Fuji GS645S Manual

The Fuji GS645S is a medium format rangefinder camera featuring a 60mm f/4 lens, coupled rangefinder focusing, manual exposure control, built-in light meter, collapsible bellows design, and uses 120/220 film formats. Below are key sections for camera overview, features, operation, loading film, shooting techniques, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Camera Overview 2. Key Features 3. Loading Film 4. Camera Operation 5. Exposure Control 6. Focusing System 7. Specifications 8. Maintenance & Care 9. Accessories 10. Troubleshooting

Camera Overview

The Fuji GS645S is a compact medium format rangefinder camera with collapsible bellows and professional features for travel and street photography.

Component	Description
Lens	60mm f/4 Fujinon (5 elements in 4 groups)
Viewfinder	Bright-line frame with parallax correction marks
Rangefinder	Coupled split-image focusing
Shutter	Seiko leaf shutter (1-1/500 sec + B)
Film Advance	Lever wind with automatic frame counter
Light Meter	CdS cell with LED indicators in viewfinder
Film Format	120/220 roll film (16/32 exposures)
Battery	Two LR44/SR44 batteries for meter

Key Features

Professional features designed for portable medium format photography.

Collapsible Bellows: Compact storage when not in use
Coupled Rangefinder: Precise manual focusing
Built-in Meter: Center-weighted CdS metering
Multiple Film Formats: Supports both 120 and 220 film
Parallax Correction: Automatic frame adjustment for close focusing
Hot Shoe: For external flash synchronization
Self-Timer: 10-second delay function

Loading Film

Proper film loading ensures accurate frame spacing and prevents light leaks.

Open camera back: Pull up rewind knob and open back door
Insert film: Place 120/220 roll in film chamber
Thread leader: Pull paper leader across to take-up spool
Advance film: Wind until start arrow aligns with mark
Close back: Ensure back locks securely
Advance to frame 1: Wind lever twice while watching counter

WARNING! Always load film in shaded area to prevent light leaks. Ensure back is fully closed.

Camera Operation

Basic shooting procedure for the GS645S.

Extend bellows: Pull lens panel forward until it clicks into position
Set ISO: Adjust film speed dial to match your film
Meter reading: Point camera at subject and check viewfinder LEDs
Set exposure: Adjust shutter speed and aperture based on meter
Focus: Turn focusing ring until rangefinder images align
Compose: Use bright-line frame in viewfinder
Shoot: Press shutter release smoothly
Advance film: Use lever wind to next frame

Exposure Control

Manual exposure system with built-in light meter assistance.

Control	Range	Function
Shutter Speed	1-1/500 sec + B	Controls duration of exposure
Aperture	f/4 - f/22	Controls depth of field and light intensity
Film Speed	ISO 25-1600	Sets meter sensitivity for film type
Exposure Compensation	±2 EV	Adjusts meter reading for special conditions

Meter Indicators: LED shows over/under/correct exposure in viewfinder

Focusing System

Coupled rangefinder focusing for precise image sharpness.

Focusing Range: 1 meter to infinity
Rangefinder Base: 38mm effective length
Viewfinder Magnification: 0.75x with bright-line frame
Parallax Compensation: Automatic for distances 1m to infinity
Depth of Field Scale: Marked on lens barrel for quick reference

Tip: For critical focusing, align vertical lines in the rangefinder patch

Specifications

Lens: Fujinon 60mm f/4 (5 elements, 4 groups)
Shutter: Seiko leaf shutter, 1-1/500 sec + B
Viewfinder: Bright-frame with parallax correction
Meter: CdS cell, center-weighted, ISO 25-1600
Film: 120 (16 exposures) / 220 (32 exposures)
Image Size: 6x4.5cm (56x41.5mm)
Dimensions: 140x95x75mm (collapsed)
Weight: 850g (without film)
Flash Sync: All shutter speeds via hot shoe

Maintenance & Care

Proper maintenance ensures long-term reliability and optimal performance.

Bellows Inspection: Check for light leaks regularly
Lens Cleaning: Use blower first, then lens tissue with fluid
Viewfinder: Clean eyepiece with soft cloth
Storage: Collapse bellows, store in dry place with desiccant
Battery Check: Replace LR44 batteries annually or when meter dims

CAUTION! Never force collapsible mechanism. Keep away from sand and moisture.

Accessories

Recommended accessories for enhanced functionality.

Accessory	Function
Lens Hood	Reduces flare and protects front element
Filters	46mm screw-in (UV, skylight, polarizer)
Case	Ever-ready case for protection
Flash Units	Compatible with standard hot shoe flashes
Tripod Socket	Standard 1/4-20 thread for tripods

Troubleshooting

Problem	Possible Cause	Solution
Rangefinder not aligning	Misalignment from impact	Have professionally calibrated
Light meter not working	Dead batteries or corrosion	Replace LR44 batteries, clean contacts
Film advance stuck	Improper loading or mechanism issue	Check film path, reset advance lever
Shutter not firing	Not cocked or mechanical fault	Advance film fully, check shutter cocking
Light leaks	Worn bellows or back seal	Inspect bellows in dark room with flashlight
Fuzzy images	Rangefinder misalignment	Test focus accuracy, professional service

Service: Contact authorized Fuji service center for repairs. Do not attempt internal repairs.