Bronica* GS-1 | Frank Titze

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Bronica* GS-1

Overview

The Bronica* GS-1 is a professional medium-format film camera that was the last single-lens reflex (SLR) camera released by Zenza Bronica*. Released in 1983 and produced till 2002, it's a modular, electronically-controlled camera that uses 120 (and 220) film to produce a large up to 6x7cm frame, which is approximately 4.5 times the size of a standard 35mm frame. This larger negative size allows for superior image quality with finer gradation and detail.
Key Characteristics:

Modular System: The Bronica* GS-1 has a modular design, which means that its components can be interchanged to suit different photographic needs. This includes:
Lenses: The GS-1 uses a series of high-quality Zenzanon-PG lenses ranging from 50mm to 500mm. Each lens has a built-in leaf shutter that allows for flash synchronization at all shutter speeds up to 1/500 second.
Film Backs: The camera can use different film backs to change the format from its native 6x7cm to 6x6cm and 6x4.5cm.
Viewfinders: Various viewfinders can be used, including a waist-level finder and different prism finders, some with built-in light metering.

In summary, despite being a 6x7cm camera, the Bronica* GS-1 is considered to be one of the most compact and lightweight options in its class, especially when compared to its main competitors, the Mamiya* RB67 and RZ67. The camera's body is a mix of die-cast metal alloy and reinforced polycarbonate, which contributes to its lighter weight without sacrificing durability. Unlike the Mamiya cameras, which use a bellows system for focusing, the GS-1 uses a conventional helical focusing ring on the lens, which some photographers find more versatile for handheld shooting.

Evaluation

(++) Modular System
(++) 6x7 cm and 6x6 cm (and 6×4,5 cm ) Backs; Horizontal Filmtransport allowed to mod a 220 6x7 to a 24x69 mm Back
(++) Light and Compact due to waiving of a rotatatimg Back

26.08.25

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