly love it! As my first rangefinder it took a while to get used to the focusing diamond, but after that it was off to the races. I have run a handful of rolls through it and, apart from a small light leak that seems to have worked itself out, the images are outstanding! I enjoy shooting black and white with it the most and have produce some wonderful shots with it. Also - the sounds of life in the video were music to my ears!
I bought my first "good" camera in Hong Kong in 1977 when I was a student and doing 6 months of practical training there as part of my engineering degree. My final choice was between the Yashica Electro 35 and the Canon QL17 and I went for the Canon because of the compact size and a more convenient battery. I was never disappointed with my choice and used it until it was stolen at Heathrow airport in 1996. However, I later found a Konica Auto S2 in a Tokyo junk shop (2002) and the 45/1.7 Hexanon lens on that is amazing. In fact, I was so impressed with the IQ that I went on to buy a couple of Konica SLR cameras and the Hexanon AR lenses have since become my favorites for using on my mirrorless digital cameras. If you get the chance, I recommend you take a look at the Konica Auto S2.
Someone down to earth. Nigel great video. I have an old GT only goes to 500 but really great pics. I spent 5 wonderful years in England. My family from Cornwall and Ireland originally. The light in the UK seems to saturate all the colours compared to the U.S. This is a camera to take advantage of that.
Great presentation and especially great photos! No wonder Zeiss chose to work with Yashica-Tomioka. I buy every Electro 35-series I can find cheaply, especially if they're malfunctioning. I now have Yashinon DX 35mm/1.8, 40mm/1.7, 45mm/1.7 and 45mm/1.4 all extracted and converted to Sony E-mount. I've managed to cut the close focus in half. In sharpness tests against top vintage SLR lenses, they perform at least as well in every way I like. Even the pentagon blades render smooth almost always, and they give stunning 10-pointed sunstars. My two mistresses are Canon FD and Tomioka.
My mother had one of these in the 70's ...unfortunately, hers is nowhere to be found, but I just picked one up a very clean one for $100. I love the layout and the lens. I also really like the fact that it is inexpensive....I bought it as my go-to camera for when I am travelling and I don't want to risk taking my more expensive gear with me, but I want a great film camera.
Thanks for the helpful review....well done.
this was my first serious camera bought in 1969 or so. I only used it briefly till I got the bug for interchangable lenses which let me to a Spotmatic Pentax. I agree with you, tho' that the Yashica is a great, simple to use rangefinder, gloriously quiet, and forces you to work within its limitations, which is a very good thing for a photographer.
Oh man, I love this line of cameras. I've got the GSN but I think the GT and GN look really sharp in black. It's amazing what you can get out of this camera in low light. Also, I believe the CDs sensor will adjust if you put a filter on the lens making your selective DOF even easier to create in the freak world.
Thanks for the video!
Thanks for taking the time to explain the focus process. This is the dirst time i heard that the view finder is not xonnected to the lens. That helped. We found a GSN cleaning out the inlaws house in San Jose. I am refurbishing the camera and hope to have it ready for Christmas. I appreciate the time and effort you out into this video. This project made me pull out my Minolta Maxxum 7000. Clean it up and get aome film ordered.
Beautiful review old chap. WELL DONE
Man those photos look lovely. I have never ever used a film camera before but after watching your channel I may have to dip my toes. There is something magical about the older analogue cameras.
The simplicity sells it to me. Focus more on the actual framing than all the complications of modern cameras.
This one is really nice - simple, easy and what a lens! Absolutely recommended!
Enjoyed the video. Watched it here in Ft Worth Texas. I bought one of these cameras at the start of the pandemic and shot a couple of rolls. Impressed by how sharp the lens is. This was the second one. The first had the dreaded corroded battery compartment. I do have the auxiliary lens adapters as mentioned below, but have not used them yet. Will give them a try. Keep up the good work!
Glad you enjoyed the video Martin, hope you're enjoying the camera too!
I always like to watch your videos because you are so exited about those old cams and so am I. I got a GS this week for 59 Euros, good optical condition but it had all the usual illnesses that this camera can have. The minus on the battery compartment was corroded and broke, the POD (Pad of death) has deteriorated and the light seals were gone. I had to take the camera apart and luckily got it back together again. Looking forward to run the first film through it next week.
This (the GSN, not the GT) was the camera that sent me forever down the rangefinder rabbit hole. Mine died (not the POD problem) after about six months of hard use, but it gave it's life for a "good" cause (emptying my wallet on far more expensive RF gear): my next camera was a (modern) Zeiss Ikon and a 35/2 Biogon ... and the rest (even more money gone) was history. The lens is fantastic, the camera overall is simple to use, the auto exposure was excellent. The only (minor) negatives were the size (it's a bit bulky -- not horribly so, but compared to other RFs); felt hollow-y / cheap when compared to the brick-like solidity of Leica; and the limited ability to push film (because of the narrow ISO range), otherwise it was a perfect camera for my purposes. Always kind of wanted to splurge for the black (GT) version again to relive my early RF days!
Nigel, I bought one. A lovely camera just as you said. So we’ll made!! It cost me $60 shipping included. Real nice shape, clean and full function.
Great! Finally an experienced man and photographer and not some usual improvised hipster one! thank you for sharing your knowledge and vision!
Thanks for the content. I just got my hands on an Electro 35 GS in pristine condition. Have yet to finish the first roll and see the results, but all the controls are beautifully smooth and easy to use. And that smooth, quiet shutter action!
Nice presentation. I used this camera thru my teen ages. One thing I would like to add. Flare from this lens was spectacular. As you do not see it in view finder, only in final result, it was always unprevisible. Usually, contrast was still very good, but forms made by light were amazing.
I guess I'll find those flares with a little more use! Thanks for looking in.
I love it when you make this sort of video. Thank you.
You're welcome, glad you enjoyed it!
The locking ring around the shutter release is also an on/off switch for the exposure meter so if it's left open it will drain your battery. This camera has a little brother - Electro 35 GX. It's smaller - about the same size as a Canonet - and has a very nice 40mm (not 45mm) f1.7 lens. They're very difficult to find though and are therefore a lot more expensive.
I've seen them on ebay occasionally - they look nice, but there's a price premium, as you say!
中国的闲鱼软件，一大堆。我刚买了一个银色的，花费420元人民币
My Yashica GT is in the process of replacing "pad of death" but I use Yashica GSN, the younger sister of GT models and I can only agree with you: perfect exposure every time, perfect focus every time, extremely easy to use, the lens is wonderful, because has automatic parallax correction there is never a parallax error, whether I am near or far from the subject being photographed. I use a 4LR44 battery that I insert into an adapter I bought a couple of years ago and the camera with this battery works great. Wonderful camera, I highly recommend it to everyone, especially those who like old cameras and love slide film, I think these are the only old cameras that will perfectly expose even a slide film, whether it is GT, GSN or GTN model 🙂
A fantastic machine - I thoroughly enjoyed it!
Thank you.
The Pad of Death is easy to fix, and well worth the fix. Mine was repaired in 2016, when the original pad failed. So I should get a few more decades out of the camera.
Hiya. May I ask whether the voltage of modern batteries being slightly out of spec causes metering underexposure, perhaps requiring dropping the ISO slightly to compensate? Thanks
Very good presentation of a very nice camera. I have two I used to use quite a bit, had them serviced a few years ago just to keep them humming. I remember my cousin bought one new, and was forever complaining about the quality of the lens. Meanwhile I noticed her photos were always sharp and well exposed, even the slides. They only drawback is the size.
It's a large camera, it's true, but there's no getting around that, and as a trade-off, at least it's light! Glad you enjoyed the episode.
got a e35 GSN from a second hand shop for $30. they thought it was broken. (the timer was stuck, i fixed it in the shop and bought it) Yashica seems to be my brand of camera. my favorite is an FX3 super. been shooting with the e35 for a week. its been super enjoyable. the limitations are welcomed. fixed lens. unless lighting changes, pretty much only have to worry about the focus. the alignment was weird at first. wish the diamond was a liiiittle bit bigger. im glad you liked it too! im glad our experiences with it were reflected in our opinions! a damn fine camera.
Great video on a great camera, Nigel! I'd like to tip about three other great looking fixed lens rangefinders with excellent lenses worth checking out;
Yashica Minister 700. All manual, from the sixties, Yashinon 45 mm 1.7 lens.
Konica ee-matic, from the sixties, silicon cell powered apperture priority auto exposure. 40mm Hexanon 2.8 lens.
Zeiss Ikon Contessa folder, from the fifties, silicon cell light meter. Zeiss Opton Tessar 45mm 2.8 lens. Three fantastic rangefinder cameras, yet with a very different caracter.
Thanks for the tips Kalle, I'll look out for these. Glad you enjoyed the episode!
Great helpful video Nigel, just what I've been searching for a "modern" rangefinder with lightmeter. Just bought a yashika 35 gtn in super condition. Going to off load all my other 35mm slrs now. Thank you.
Hi Nigel, I'm a german photographer and i bought an Electro 35 GSM. I love this Kamera so much, and i like your English languange, that you use in this Video.
Thanks man, enjoy the electro, I haven't used mine much recently - must take it out for a spin soon!
Great review. I enjoy hearing the world as you walk around. I have an earlier Yahica Lynx 5000 with a similar lens but with a less striking design. The meter on mine has failed but it allows for manual selection of aperture and shutter speed using an external meter. You've inspired me to finally do some troubleshooting!
Glad you're inspired - it's worth taking a little time to see if it can be fixed, or if not, just use in manual mode and have some film fun!
I will second these cameras being fantastic. These cameras can be bought for a song if the light meter is not working, they can be very often repaired by resoldering the battery wire that got corroded off the battery terminal from leaky dead batteries. This is by far the most common fix needed. There is also a tiny rubber pad that dries out and falls apart on the internal recocking pin, also a very easy fix. There are several vids on how to do the repairs. I have seen these for as little as ten dollars US in this nonworking condition. If you are handy with jewelers screwdrivers it is a great way to get a good shooter for very cheap!
Some very useful advice there to anyone handy with the screwdrivers - thanks!
This was a joy to watch, thanks!
Glad you enjoyed it!
Thank you for the video about the Yashica! I picked up an Electro 35 GSN in the last couple of months as my first film camera, also on your reccomendation - going to try 100 iso film on it soon!
Film is a magical process, and learning how to shoot it will enrich your digital photography too - enjoy!
I actually missed this video when you released it a couple of weeks ago. so you can imagine how surprised I was to see it pop up on my feed 2 days after I ordered a GTN on ebay. I have wanted to try one of these for ages. I actually got one a year ago, only to find I actually bid on the wrong one I was watching by mistake, and the one that I got was a parts camera with lots of bits missing. at least I've got lots of spares for my new one lol. Great video as always. let's hope mine works as well as yours.
Yasicas are nice cameras, as you rightly point out Nigel. I have the forerunner to the Electro range, the Minister series, they are a manual camera, with a coupled EV system, I have the Minister III and the Minister D, both great 35mm cameras,
I also have just got an absolutely mint Yashica-Mat 2 1/4 square TLR, made in 1957 it is stunning in its condition, it hardly looks to have been out of its case.
I'm pleased I got the Yashica bug before your episode, because I can see this driving up the prices online.
Waiting for next week now, sigh.
George
Hi George, that Yashica Mat sounds very cool indeed! Thanks for looking in my friend!
Spoke so accurate and such a good video!
Beautiful camera and the video here is of course extremely informative and pleasant to look at. Thank you very much for that!😍
I think the best feature of Electro 35 is that it has some good old japanese electronics that perfectly adjusts the voltage coming from its battery. I think this was designed so as to guarantee perfect operation of the light-meter as the batteries are running out. It also enables to retrofit different new batteries (or combinations) to mimic its original mercury containing batteries that are not available today. A few volts of difference just does not matter. It still works perfectly. Not only very dependable but also very precise.
It's an amazingly accurate system - certainly the best of the older systems - and it puts one or two modern digitals to shame as well!
What available battery does it use I'm thinking of getting one but want to be able to get a battery for it
Nigel, I was so impressed with your review that I just bought the bloomin' camera on EBAY.
Interesting! I've been using these along with Yashica ElectroAX (an slr version of the electro) and aTL Electro X ITS since the 70s.
Hi Nigel,
Thank you for a superb review. Yashica once offered an Auxiliary lens set for these cameras, one of which reduced the 45mm focal length of the standard lens to 37.7mm, and the other, which extended it to 58.4mm. I have no idea as to optical quality however. There was an adfitional finder that came with them, and fitted into the accessory shoe. There was also the 'Auto Up' lens, which allowed focussing between 18-32 inches.
Hi Peter, I didn't realise that. I guess they would make the camera that bit more flexible, although it's so nice as it is, and feels so all in one, as it were, that the extra bits and bobs might get in the way? Interesting to know though, thanks.
@@zenography7923 Hi Nigel, I had one of these cameras in the 1970's-80's, I think!, it wasn't new when I bought it. I remember the very crisp images it gave though. At the time I was heavily into photographing vintage aircraft, and it was all about telephoto lenses, SLR's etc, so I stupidly sold it, however, the instruction manual has stayed with me all these years. I read it last night, and again this morning, after looking at your review for a second time, and I thought why not!, so the review has inspired me to buy another. I can't wait for it to arrive, and to run a film through it.
Optical quality of those two modifier lenses are perfect. However they are too bulky (to have any practical value) and the (little) change they make do not worth it. It is much logical to take a step or two forward or backward to/from your subject (and avoid the extra glass). They are very nice collector items though; especially that little finder adds a sort of steam punk look.
Hi thanks for the great video
I must tell you this story between 1969 -1974 I worked as a camera technician for Wallace heaton in Bond Street London in the workshop behind the shop when a yashica electro 35 came in we all ran to the toilet a long queue!!!
No one wanted to work on them topcon was another camera !!! Lol now after your video I’ve got one and what a lovely camera a bit of a clean up now looks new on reflection I wish I have stayed at my bench
Was it that they were difficult to repair? Or you'd just seen too many of them maybe! An interesting story, thanks.
Yes they had a reputation for being somewhat difficult to set up after repair it was because
Wallace heaton had such a high standard for speeds / meter
And in those days setting up speeds in electronic cameras
Was frightening to say the least
We were all used to cameras with escapements or blinds
A very thorough review. I was interested because I have just inherited my father in laws's old Yashica Electro AX which looks to be in perfect condition, I have never seen him use it in the last 40 years! I literally just worked out my battery problem. The original battery is no longer available so I am using a CR123 and 3/4n I think in series. I just realised that the second small battery wasn't making contact with the CR 123 as the positive connection is actually recessed! Your vlog has inspired me to go out and get some shots.
i have a 1st generation electro...all i've done to it is change the light seals...it is my most used/favorite rangerfinder
I recently just picked up two 70s rangefinder cameras, which are the Yashica Electro 35 GS and a Miranda Sensoret. I got each of them for $38. Both are in working condition and just need to replace the light seals and fix the mercury battery problem. Excited to see what photos come out of these cameras!
great episode, as always.. thanks
Thanks Enrico, glad you enjoyed it!
I've been wanting to pick up a consumer rangefinder from this era... and I think you've sold me on this one. Now off to hunt one down!
Great snaps with the 45mm f1.7 lens.
Great episode - I got the GSN (hot shoe silver version) for £70, and it's an amazing camera
I think you did pretty well there - well done!
I got a gsn for £10 today even had a working mercury battery inside still !
I grew up with this camera and kodachrome slides : my father bought one in 1966 and it was the family camera up until the early 80's…
I remember the rangefinder patch, the framelines, the gentle but decisive click of the shutter and the the red/green lights for exposure metering. We couldn't ajust the speed as it was chosen by the camera...
Sounds like the video brought back some nice memories - a great little camera, for sure!
Cracking little camera by the sound of it.
It really is - a great little machine!
The exposure system is very accurate on those cameras. Yashica made some really excellent cameras. You should try a Yashica Atoron Electro.
Incredibly accurate, quite uncanny - it seems more accurate than many a digital mirrorless camera I've shot!
Genuinely stunned by the quality of the images from this camera. That lens must be something quite special.
It really is - I was pretty stunned too!
Great images. The sharpness is absolutely crisp.
It really is, I was very surprised by its quality! Thanks for looking in.
Great review! I love my Yashica GTN as it easy to use, reliable and the lens is excellent. It is the main one I use for street work, but have used it foe model shoot.
A surprisingly good camera, and so simple to use too! Enjoy!
I don't know anything about this camera or Yashicas in general but I used to own a Contax G2. It's very different of course but you can see it's from the same stable, and I think it's reasonable to consider the Contax to be a descendant of the GT.
It's not so dissimilar - the G2 is a bit more upmarket of course, and quite expensive these days but you can see the connection!
Just got one on ebay for 15 bucks. Needs new light seals and I had to make a diy battery adapter out of an old lip balm stick but it works.
Cant wait to test it out :)
How did you do it with a lip balm stick?! I'd love to know!
Great video and images
Hi, nice video! I wonder if GS(N) and GT(N) have exactly the same performance.
nice I have a GSN but needs looking at.
I agree with what you said. Great camera and a joy to use. One thing that I consider very good is the accuracy of the light meter. Worth considering. Much better than average cameras of all sorts.
It's a stunningly accurate meter - surprisingly so in fact!
The Yashica CCN always gives me the urge to buy one. Fantastic lens
A nice little camera, for sure!
Great camera.
Sounds like a really nice camera, thanks for the review. It's definitely going on my radar.
It's well worth considering if you're looking for a cheap rangefinder, one of the nicest I've used!
Awesome video. Thank you. I am very new to this camera and was wondering what settings can I use outdoors on a sunny day and in the evening? Would really appreciate if anybody could tell me the basics here. Thank you.
Hello! You didn't mention one of the important advantages of this camera - it has a centre shutter - that is, no shutter curtains. That means it is quiet and less vibration.
Pay attention to a similar camera - Konica S2. It has no automatics, only a selenium exposure meter, but it is simpler - less electronics that can fail. It too has a centre shutter, Copal, and a Hexanon F2.0 lens.
Fabulous presentation of this camera. I am curious to know what your scan process is, the images look amazing on RUclips. When I started back into film camera photography a couple years ago, this was one of the first 35mm rangefinders I could purchase for very little money. I was also,able to learn a bit about camera repair and refurbishment after going through 4-5 of these. I’ve sold all but one off and Have yet to shoot a roll through it. This video has inspired me to do so sooner than later!
I have GSN and it is amazing, Yashica made awesome cameras!!!
They certainly did - this one impressed me very much!
I appreciate this video thank you
Great review!
Thanks Frank, glad you enjoyed it!
Under your influence, just got myself a 35GT. Gorgeous camera, although massive. Can't wait for the rain to stop to start shooting :) Thank you for this video!
I think it's going to be worth the wait - enjoy!
@@zenography7923 Just received the scans from the first roll. Very pleased with the results, the lens is outstanding! Thanks again :)
Good camera!
If you like the electro range pick up a GX smaller with a 40mm F1.7. If you don't mind zone focus, look at the Yashica MC. So small, the ultimate street shooter. Another great autoex camera is the Minolta Himatic E.
I always price up film cameras, more rangefinder or point and shoot as I’m looking for one myself, when I see them on here and other channels, noticed this one seems to be mainly from Japan on EBay at the moment. I’ll be honest and say I know next to nothing when it comes to rangefinders, that’s why your channel, plus just one or two others I find invaluable, even just for a guideline on prices. The last thing any of us wants is to be ripped off.
Absolutely, research prices before buying. A good source of info are completed listings on ebay - these will show what items are actually selling for, rather than asking prices, which are sometimes inflated.
Hi Nigel, well presented video. Thank you
Can you advise how you dealt with the batteries for the camera? What did you use, would love your insights as I have ordered a GSN model
Cheers
Andrew
Any 5v-6.5v battery can be used, I just use a piece of aluminium foil to make up the difference. Excell S28PX battery and I tell a lie, I use three nuts [M6?]. Works a treat
There's a very cheap adaptor available that allows the use of a 4lr44 6v battery - loads of them on ebay, amazon etc. The camera seems to work fine on 6 volts and I had no problems at all. Glad you enjoyed the video by the way!
You became a lot younger looking at 14:35. ;) Best wishes!
The light must be flattering me! Thanks for looking in.
Careful with the radioactivity of the thoriated glass.
No snacking.
Indeed, don't hold it too near the body, don't look directly into it, etc - but casual use shouldn't present any problem.
May I ask what films you used for this video? It's beautiful especially indoors.
Have you tried the Yashica Lynx 14 yet? It might not have auto-exposure but a 45mm lens with 1.4 aperture.
That sounds like quite a camera, I'll look out for one, thanks!
@@zenography7923 There is one on sale in Sweden, ships worldwide, bidding is up to 41 SEK (£3.30 GBP) at the moment, auction ends on Sunday.
I could send the link if you'd like?
I scored a Lynx14 here in Toronto Canada for $25. The 45mm 1.4 is a killer! Will put out a photowalk video from last autumn hopefully soon.
I used my Yashica Electro 35 GS with the same lens, in the studio, using studio flash, back in the 1980s. Scary beautiful images. Sharp, with beautiful contrast. I liked the camera before that, but that experience made me gain more respect for the camera and its lens.
Gosh, that's interesting - studio work too! Is there no end to this camera's talents?
I wish I had the tools and skills to clean the lens on my gsn 35 . No repair guy around who wants to touch it .
I’ve used a red scaled film with it just once and the results were not the best . Needs a new light seal I can sort that out but the lens 😢
I found one of these beauties on a flea market today for just 30 euro's. 😊
Now I just have to put some batteries together to get it alive. Hope it will work 🤞
Thanks for this video!
Nice find!
@@zenography7923 the 'clunk' is there, and all lights do work. Sadly, the shutterblades are sticky. So some work is needed to make it useable again.
Stylish, simple and fast. The sports car of the camera world.
Indeed it is! More of an MGB than an e-type I guess, but all the better for it!
I like the outside episode. One question, how to do with the battery? This camera works with which battery? Doesn’t it use mercury type? Which modern battery one needs to use? Does it need an adapter? Thanks!
There are adaptors available that enable a 6v battery to be used, which does the job just fine. I've even heard of people taping 3 lr44s together and packing out with aluminium foil, which seems to work too!
I've got one of these, its only problem is that it's hard to find the right battery.
Apparently you can get adapters to use a modern battery.
@@caw25sha You can - I got a cheap adapter from Milly's cameras, and 10 batteries for £5. Very cheap indeed
The Yashica Electro 35 GS and GT have gold plated contacts in the circuitry.
Sweet!
Decency oozes from you, thanks
Thanks you, that's very kind! Glad you're enjoying the videos.
My first ever rangefinder :D
Hope it brought back some nice memories!
I think many are put off by not having full manual control like its rival the Canonet QL17 which is also a lot smaller. It's the lens that really makes this one stand out though and because there are other similar options with manual control it's often overlooked. It's still a bargain as a result.
Absolutely, a great camera!
Dang. I sure wish I had some Kodachrome 64 and a way to get it processed.
Hello, i just got this camera for about 100 USD, actually, GSN, and before I install new batteries, does the shutter remain at the same level without the batteries? Because it doesnt seem to open much no matter what settings I choose, so I guess it should change its speed and opening when batteries are in
I was first confused and almost lost sense when I couldn't see the aperture blades, but then when I checked the back of the camera, I can now see the blades fine. Wow that was a close one for my mental state lol
I forgot to ask whether you develop colour film?
I'm afraid not - black and white is about my limit!
Film has made a comeback in the States, and because of that, film and film camera prices have gone up in prices.
Same over here too!
Maybe you bring it up at the very end, but what about getting the right batteries for this?
THere are lots of cheap and simple adaptors available that permit the use of a 6v 4lr44 battery - the camera seems fine on 6v and I had no problems. Sorry, should have mentioned it in the episode!
My 35GT only goes up to 500 asa/iso, so its fairly early i guess
My luck has not been so great. I don't find the lens sharp. :( Could be my copy but not so sure. I am shooting in B&W. Maybe color is different.
Sorry to hear that. Are you sure the rangefinder's in good order? If it's definitely ok I guess the lens is the next logical step - always assuming the film is seated correctly?
@@zenography7923 Both images match at infinity. If the range finder is off, then something should be sharp, just not my subject. Nothing is really that sharp. It never gets as sharp as my Electro GL which sports the 40mm f/1.7. It could be my copy.
nICE.
Thanks!
It's good camera but I really dislike the way to find the right exposure settings. It works but takes time.
I found it really simple, and very quick too. I shot iso 200 film and most of the time just left it at f5.6 - worked fine on a very bright day, and just open up a little if the light drops. After all, you'd face the same exposure limits (for a given film and lighting conditions) with any camera!
@@zenography7923 Yes it's probably fast when you get used to it. I'll have to learn, I just ordered a Electro 35 GL with 40mm f/1.7!
So, maybe it's like hunting with a bow and arrow or a spear. It's still hunting. It just broadens the sport.
Perfect.
@@stoneblue1795 brilliant explanation 👏
I still prefer FILM. Here in America, not long ago, thousands of folks found out that their own, personal "Digital Images" stored on "the Cloud" had been SOLD and were appearing in adds and commercials without their consent!
It was quite a brewing scandal, but then, very suddenly disappeared from the News! My guess is that the cyber thiefs responsible were trying for a QUICK "out of Court" settlement, just to kill all the bad press !
So, though the numbers of these crimes seem reduced, their still happening.
One good thing about my actual Photographs, you'd need to physically "Break into" my house to get them! I NEVER put them or other personal data on line.
Don't tell me what to do.
🌹🙏🌹🙏
Thanks!