The Minolta Maxxum Panorama Elite camera dates back to the 1980s and belongs to the category of 35mm SLR cameras. In the United States it was marketed under the name Minolta Maxxum 350si, while in Japan it was known as the Minolta Alpha 101si.
The 35mm camera has an interchangeable lens mount compatible with lenses with a Minolta A bayonet. This model is equipped with an autofocus system that takes care of focusing. There is also the option to adjust the focus manually. The camera also displays an indicator to show if the selected focus is considered correct.
The camera's exposure mode does not offer a manual mode. Instead, a normal program automatic mode is available, which automatically sets the aperture and shutter speed. In addition, there are various scene modes that have been specially developed for different areas of use.
The camera's exposure meter is designed for films with sensitivity values between ISO 25 and ISO 5000. The camera automatically sets the sensitivity by reading the DX code on the film cassette. If no DX code is available, a default value of ISO 100 is used.
The camera offers a shutter speed range of 1/2000 second to 30 seconds. Unfortunately, it does not support a bulb mode.
To shoot in low light, there is a built-in flash. According to the manual, the guide number is 12 (at ISO 100). The charging time of the flash is 2 seconds. Additionally, it is possible to connect an external flash via the Minolta connector.
Equipped with a self-timer and a tripod thread on the bottom of the housing, the photo camera also offers a data function and a fake panorama mode. A display on the top shows the set values.
To power all functions, a 2CR5 battery (eBay / Amazon*) is needed. This battery can be easily purchased online.
Films for the Minolta Maxxum Panorama Elite
The Minolta Maxxum Panorama Elite is designed for 35mm format, which still offers a wide selection of color and black-and-white films.
If you are looking for a high quality black and white film for the 35mm format, the Kodak T-Max 100* might be a good choice.
For color photography, the Kodak Gold 200* might be an alternative. This film is recommended in various reviews for everyday shooting and delivers solid results. Of course, there is a wide selection of other suitable films for this camera.
The exposure range of the Minolta Maxxum Panorama Elite 35mm photo camera is 24mm x 36mm. After shooting, the camera automatically rewinds the film. The motor allows an approximate shooting rate of 1 frame per second.
Production of the Minolta Maxxum Panorama Elite has been discontinued, so it is only available used today. The price of the camera may vary depending on its condition.
