Dynax-Maxxum XTsi en

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
operation of your Minolta camera more quickly. After familiarizing
yourself with the camera, start with Level I and learn to operate the
camera in Full-Auto mode.
Move on to Level II and the Subject Program modes when you are
comfortable with the camera and want to have more control. Here
you decide the type of image you want to photograph and leave the
exposure details to the camera.
When you are ready for full control, move on to Level III and the ASM
exposure modes.
The information in this manual is relevant for products introduced
before December, 1998. Contact the nearest authorized Minolta
Service facility to obtain compatibility information for products
released after this date.
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this
device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause
undesired operation. Changes or modifications not approved by the party responsible
for compliance could void the user's authority to operate the equipment. This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device,
pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and
used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio
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
television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on,
the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver.
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.
This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.
This mark certifies that this product meets the requirements of the EU
(European Union) concerning interference causing equipment regulations.
CE stands for Conformit Europenne (European Conformity).
Read and understand all warnings and cautions before

using this product.
WARNING
Batteries may become hot or explode due to improper use.
Use only the batteries specified in this instruction manual.
Do not install the batteries with the polarity (+/-) reversed.
Do not subject batteries to fire or high temperatures.
Do not attempt to recharge, short, or disassemble.
Do not mix batteries of different types, brands, or ages.
Tape over lithium battery contacts before disposal.
Follow local regulations for battery disposal.
Use caution, accidents may occur when using this product near
young children.
Keep batteries and other things that could be swallowed away from
young children. Contact a doctor immediately if an object is
swallowed.
Immediately remove the batteries and discontinue use if
the camera is dropped or subjected to an impact in which the
interior is exposed.
the camera emits a strange smell, heat, or smoke.
Do not disassemble. Electric shock may occur if a high voltage
circuit inside the camera is touched. Take your camera to a Minolta
Service Facility when repairs are required.
Do not look directly at the sun through the viewfinder.
CAUTION
Do not allow a camera lens to point directly at the sun. Fire may
occur if sunlight comes to focus on a flammable surface. Replace
the lens cap when the product is not being used.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
I
L E V E L
FULLY-AUTOMATIC OPERATION
Taking Pictures in Full-Auto ................................................21
Focus Signals ......................................................................22
Special Focus Situations......................................................23
Focus Hold ..........................................................................24
Using the Built-in Flash
Flash signals....................................................................26
Flash range......................................................................26
Fill flash ..........................................................................27
Flash cancel ....................................................................27
Red-eye reduction ..........................................................28
Rewinding the Film ..............................................................29
II
SUBJECT PROGRAM SELECTION
LEVEL
Portrait Mode ......................................................................31

Landscape Mode ................................................................32
Close-up Mode ....................................................................33
Sports Mode ........................................................................34
Night Portrait Mode..............................................................35
Photographing Night Scenes ..............................................36
Self-timer..............................................................................37
Continuous Advance ............................................................38
A-MODE Aperture Priority ................................................40

A-mode flash ..................................................................41
Aperture control ..............................................................42
S-MODE Shutter Priority ..................................................43
S-mode flash ..................................................................44
Shutter control ................................................................45
M-MODE Manual ..............................................................46
Metering in manual mode ................................................47
M-mode flash ..................................................................48
TAKING TIME EXPOSURES (buLb) ..................................49
III
GETTING STARTED
Strap ....................................................................................11
Batteries ..............................................................................12
Lens ....................................................................................14
Loading Film ........................................................................16
Handling the Camera ..........................................................18
Eye-Start ..............................................................................19
CREATIVE EXPOSURE MODES
LEVEL
NAMES OF PARTS ..............................................................4

QUICK OPERATION ............................................................8
TABLE OF CONTENTS
ADDITIONAL FEATURES
FOCUS
Wide Focus Area ..............52
Spot AF..............................53
Manual Focus ....................54
AF Illuminator ....................55
EXPOSURE
14 Segment Metering ........56
Spot Metering ....................57
Exposure Compensation ..58
Setting the ISO Manually ..59
Bracketing..........................60
Multiple Exposure ..............63
FLASH
High-Speed Sync ..............66
Slow Sync..........................67
Wireless/Remote Flash ....68
FOR OWNERS OF THE PANORAMA MODEL..................73
FOR OWNERS OF THE DATE MODEL
Exposing the Date/Time ....74
Setting the Date/Time........75
Replacing the Battery ........76
CUSTOM FUNCTIONS
Setting ..............................77
Details................................78
APPENDIX
Program Reset Button ......83
Exposure Warnings ..........87
Care and Storage ..............90
Accessories ......................84
Trouble Shooting ..............88
Specifications ....................92
NAMES OF PARTS
NAMES OF PARTS
For information on specific parts, refer to the page numbers shown in

parenthesis.
Main switch
Accessory shoe
Body
Viewfinder*
Built-in flash (25-28)

Self-timer lamp (37)
Shutter-release
button
Eyepiece sensor
Flash-mode button
Film window
Data Panel
Subject-program
button (31-36)
Program-reset
button (83)
Remote-control
terminal (50)
Function button
Function dial
Manual-rewind
button (29)
Spot AF button (53)
Strap eyelet (11)
Grip sensor
Eye-start switch
Control dial
Lens contacts*
Mirror*
Back-cover release
Panorama switch (73)
(not on all models)
Spot/AE lock button (57)
Self-timer/Drive-mode
button (37, 38)
Battery-chamber
door (12)
Focus-mode button (54)

Lens mount
Lens release (15)
Battery-chamber
lock
Exposure-compensation button (46, 58)
* Do not touch
Tripod socket
NAMES OF PARTS
NAMES OF PARTS
Data Panel
Viewfinder
Flash-mode indicators
Red-eye reduction indicator
Multiple-exposure indicator
Exposure-bracketing indicator
Exposure-mode indicators
Manual-focus indicator
Focus frame
Shutter-speed/ISO display
Aperture/Exposurecompensation display
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
High-speed flash sync indicator
Aperture/Exposure-compensation display
Drive mode indicator
Cartridge mark
Film transport signal
Frame counter/Multiple-exposure/
Custom-function setting display
Spot/AE lock indicator

High-speed sync indicator
Flash signal
QUICK OPERATION
1. Insert batteries.
This camera uses two CR2 lithium
batteries.
2. Attach lens.
Align the red mounting dot on the lens
with the one on the camera. Gently
insert the lens into the mount and turn it
clockwise until it clicks into the locked
position.
3. Slide the main and eye-start

switches to ON.
QUICK OPERATION
5. Set Full-Auto operation.
Press the program-reset button to set the
camera to fully-automatic operation.
6. If using a zoom lens, rotate

the zooming ring to frame
your subject as desired.
7. Center your subject in the

focus frame.
4. Load film.
Align the film tip with the red mark, then
close the back cover.
The camera will focus and set exposure

automatically.
8. Take the picture.

Gently press the shutter-release button
all the way down to take the picture.
LEVEL I
This section provides the information necessary to operate your
camera in most photographic situations.
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
G E T T I N G S TA R T E D
Attaching the Strap
BATTERIES
BATTERIES
Installing the Batteries
Checking Battery Power
Your camera uses two 3V CR2 lithium batteries to supply power for
all camera operations.
1. Using a coin or similar

object, turn the batterychamber lock to OPEN, then
open the battery-chamber
door.
Each time the main switch is set to ON, a battery symbol appears in
the data panel indicating the power status of the batteries.
Full-battery symbol
Power is sufficient for all camera
operations.
will only appear for five seconds.
Blinking low-battery symbol

2. Insert the batteries as
indicated by the + and
marks.
3. Close the battery-chamber

door, then turn the batterychamber lock to CLOSE.
Power is extremely low. All functions

are operational, but the batteries will
need to be replaced soon. Flash
recycling time may be slow.
Blinking low-battery symbol

appears alone and the shutter
locks.
Power is insufficient for camera
operation. Replace the batteries.
Setting the camera down with the batterychamber 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
lens caps.
1. Press the lens release and

turn the lens counterclockwise 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
3. Gently insert the lens into the
mount, then turn it clockwise
until it clicks into the locked
position.
Do not force the lens if it does not turn smoothly.

Do not touch the inside of the camera, especially the lens
contacts and mirror.
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
open the back cover. Refer to Manual Rewind on page 29 for
instructions on removing a partially exposed roll.
3. Extend the leader between the

guide rails to the index mark.
If the film tip extends beyond the index
mark, push the excess film back into the
cartridge.
Load film in the shade to reduce the chances of fogging the film.
Do not use Polaroid Instant 35mm film. Winding problems may occur.
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 rolls ISO
setting. Refer to page 59 to set the film speed manually.
Do not use infrared film in this camera. The cameras frame counter sensor will
fog infrared film.
4. Close the back cover.

The camera automatically advances the
film to the first frame. 1 will appear in the
frame counter.
The ISO is displayed in the data panel for
5 seconds after loading.
1. Slide the back-cover release

down to open the back cover.
2. Insert a film cartridge into the

film chamber.
The shutter curtains precision design

makes it extremely sensitive to
pressure. Never touch it with your
fingers or the film tip.
16
blinks in the frame counter and the

shutter locks when the film is loaded
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
seconds to indicate successful loading, then the camera shuts
down.
If the film did not load,
will blink in the data panel before the camera
shuts down. Reload the film.
17
HANDLING THE CAMERA
EYE-START
Eye-start automatically activates the cameras
focus and exposure systems as you bring the
camera to your eye. Sliding the main and eyestart switches to the ON position activates the
grip sensor and data panel. Touching the grip
sensor activates the eyepiece sensor located
near the viewfinder. When an object is detected
near the viewfinder, the cameras systems are
activated to set the focus and exposure as you
frame your subject.
Holding the Camera

Grip the camera firmly with your
right hand, while supporting the
lens with your left. Keep your
elbows at your side and your feet
shoulder-width apart to hold the
camera steady. Keep the camera
strap around your neck or wrist in
the event you accidentally drop
the camera.
Do not touch the end of the lens
barrel while taking a picture.
Use a tripod when using slow
shutter speeds or a telephoto lens.
Pressing the Shutter-Release Button
Grip Sensor
Autofocus and exposure systems shut
down approx. five seconds after eye or
grip sensor contact is broken.
Infrared absorbing sunglasses or gloves
may affect the operation of eye-start.
Eyepiece Sensor
Press the shutter-release button partway

down to activate the cameras autofocus and
auto-exposure systems.
Gently press the shutter-release button all the way
down to take the picture.
18
Press the shutter-release button partway down to activate

the camera when eye-start is off.
19
TAKING PICTURES IN FULL-AUTO

1. Slide the main and eye-start
switches to ON.
FULLY-AUTOMATIC
OPERATION
Full-Auto is the cameras
standard operating mode and
is suited for use in almost any
situation. When selected, the
camera sets the focus and
exposure automatically and
fires the built-in flash when
necessary.
2. Press the program-reset

button to set the camera to
Full-Auto.
The camera will return to its default
settings (p83).
3. If using a zoom lens, rotate

the lens zooming ring to
frame the subject as desired.
Use Full-Auto when you are

just starting out or when
shooting under conditions that
would require you to constantly
adjust the focus and/or
exposure.

focus frame [ ].
or
will appear in the viewfinder
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

5. Press the shutter-release
button all the way down to
take the picture.
In low-light conditions, the AF illuminator
(p55) will fire to determine focus distance.
Use focus hold (p24) if your subject is
outside the focus frame.
SPECIAL FOCUS SITUATIONS

The camera may not be able to focus in situations like those
described below. When the focus lamp blinks, use focus hold (p24)
or manual focus (p54). See page 22 for an explanation of the focus
signals.
If the subject within the focus frame is
very bright, or low in contrast.
Focus Signals
The following signals appear in
the viewfinder to indicate the focus
status when focus is activated.
Focus is confirmed
If two subjects at different distances

overlap in the focus frame.
If a subject composed of alternating light

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

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

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
Use focus hold when your subject is

outside the focus frame or when
autofocus is difficult to confirm.
Focus hold cannot be used for moving subjects.

focus frame, then press the
shutter-release button
partway down.
appears in the viewfinder when the

focus is confirmed.
Focus hold also locks the exposure
settings.
2. Continue to hold the shutterrelease button partway down

while you compose your
picture.

button the rest of the way
Remove your finger from the shutterrelease button to cancel focus hold.
24
In Full-Auto mode (P), the built-in flash pops-up automatically when

the shutter-release button is pressed partway down. Once the flash is
up, it will fire when necessary.
The shutter will not release until the flash is charged.
Select flash cancel ( ) when you dont 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

than 28mm. The built-in flash cannot cover focal
lengths wider than 28mm.
Custom Function 5 (p79) lets you cancel the built-in flashs

auto pop-up feature. When selected, the flash-mode button
must be pressed to raise the built-in flash.
Lens Shadowing
Lens shadowing occurs when the lens or lens hood blocks part of the
output from the built-in flash. Lens shadowing appears as semicircular shaded area at the bottom (horizontal) or side (vertical) of
your image.
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
AF Zoom 28-85mm f/3.5-4.5
The built-in flash can not be used with the following lenses:
AF 300mm f/2.8 (APO tele)
AF 600mm f/4.0 (APO tele)
25
Flash Signals
Fill Flash
Eye-start ON
Flash will fire.
disappears when the shutterrelease button is pressed partway down, then
reappears when the flash is charged.
Use fill flash when taking pictures under fluorescent lighting or to

eliminate harsh shadows. When set, the flash will fire every time a
picture is taken. The TTL automatic flash metering system will ensure
correct exposure.
Press the flash-mode button and

turn the control dial until
appears in the data panel.
Eye-start OFF
Flash is charged.
Make sure your subject is within the flash

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
down when pressing the shutter-release
button to fire the fill flash.
Previous exposure was correct.
Flash Range
The range of the built-in flash depends on the speed of the film and
the selected aperture. Make sure your subject is within the flash
range specified in the table below.
Make sure you are at least 1m (3.3 ft.) from your subject
when using the built-in flash.
26
Aperture
ISO 100
ISO 200
ISO 400
f/2.8
1.0 ~ 4.3m
(3.3 ~ 14.1 ft.)
1.0 ~ 6.1m
(3.3 ~ 20. ft.)
1.0 ~ 8.6m
(3.3 ~ 28.2 ft.)
f/3.5
1.0 ~ 3.4m
(3.3 ~ 11.2 ft.)
1.0 ~ 4.8m
(3.3 ~ 15.7 ft.)
1.0 ~ 6.8m
(3.3 ~ 22.3 ft.)
f/4.0
1.0 ~ 3.0m
(3.3 ~ 9.8 ft.)
1.0 ~ 4.2m
(3.3 ~ 13.8 ft.)
1.0 ~ 6.0m
(3.3 ~ 19.7 ft.)
f/5.6
1.0 ~ 2.1m
(3.3 ~ 6.9 ft.)
1.0 ~ 3.0m
(3.3 ~ 9.8 ft.)
1.0 ~ 4.3m
(3.3 ~ 14.1 ft.)
Flash Cancel
Use flash cancel when photographing twilight scenes or to capture
the ambiance of existing light.

Press the flash-mode button and turn the
control dial until
appears to return to
autoflash mode.
The shutter speed may be slow.

Use of a tripod is recommended.
27
REWINDING THE FILM
Red-Eye Reduction
Automatic Rewind
After you have exposed the last frame, the camera will automatically
rewind the film. When the film is completely rewound, the motor will
stop and
will blink in the data panel indicating it is safe to open
the back of the camera.
Light reflecting from your subjects eyes may produce the effect
known as red-eye. Use the built-in flashs red-eye-reduction mode
to produce more natural looking photographs by reducing the redeye effect.
1. Turn the function dial to
1. Wait until the film is

completely rewound.
will appear and

panel.
will blink in the data
2. Slide the back-cover release

down to open the back cover.
2. Press the function button and

and ON appear in the data
panel.
3. Remove the film, then close

the back cover.
Warn your subject that the flash will fire a

few short flash bursts just before the
picture is taken.
Manual Rewind
Cancelling Red-eye Reduction
Turn the function dial to
,
then press the function button
and turn the control dial until
and OFF appear in the data
panel.
28
Use manual rewind to rewind the film before the current roll is
finished.
1. Press the manual-rewind

button.
2. Follow steps 1-3 from
Automatic Rewind.
29

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
automatically, leaving you free to
capture the perfect expression.
LEVEL II
Now that you are comfortable with the operation of the
camera, take more control of the creative process by
telling the camera what kind of picture you want to take.
The subject program modes let you take more control
without leaving the program exposure mode. In each of
the subject program modes, the camera will
automatically set the best possible shutter speed and
aperture for the type of picture you are taking.
This section also lets you explore the use of the Selftimer and Continuous Advance modes.
Subject Program Selection
Page
Portrait Mode
31
Landscape Mode
32
Close-Up Mode
33
Sports Mode
34
Night Portrait Mode
35
Photographing Night Scenes
36
Drive Mode
Self-Timer
Continuous Advance
Page
37
38
* Depth-of-field is the area in front of

and behind the point you focused
on that appears sharp (p42).
Press the subject-program

button until the subject-program
pointer is under
.
Tips
For best results use a mid-telephoto lens with a large aperture.
Use fill flash (p27) when your subject is backlit or has strong
shadows across the face.
Lock focus on your subjects eyes and be ready to capture the
perfect expression.
Each of these functions can be explored independently

after Level I has been mastered.
Press the program-reset button to return the camera to FullAuto operation.
31
Landscape Mode
Close-Up Mode
Landscape photography requires

a large depth-of-field to make
sure everything is in focus. In
Landscape mode, the camera is
set to obtain the greatest depthof-field possible, while
maintaining a shutter speed fast
enough to prevent blur due to
camera shake.
Set Close-Up mode when

photographing small objects like
flowers or jewelry. In Close-Up
mode, the camera automatically
sets the best possible aperture
and shutter speed for the picture
you are taking.

pointer is under
.
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
depth in the picture.
Use flash when a subject in the foreground is backlit or has
strong shadows across the face. If there is no subject in the
foreground, do not use flash.
Use a tripod, especially at slower shutter speeds.
32

pointer is under
.
Tips
For best results use a macro lens or a macro capable zoom lens.
Do not use the built-in flash if your subject is closer than 1.0m
(3.3 ft.). The lens may block the flash, creating a shadow at the
bottom of your image (lens shadowing).
Use a tripod to reduce camera shake.
33
Sports Mode
Night Portrait Mode
Fast shutter speeds are needed to

stop action. In Sports mode, the
camera will set the fastest possible
shutter speed and continually
adjust the focus to track fastmoving subjects.
Night portraits require the cameras

flash exposure to be balanced with
the background exposure. In Night
Portrait mode, the camera sets the
largest possible aperture with a
longer shutter speed, allowing the
background to appear in the
photograph.

pointer is under
.
Tips
The built-in flash is only effective when your subject is within the
flash range.
Use fast film and keep the focus frame on your subject.
Mount the camera on a tripod when using telephoto lenses.

pointer is under
.
Tips
Set the flash to
or
when using Night Portrait mode.
See pages 27 and 28.
Use faster film and a tripod.
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
SELF-TIMER
The self-timer delays the release of the shutter for approximately
10 seconds after the shutter-release button is pressed.
Photographing Night Scenes

Cancel the flash in Night Portrait
mode to photograph night scenes.
The longer shutter speeds set in
Night Portrait mode let you
capture beautiful photographs of
twilight scenes and night skylines.
1. Press the subject-program

button until the subjectprogram pointer is under
1. Place the camera on a tripod,

then press the self-timer
button until
appears in the
data panel.

focus frame.
start the timer.
2. Press the flash-mode button

and turn the control dial until
The self-timer indicator on the front of the

camera will blink, then glow just before the
shutter releases.
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
Use faster film and a tripod.
If you are photographing a dark night scene, it may be difficult for
the camera to focus, use focus hold (p24) or manual focus (p54).
36
Press the self-timer button or slide the main switch to

LOCK to cancel the self-timer before the shutter
releases.
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 continuousadvance mode is selected.
1. Press the drive-mode button

until
appears in the data
panel.

button down and hold.
When taking flash pictures, the shutter will
release after the flash is charged.
When the subject is moving, the shutter will
release after the camera focuses on the
subject.
To return to single frame mode, press the
drive mode button until
appears in the
data panel.
38
LEVEL III
In this section you take full creative control of your
camera. Depending on the selected exposure mode, you
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
in your images. Set S-mode to control the way moving
subjects appear in your images. Set M-mode when you want
full control over all the exposure functions.
A-Mode
S-Mode
M-Mode
Manually select aperture

Manually select shutter speed
Manually select the shutter speed
and the aperture
Each exposure mode can be explored independently.
40
43
46
A-MODE APERTURE PRIORITY
In A-mode, you select the aperture and the camera automatically

sets the shutter speed required for proper exposure. Set the camera
to A-mode when you want to control the range of sharpness (depthof-field) in an image. Refer to Aperture Control on page 42.
A-Mode Flash
When the built-in flash is up or an attached accessory flash is on, it
will fire each time a picture is taken. The cameras TTL automatic
flash metering system will ensure proper exposure.
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
of the built-in flash at the selected aperture.

turn the control dial until A
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 cameras shutter speed range. Turn the control dial
until the blinking stops.
40
41
S-MODE SHUTTER PRIORITY

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.
Aperture Control
Large Aperture
(small f-number)
Small Aperture
(large f-number)
The size of the aperture (lens opening) determines the depth-of-field

in the final image as well as the intensity of the light falling on the
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
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
the background.
Small apertures (large numbers) provide greater depth-of-field. Set a
small aperture when photographing landscapes to ensure your entire
scene is sharp.
Usable apertures will depend on the aperture range of the lens you are using.

turn the control dial until S

the shutter speed.
The number 60, or 125, displayed in the
data panel stands for 1/60th or 1/125th of a
second.
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 Flash
Shutter Control

will fire each time a picture is taken. Flash exposure is controlled by
the cameras TTL automatic flash metering system.

to pop-up the built-in flash.
Fast Shutter Speed

any shutter speed up to
1/125th of a second.
The camera automatically sets the aperture
for the selected shutter speed.

Push the built-in flash down or turn the accessory
flash off.
44
Slow Shutter Speed
In addition to controlling the duration of the exposure, shutter speed

determines how moving subjects will appear in the final image.
Depending on the speed of your subject, slow shutter speeds will
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.
Use a fast shutter speed to stop the motion of your subject.
Use a slow shutter speed to blur the motion of your subject.
45
M-MODE MANUAL
M-MODE MANUAL
M-mode gives you full control of the exposure. The cameras meter
index displays how your settings compare to the exposure
determined by the cameras metering system.
Metering in Manual Mode

turn the control dial until M

the shutter speed.
4. Press the exposurecompensation button and turn

the control dial to select the
aperture.
46
In manual mode, the meter index in the viewfinder and the data
panel indicates how your exposure compares with the cameras
meter reading.
The exposure will overexpose your subject.
The exposure will underexpose your subject.
If an exposure compensation indicator

does not appear, your settings agree with
the exposure determined by the camera.
47
M-MODE MANUAL
TAKING TIME EXPOSURES (buLb)
M-Mode Flash
will fire each time a picture is taken. Flash exposure is controlled by
the cameras TTL automatic flash metering system.

to pop-up the built-in flash.

any shutter speed up to
1/125th of a second.

aperture.
Set the shutter speed to bulb

when you want to take time
exposures. When bulb is selected,
the shutter remains open as long
as the shutter-release button is
pressed.
1. Mount the camera on a tripod.

2. Set the camera to M-mode,
then turn the control dial until
appears in the data
panel.

aperture.
Refer to the flash range table on page 26

to determine the aperture setting and the
flash range.

Push the built-in flash down or turn the accessory flash off.
4. Compose the scene and

focus on your subject.
If the scene is too dark for autofocus to
operate, press the focus-mode button and
focus the lens manually (p54).
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 shutterrelease button to take the

picture.
The shutter remains open as long as the
button is pressed.
Attaching the Remote Cord

To reduce image blur, attach either the Remote Cord RC-1000S or
RC-1000L (sold separately).
1. Flip the remote-controlterminal 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
ADDITIONAL
F E AT U R E S
FOCUS Wide Focus Area

Wide focus area uses the cameras
three focus sensors to automatically
focus on your subject. The wide
focus area provides greater framing
flexibility and makes it easier for the
camera to focus on moving
subjects. Wide focus area is the
cameras standard focus mode.
The camera determines which sensor is

focusing on your subject and sets the
focus accordingly.
The focus areas are not visible in the
viewfinder frame.
FOCUS Spot AF
Spot AF uses the center focus sensor and the current metering mode
(p56) to lock focus and exposure. The focus and exposure settings
remain locked until the spot AF button is released.
1. Place your subject inside the

spot-focus area.
2. Press and hold the spot AF

button.
Focus is confirmed when
the viewfinder.
appears in
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.

take the picture.
Focus and exposure readings are held until
the spot AF button is released.
52
53
FOCUS Manual Focus

Focus the lens manually when autofocus is not suitable and focus
hold is not possible. The autofocus system will monitor focus and
indicate when a subject in the focus frame is in focus.
1. Press the focus-mode button.

will appear in the
data panel.
FOCUS AF Illuminator
The AF Illuminator is a secondary
function of the built-in flash. When the
scene is too dark for the camera to
focus accurately, the built-in flash fires
a few short bursts when the shutterrelease button is pressed partway
down to provide the illumination
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
and focused.
appears in the viewfinder when the

subject in the focus frame is in focus.
Press the focus-mode button again to
return to the autofocus mode.
The range of the AF Illuminator flash is approximately one to five

meters.
The AF illuminator will not fire in continuous focus mode
or if
flash cancel ( ) is selected.
The AF illuminator will not operate with 300mm or longer single
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 cameras AF illuminator.
AF Power Zoom and xi-Series Lenses

Pull and turn the control ring
until your subject appears
sharp.
54
Custom Function 9 (p82) lets you cancel the built-in flashs

AF illuminator if it will interfere with your subject or is
inappropriate.
55
EXPOSURE 14 Segment Metering

Fourteen-Segment Honeycomb-Pattern Metering uses information
from the autofocus system to set the metering pattern according to
the position of the main subject. The light metered by each
applicable segment is then evaluated to determine the degree of
spot-lighting or backlighting present in your scene. The focus-area
indicator displays the sensor being used when the shutter release
button is pressed partway down.
Fourteen-Segment Honeycomb-Pattern Metering is the cameras
standard metering mode and is appropriate for most photographic
situations.
EXPOSURE Spot Metering

Use only the center metering
segment to lock the exposure
settings without locking the focus.
The exposure remains locked until
the spot/AE lock button is
released.
Pressing the spot/AE lock button sets
the flash to slow sync mode (p67).
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

The metering system in this
camera averages the readings from
each active metering segment to
determine an exposure that will
achieve an average middle grey
tone on the film.
EXPOSURE Setting the ISO Manually

Set the film speed manually when you want to override the DX-coded
film speed or when using non-DX-coded film. Film speeds can be set
from ISO 6 to 6400 in 1/3EV increments.
Film must be loaded before the ISO can be changed.

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
This effect is most visible when slide film is being used.

turn the control dial until the
desired ISO value appears in
the data panel.
Press the exposurecompensation 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

subject, then press the
shutter-release button all the
way down to take the picture.
This function automatically exposes a 3 frame 1/2 stop increment

bracketed series. The order of the exposures will be the metered
exposure, 1/2-stop under the metered exposure, 1/2 stop over the
metered exposure.
Hold the shutter-release button

down until the series is finished.
Press the shutter-release button
for each exposure.
The automatic bracketing feature cannot bracket flash exposures.
This effect is most visible when slide film is being used.
Exposure is locked on the first frame of the

series.
The exposure settings will change
automatically.
Flash Notes
60
appears in the frame counter after

the function button is released.
The built-in flash is set to flash cancel (

) when bracketing is
selected.
An attached Minolta accessory flash will be set to off when
bracketing is selected.
If an AF series flash is mounted and on when bracketing is
selected,
will blink in the data panel and the shutter
will lock until the flash is turned off.
61
EXPOSURE Bracketing
EXPOSURE Multiple Exposure

The multiple-exposure function
makes it possible to expose two or
more images on the same frame.
Cancelling Bracketing

turn the control dial until OFF
Sliding the main switch to LOCK in the middle of a

bracketing series resets the bracketing series to the first
frame (
).

appears in the frame counter.
Bracketing with the

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

press the shutter-release
take the first exposure.
62
63

Metering Multiple Exposures
blinks in the data panel,

indicating the next exposure
will be the last in the series.
The meter in your camera determines exposure (EV) based on the

assumption that only one exposure will be made on each frame.
When making multiple exposures, the EV for each additional
exposure needs to be reduced or over exposure will result.
To take more than 2 exposures, repeat

steps 1 and 2 until ME glows in the data
panel.
Compensation is not necessary if all of the exposures have dark backgrounds

and the subjects of the exposures will not overlap.

button all the way down again
to take the last exposure.
Multiple-exposure mode is cancelled after
the last exposure has been taken.
Compensate the exposures as follows:

Number of
Exposures
Exposure
Adjustment
Cancelling Multiple Exposure


turn the control dial until OFF
The above corrections are intended as a general guideline. Some testing may
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).
Sliding the main switch to LOCK does not cancel multiple

exposure mode.
64
65
FLASH High-Speed Sync

The maximum sync speed for this
camera is 1/125. However, with the
5400HS accessory flash (sold
separately) shutter speeds up to
1/4000 can be used. High-speed
sync (HSS) allows faster shutter
speeds when fill flash is used on
moving subjects outdoors.
FLASH Slow Sync

In P and A-modes, slow-shutter
sync sets a slower shutter speed to
increase the background or ambient
lighting exposure in a flash picture.
Flash output will automatically be
decreased to maintain a correct
exposure of your subject.
Slow-shutter Sync
High-speed 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 Fill Flash
Conventional Flash
1. Frame your subject.

Attach the 5400HS flash and set it to standard mode.
The camera will automatically switch to HSS mode and H will appear in the
viewfinder and data panel.
HSS cannot be used under fluorescent lights.
Flash and color meters cannot meter the flash when high-speed sync is
selected.
Refer to the 5400HS instruction manual for details.
66
2. While pressing the spot/AE

lock button, press the shutterrelease button all the way
If the background is bright or a large
aperture is set (A-mode), the shutter speed
may not be reduced.
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.
67
FLASH Wireless/Remote Flash
Normal Flash
Wireless/Remote Flash
Wireless/Remote Ratio Flash
68
Wireless/Remote Flash is
available with the Minolta
5400HS, 5400xi, and 3500xi
accessory flashes.
Wireless/Remote flash lets you
experience the creative control
available with an accessory
flash.
In Wireless/Remote flash mode,
the off-camera flash is triggered
by a coded signal from the
cameras 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.
When remote ratio flash is
selected, the off-camera flash
provides 2/3 of the full
exposure while the built-in flash
provides the remaining 1/3.

Setting Wireless/Remote Flash Mode
1. Attach the accessory flash to
the camera, then turn the
camera and the flash on.
2. Turn the function dial to WL.

turn the control dial until WL
and On appear in the cameras
data panel.
4. Detach the accessory flash,

then press the cameras flash
mode button to raise the builtin flash.
69
Taking Pictures in Wireless/Remote Flash Mode
2. Wait until both flash units are

fully charged.
The off-camera flash will provide all of the exposure.
appears in the viewfinder when the builtin flash is charged.

When the off-camera flash is charged, its
AF illuminator will blink.
1. Position your camera and 3500xi flash unit using the

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.
take the picture.
Wireless/Remote Ratio Flash
Aperture
Camera Subject Distance
3500xi Subject Distance
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.)
f/5.6
1.0 5.0m (3.3 16 ft.)
0.5 3.2m (2.3 10.5 ft.)
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
will provide 1/3 and the accessory flash will provide 2/3 of the total
exposure.
CAUTION:
Calculated for ISO 100 film only.
70
Set CUSt 8 (Spot/AE Lock) to setting 1

when Wireless/Remote flash mode is on. If
setting 2 is selected, test firing the flash will
activate slow-shutter sync (p82).
71

Cancelling Wireless/Remote Flash Mode
1. Attach the accessory flash to
the camera, then turn the
flash on.
FOR OWNERS OF THE PANORAMA MODEL

Select panorama mode to take panorama-format images any time,
even in the middle of the roll.
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 imprinting position for the quartz data back is automatically changed when
panorama format is selected.
1. Turn the panorama switch to P.
2. Turn the function dial to WL.
The viewfinder changes to a panorama

format.

turn the control dial until WL
and OFF appear in the
cameras data panel.
4. Detach the accessory flash.
2. Frame your subject in the

viewfinder and take the
picture.
After taking panoramic images

Attach one of the supplied panoramaformat 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
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

The Quartz-data function lets you record the date or time onto the
lower-right corner of the photograph. The quartz data back has an
automatic calendar through the year 2019.
Imprinted data may be difficult to read if the lower-right corner of the
photograph is bright or non-uniform.
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).

Setting the Date/Time
1. Press the mode button to choose
the data imprinting format.
M will appear above the month.
Print indicator
Select button
Mode button
Adjust button
2. Use the select button (SEL) to

move between different parts of
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
1. Press the mode button to choose
the data imprinting format.
The display changes as follows:
3. Press the adjust button (ADJ) to

change the data to the correct
value.
Data continues changing as long as the button is
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

Replacing the Battery
The quartz data back uses a CR2025 lithium battery, located on the
inside of the back cover. Replace the battery if the display or
imprinted data becomes dim.
1. Open the back cover.
CUSTOM FUNCTIONS
Using the custom functions, you can tailor selected camera settings
to suit your shooting style or preferences. The functions you can
customize are explained on pages 78-82.
Setting the Custom Functions

1. Turn the function dial to CUST.
2. Using a coin or similar object,

turn the battery cover
counter-clockwise, then
remove it.

the number of the custom
function you want to change.
turn the control dial to select
the desired setting.
3. Remove the old battery and

replace it with a new one.
4. Turn the function dial to any

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.
76
will blink in the data panel.
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.
2 Release Priority
Shutter releases even if the focus cannot be confirmed. Use Release
priority when photographing moving subjects.
When continuous-advance mode is selected, the camera will not update the
focus while the shutter-release button is pressed.
Film speed is always set to the DX-coded ISO. Non-DX-coded film is

set to the ISO of the previous roll.
2 DX Memory On
Changes to the film speed for a DX coded roll are saved and applied
to future rolls with the same DX coded ISO. Use to consistently
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
2 Manual
Built-in flash pops-up when shutter-release button is pressed partway

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.
Cust 3 Film Tip

1 Film is completely rewound into the cartridge.
The TTL exposure system will ensure

correct exposure.
Push the built-in flash down to select
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 Focus Hold
Pressing the focus-hold button on
the lens locks the focus.
1 Spot Focus
Press the Spot AF button to lock
the focus using the center focus
sensor (p53).
2 Selectable focus area

Press the Spot AF button and turn the
control dial to specify the desired local
focus area.
2 Spot Focus
Pressing the focus-hold button on the lens selects the center focus
sensor (p53).
3 Continuous Focus
Select this setting when focusing on moving subjects.
Pressing the focus-hold button on the lens selects continuous focus.
The selected focus area is displayed in

the viewfinder data panel.
The focus area remains selected until it is
changed or CUSt 7 is returned to
setting 1.
When the RF 500mm lens or the AF
Power Zoom 35-80mm lens is attached,
only the center local focus area can be
selected.
Local Focus Area Locations
The sequence is:
Wide focus area
80
Left local focus area
Center spot focus area
Right local focus area
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.
APPENDIX
Slow-shutter sync is set when the flash is selected.
Cust 9 AF Illuminator (built-in flash)

1 AF IIluminator on
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.
Program Reset Button

Press the program-reset button to return the following camera
functions to their program settings.
FUNCTION
Exposure mode
2 AF Illuminator cancelled
The built-in flashs AF illuminator will not fire. Other flash functions
will operate normally.
An attached accessory flashs AF illuminator will not be cancelled.
1 Grip sensor activated

Eyepiece sensor is activated when the grip sensor is tripped.
2 Main switch activated

Eyepiece sensor is activated when the main switch is in the ON
position. Use this setting when the grip sensor is not being tripped
(user wearing gloves).
Slide the main switch to LOCK when the camera is not being used.
82
P mode
Focus mode
Autofocus
Flash mode
Auto-on
Exposure Compensation
Film-drive mode
Cust 10 Eyepiece Sensor
P-MODE SETTING
+/ 0
Single-frame advance
Self-timer
Cancelled
Wireless/Remote Flash
Cancelled
Bracketing
Cancelled
Multiple Exposure
Cancelled
Date, red-eye reduction, ISO settings, and custom function settings

will not change.
Pressing the program-reset button will also reset an attached
dedicated accessory flashs program settings. Refer to the flash
instruction manual for details.
ACCESSORY INFORMATION
This camera is designed to work specifically with lenses and
accessories manufactured and distributed by Minolta. Using
incompatible accessories with this camera may result in
unsatisfactory performance or damage the camera and accessories.
Compatibility of Accessories
Lenses
All Minolta AF lenses can be used with this camera.
MD and MC series lenses (manual focus) cannot be used with
this camera.
Accessory Flash Control
When using an accessory flash, the desired flash mode can be
selected using the camera or the flash.
CAMERA
turn the control dial to select the
desired flash mode.
The camera transfers data to the
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
necessary when it is on and the camera is in Full-Auto and
Subject Program modes.)
The Flash Shoe Adapter FS-1100 is required to mount AF series
flash units (4000AF, 2800AF, 1800AF, and Macro flash 1200AF).
When the FS-1100 is used
- The flash will fire every time the shutter is released.
- The AF illuminator will not activate.
- The built-in flash is set to fill flash when the accessory flash is
removed.
X-series flashes and flashes sold by other manufacturers cannot
be used with this camera.
FLASH
Press the flashs ON/OFF button
to select the desired flash mode.
Data is not transferred from the flash until
the shutter-release button is pressed
partway down.
Fill flash cannot be selected when the
camera is set to Full-Auto or any of the
Subject Program modes.
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
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
hood improves image quality by reducing flare.
Remove a lens hood before using the cameras built-in flash.
Fit the lens hood into the mount

at the end of the lens barrel,
then turn the hood clockwise
until it stops.
MODE
Construction:
Angle of View:
Min. Focus Distance:
Max. Magnification:
Min. Aperture:
Filter Diameter:
Dimensions:
Weight:
7 elements/ 7 groups
63 34
0.5m (1.6 ft.)
0.15X
f/2227
49mm
68.5 x 63mm
210g (7.44 oz)
10 elements/10 groups
75 30
0.38m (1.2 ft.)
0.26X
f/2238
62mm
69 x 74mm
230g (8.125 oz)
Specifications are based on the latest information available at the

time of printing and are subject to change without notice.
86
ACTION
Light level is
beyond the
range of
available
shutter
speeds and
apertures.
Scene or
subject
brightness is
beyond the
cameras
metering
range.
The required
shutter
speed is
beyond the
range of the
camera.
Select a larger
or smaller
aperture until the
display stops
blinking.
The required
aperture is
beyond the
range of the
lens.
Select a faster
or slower shutter
speed until the
display stops
blinking.
Lens Specifications
AF Zoom
28 80mm f/3.5-5.6
CAUSE
P
A
S
M
To store the hood, reverse it, attach it to

the lens , then replace the lens cap.
AF Zoom
35 70mm f/3.5-4.5
DISPLAY
Bright Light
Use slower
speed film, a
neutral density
(ND) filter, or
reduce the light
level of your
surroundings.
Low Light
Use higher
speed film or a
flash.
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
Batteries are loaded incorrectly.
Remove and reinstall the batteries.
12
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.
Camera is set to manual focus mode.
Press the focus mode button to return the camera to

autofocus mode.
Subject is too close.
Check the minimum focus distance for your lens.
Focus cannot be confirmed.
Use focus hold or manual focus.
Camera is attached to a microscope

or telescope.
Contact a Minolta service facility for information.
Flash fires when the

shutter-release button is
pressed partway down.
The AF illuminator is on.
This is a normal camera operation.
Flash picture is too dark.
Subject is beyond flash range.
Make sure the subject is within the flash range.
26
Lower part of flash

picture is dark.
Lens hood attached.
Remove lens hood.
86
Camera Malfunction
Remove and reinstall the batteries. If normal camera

operation does not resume or the camera malfunctions
repeatedly, contact an authorized Minolta Service
Facility.
12
No display appears
when the camera is
switched on.
Autofocus does not

work when shutterrelease button is
pressed partway down.
Shutter cannot be
released.
Err appears in the data

panel.
88
24/54
54
24/54
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).

Never leave your camera where it may be subjected to extreme
temperatures such as the glove compartment of a car.
Data panel response time will be slow at colder temperatures.
The display will temporarily darken at higher temperatures, but
will restore when the temperature normalizes.
Never subject the camera to extreme humidity.
To prevent condensation from forming, place the camera in a
sealed plastic bag when bringing it from cold environment to a
warm environment. Allow it to come to room temperature before
removing it from the bag.
The low-battery symbol may appear even with fresh batteries
depending on the storage conditions. To restore camera power,
repeat turning the camera on and off.
Battery capacity decreases at colder temperatures. Keep your
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.
Storage
When storing your camera for extended periods,
Always attach the protective caps.
Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area away from dust and
chemicals such as moth balls. For long periods, place the camera
in an airtight container with a silica gel drying agent.
Periodically release the cameras shutter to keep it operating
properly.
Before using after prolonged storage, check the cameras
operation to make sure it is functioning properly.
90
If the camera or lens barrel is dirty, wipe it gently with a soft,

clean, dry cloth.
If the camera or lens comes in contact with sand, gently blow
away loose particles - wiping may scratch the surface.
To clean the lens surface, first brush away any dust or sand then,
if necessary, moisten a lens tissue with lens cleaning fluid and
gently wipe the lens in a circular motion, starting from the center.
Never place lens fluid directly on the lens.
Never touch the interior of the camera, especially the shutter and
mirror, doing so may impair their alignment and movement. Dust
on the mirror will not affect the picture quality.
Never use compressed air to clean the cameras interior, it may
cause damage to sensitive interior parts.
Never use organic solvents to clean the camera.
Never touch the lens surface with your fingers.
Before Important Events

Check the cameras operation carefully, or take test photographs.
Minolta is not responsible for any loss that may occur due to an
equipment malfunction.
Questions and Service

If you have questions about your camera, contact your local
camera dealer or write to the Minolta distributor in your area.
Before shipping your camera for repair, please contact an
authorized Minolta Service Facility for details.
91
SPECIFICATIONS
Camera Type:
Lens Mount:
Viewfinder:
Shutter
Type:
Speeds:
Flash sync speed:
Focus
Type:
35mm SLR with built-in flash, autoexposure

(AE), and action predictive autofocus (AF)
Minolta A-type bayonet mount
SLR roof mirror type, 90% field of view,
Magnification: 0.75X
Film Transport
Loading:
Drive Modes:
Rewind:
Electronically-controlled, vertical-traverse,
focal-plane type
30 sec. - 1/4000 sec., bulb
1/125 or slower (synchronizes with all speeds
in HSS mode).
TTL phase-detection system, multi metering

with cross hair type CCD line sensor
metering cell. Autofocus and manual focus
modes.
AF Sensitivity Range: EV -1 to18 (ISO 100)
AF Illuminator:
Built-in with range of 1.0 - 5.0m.
Automatically activated in low-light/ lowcontrast situations.
AF Control:
Single-shot, continuous, automatic AF-mode
selection.
Exposure
Modes:
P, A, S, M, and 5 Subject Program modes
(Portrait, Landscape, Close-up, Sports, Night
Portrait)
Type:
TTL metering; direct TTL metering for flash
Metering Cell:
14-segment honeycomb pattern SPC for
ambient light and flash-metering SPC for
flash.
Metering Range:
Multi-segment metering: EV 1 - 20, Spot
metering: EV 4 - 20
(ISO 100, f/1.4 lens)
Film-speed Setting: Automatic: ISO 25 to 5000 for DX-coded film.
Manual: ISO 6 to 6400 in 1/3 EV increments.
Flash: ISO 25 - 1000.
92
SPECIFICATIONS
Frame counter:
Built-in Flash
GN:
Coverage:
Recycling Time:
Auto load
Single frame, continuous advance
(2 frames/sec.), self-timer, exposure
bracketing, and multiple exposure.
Auto rewind, manual start (Count-down
display)
Forward (shows number of exposures taken)
12 (ISO 100 in meters)
28mm angle of view
Approx. 3 sec. (according to Minolta test
methods)
Additional
Power:
Two CR2 lithium batteries
Battery Performance:
Condition A
Flash Use (%)

0
50
100
20 C
40 rolls
17 rolls
11 rolls
-10 C
30 rolls
13 rolls
8 rolls
Condition B
20 C
65 rolls
23 rolls
14 rolls
-10 C
50 rolls
18 rolls
10 rolls
* 24 exposure rolls
Condition A: Lens(28-80 f/3.5-5.6) focused from infinity to 2m three times and the
shutter-release button held partway down for ten seconds before each
exposure.
Condition B: Lens(28-80 f/3.5-5.6) focused from infinity to 2m and the shutter-release
button held partway down for five seconds before each exposure.
Battery performance will vary with usage conditions.
Exposures taken at a rate of 2 rolls/month.
Dimensions (WxHxD): 135.0 x 90.0 x 58.5mm (WxHxD)

QD model: 135.0 x 90.0 x 61.0mm (WxHxD)
Weight :
375g (w/o camera battery),
QD model: 385g (w/o camera battery)
Specifications and accessories are based on the latest information
available at the time of printing and are subject to change without
notice.
93
Minolta Co., Ltd.
3-13, 2-Chome, Azuchi-Machi, Chuo-Ku, Osaka 541-8556, Japan
Minolta GmbH
Minolta France S.A.
Minolta (UK) Limited
Minolta Austria Ges. m.b.H.
Minolta Camera Benelux B.V.
Belgium Branch
Minolta (Schweiz) AG
Minolta Svenska AB
Finland Branch
Minolta Portugal Limitada
Minolta Corporation
Head Office
Los Angeles Branch
Minolta Canada Inc.
Head Office
Vancouver Branch
Minolta Hong Kong Limited
Minolta Singapore (Pte) Ltd.
Shanghai Minolta Optical
Products Co., Ltd.
Kurt-Fischer-Strasse 50, D-22923 Ahrensburg, Germany

365 Route de Saint-Germain, F-78420 Carrieres-Sur-Seine, France
7 Tanners Drive, Blakelands, Milton Keynes, MK14 5BU, England
Amalienstrasse 59-61, A-1131 Wien, Austria
Zonnebaan 39, P.O. Box 6000, NL-3600 HA Maarssen, The Netherlands
Prins Boundewijnlaan 1, B-2550 Kontich, Belgium
Riedstrasse 6, CH-8953 Dietikon, Switzerland
Albygatan 114, S-171 54 Solna, Sweden
Niittykatu 6 PL 37, SF-02201 Espoo, Finland
Av. do Brasil 33-A, P-1700 Lisboa, Portugal
101 Williams Drive, Ramsey, New Jersey 07446, U.S.A.
11150 Hope Street Cypress, CA 90630, U.S.A.
369 Britannia Road East, Mississauga, Ontario L4Z 2H5, Canada
230-3771 Jacombs Road, Richmond, B.C. V6V 2L9, Canada
Room 208, 2/F, Eastern Center, 1065 Kings Road, Quarry Bay, Hong Kong
10, Teban Gardens Crescent, Singapore 608923
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

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E

FOR PROPER AND SAFE USE

Read and understand all warnings and cautions before

SUBJECT PROGRAM SELECTION

Portrait Mode ......................................................................31

A-MODE Aperture Priority ................................................40

CREATIVE EXPOSURE MODES

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

For information on specific parts, refer to the page numbers shown in

Built-in flash (25-28)

Spot/AE lock button (57)

Focus-mode button (54)

Exposure-compensation button (46, 58)

Spot/AE lock indicator

3. Slide the main and eye-start

6. If using a zoom lens, rotate

7. Center your subject in the

The camera will focus and set exposure

8. Take the picture.

Installing the Batteries

Checking Battery Power

1. Using a coin or similar

will only appear for five seconds.

Blinking low-battery symbol

3. Close the battery-chamber

Power is extremely low. All functions

Blinking low-battery symbol

Attaching the Lens

Removing the Lens

1. Press the lens release and

2. Gently remove the lens and

2. Align the red mounting dots

Do not force the lens if it does not turn smoothly.

Do not insert the lens at an angle.

3. Extend the leader between the

4. Close the back cover.

1. Slide the back-cover release

2. Insert a film cartridge into the

The shutter curtains precision design

blinks in the frame counter and the

If film is loaded with the power off

HANDLING THE CAMERA

Holding the Camera

Pressing the Shutter-Release Button

Press the shutter-release button partway

Press the shutter-release button partway down to activate

TAKING PICTURES IN FULL-AUTO

2. Press the program-reset

3. If using a zoom lens, rotate

Use Full-Auto when you are

4. Center your subject in the

Continued on next page.

TAKING PICTURES IN FULL-AUTO

SPECIAL FOCUS SITUATIONS

If two subjects at different distances

If a subject composed of alternating light

Continuous autofocus Focus is confirmed

If your subject is near a very bright

Focus cannot be confirmed Shutter is locked.