minolta-hi-matic-g-viewfinder-camera-bnv

Minolta Hi-Matic Series

Minolta Hi-Matic G

  • Manufacturer Minolta
  • Type Viewfinder camera
  • Type of Film 35mm
  • Focal Length 38 mm
  • Max Aperture f/2.8
  • Focus Manual

The Minolta Hi-Matic G is a compact camera for the 35mm format. It was introduced in the mid-70s and is part of the Hi-Matic family. It was produced in a factory in Japan. It was bought by photographers all over the world.

The 35mm photo camera comes with a Rokkor lens. The focal length is 38mm and the maximum aperture is f/2.8. The smallest aperture the camera can set is f/14. Constructed the optics are four elements in three groups. The camera does not have an autofocus function, the focus is set manually. The closest focusing distance of this lens is 100 cm. If you like to use filters for your pictures, you need a filter with 46 mm thread.

For taking pictures, the Minolta Hi-Matic G has a light meter and sets the exposure automatically. The automatic can be used with films from ISO 25 to ISO 400. Exposure time and aperture cannot be set manually.

With the PC flash connector and the hot shoe, it is possible to use a flash. The photo camera has a cable release and a thread for a tripod on the bottom.

According to the manual, the housing of the Japanese camera weighs 375 grams and measures 11.6 x 7.1 x 5.3 cm. Power is supplied by a 1.3 V mercury battery.

Films for the Minolta Hi-Matic G

Photographic film is exposed in the Minolta Hi-Matic G, more specifically 35mm film.35mm film is still manufactured today and is fairly easy to obtain. A recommendation for color photos is the Kodak Ultramax 400* and for B&W shots the Kodak TRI-X 400*. According to various reviews, they are good for everyday shooting and deliver solid results. Foma, Adox and also Rollei are still other suppliers of 35mm film.

The exposure range of the Minolta Hi-Matic G is 24mm x 36mm. Thus, a roll of film usually holds 36 images. The film is transported manually with a lever on the top. When the end of the film is reached, a small button on the bottom is pushed in and the film material is transported back into the cartridge with the crank. The film can then be removed and taken to the developing lab.

Technical Specifications

camera_spec
Property Specification
Film format 35mm
Picture Format 36 mm x 24 mm
Lens type Fixed lens
Lens Name Rokkor
Focal Length 38 mm
Maximum Aperture f/2.8
Minimum Focus Distance 100 cm / 3.28 ft
Filter Thread 46 mm
Optical Design 4 elements in 3 groups
Shutter Speeds 1/650 – 1/30 second
Adjustable aperture No
Adjustable shutter speed No
Auto exposure Yes
Light Meter CdS light meter
Supported Film Speeds ISO 25 to ISO 400
Exposure Modes Program Auto
Flash Connector Hot Shoe, PC-Flash
Flash Sync Speed 1/25 second
Type of focus Zone Focus
Focus Zones
Tripod Mount Yes
Cable Release Thread Yes
Self-timer No
Power Supply 1x 1.3 V mercury battery
Size 11.6 x 7.1 x 5.3 cm
Dimensions in Inches 4.57 x 2.8 x 2.09 inches
Weight 375 grams
Release Date 1974
Age Up to 52 years
Production start 1974
Manufacturer Minolta

Used Prices

The current average price for this camera is 86,36 € based on 44 offers, as of 6.7.2026.

Average Price per Year

  • 2026: 84,38 €
  • 2025: 101,11 €
  • 2024: 92,79 €
  • 2023: 96,15 €

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ about the Minolta Hi-Matic G

Is the Minolta Hi-Matic G a manual focus camera or does it have autofocus?

What kind of film does this 35mm camera use?

How do I take flash photos with my new camera?

What is the lens focal length on the Minolta Hi-Matic G?

What's the closest I can focus with this compact camera?

Minolta Hi-Matic Series

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