The Minolta SR-3 is an SLR camera. It was produced by Minolta from 1960 to 1962. It is the predecessor of the Minolta SR-7 and was the successor of the Minolta SR-2. In terms of functionality, it is very similar to the SR-2. However, the SR-3 comes with, among other things, the possibility to connect an external light meter and a split-screen focus in the viewfinder.
The lenses of the camera can be changed. Lenses with a Minolta SR bayonet can be used. Focusing the lens has to be done manually. The maximum aperture depends on the lens. The camera supports working with open aperture. When the shutter button is pressed, the aperture jumps to the desired setting.
Exposure must be metered externally. However, an attachment has been sold that takes care of metering. Shutter speed and aperture are set manually. The shutter allows times from 1/1000 second to 1 second. In addition, there is a Bulb mode. In this mode, the film is exposed as long as the shutter button is pressed.
The use of a flash is possible via the PC flash socket. The 35mm camera comes with a self-timer. There is also a port for a cable release and threads for a tripod. No batteries are needed to take photos. The Japanese camera works completely mechanically.
Films for the Minolta SR-3
The film transport is also mechanical. A quick release lever must be used to advance the film after each photo. A counter on the top gives information about the photos already taken. At the end of the film roll, the material must be wound back into the cartridge. To do this, the mechanism must be activated with a button on the bottom. Then the film material can be rewound with a crank. Only when this step is completed, the camera back may be opened.
The Minolta SR-3 is designed for 35mm format. This type of film is still in production and can be processed by most photo labs without any problems. One possible film for beautiful color shots is the Kodak Gold 200*. A possibility for artistic B&W images is the Ilford Delta 100*. Both photo films can convince in professional tests and guarantee reliable results in everyday life and on the road. Usually 36 pictures fit on one roll of film.
