Fuji G617 Manual

The Fuji G617 is a professional panoramic medium format film camera featuring a fixed 105mm f/8 lens, 6x17cm format, built-in spirit level, interchangeable viewfinders, and manual film advance. This camera produces stunning panoramic images with exceptional detail and clarity. Below are key sections for operation, features, loading, shooting techniques, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Camera Overview

Key components: Fixed 105mm f/8 lens, Panoramic 6x17cm format, Built-in spirit level, Manual film advance, Interchangeable viewfinders, Tripod socket.

Component	Description
Lens	105mm f/8 fixed lens with multi-coating
Format	6x17cm panoramic (4 shots per 120 roll)
Viewfinder	Interchangeable bright-frame viewfinder
Spirit Level	Built-in bubble level for horizon alignment
Film Advance	Manual crank with frame counter
Shutter Release	Threaded for cable release
Tripod Socket	1/4-20 standard tripod mount
Focusing	Manual focus with distance scale
Aperture Ring	f/8 to f/45 with half-stop clicks
Shutter Speed	1 second to 1/500 plus Bulb

Loading Film

Use 120 medium format film. Load in subdued light.

1. Open back: Slide latch and open camera back.
2. Insert film: Place 120 film in film chamber, align arrow marks.
3. Thread leader: Pull paper leader across to take-up spool.
4. Close back: Ensure secure closure.
5. Advance film: Turn advance crank until frame counter shows 1.

WARNING! Do not force film advance. Ensure back is securely closed before shooting.

Basic Operation

Power on camera; follow operational steps.

1. Set aperture: Rotate aperture ring to desired f-stop.
2. Set shutter speed: Dial appropriate speed for lighting conditions.
3. Focus: Use distance scale or estimate focus distance.
4. Compose: Use viewfinder and check spirit level.
5. Expose: Press shutter release smoothly.
6. Advance film: Turn crank to next frame.

CAUTION! Always use tripod for slow shutter speeds. Handle camera with care.

Technical Specifications

• Format: 6x17cm panoramic medium format
• Lens: Fixed 105mm f/8 Fujinon
• Shutter: Seiko between-lens shutter
• Shutter Speeds: 1s - 1/500s + Bulb
• Aperture Range: f/8 to f/45
• Focusing: Manual, 2.5m to infinity
• Film: 120 roll film (4 exposures per roll)
• Viewfinder: Interchangeable bright-frame
• Weight: Approximately 2.8 kg
• Dimensions: 230mm x 180mm x 120mm

Controls and Settings

All controls are manual and mechanical.

Top Plate: Shutter speed dial, Film advance crank, Frame counter, Shutter release.

Lens Panel: Aperture ring, Focus ring, Depth of field scale, Cable release socket.

Shutter Speeds: 1s, 1/2s, 1/4s, 1/8s, 1/15s, 1/30s, 1/60s, 1/125s, 1/250s, 1/500s, Bulb. Aperture: f/8, f/11, f/16, f/22, f/32, f/45. Focusing: Manual scale from 2.5m to infinity.

Shooting Techniques

Panoramic photography requires specific techniques for optimal results.

1. Use tripod: Essential for sharp panoramic images.
2. Check level: Always verify horizon with built-in spirit level.
3. Exposure: Bracket exposures for critical shots.
4. Composition: Consider panoramic aspect ratio in framing.
5. Focus: Use hyperfocal distance for maximum depth of field.

Tip: Use cable release for shutter speeds slower than 1/60s.

Lens and Viewfinder

The fixed 105mm f/8 lens provides equivalent field of view to 35mm in 35mm format.

1. Lens Performance: Excellent sharpness and contrast with minimal distortion.
2. Aperture Settings: Use smaller apertures (f/16-f/32) for maximum depth of field.
3. Viewfinder Options: Standard bright-frame or optional sports finder.
4. Parallax Correction: Built-in compensation for close focusing.
5. Filter Thread: 67mm filter size for accessories.

WARNING! Never touch lens surfaces directly. Use lens cap when not in use.

Accessories

Available accessories: Lens hood, Filters (67mm), Carrying case, Tripod quick-release plate, Cable release, Viewfinder options.

Care & Maintenance

Store in dry, cool place. Use silica gel in humid conditions. Clean lens with lens tissue only.

CAUTION! Do not use alcohol or solvents on lens. Keep away from sand and dust.

Warranty Information

Fuji limited warranty covers manufacturing defects for one year from purchase date. Warranty does not cover accidental damage, misuse, or normal wear. For service, contact authorized Fuji service centers. Keep original receipt as proof of purchase.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Shutter not firing	Not cocked/battery	Advance film to cock shutter; check mechanical operation.
Film not advancing	Improper loading	Open back and re-thread film; ensure proper engagement.
Blurry images	Camera movement	Use tripod; faster shutter speed; check focus.
Light leaks	Back not sealed	Check back closure; replace light seals if worn.
Inconsistent exposure	Shutter issues	Have shutter serviced; use external meter verification.

Service: Contact authorized Fuji service center for repairs.

Support: Consult professional camera technician for mechanical issues.