E INSTRUCTION MANUAL

QUICK
OPERATION

GETTING
STARTED

FULL-AUTO
OPERATION

SUBJECT
PROGRAM
SELECTION

CREATIVE
EXPOSURE
MODES

ADDITIONAL
FEATURES

APPENDIX
 FOR PROPER AND SAFE USE
This manual has been designed to help you understand the Read and understand all warnings and cautions before
operation of your Minolta camera more quickly. After familiarizing using this product.
yourself with the camera, start with Level I and learn to operate the
camera in Full-Auto mode. WARNING
Move on to Level II and the Subject Program modes when you are
comfortable with the camera and want to have more control. Here Batteries may become hot or explode due to improper use.
you decide the type of image you want to photograph and leave the • Use only the batteries specified in this instruction manual.
exposure details to the camera. • Do not install the batteries with the polarity (+/-) reversed.
When you are ready for full control, move on to Level III and the ASM • Do not subject batteries to fire or high temperatures.
exposure modes. • Do not attempt to recharge, short, or disassemble.
• Do not mix batteries of different types, brands, or ages.
The information in this manual is relevant for products introduced • Tape over lithium battery contacts before disposal.
before December, 1998. Contact the nearest authorized Minolta • Follow local regulations for battery disposal.
Service facility to obtain compatibility information for products
released after this date. Use caution, accidents may occur when using this product near
young children.
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the fol- Keep batteries and other things that could be swallowed away from
lowing two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this
device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause
young children. Contact a doctor immediately if an object is
undesired operation. Changes or modifications not approved by the party responsible swallowed.
for compliance could void the user's authority to operate the equipment. This equip-
ment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, Immediately remove the batteries and discontinue use if…
pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reason- • the camera is dropped or subjected to an impact in which the
able protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equip-
ment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and interior is exposed.
used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio • the camera emits a strange smell, heat, or smoke.
communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a
particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or Do not disassemble. Electric shock may occur if a high voltage
television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, circuit inside the camera is touched. Take your camera to a Minolta
the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the follow-
ing measures:
Service Facility when repairs are required.
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver.
Do not look directly at the sun through the viewfinder.
• Connect the equipment to an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the
receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
CAUTION
This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.
Do not allow a camera lens to point directly at the sun. Fire may
This mark certifies that this product meets the requirements of the EU
occur if sunlight comes to focus on a flammable surface. Replace
(European Union) concerning interference causing equipment regulations. the lens cap when the product is not being used.
CE stands for Conformité Européenne (European Conformity).

1
 TABLE OF CONTENTS TABLE OF CONTENTS

CREATIVE EXPOSURE MODES

NAMES OF PARTS ..............................................................4

LEVEL
QUICK OPERATION ............................................................8 A-MODE – Aperture Priority ................................................40
A-mode flash ..................................................................41
GETTING STARTED Aperture control ..............................................................42
Strap ....................................................................................11 S-MODE – Shutter Priority ..................................................43
Batteries ..............................................................................12 S-mode flash ..................................................................44
Lens ....................................................................................14 Shutter control ................................................................45
M-MODE – Manual ..............................................................46
Loading Film ........................................................................16
Metering in manual mode ................................................47

III
I

Handling the Camera ..........................................................18 M-mode flash ..................................................................48

Eye-Start ..............................................................................19 TAKING TIME EXPOSURES (buLb) ..................................49
L E V E L

FULLY-AUTOMATIC OPERATION
ADDITIONAL FEATURES
Taking Pictures in Full-Auto ................................................21 FOCUS
Focus Signals ......................................................................22 Wide Focus Area ..............52 Spot AF..............................53
Special Focus Situations......................................................23 Manual Focus ....................54 AF Illuminator ....................55
Focus Hold ..........................................................................24 EXPOSURE
Using the Built-in Flash 14 Segment Metering ........56 Spot Metering ....................57
Flash signals....................................................................26 Exposure Compensation ..58 Setting the ISO Manually ..59
Flash range......................................................................26 Bracketing..........................60 Multiple Exposure ..............63
Fill flash ..........................................................................27 FLASH
Flash cancel ....................................................................27 High-Speed Sync ..............66 Slow Sync..........................67
Red-eye reduction ..........................................................28 Wireless/Remote Flash ....68
Rewinding the Film ..............................................................29 FOR OWNERS OF THE PANORAMA MODEL..................73
SUBJECT PROGRAM SELECTION FOR OWNERS OF THE DATE MODEL
II

Portrait Mode ......................................................................31 Exposing the Date/Time ....74 Setting the Date/Time........75
Landscape Mode ................................................................32 Replacing the Battery ........76
LEVEL

Close-up Mode ....................................................................33 CUSTOM FUNCTIONS

Sports Mode ........................................................................34 Setting ..............................77 Details................................78
Night Portrait Mode..............................................................35
APPENDIX
Photographing Night Scenes ..............................................36
Self-timer..............................................................................37 Program Reset Button ......83 Accessories ......................84
Continuous Advance ............................................................38 Exposure Warnings ..........87 Trouble Shooting ..............88
Care and Storage ..............90 Specifications ....................92

2 3
NAMES OF PARTS NAMES OF PARTS

For information on specific parts, refer to the page numbers shown in Main switch Data Panel
parenthesis.
Accessory shoe Subject-program
Body Viewfinder*
button (31-36)

Built-in flash (25-28) Program-reset

Eyepiece sensor button (83)
Self-timer lamp (37) Flash-mode button Film window Remote-control
terminal (50)
Shutter-release Function button
button
Function dial

Manual-rewind
button (29)

Spot AF button (53)

Strap eyelet (11)
Grip sensor Eye-start switch
Self-timer/Drive-mode
Control dial Spot/AE lock button (57) button (37, 38)
Back-cover release
Lens contacts*
Panorama switch (73) Battery-chamber
(not on all models) door (12)
Mirror*
Focus-mode button (54)
Lens mount
Battery-chamber
Lens release (15)
lock

Exposure-compensation button (46, 58)

* Do not touch Tripod socket

4 5
NAMES OF PARTS NAMES OF PARTS

Data Panel Viewfinder

Flash-mode indicators
Manual-focus indicator Focus frame
Red-eye reduction indicator
Shutter-speed/ISO display
Multiple-exposure indicator
Aperture/Exposure-
Exposure-bracketing indicator
compensation display
Exposure-mode indicators
Exposure-compensation
indicator
Subject-program pointer
Subject-program indicators

Spot-metering area

Spot-focus area

Focus signals

Focus-area indicator

Shutter speed display

Self-timer indicator
Exposure-compensation indicator
Battery-condition indicator
Wireless flash indicator
Aperture/Exposure-compensation display
Drive mode indicator
High-speed flash sync indicator Spot/AE lock indicator
Cartridge mark
Film transport signal
High-speed sync indicator
Frame counter/Multiple-exposure/
Custom-function setting display Flash signal

6 7
QUICK OPERATION QUICK OPERATION

1. Insert batteries. 5. Set Full-Auto operation.

• This camera uses two CR2 lithium • Press the program-reset button to set the
batteries. camera to fully-automatic operation.

2. Attach lens. 6. If using a zoom lens, rotate

• Align the red mounting dot on the lens the zooming ring to frame
with the one on the camera. Gently
your subject as desired.
insert the lens into the mount and turn it
clockwise until it clicks into the locked
position.

3. Slide the main and eye-start 7. Center your subject in the

switches to ON. focus frame.
• The camera will focus and set exposure
automatically.

8. Take the picture.

4. Load film.
• Gently press the shutter-release button
• Align the film tip with the red mark, then
all the way down to take the picture.
close the back cover.

8 9
 LEVEL I G E T T I N G S TA R T E D
This section provides the information necessary to operate your
camera in most photographic situations. Attaching the Strap
This section covers:
• Battery Installation
• Attaching and Removing the Lens
• Loading the Film
• Camera Handling
• Fully Automatic Camera Operation
• Special Focus Situations
• Basic Flash Operation
• Rewinding the Film
Once you fully understand the instructions in this section, proceed to
Level II, Level III, and Additional Features to obtain more enjoyment
from your camera.

10
BATTERIES BATTERIES

Installing the Batteries Checking Battery Power

Your camera uses two 3V CR2 lithium batteries to supply power for Each time the main switch is set to ON, a battery symbol appears in
all camera operations. the data panel indicating the power status of the batteries.

1. Using a coin or similar Full-battery symbol

object, turn the battery- Power is sufficient for all camera
chamber lock to OPEN, then operations.
open the battery-chamber • will only appear for five seconds.

door.

Blinking low-battery symbol

2. Insert the batteries as Power is extremely low. All functions
indicated by the + and – are operational, but the batteries will
marks. need to be replaced soon. Flash
recycling time may be slow.

Blinking low-battery symbol

appears alone and the shutter
3. Close the battery-chamber locks.
door, then turn the battery- Power is insufficient for camera
chamber lock to CLOSE. operation. Replace the batteries.
• Setting the camera down with the battery-
chamber door open may damage the
camera.
No display
Power is too low for the camera to
operate. Replace the batteries or make
sure they have been inserted correctly.

12 13
LENS LENS

Attaching the Lens Removing the Lens

1. Remove the body and rear 1. Press the lens release and
lens caps. turn the lens counter-
clockwise until it stops.

2. Gently remove the lens and

replace caps, or attach
another lens.
2. Align the red mounting dots
on the lens and camera body.

Caution
• Do not force the lens if it does not turn smoothly.
3. Gently insert the lens into the • Do not touch the inside of the camera, especially the lens
mount, then turn it clockwise contacts and mirror.
until it clicks into the locked
position.
• Do not insert the lens at an angle.
• Do not press the lens release when
attaching the lens.

14 15
LOADING FILM LOADING FILM

Check the film window before loading film. If film is loaded, do not 3. Extend the leader between the
open the back cover. Refer to Manual Rewind on page 29 for
guide rails to the index mark.
instructions on removing a partially exposed roll.
• If the film tip extends beyond the index
• Load film in the shade to reduce the chances of fogging the film.
mark, push the excess film back into the
• Do not use Polaroid Instant 35mm film. Winding problems may occur.
cartridge.
• If DX-coded film is used, the camera automatically sets the correct ISO (film
speed).
• If non DX-coded film is used, the camera will use the previous roll’s ISO
setting. Refer to page 59 to set the film speed manually.
• Do not use infrared film in this camera. The camera’s frame counter sensor will
fog infrared film.
4. Close the back cover.
1. Slide the back-cover release • The camera automatically advances the
film to the first frame. 1 will appear in the
down to open the back cover. frame counter.
• The ISO is displayed in the data panel for
5 seconds after loading.

• blinks in the frame counter and the

2. Insert a film cartridge into the
shutter locks when the film is loaded
film chamber. incorrectly. Open the back cover and
repeat steps 2 – 4.

If film is loaded with the power off…

The films ISO and appear in the data panel for approx. five
The shutter curtain’s precision design seconds to indicate successful loading, then the camera shuts
makes it extremely sensitive to down.
pressure. Never touch it with your • If the film did not load, will blink in the data panel before the camera
fingers or the film tip. shuts down. Reload the film.

16 17
HANDLING THE CAMERA EYE-START

Holding the Camera Eye-start automatically activates the camera’s

focus and exposure systems as you bring the
Grip the camera firmly with your camera to your eye. Sliding the main and eye-
right hand, while supporting the start switches to the ON position activates the
lens with your left. Keep your grip sensor and data panel. Touching the grip
elbows at your side and your feet sensor activates the eyepiece sensor located
shoulder-width apart to hold the near the viewfinder. When an object is detected
camera steady. Keep the camera near the viewfinder, the camera’s systems are
strap around your neck or wrist in activated to set the focus and exposure as you
the event you accidentally drop frame your subject.
the camera.
• Do not touch the end of the lens Grip Sensor
barrel while taking a picture.
• Autofocus and exposure systems shut
• Use a tripod when using slow
down approx. five seconds after eye or
shutter speeds or a telephoto lens.
grip sensor contact is broken.
• Infrared absorbing sunglasses or gloves
may affect the operation of eye-start.

Eyepiece Sensor
Pressing the Shutter-Release Button
Press the shutter-release button partway
down to activate the camera’s autofocus and
auto-exposure systems.
Press the shutter-release button partway down to activate
Gently press the shutter-release button all the way the camera when eye-start is off.
down to take the picture.

18 19
 TAKING PICTURES IN FULL-AUTO

1. Slide the main and eye-start

switches to ON.

2. Press the program-reset

FULLY-AUTOMATIC button to set the camera to
Full-Auto.
OPERATION • The camera will return to its default
settings (p83).

Full-Auto is the camera’s

standard operating mode and
is suited for use in almost any
situation. When selected, the 3. If using a zoom lens, rotate
camera sets the focus and the lens’ zooming ring to
exposure automatically and frame the subject as desired.
fires the built-in flash when
necessary.

Use Full-Auto when you are

just starting out or when
shooting under conditions that 4. Center your subject in the
would require you to constantly
focus frame [ ].
adjust the focus and/or
• or will appear in the viewfinder
exposure.
when focus is confirmed.
• If appears in the viewfinder, press the
shutter-release button partway down to
pop-up the built-in flash. will disappear,
then reappear when the flash is charged.

Continued on next page.

21
TAKING PICTURES IN FULL-AUTO SPECIAL FOCUS SITUATIONS

5. Press the shutter-release The camera may not be able to focus in situations like those
described below. When the focus lamp blinks, use focus hold (p24)
button all the way down to
or manual focus (p54). See page 22 for an explanation of the focus
take the picture. signals.
• In low-light conditions, the AF illuminator
(p55) will fire to determine focus distance.
• Use focus hold (p24) if your subject is If the subject within the focus frame is
outside the focus frame. very bright, or low in contrast.

Focus Signals
The following signals appear in If two subjects at different distances
the viewfinder to indicate the focus overlap in the focus frame.
status when focus is activated.

If a subject composed of alternating light

and dark lines completely fills the focus
Focus is confirmed
frame.

Continuous autofocus – Focus is confirmed

Continuous autofocus – Lens focusing If your subject is near a very bright

Shutter is locked object or area.

Focus cannot be confirmed – Shutter is locked.

Subject is too close or is one of the special focus
situations described on page 23.

22 23
FOCUS HOLD USING THE BUILT-IN FLASH

In Full-Auto mode (P), the built-in flash pops-up automatically when

Use focus hold when your subject is
the shutter-release button is pressed partway down. Once the flash is
outside the focus frame or when
up, it will fire when necessary.
autofocus is difficult to confirm.
• The shutter will not release until the flash is charged.
• Select flash cancel ( ) when you don’t want the flash to fire.
• Pressing the program-reset button (P) resets the flash to autoflash mode.

Do not use the built-in flash with focal lengths shorter

Focus hold cannot be used for moving subjects. than 28mm. The built-in flash cannot cover focal
lengths wider than 28mm.
1. Center your subject in the
focus frame, then press the
shutter-release button Custom Function 5 (p79) lets you cancel the built-in flash’s
auto pop-up feature. When selected, the flash-mode button
partway down.
must be pressed to raise the built-in flash.
• appears in the viewfinder when the
focus is confirmed.
• Focus hold also locks the exposure
settings.
Lens Shadowing
Lens shadowing occurs when the lens or lens hood blocks part of the
2. Continue to hold the shutter- output from the built-in flash. Lens shadowing appears as semi-
release button partway down circular shaded area at the bottom (horizontal) or side (vertical) of
while you compose your your image.
picture. • Remove the lens hood before using the built-in flash.
• Lens shadowing may occur with the following lenses at shorter focal lengths.
AF Zoom 28-70mm f/2.8G
AF Zoom 17-35mm f/3.5G
AF Zoom 28-135mm f/4.0-4.5
3. Press the shutter-release AF Zoom 28-85mm f/3.5-4.5
button the rest of the way
• The built-in flash can not be used with the following lenses:
down to take the picture. AF 300mm f/2.8 (APO tele)
• Remove your finger from the shutter- AF 600mm f/4.0 (APO tele)
release button to cancel focus hold.

24 25
USING THE BUILT-IN FLASH USING THE BUILT-IN FLASH

Flash Signals Fill Flash

Use fill flash when taking pictures under fluorescent lighting or to
Eye-start ON eliminate harsh shadows. When set, the flash will fire every time a
– Flash will fire. disappears when the shutter- picture is taken. The TTL automatic flash metering system will ensure
release button is pressed partway down, then correct exposure.
reappears when the flash is charged.
Press the flash-mode button and
Eye-start OFF
turn the control dial until
– Flash is charged.
appears in the data panel.
• Make sure your subject is within the flash
Previous exposure was correct. range specified in the table on page 26.
• Press the flash-mode button and turn the
control dial until appears to return to
autoflash mode.
• For quick shots, hold the flash-mode button
Flash Range down when pressing the shutter-release
The range of the built-in flash depends on the speed of the film and button to fire the fill flash.
the selected aperture. Make sure your subject is within the flash
range specified in the table below.
Flash Cancel
Make sure you are at least 1m (3.3 ft.) from your subject Use flash cancel when photographing twilight scenes or to capture
when using the built-in flash. the ambiance of existing light.

Aperture ISO 100 ISO 200 ISO 400 Press the flash-mode button and
1.0 ~ 4.3m 1.0 ~ 6.1m 1.0 ~ 8.6m turn the control dial until
f/2.8
(3.3 ~ 14.1 ft.) (3.3 ~ 20. ft.) (3.3 ~ 28.2 ft.)
appears in the data panel.
1.0 ~ 3.4m 1.0 ~ 4.8m 1.0 ~ 6.8m
f/3.5 • Press the flash-mode button and turn the
(3.3 ~ 11.2 ft.) (3.3 ~ 15.7 ft.) (3.3 ~ 22.3 ft.)
control dial until appears to return to
1.0 ~ 3.0m 1.0 ~ 4.2m 1.0 ~ 6.0m autoflash mode.
f/4.0
(3.3 ~ 9.8 ft.) (3.3 ~ 13.8 ft.) (3.3 ~ 19.7 ft.)
1.0 ~ 2.1m 1.0 ~ 3.0m 1.0 ~ 4.3m
f/5.6
(3.3 ~ 6.9 ft.) (3.3 ~ 9.8 ft.) (3.3 ~ 14.1 ft.)
The shutter speed may be slow.
Use of a tripod is recommended.

26 27
USING THE BUILT-IN FLASH REWINDING THE FILM

Red-Eye Reduction Automatic Rewind

Light reflecting from your subject’s eyes may produce the effect After you have exposed the last frame, the camera will automatically
known as red-eye. Use the built-in flash’s red-eye-reduction mode rewind the film. When the film is completely rewound, the motor will
to produce more natural looking photographs by reducing the red- stop and will blink in the data panel indicating it is safe to open
eye effect. the back of the camera.

1. Turn the function dial to . 1. Wait until the film is

completely rewound.
• will appear and will blink in the data
panel.

2. Slide the back-cover release

2. Press the function button and down to open the back cover.
turn the control dial until
and ON appear in the data 3. Remove the film, then close
panel. the back cover.
• Warn your subject that the flash will fire a
few short flash bursts just before the
picture is taken.

Manual Rewind
Use manual rewind to rewind the film before the current roll is
Cancelling Red-eye Reduction finished.

Turn the function dial to , 1. Press the manual-rewind

then press the function button button.
and turn the control dial until
and OFF appear in the data 2. Follow steps 1-3 from
panel. Automatic Rewind.

28 29
 SUBJECT PROGRAM SELECTION

Portrait Mode
Portraits have the greatest impact
when a shallow depth-of-field* is
used to separate the subject from
the background. In Portrait mode,
the necessary settings are made
LEVEL II automatically, leaving you free to
capture the perfect expression.
Now that you are comfortable with the operation of the * Depth-of-field is the area in front of
camera, take more control of the creative process by and behind the point you focused
telling the camera what kind of picture you want to take. on that appears sharp (p42).
The subject program modes let you take more control
without leaving the program exposure mode. In each of
Press the subject-program
the subject program modes, the camera will
automatically set the best possible shutter speed and button until the subject-program
aperture for the type of picture you are taking. pointer is under .
This section also lets you explore the use of the Self-
timer and Continuous Advance modes.
Subject Program Selection Page
Portrait Mode 31
Landscape Mode 32
Close-Up Mode 33
Sports Mode 34 Tips
Night Portrait Mode 35 • For best results use a mid-telephoto lens with a large aperture.
Photographing Night Scenes 36 • Use fill flash (p27) when your subject is backlit or has strong
shadows across the face.
Drive Mode Page • Lock focus on your subject’s eyes and be ready to capture the
Self-Timer 37 perfect expression.
Continuous Advance 38
Each of these functions can be explored independently
after Level I has been mastered.
• Press the program-reset button to return the camera to Full-
Auto operation.

31
SUBJECT PROGRAM SELECTION SUBJECT PROGRAM SELECTION

Landscape Mode Close-Up Mode

Landscape photography requires Set Close-Up mode when
a large depth-of-field to make photographing small objects like
sure everything is in focus. In flowers or jewelry. In Close-Up
Landscape mode, the camera is mode, the camera automatically
set to obtain the greatest depth- sets the best possible aperture
of-field possible, while and shutter speed for the picture
maintaining a shutter speed fast you are taking.
enough to prevent blur due to
camera shake.

Press the subject-program Press the subject-program

button until the subject-program button until the subject-program
pointer is under . pointer is under .

Tips
Tips
• For best results zoom to a wide view or use a wide angle lens
and include a foreground subject or detail to create a feeling of • For best results use a macro lens or a macro capable zoom lens.
depth in the picture. • Do not use the built-in flash if your subject is closer than 1.0m
• Use flash when a subject in the foreground is backlit or has (3.3 ft.). The lens may block the flash, creating a shadow at the
strong shadows across the face. If there is no subject in the bottom of your image (lens shadowing).
foreground, do not use flash. • Use a tripod to reduce camera shake.
• Use a tripod, especially at slower shutter speeds.

32 33
SUBJECT PROGRAM SELECTION SUBJECT PROGRAM SELECTION

Sports Mode Night Portrait Mode

Fast shutter speeds are needed to Night portraits require the camera’s
stop action. In Sports mode, the flash exposure to be balanced with
camera will set the fastest possible the background exposure. In Night
shutter speed and continually Portrait mode, the camera sets the
adjust the focus to track fast- largest possible aperture with a
moving subjects. longer shutter speed, allowing the
background to appear in the
photograph.

Press the subject-program Press the subject-program

button until the subject-program button until the subject-program
pointer is under . pointer is under .

Tips Tips
• The built-in flash is only effective when your subject is within the • Set the flash to or when using Night Portrait mode.
flash range. See pages 27 and 28.
• Use fast film and keep the focus frame on your subject. • Use faster film and a tripod.
• Mount the camera on a tripod when using telephoto lenses. • Focus on the main part of your subject.
• Warn your subject not to move while the picture is taken.
• Use Spot AF to hold the focus in Sports mode (p53).

34 35
SUBJECT PROGRAM SELECTION SELF-TIMER

Photographing Night Scenes The self-timer delays the release of the shutter for approximately
10 seconds after the shutter-release button is pressed.
Cancel the flash in Night Portrait
mode to photograph night scenes.
The longer shutter speeds set in 1. Place the camera on a tripod,
Night Portrait mode let you then press the self-timer
capture beautiful photographs of button until appears in the
twilight scenes and night skylines. data panel.

1. Press the subject-program

button until the subject- 2. Center your subject in the
program pointer is under . focus frame.

3. Press the shutter-release

button all the way down to
start the timer.
• The self-timer indicator on the front of the
2. Press the flash-mode button camera will blink, then glow just before the
and turn the control dial until shutter releases.
appears in the data panel.
• Self-timer mode is cancelled after the shutter is released.
• Do not press the shutter-release button while standing in front of the camera.
• Attach the eyepiece cap if there is a bright light source behind the camera (p50).

Tips Press the self-timer button or slide the main switch to

• Use faster film and a tripod. LOCK to cancel the self-timer before the shutter
• If you are photographing a dark night scene, it may be difficult for releases.
the camera to focus, use focus hold (p24) or manual focus (p54).

36 37
CONTINUOUS - ADVANCE MODE
In this mode, the camera continues to
release the shutter and advance the
film as long as the shutter-release
button is held down.
• AF Zoom xi and Power zoom lenses
cannot be zoomed when continuous-
advance mode is selected.
LEVEL III
1. Press the drive-mode button
until appears in the data In this section you take full creative control of your
camera. Depending on the selected exposure mode, you
panel.
will control the aperture, shutter speed, or both when
capturing your image.
In the previous sections, only the Program (P) exposure
mode has been explored. Here you will learn to use the
Aperture Priority (A), Shutter Priority (S), and Manual (M)
exposure modes. Select A-mode to control the depth-of-field
2. Press the shutter-release in your images. Set S-mode to control the way moving
button down and hold. subjects appear in your images. Set M-mode when you want
• When taking flash pictures, the shutter will full control over all the exposure functions.
release after the flash is charged.
• When the subject is moving, the shutter will A-Mode Manually select aperture 40
release after the camera focuses on the S-Mode Manually select shutter speed 43
subject.
• To return to single frame mode, press the M-Mode Manually select the shutter speed 46
drive mode button until appears in the and the aperture
data panel. • Each exposure mode can be explored independently.

38
A-MODE – APERTURE PRIORITY A-MODE – APERTURE PRIORITY
In A-mode, you select the aperture and the camera automatically A-Mode Flash
sets the shutter speed required for proper exposure. Set the camera
to A-mode when you want to control the range of sharpness (depth- When the built-in flash is up or an attached accessory flash is on, it
of-field) in an image. Refer to Aperture Control on page 42. will fire each time a picture is taken. The camera’s TTL automatic
flash metering system will ensure proper exposure.

1. Turn the function dial to .

Press the flash-mode button to
pop-up the built-in flash.
• will appear in the data panel.
• The shutter speed is automatically set to
1/125 or slower.
• A smaller aperture (larger f-number) will
result in a shorter flash range. Refer to
Flash Range (p26) to determine the range
2. Press the function button and of the built-in flash at the selected aperture.
turn the control dial until A
appears in the data panel.
If 125 blinks in the viewfinder and the
data panel, the light level is too
bright for the selected aperture. Turn
the control dial until the blinking
stops or cancel the flash.

3. Turn the control dial to select

the aperture.

Cancelling the Flash

Push the built-in flash down or turn the accessory flash off.
• will be displayed in the data panel.

If 4000 or 30 s blinks in the data panel, the required setting is

beyond the camera’s shutter speed range. Turn the control dial
until the blinking stops.

40 41
A-MODE – APERTURE PRIORITY S-MODE – SHUTTER PRIORITY

Aperture Control In S-mode, you select the shutter speed and the camera
automatically sets the aperture required for proper exposure. Use
S-mode when you want to control the blur caused by subject
movement.

1. Turn the function dial to .

Large Aperture Small Aperture

(small f-number) (large f-number)

The size of the aperture (lens opening) determines the depth-of-field 2. Press the function button and
in the final image as well as the intensity of the light falling on the turn the control dial until S
film. Depth-of-field is the range in front of and behind the focus point
that appears sharp in the final image. In the viewfinder, only the
appears in the data panel.
plane the camera is focused on will appear sharp. The photographed
image however, will have a depth-of-field corresponding to the
selected aperture.
Large apertures (small numbers) limit the depth-of-field to a narrow
range in front of and behind the point of focus. Set a larger aperture
when photographing portraits to make your subject stand out from
3. Turn the control dial to select
the background.
the shutter speed.
Small apertures (large numbers) provide greater depth-of-field. Set a • The number 60, or 125, displayed in the
small aperture when photographing landscapes to ensure your entire data panel stands for 1/60th or 1/125th of a
scene is sharp. second.
• Usable apertures will depend on the aperture range of the lens you are using. • The seconds indicator appears in the
viewfinder and data panel if the shutter
speed is one second or longer.

If the aperture display in the data panel blinks, the required

setting is outside the aperture range of the lens. Turn the control
dial until the blinking stops.

42 43
S-MODE – SHUTTER PRIORITY S-MODE – SHUTTER PRIORITY

S-Mode Flash Shutter Control

When the built-in flash is up or an attached accessory flash is on, it
will fire each time a picture is taken. Flash exposure is controlled by
the camera’s TTL automatic flash metering system.

1. Press the flash-mode button

to pop-up the built-in flash.
• will appear in the data panel.

Fast Shutter Speed Slow Shutter Speed

2. Turn the control dial to select
any shutter speed up to In addition to controlling the duration of the exposure, shutter speed
1/125th of a second. determines how moving subjects will appear in the final image.
• The camera automatically sets the aperture
Depending on the speed of your subject, slow shutter speeds will
for the selected shutter speed. make a moving subject appear to flow, creating a feeling of motion.
In addition to stopping action, fast shutter speeds can help prevent
blur caused by camera movement during exposure, known as
camera shake.
Cancelling the Flash • Use a fast shutter speed to stop the motion of your subject.
• Use a slow shutter speed to blur the motion of your subject.
Push the built-in flash down or turn the accessory
flash off.
• will be displayed in the data panel.

44 45
M-MODE – MANUAL M-MODE – MANUAL
M-mode gives you full control of the exposure. The camera’s meter Metering in Manual Mode
index displays how your settings compare to the exposure
determined by the camera’s metering system. In manual mode, the meter index in the viewfinder and the data
panel indicates how your exposure compares with the camera’s
meter reading.
1. Turn the function dial to .

2. Press the function button and – The exposure will over-

turn the control dial until M expose your subject.
appears in the data panel.

– The exposure will under-

3. Turn the control dial to select expose your subject.
the shutter speed.

If an exposure compensation indicator

4. Press the exposure- does not appear, your settings agree with
the exposure determined by the camera.
compensation button and turn
the control dial to select the
aperture.

46 47
M-MODE – MANUAL TAKING TIME EXPOSURES (buLb)

M-Mode Flash Set the shutter speed to bulb

when you want to take time
When the built-in flash is up or an attached accessory flash is on, it exposures. When bulb is selected,
will fire each time a picture is taken. Flash exposure is controlled by the shutter remains open as long
the camera’s TTL automatic flash metering system. as the shutter-release button is
pressed.
1. Press the flash-mode button
to pop-up the built-in flash.
• will appear in the data panel.
1. Mount the camera on a tripod.

2. Turn the control dial to select

2. Set the camera to M-mode,
any shutter speed up to
then turn the control dial until
1/125th of a second.
appears in the data
panel.

3. Press the exposure- 3. Press the exposure-

compensation button and turn compensation button and turn
the control dial to select the the control dial to select the
aperture. aperture.
• Refer to the flash range table on page 26
to determine the aperture setting and the
flash range.

Cancelling the Flash 4. Compose the scene and

Push the built-in flash down or turn the accessory flash off. focus on your subject.
• If the scene is too dark for autofocus to
• will be displayed in the data panel.
operate, press the focus-mode button and
focus the lens manually (p54).
Continued on next page.

48 49
TAKING TIME EXPOSURES (buLb)

5. Firmly press the eyepiece cap

into the eyepiece.
• The eyepiece cap prevents light from
entering thru the viewfinder and affecting
the metered exposure.

6. Press and hold the shutter-

release button to take the
picture. ADDITIONAL
• The shutter remains open as long as the
button is pressed.
F E AT U R E S

Attaching the Remote Cord

To reduce image blur, attach either the Remote Cord RC-1000S or
RC-1000L (sold separately).

1. Flip the remote-control-

terminal cover up.

2. Insert the plug into the

terminal.

Do not use the Wireless Controller IR-1N with this camera.

Permanent damage will occur.

50
FOCUS – Wide Focus Area FOCUS – Spot AF
Wide focus area uses the camera’s Spot AF uses the center focus sensor and the current metering mode
three focus sensors to automatically (p56) to lock focus and exposure. The focus and exposure settings
focus on your subject. The wide remain locked until the spot AF button is released.
focus area provides greater framing
flexibility and makes it easier for the 1. Place your subject inside the
camera to focus on moving spot-focus area.
subjects. Wide focus area is the
camera’s standard focus mode.

The camera determines which sensor is

focusing on your subject and sets the
focus accordingly. 2. Press and hold the spot AF
• The focus areas are not visible in the button.
viewfinder frame. • Focus is confirmed when appears in
the viewfinder.

The focus area indicator in the

viewfinder tells you which
sensor the camera is using.

will appear in the viewfinder,

indicating the center focus sensor is
being used.

3. Press the shutter-release

button all the way down to
take the picture.
• Focus and exposure readings are held until
the spot AF button is released.

52 53
FOCUS – Manual Focus FOCUS – AF Illuminator
Focus the lens manually when autofocus is not suitable and focus The AF Illuminator is a secondary
hold is not possible. The autofocus system will monitor focus and function of the built-in flash. When the
indicate when a subject in the focus frame is in focus. scene is too dark for the camera to
focus accurately, the built-in flash fires
1. Press the focus-mode button. a few short bursts when the shutter-
will appear in the release button is pressed partway
down to provide the illumination
data panel.
necessary for the camera to focus on
your subject.
• Pressing the spot AF button also activates
the AF illuminator.

2. Turn the focusing ring until

your subject appears sharp • The range of the AF Illuminator flash is approximately one to five
meters.
and focused.
• The AF illuminator will not fire in continuous focus mode or if
• appears in the viewfinder when the
flash cancel ( ) is selected.
subject in the focus frame is in focus.
• Press the focus-mode button again to • The AF illuminator will not operate with 300mm or longer single
return to the autofocus mode. focal length lenses.
• The AF illuminator will not operate with 3x-1x Macro Zoom.
• When an accessory flash is attached, its AF illuminator will be
active in place of the camera’s AF illuminator.

AF Power Zoom and xi-Series Lenses

Pull and turn the control ring Custom Function 9 (p82) lets you cancel the built-in flash’s
AF illuminator if it will interfere with your subject or is
until your subject appears
inappropriate.
sharp.

54 55
EXPOSURE – 14 Segment Metering EXPOSURE – Spot Metering
Fourteen-Segment Honeycomb-Pattern Metering uses information Use only the center metering
from the autofocus system to set the metering pattern according to segment to lock the exposure
the position of the main subject. The light metered by each settings without locking the focus.
applicable segment is then evaluated to determine the degree of The exposure remains locked until
spot-lighting or backlighting present in your scene. The focus-area the spot/AE lock button is
indicator displays the sensor being used when the shutter release released.
button is pressed partway down. • Pressing the spot/AE lock button sets
the flash to slow sync mode (p67).
Fourteen-Segment Honeycomb-Pattern Metering is the camera’s
standard metering mode and is appropriate for most photographic
situations. 1. Place the spot-metering area
on the subject whose
exposure you want to lock.

2. Press and hold the spot/AE

lock button.
• and the locked exposure will be
displayed in the viewfinder.

3. Recompose the scene as

desired, then press the
shutter-release button all the
way down to take the picture.
• The exposure is held until the spot/AE lock
button is released.

56 57
EXPOSURE – Exposure Compensation EXPOSURE – Setting the ISO Manually
The metering system in this Set the film speed manually when you want to override the DX-coded
camera averages the readings from film speed or when using non-DX-coded film. Film speeds can be set
each active metering segment to from ISO 6 to 6400 in 1/3EV increments.
determine an exposure that will
achieve an average middle grey Film must be loaded before the ISO can be changed.
tone on the film.

1. Turn the function dial to ISO.

Compensated Exposure

Bright scenes such as snow or beach

scenes are often underexposed. Dark
scenes are often overexposed. Exposure
compensation lets you adjust the metered
exposure +/– 3 stops in 1/2 stop
increments.
Metered Exposure 2. Press the function button and
turn the control dial until the
This effect is most visible when slide film is being used. desired ISO value appears in
the data panel.
Press the exposure-
compensation button and turn
the control dial until the desired
compensation value appears in
the data panel.
• Exposure compensation remains until it is
reset or cancelled.
• To cancel exposure-compensation, repeat
the above procedure and select 0.0 or
press the program-reset button.
• Exposure compensation is not available in
M-mode.

58 59
EXPOSURE – Bracketing EXPOSURE – Bracketing

3. Select the desired drive

mode.
• The drive mode is initially set to single
( ) or continuous ( ) whichever was
set with exposure bracketing last.

Metered Exposure 1/2 Stop Under 1/2 Stop Over 4. Focus on and frame your
This function automatically exposes a 3 frame 1/2 stop increment subject, then press the
bracketed series. The order of the exposures will be the metered shutter-release button all the
exposure, 1/2-stop under the metered exposure, 1/2 stop over the way down to take the picture.
metered exposure.
Hold the shutter-release button
• The automatic bracketing feature cannot bracket flash exposures.
down until the series is finished.
This effect is most visible when slide film is being used. Press the shutter-release button
for each exposure.
• Exposure is locked on the first frame of the
series.
1. Turn the function dial to . • The exposure settings will change
automatically.

Flash Notes
• The built-in flash is set to flash cancel ( ) when bracketing is
2. Press the function button and
selected.
turn the control dial until • An attached Minolta accessory flash will be set to off when
appears in the data panel. bracketing is selected.
• appears in the frame counter after • If an AF series flash is mounted and on when bracketing is
the function button is released. selected, will blink in the data panel and the shutter
will lock until the flash is turned off.

60 61
EXPOSURE – Bracketing EXPOSURE – Multiple Exposure

Cancelling Bracketing The multiple-exposure function

makes it possible to expose two or
1. Turn the function dial to . more images on the same frame.

2. Press the function button and

turn the control dial until OFF
appears in the data panel.
1. Turn the function dial to .

Sliding the main switch to LOCK in the middle of a

bracketing series resets the bracketing series to the first 2. Press the function button and
frame ( ). turn the control dial until
appears in the data panel.
• appears in the frame counter.

Bracketing with the

Exposure Compensation Button
While pressing the exposure-
compensation button, press the
shutter release button all the 3. Compose the scene, then
way down and hold. press the shutter-release
• The camera automatically exposes a three button all the way down to
frame bracketed series. take the first exposure.
• Releasing either button before the series is
complete cancels the exposure series.

Continued on next page.

62 63
EXPOSURE – Multiple Exposure EXPOSURE – Multiple Exposure

Metering Multiple Exposures

blinks in the data panel,
indicating the next exposure The meter in your camera determines exposure (EV) based on the
will be the last in the series. assumption that only one exposure will be made on each frame.
• To take more than 2 exposures, repeat When making multiple exposures, the EV for each additional
steps 1 and 2 until ME glows in the data exposure needs to be reduced or over exposure will result.
panel. • Compensation is not necessary if all of the exposures have dark backgrounds
and the subjects of the exposures will not overlap.
4. Press the shutter-release
button all the way down again Compensate the exposures as follows:
to take the last exposure.
• Multiple-exposure mode is cancelled after Number of
the last exposure has been taken. Exposures

Exposure
Adjustment

Cancelling Multiple Exposure • The above corrections are intended as a general guideline. Some testing may
1. Turn the function dial to . be necessary to produce the desired results.
• Exposure can be compensated in 1/2 EV increments using the exposure
compensation function (p58) and in 1/3 EV increments by changing the ISO
manually (p59).
2. Press the function button and
turn the control dial until OFF
appears in the data panel.

Sliding the main switch to LOCK does not cancel multiple

exposure mode.

64 65
FLASH – High-Speed Sync FLASH – Slow Sync
The maximum sync speed for this In P and A-modes, slow-shutter
camera is 1/125. However, with the sync sets a slower shutter speed to
5400HS accessory flash (sold increase the background or ambient
separately) shutter speeds up to lighting exposure in a flash picture.
1/4000 can be used. High-speed Flash output will automatically be
sync (HSS) allows faster shutter decreased to maintain a correct
speeds when fill flash is used on exposure of your subject.
moving subjects outdoors.
High-speed Sync Slow-shutter Sync

HSS also lets you use large aperture/high

shutter-speed combinations to separate
your subject from the background by
limiting the depth-of-field.
Conventional Flash
Conventional Fill Flash
1. Frame your subject.
Attach the 5400HS flash and set it to standard mode.
2. While pressing the spot/AE
• The camera will automatically switch to HSS mode and H will appear in the
viewfinder and data panel. lock button, press the shutter-
• HSS cannot be used under fluorescent lights. release button all the way
• Flash and color meters cannot meter the flash when high-speed sync is down to take the picture.
selected.
• If the background is bright or a large
aperture is set (A-mode), the shutter speed
may not be reduced.
Refer to the 5400HS instruction manual for details.
• Use a tripod if the shutter speed becomes
too slow to allow sharp, hand-held pictures
after you press the spot/AE lock button.
• and the locked exposure will be
displayed in the viewfinder.

66 67
FLASH – Wireless/Remote Flash FLASH – Wireless/Remote Flash

Wireless/Remote Flash is Setting Wireless/Remote Flash Mode

available with the Minolta
5400HS, 5400xi, and 3500xi 1. Attach the accessory flash to
accessory flashes. the camera, then turn the
Wireless/Remote flash lets you camera and the flash on.
experience the creative control
available with an accessory
flash.
Normal Flash In Wireless/Remote flash mode,
the off-camera flash is triggered
by a coded signal from the 2. Turn the function dial to WL.
camera’s built-in flash when
you press the shutter-release
button. When proper exposure
has been received, another
signal cuts the accessory flash
off.
You can also achieve a 2:1
lighting ratio automatically. 3. Press the function button and
Wireless/Remote Flash When remote ratio flash is turn the control dial until WL
selected, the off-camera flash
and On appear in the camera’s
provides 2/3 of the full
exposure while the built-in flash data panel.
provides the remaining 1/3.

4. Detach the accessory flash,

then press the camera’s flash
Wireless/Remote Ratio Flash
mode button to raise the built-
in flash.

68 69
FLASH – Wireless/Remote Flash FLASH – Wireless/Remote Flash

Taking Pictures in Wireless/Remote Flash Mode 2. Wait until both flash units are
The off-camera flash will provide all of the exposure. fully charged.
• appears in the viewfinder when the built-
in flash is charged.
1. Position your camera and 3500xi flash unit using the • When the off-camera flash is charged, its
AF illuminator will blink.
information on this page.
• If you are not using the 3500xi flash, refer to your flash instruction manual for
the correct camera to subject and flash to subject distances.

Press the spot/AE lock button to test fire the accessory flash.

3. Press the shutter-release

button all the way down to
take the picture.

Wireless/Remote Ratio Flash

Press the flash-mode button when taking the picture. Both flashes
will fire when the shutter is release at a 2:1 ratio. The built-in flash
Aperture Camera – Subject Distance 3500xi – Subject Distance
will provide 1/3 and the accessory flash will provide 2/3 of the total
exposure.
f/2.8 1.4 – 5.0m (4.6 – 16 ft.) 1.0 – 5.0m (3.3 – 16 ft.)

f/4.0 1.0 – 5.0m (3.3 – 16 ft.) 0.7 – 4.5m (2.3 – 14.5 ft.)
CAUTION: Set CUSt – 8 (Spot/AE Lock) to setting 1
f/5.6 1.0 – 5.0m (3.3 – 16 ft.) 0.5 – 3.2m (2.3 – 10.5 ft.) when Wireless/Remote flash mode is on. If
setting 2 is selected, test firing the flash will
• Calculated for ISO 100 film only. activate slow-shutter sync (p82).

70 71
FLASH – Wireless/Remote Flash FOR OWNERS OF THE PANORAMA MODEL

Cancelling Wireless/Remote Flash Mode Select panorama mode to take panorama-format images any time,
even in the middle of the roll.
1. Attach the accessory flash to • Panorama mode does not change the number of exposures on a roll of film.
• The top and bottom parts of the film will not be exposed.
the camera, then turn the
• The imprinting position for the quartz data back is automatically changed when
flash on. panorama format is selected.

2. Turn the function dial to WL. 1. Turn the panorama switch to P.

• The viewfinder changes to a panorama
format.

3. Press the function button and 2. Frame your subject in the

turn the control dial until WL viewfinder and take the
and OFF appear in the picture.
camera’s data panel.

4. Detach the accessory flash. After taking panoramic images…

A
Attach one of the supplied panorama-
format stickers to the film cartridge. Two
sticker types are available. Use A if all the
images on the roll were exposed in
panorama format. Use B if the roll
B
contains both panorama and standard
format images.
• Contact the nearest Minolta Service Facility to
obtain additional panorama stickers.

72 73
FOR OWNERS OF THE QUARTZ DATE MODEL FOR OWNERS OF THE QUARTZ DATE MODEL
The Quartz-data function lets you record the date or time onto the Setting the Date/Time
lower-right corner of the photograph. The quartz data back has an
automatic calendar through the year 2019. 1. Press the mode button to choose
• Imprinted data may be difficult to read if the lower-right corner of the the data imprinting format.
photograph is bright or non-uniform. • M will appear above the month.
• Imprinting size and position may differ according to printing conditions.
• Do not use the data back when temperatures exceed the operating range of
0 to 50 °C (32 to 122 °F).

Print indicator

2. Use the select button (SEL) to

Select button move between different parts of
Mode button Adjust button the displayed data.
• The selected part will blink, indicating that it is
the data to be changed.

Exposing the Date/Time

Before taking the picture… 3. Press the adjust button (ADJ) to
change the data to the correct
1. Press the mode button to choose value.
the data imprinting format. • Data continues changing as long as the button is
• The display changes as follows: held down.
• When the time is displayed and : is blinking,
pressing the adjust button resets the seconds
counter to zero (not shown).

4. When all data is correct, press the

select button (SEL) until the data
stops blinking.
2. Take the picture.
• If the print indicator blinks after the shutter is
released, the data was exposed.

74 75
FOR OWNERS OF THE QUARTZ DATE MODEL CUSTOM FUNCTIONS

Replacing the Battery Using the custom functions, you can tailor selected camera settings
to suit your shooting style or preferences. The functions you can
The quartz data back uses a CR2025 lithium battery, located on the
customize are explained on pages 78-82.
inside of the back cover. Replace the battery if the display or
imprinted data becomes dim.
Setting the Custom Functions
1. Open the back cover.
1. Turn the function dial to CUST.
2. Using a coin or similar object,
turn the battery cover
2. Turn the control dial to select
counter-clockwise, then
the number of the custom
remove it.
function you want to change.

3. Press the function button and

turn the control dial to select
the desired setting.
3. Remove the old battery and 4. Turn the function dial to any
replace it with a new one. position other than CUST.
• The + side should face up. • The shutter cannot be released if the
function dial is set to CUST.

4. Replace the battery cover,

then reset the date and time.
To reset all of the custom functions to their
default setting (1)…
1. Slide the main switch to LOCK.
2. Turn the function dial to CUST.
3. Press the function button and slide the main
switch from LOCK to ON.
• will blink in the data panel.

76 77
CUSTOM FUNCTIONS CUSTOM FUNCTIONS

Cust 1 – AF Release Priority Cust 4 – DX Memory

1 – AF priority 1 – DX Memory Off
Shutter will not release until or appears in the viewfinder. Film speed is always set to the DX-coded ISO. Non-DX-coded film is
set to the ISO of the previous roll.
2 – Release Priority
Shutter releases even if the focus cannot be confirmed. Use Release 2 – DX Memory On
priority when photographing moving subjects. Changes to the film speed for a DX coded roll are saved and applied
• When continuous-advance mode is selected, the camera will not update the to future rolls with the same DX coded ISO. Use to consistently
focus while the shutter-release button is pressed. over/under-expose a specific film type.
• Film must be loaded before the ISO can be changed.

Cust 2 – Film Rewind Start

1 – Automatic
Cust 5 – Flash Control in P Mode
Film is automatically rewound at the end of the roll. 1 – Autoswitchover
Built-in flash pops-up when shutter-release button is pressed partway
2 – Manual down. Flash will fire when necessary.
Press the manual-rewind button to initiate
rewind. (p29). 2 – Fill Flash (Manual Switchover)
Flash-mode button must be pressed to
raise the built-in flash (p27). Flash will fire
every time the shutter is released.
• The TTL exposure system will ensure
Cust 3 – Film Tip correct exposure.
• Push the built-in flash down to select
1 – Film is completely rewound into the cartridge. flash cancel ( ).

2 – Leader is left out of the

cartridge after rewind.
• Sliding the main switch to LOCK
during rewind causes the film to be
rewound into the cartridge when the
power is switched back on.

78 79
CUSTOM FUNCTIONS CUSTOM FUNCTIONS

Cust 6 – Focus-hold button (LENS) Cust 7 – Spot AF button

The mounted lens must have a focus hold button. 1 – Spot Focus
Press the Spot AF button to lock
1 – Focus Hold the focus using the center focus
Pressing the focus-hold button on sensor (p53).
the lens locks the focus.

2 – Selectable focus area

Press the Spot AF button and turn the
control dial to specify the desired local
focus area.
2 – Spot Focus • The selected focus area is displayed in
Pressing the focus-hold button on the lens selects the center focus the viewfinder data panel.
sensor (p53). • The focus area remains selected until it is
changed or CUSt – 7 is returned to Local Focus Area Locations
setting 1.
3 – Continuous Focus • When the RF 500mm lens or the AF
Select this setting when focusing on moving subjects. Power Zoom 35-80mm lens is attached,
Pressing the focus-hold button on the lens selects continuous focus. only the center local focus area can be
selected.

The sequence is:

Wide focus area Left local focus area Center spot focus area Right local focus area

80 81
CUSTOM FUNCTIONS

Cust 8 – Spot/AE Lock button

1 – Press to activate
Spot area is used for metering until the spot button is released.

2 – Press once to activate, press again to cancel.

Spot metering area is used for metering until the spot/AE lock button
is pressed again.
• Slow-shutter sync is set when the flash is selected.
APPENDIX
Cust 9 – AF Illuminator (built-in flash) Program Reset Button
1 – AF IIluminator on Press the program-reset button to return the following camera
functions to their program settings.
When the built-in flash is up, its AF illuminator will fire when
necessary to assist focus.
• The AF illuminator does not fire when flash cancel ( ) is selected. FUNCTION P-MODE SETTING
Exposure mode P mode
2 – AF Illuminator cancelled Focus mode Autofocus
The built-in flash’s AF illuminator will not fire. Other flash functions
Flash mode Auto-on
will operate normally.
• An attached accessory flash’s AF illuminator will not be cancelled. Exposure Compensation +/– 0
Film-drive mode Single-frame advance
Self-timer Cancelled
Cust 10 – Eyepiece Sensor
Wireless/Remote Flash Cancelled
1 – Grip sensor activated
Bracketing Cancelled
Eyepiece sensor is activated when the grip sensor is tripped.
Multiple Exposure Cancelled
2 – Main switch activated • Date, red-eye reduction, ISO settings, and custom function settings
Eyepiece sensor is activated when the main switch is in the ON will not change.
position. Use this setting when the grip sensor is not being tripped • Pressing the program-reset button will also reset an attached
(user wearing gloves). dedicated accessory flash’s program settings. Refer to the flash
instruction manual for details.
• Slide the main switch to LOCK when the camera is not being used.

82
ACCESSORY INFORMATION ACCESSORY INFORMATION

This camera is designed to work specifically with lenses and Accessory Flash Control
accessories manufactured and distributed by Minolta. Using
When using an accessory flash, the desired flash mode can be
incompatible accessories with this camera may result in
selected using the camera or the flash.
unsatisfactory performance or damage the camera and accessories.
CAMERA
Compatibility of Accessories
Press the flash-mode button and
Lenses turn the control dial to select the
• All Minolta AF lenses can be used with this camera. desired flash mode.
• MD and MC series lenses (manual focus) cannot be used with
• The camera transfers data to the
this camera. accessory flash immediately.

Flashes
• All Minolta i, si, and HS series flash units, and the Vectis SF-1
flash, are compatible with this camera. The flash will always fire
when the flash unit is on. (Unless Custom Function #5 is set to
Autoflash (setting 1). In this case, the flash will fire only when FLASH
necessary when it is on and the camera is in Full-Auto and
Subject Program modes.)
Press the flash’s ON/OFF button
• The Flash Shoe Adapter FS-1100 is required to mount AF series to select the desired flash mode.
flash units (4000AF, 2800AF, 1800AF, and Macro flash 1200AF). • Data is not transferred from the flash until
• When the FS-1100 is used… the shutter-release button is pressed
- The flash will fire every time the shutter is released. partway down.
• Fill flash cannot be selected when the
- The AF illuminator will not activate.
camera is set to Full-Auto or any of the
- The built-in flash is set to fill flash when the accessory flash is Subject Program modes.
removed.
• X-series flashes and flashes sold by other manufacturers cannot
be used with this camera.

Others
• The following accessories are not compatible with this camera:
Control Grip CG-1000 Data Receiver DR-1000
Creative Expansion Cards Anglefinder
Magnifier Wireless Controller IR-1N
* Permanent damage will occur if the Wireless Controller IR-1N
is used with this camera.

84 85
ACCESSORY INFORMATION EXPOSURE WARNINGS

For owners of the optional lens kits Indicators will blink in the viewfinder or data panel when there is a
problem with the exposure.
Lens Hood
Flare is non-image forming light that degrades image quality. A lens MODE DISPLAY CAUSE ACTION
hood improves image quality by reducing flare.
• Remove a lens hood before using the camera’s built-in flash. Light level is
P beyond the Bright Light
range of
A Use slower
Fit the lens hood into the mount available speed film, a
at the end of the lens barrel, S shutter neutral density
speeds and
then turn the hood clockwise M apertures.
(ND) filter, or
until it stops. reduce the light
• To store the hood, reverse it, attach it to
level of your
Scene or surroundings.
the lens , then replace the lens cap.
subject
brightness is Low Light
Use higher
P beyond the
camera’s speed film or a
Lens Specifications metering flash.

AF Zoom AF Zoom range.

35 – 70mm f/3.5-4.5 28 – 80mm f/3.5-5.6
Construction: 7 elements/ 7 groups 10 elements/10 groups The required
shutter Select a larger
Angle of View: 63° – 34° 75° – 30°
speed is or smaller
Min. Focus Distance: 0.5m (1.6 ft.) 0.38m (1.2 ft.)
Max. Magnification: 0.15X 0.26X
A beyond the aperture until the
range of the display stops
Min. Aperture: f/22–27 f/22–38
camera. blinking.
Filter Diameter: 49mm 62mm
Dimensions: 68.5 x 63mm 69 x 74mm
Weight: 210g (7.44 oz) 230g (8.125 oz)

• Specifications are based on the latest information available at the The required Select a faster
time of printing and are subject to change without notice. aperture is or slower shutter
S beyond the speed until the
range of the display stops
lens. blinking.

86 87
TROUBLE SHOOTING TROUBLE SHOOTING

Contact your nearest Minolta Service Facility if the following

information does not cover the problem which you are experiencing
or the condition continues.

PROBLEM CAUSE SOLUTION PAGE

No display appears Batteries are loaded incorrectly. Remove and reinstall the batteries. 12
when the camera is
switched on. Batteries are exhausted. If the camera battery is exhausted, install a new battery. 12

Situation is unsuitable for autofocus. Use focus hold or manual focus. 24/54
Autofocus does not
work when shutter- Press the focus mode button to return the camera to
Camera is set to manual focus mode. 54
release button is autofocus mode.
pressed partway down.
Subject is too close. Check the minimum focus distance for your lens. –

Focus cannot be confirmed. Use focus hold or manual focus. 24/54

Shutter cannot be
released. Camera is attached to a microscope
Contact a Minolta service facility for information. –
or telescope.

Flash fires when the

shutter-release button is The AF illuminator is on. This is a normal camera operation. –
pressed partway down.

Flash picture is too dark. Subject is beyond flash range. Make sure the subject is within the flash range. 26

Lower part of flash

Lens hood attached. Remove lens hood. 86
picture is dark.

Remove and reinstall the batteries. If normal camera

Err appears in the data operation does not resume or the camera malfunctions
Camera Malfunction 12
panel. repeatedly, contact an authorized Minolta Service
Facility.

88 89
CARE AND STORAGE CARE AND STORAGE

Operating Temperature and Conditions Cleaning

• This camera is designed for use from -20 to 50 °C (4 to 122 °F). • If the camera or lens barrel is dirty, wipe it gently with a soft,
• Never leave your camera where it may be subjected to extreme clean, dry cloth.
temperatures such as the glove compartment of a car. If the camera or lens comes in contact with sand, gently blow
• Data panel response time will be slow at colder temperatures. away loose particles - wiping may scratch the surface.
The display will temporarily darken at higher temperatures, but • To clean the lens surface, first brush away any dust or sand then,
will restore when the temperature normalizes. if necessary, moisten a lens tissue with lens cleaning fluid and
• Never subject the camera to extreme humidity. gently wipe the lens in a circular motion, starting from the center.
• To prevent condensation from forming, place the camera in a • Never place lens fluid directly on the lens.
sealed plastic bag when bringing it from cold environment to a • Never touch the interior of the camera, especially the shutter and
warm environment. Allow it to come to room temperature before mirror, doing so may impair their alignment and movement. Dust
removing it from the bag. on the mirror will not affect the picture quality.
• The low-battery symbol may appear even with fresh batteries • Never use compressed air to clean the camera’s interior, it may
depending on the storage conditions. To restore camera power, cause damage to sensitive interior parts.
repeat turning the camera on and off. • Never use organic solvents to clean the camera.
• Battery capacity decreases at colder temperatures. Keep your • Never touch the lens surface with your fingers.
camera and spare batteries in a warm inside pocket when
shooting in cold weather. Batteries will regain some of their
capacity when warmed to normal operating temperature. Before Important Events
• Check the camera’s operation carefully, or take test photographs.
• Minolta is not responsible for any loss that may occur due to an
Storage equipment malfunction.
When storing your camera for extended periods,
• Always attach the protective caps.
Questions and Service
• Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area away from dust and
chemicals such as moth balls. For long periods, place the camera • If you have questions about your camera, contact your local
in an airtight container with a silica gel drying agent. camera dealer or write to the Minolta distributor in your area.
• Periodically release the camera’s shutter to keep it operating • Before shipping your camera for repair, please contact an
properly. authorized Minolta Service Facility for details.
• Before using after prolonged storage, check the camera’s
operation to make sure it is functioning properly.

90 91
SPECIFICATIONS SPECIFICATIONS
Camera Type: 35mm SLR with built-in flash, autoexposure Film Transport
(AE), and action predictive autofocus (AF) Loading: Auto load
Lens Mount: Minolta A-type bayonet mount Drive Modes: Single frame, continuous advance
Viewfinder: SLR roof mirror type, 90% field of view, (2 frames/sec.), self-timer, exposure
Magnification: 0.75X bracketing, and multiple exposure.
Shutter Rewind: Auto rewind, manual start (Count-down
Type: Electronically-controlled, vertical-traverse, display)
focal-plane type Frame counter: Forward (shows number of exposures taken)
Speeds: 30 sec. - 1/4000 sec., bulb Built-in Flash
Flash sync speed: 1/125 or slower (synchronizes with all speeds GN: 12 (ISO 100 in meters)
in HSS mode). Coverage: 28mm angle of view
Focus Recycling Time: Approx. 3 sec. (according to Minolta test
Type: TTL phase-detection system, multi metering methods)
with cross hair type CCD line sensor Additional
metering cell. Autofocus and manual focus Power: Two CR2 lithium batteries
modes. Battery Performance:
AF Sensitivity Range: EV -1 to18 (ISO 100) Condition A Condition B
AF Illuminator: Built-in with range of 1.0 - 5.0m. Flash Use (%) 20 °C -10 °C 20 °C -10 °C
Automatically activated in low-light/ low- 0 40 rolls 30 rolls 65 rolls 50 rolls
contrast situations. 50 17 rolls 13 rolls 23 rolls 18 rolls
AF Control: Single-shot, continuous, automatic AF-mode 100 11 rolls 8 rolls 14 rolls 10 rolls
selection.
* 24 exposure rolls
Exposure Condition A: Lens(28-80 f/3.5-5.6) focused from infinity to 2m three times and the
Modes: P, A, S, M, and 5 Subject Program modes shutter-release button held partway down for ten seconds before each
(Portrait, Landscape, Close-up, Sports, Night exposure.
Condition B: Lens(28-80 f/3.5-5.6) focused from infinity to 2m and the shutter-release
Portrait) button held partway down for five seconds before each exposure.
Type: TTL metering; direct TTL metering for flash • Battery performance will vary with usage conditions.
Metering Cell: 14-segment honeycomb pattern SPC for • Exposures taken at a rate of 2 rolls/month.
ambient light and flash-metering SPC for Dimensions (WxHxD): 135.0 x 90.0 x 58.5mm (WxHxD)
flash. QD model: 135.0 x 90.0 x 61.0mm (WxHxD)
Metering Range: Multi-segment metering: EV 1 - 20, Spot Weight : 375g (w/o camera battery),
metering: EV 4 - 20 QD model: 385g (w/o camera battery)
(ISO 100, f/1.4 lens)
Film-speed Setting: Automatic: ISO 25 to 5000 for DX-coded film. Specifications and accessories are based on the latest information
Manual: ISO 6 to 6400 in 1/3 EV increments. available at the time of printing and are subject to change without
Flash: ISO 25 - 1000. notice.

92 93
Minolta Co., Ltd. 3-13, 2-Chome, Azuchi-Machi, Chuo-Ku, Osaka 541-8556, Japan

Minolta GmbH Kurt-Fischer-Strasse 50, D-22923 Ahrensburg, Germany

Minolta France S.A. 365 Route de Saint-Germain, F-78420 Carrieres-Sur-Seine, France
Minolta (UK) Limited 7 Tanners Drive, Blakelands, Milton Keynes, MK14 5BU, England
Minolta Austria Ges. m.b.H. Amalienstrasse 59-61, A-1131 Wien, Austria
Minolta Camera Benelux B.V. Zonnebaan 39, P.O. Box 6000, NL-3600 HA Maarssen, The Netherlands
Belgium Branch Prins Boundewijnlaan 1, B-2550 Kontich, Belgium
Minolta (Schweiz) AG Riedstrasse 6, CH-8953 Dietikon, Switzerland
Minolta Svenska AB Albygatan 114, S-171 54 Solna, Sweden
Finland Branch Niittykatu 6 PL 37, SF-02201 Espoo, Finland
Minolta Portugal Limitada Av. do Brasil 33-A, P-1700 Lisboa, Portugal
Minolta Corporation
Head Office 101 Williams Drive, Ramsey, New Jersey 07446, U.S.A.
Los Angeles Branch 11150 Hope Street Cypress, CA 90630, U.S.A.
Minolta Canada Inc.
Head Office 369 Britannia Road East, Mississauga, Ontario L4Z 2H5, Canada
Vancouver Branch 230-3771 Jacombs Road, Richmond, B.C. V6V 2L9, Canada
Minolta Hong Kong Limited Room 208, 2/F, Eastern Center, 1065 King’s Road, Quarry Bay, Hong Kong
Minolta Singapore (Pte) Ltd. 10, Teban Gardens Crescent, Singapore 608923
Shanghai Minolta Optical
Products Co., Ltd. 368 Minolta Road, Songjiang, Shanghai, China

© 1998 Minolta Co., Ltd. under the Berne Convention

and Universal Copyright Convention

Printed in Malaysia 9222-2153-11 MM-C909