The Minolta Maxxum 3000i is a 35mm camera for the Japanese market. It belongs to the group of SLR cameras with automatic exposure and autofocus. In other parts of the world, the model was available under the name “Minolta Dynax 3000i”. Photographers in Japan could buy a functionally identical model under the name “Minolta Alpha 3700i”.
The lens of the 35mm photo camera is interchangeable. A Minolta A bayonet was installed for this purpose. The photo camera is equipped with an autofocus. However, it is also possible to adjust the focus manually.
The exposure values cannot be set manually. The camera has a light meter with program automatic. Shutter speed and aperture are set automatically. The settings are based on the ISO value of the inserted film. The camera can be used with film from ISO 32 to ISO 3200. Film speed is determined by the DX code on the film cartridge. Values from ISO 32 to ISO 1000 can be selected manually.
The SLR camera does not have a built-in flash. An external flash can be connected via the proprietary connector. It can be attached to a tripod via the thread on the bottom. There is also a self-timer. The self-timer has a lead time of ten seconds.
The dimensions of the camera body are 14.2 x 8.85 x 6.05 cm. At the same time, the model weighs 420 grams without the lens, batteries and film. The power source of the 35mm camera is a 2CR5 battery (eBay / Amazon*). It supplies the camera technology with power. The film transport also draws its power from this source.
Films for the Minolta Maxxum 3000i
What kind of films are needed for the Minolta Maxxum 3000i? You have to buy 35mm films for the camera. 35mm films are still produced by various manufacturers and can be easily purchased online. Available photo films for the Japanese SLR that you can easily get are the Ilford Delta 400* for black and white images and the Kodak Ultramax 400* for color images. There are, of course, other manufacturers of 35mm film on the market. So there is suitable film material from Fujifilm, Foma or also Lomography.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Single lens reflex camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Automatic |
| Film transport mechanism | Motor |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Lens mount | Minolta A mount |
| Focus | Autofocus |
| Exposure times | 1/4000 second to 4 seconds |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 32 to 3200 |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | Yes |
| Exposure modes | Program automatic |
| Manual exposure settings | No |
| Date imprinting | Through accessory |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | Yes, Self-timer function with 10 seconds lead time |
| Power supply | 1x 2CR5 battery |
| Size | 14,2 x 8,85 x 6,05 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 5.59 x 3.48 x 2.38 inches |
| Weight | 420 Grams |
| Names in other markets | Europe: Minolta Dynax 3000i, Japan: Minolta Alpha 3700i |
| Estimated value / Used price | 83,14 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 5 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of May 18, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 55,00 Euro (59.53 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 45,24 Euro (48.71 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 58,15 Euro (62.78 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Minolta Maxxum 3000i
What type of film does this Japanese SLR camera use?
The Minolta Maxxum 3000i uses standard 35mm film. Various brands like Kodak, Ilford, and Fujifilm are compatible.
Can I manually adjust the aperture and shutter speed on the Minolta Dynax 3000i?
No, this camera features program auto exposure. The aperture and shutter speed are automatically set based on the film's ISO.
Does the Alpha 3700i (the Japanese variant) have a built-in flash?
No, it doesn't have a built-in flash, but it allows you to connect an external flash via its proprietary hot shoe.
How is the focus managed on this camera?
The Minolta Maxxum 3000i offers autofocus, but manual focusing is also possible for more precise control.
What is the self-timer delay on this 35mm camera?
The self-timer has a 10-second delay, giving you enough time to get into position before the photo is taken.