The Minolta Freedom 50N is a simple 35mm camera. It was made available in the early 1990s by Minolta Camera Co., Ltd. of Japan. It was sold mainly in the U.S. and is the successor to the Minolta Freedom 50. The model is limited to basic functions and was aimed primarily at hobby users. Under the name “Minolta Riva 35“, the 35mm photo camera was marketed in other markets worldwide.
The novelty at that time was optical, the technical specifications remained the same compared to the 50 without the “N”. Later, there was the Freedom GT, which also differs only optically.
The 35mm photo camera is equipped with a fixed lens. 35mm is the focal length of the lens. The widest aperture of the camera is f/4.5, and there is no autofocus. The focus is fixed and cannot be changed. The closest focusing distance for this lens is 150 cm.
The 35mm camera has a built-in light meter. It is designed for films from ISO 100 to ISO 400. The film speed is read via the DX code; if this code is not present on the cartridge, the camera selects ISO 100. The shutter speed is always fixed at 1/125 second. The aperture is f/8.
When shooting with the built-in flash, the camera selects the maximum aperture of f/4.5. The output of the flash depends on the film speed. The range with ISO 100 film is specified as up to 4 meters. The flash does not have different flash modes. However, the flash can be deactivated in return.
According to the manual, the camera weighs 190 grams with its plastic housing. The dimensions are 12.9 x 6.8 x 4.9 cm. The camera requires two AA batteries (eBay / Amazon*). Here, of course, you can resort to rechargeable batteries. They usually last for over 1300 pictures.
A thread for a tripod is missing. The camera also does not have a self-timer.
In addition, there were still model with a data back. This feature allows the date of recording to be imprinted in a corner of the images. However, this requires an additional CR2025 battery for the movement. The variant is recognizable by the imprint “QD” and the display on the back of the case.
Films for the Minolta Freedom 50N
According to the instruction manual, the Minolta Freedom 50N is compatible with 35mm films. The camera automatically transports the film to the next frame after each photo. Also at the end, the film is automatically rewound into the cartridge. The number of pictures taken is displayed on the top of the camera.
A recommendation this camera are the Fujifilm Superia 400* and for B&W shooting the Kodak T-Max 400*. Of course, you can also use films from other manufacturers. The only important thing is that the films are in a range from ISO 100 to ISO 400.
The color film is developed using the C-41 process. This process is offered by almost every photo lab. You can hand in your films for development in many drugstores in Germany, for example. The black and white film must go into a real black and white developer.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Snapshot camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Automatic |
| Film transport mechanism | Motor |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Focal length | 35 mm |
| Widest aperture | f/4.5 |
| Minimum focus distance | 150 cm / 4.92 ft |
| Focus | Fixed |
| Exposure times | 1/125 second |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 100 to 400 |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | Yes |
| Manual exposure settings | No |
| Date imprinting | Model variant |
| Flash | Integrated flash |
| Flash range | 1,5 to 4 Meter / 4.92 to 13.12 Feet |
| Flash sync speed | 1/125 s |
| Tripod mount | No |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | No |
| Power supply | 2x AA batteries |
| Size | 12,9 x 6,8 x 4,9 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 5.08 x 2.68 x 1.93 inches |
| Weight | 190 Grams |
FAQ about the Minolta Freedom 50N
Is the Minolta Freedom 50N difficult to use?
No, it's a very simple camera designed for beginners. Its functions are basic, making it easy to operate. It's perfect for hobbyists who want to take photos without complicated settings.
What kind of lens does this compact camera have?
It has a fixed 35mm lens with a maximum aperture of f/4.5. There's no autofocus; the focus is fixed at a minimum distance of 150cm. This makes it easy to use, since there are no adjustments to make.
How does the exposure work on the camera?
The Minolta Freedom 50N has a built-in light meter and a fixed shutter speed of 1/125th of a second. It automatically reads the ISO from the film canister, or defaults to ISO 100 if not detected. The aperture is automatically set to f/8 in normal shooting.
Does the camera have a flash, and if so, how powerful is it?
Yes, it has a built-in flash that automatically activates. Its range is up to 4 meters at ISO 100. The flash power adjusts depending on the film speed but it doesn't offer different flash modes. You can also turn the flash off.
What type of batteries does the simple camera need?
The Minolta Freedom 50N uses two AA batteries. These are readily available and relatively inexpensive. The battery life is quite good, lasting for more than 1300 photos.