The Minolta Freedom AF 35 is a point-and-shoot camera. It was introduced by Minolta in the 90s and built in a factory in Japan. It was mainly distributed to entry-level and occasional users in the USA and North America. Functionally identical variants were also sold under the names "Minolta Riva AF 35" and "Minolta Mac-35".
The 35mm camera is equipped with a fixed focal length. The focal length is unchanging and is 35 mm. The largest available aperture is f/4.5 and the lens is focused by a built-in autofocus system. The closest focusing distance, the minimum distance from camera to subject, is 95 cm.
The camera has a built-in light meter. This is designed for films with ISO 100 and ISO 400. The camera technology reads the DX code of the film cartridge and sets the exposure meter accordingly. It covers a range from ISO 100 to ISO 1000 for color negative films. However, depending on the value, ISO 100 or ISO 400 is always set.
The shutter speed and aperture are set automatically by the electronics. The 35 mm photo camera has a built-in flash. The flash range is up to 3.2 meters at ISO 100. The power cannot be set on the flash. Thus, the charging time takes three to four seconds.
The 35mm camera has a built-in self-timer and a thread for a tripod. Additionally, a camera strap or hand strap can be attached to the side.
The dimensions of the Minolta Freedom AF 35 are 13.6 x 7.2 x 4.7 cm. At the same time, it weighs 225 grams. The camera requires two AA batteries (eBay / Amazon*). Of course, this type of batteries are easy to get. So, with one charge you can take 550 pictures with the compact camera.
Films for the Minolta Freedom AF 35
What film format is the Minolta Freedom AF 35 designed for? The camera requires films for the 35 mm format. The film material is spooled directly to the next free area after each exposure. The motor also handles the transport back to the cartridge. Only when this process is complete may you open the back and remove the cartridge.
35mm films are still manufactured today. They can be developed in most laboratories. Good films for black and white or color photography are the Ilford Delta 100* and the Fujifilm Superia 400*. Both films are well suited for everyday use and can convince in test reports.
The color film is designed for development in the C-41 process. This is offered by almost every photo lab. The development of 35 mm color film is possible, for example, at most drugstore chains in Germany. Black-and-white film must be developed in a true black-and-white developer, such as Rodinal.
Minolta Freedom AF 35 Quartz Date
In addition to the normal model, there was also a variant with a data back. This can additionally imprint the shooting time into the images. For this, the watch needs a CR 2025 battery. However, the calendar only lasts until 2019. With the additional technology, the Quartz Date weighs 240 grams and has a size of 13.6 x 7.2 x 5.1 cm.
