The Minolta Memory Maker III is a compact camera. The 35mm camera was built by Minolta and introduced in the 90s. It is the successor of the Minolta Memory Maker II and was aimed at hobby users. Therefore, the range of functions is very limited and the workmanship is not very impressive either.
The 35mm camera comes with a fixed lens. The focal length is unchangeable and is 35 mm. The widest available aperture is f/5.6 and the focus of the lens is fixed. The closest focusing distance is 180 cm with this lens. Close-ups are therefore not possible with the camera.
The camera electronics can read the sensitivity of the film material via the DX code on the film cartridge. Here, however, only two levels are distinguished, ISO 100/200 and ISO 400. If the value is above ISO 400, ISO 400 is always set. If it is lower, the camera selects ISO 100/200. If there is no encoding, ISO 100/200 is also selected.
The camera has no settings for the exposure. Neither aperture nor exposure time can be changed. The exposure time is fixed at 1/125 second.
There is a built-in flash for taking pictures in low light. According to the manual, the power of the flash reaches up to 1.8 meters – 2.5 meters at ISO 100. With a size of 13.1 x 7.3 x 4.9 cm, the Minolta Memory Maker III weighs 215 grams according to the manual. The 35mm camera is powered by two AA batteries (eBay / Amazon*).
Films for the Minolta Memory Maker III
The Minolta Memory Maker III is designed for 35mm film. There is still a good selection of material for color and black and white images for this film format. Possible films for the Minolta Memory Maker III are the Kodak Gold 200* and the Ilford Delta 400*. Both films are well suited for a variety of applications. This is also attested to them in test reports. Of course, there are other manufacturers of 35mm films on the market. Online, one gets the largest selection of specimens offered.
The color film is processed in the C-41 process. This is offered by almost every photo lab. Developing 35mm color film is possible, for example, at most drugstore chains in Germany.
The point-and-shoot camera exposes an area of 24 mm x 36 mm. Thus, at least 36 images fit on a normal roll of 35 mm film. The film is automatically transported by a built-in motor.
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/5.6 |
| Minimum focus distance | 180 cm / 5.904 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 |
| Flash | Integrated flash |
| Flash range | 1,8 to 2,5 Meter / 5.91 to 8.2 Feet |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | No |
| Power supply | 2x AA batteries |
| Size | 13,1 x 7,3 x 4,9 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 5.16 x 2.87 x 1.93 inches |
| Weight | 215 Grams |
| Country of production | China |
FAQ about the Minolta Memory Maker III
Is the Minolta Memory Maker III a simple camera to use, or does it have many settings?
It's a very basic point-and-shoot camera designed for beginners. It has minimal settings; you can't adjust aperture, shutter speed, or focus. It's all automatic.
What kind of film does this compact camera use?
The Minolta Memory Maker III uses standard 35mm film. You can use color or black and white film. Popular choices include Kodak Gold 200 and Ilford Delta 400.
How many pictures can I take on a single roll of film?
A standard 36-exposure 35mm roll fits perfectly. The camera automatically advances the film after each shot.
Can I take close-up photos with this 35mm camera?
No, close-ups aren't possible. The fixed-focus lens has a minimum focusing distance of 180cm (almost 6 feet).
Does the camera have a flash?
Yes, it has a built-in flash. The manual states that its range is approximately 1.8 to 2.5 meters at ISO 100.