The Minolta XG 9 is a 35mm camera from Minolta. It belongs to the group of SLR cameras. The model was assembled in a factory in Japan. There, a functionally identical model was offered under the identifier "Minolta XG-S".
In terms of functions, it is very similar to the Minolta XG-E. There are some innovations on this model. For example, this model shows the set aperture in the viewfinder. A dimmer button has been added and an "Acute Matte" focusing screen replaces the Fresnel screen.
What has remained the same is the ability to replace the lens. Lenses of the Minolta SR bayonet can be used with the camera. There are a lot of different lenses for this lens mount. The model doesn't have an autofocus system yet.
But there are electronics for the exposure metering. The camera comes with an automatic exposure control, which is supposed to make taking pictures easier. You set the aperture and the camera technology selects the shutter speed. There are values between 1/1000 second and 1 second.
In addition, there is a manual mode. In this, the exposure values can be set freely. There is also a bulb mode for long exposures. Here, the camera should be mounted on a tripod to get blur-free pictures.
A flash can also be connected. Either by cable or via a hot shoe on the top of the housing. The fastest shutter speed when using a flash is 1/60 second.
The Minolta XG 9 has a built-in light meter. It is designed for films from ISO 25 to ISO 1600. The exposure metering is done through the lens. The aperture and exposure time can be selected by the photographer as desired.
A self-timer is available. The lead time is a maximum of ten seconds. The SLR can also be triggered via a cable release.
According to the manual, the dimensions of the Minolta XG 9 are 13.8 x 8.8 x 5.2 cm. It weighs 500 grams. The camera requires two SR44 batteries (eBay / Amazon*) or similar 1.5 V button cells. These batteries are quite easy to get.
Films for the Minolta XG 9
The Minolta XG 9 uses 35mm film. These films are still being manufactured and can be specified from almost any developing vendor. You can theoretically use all films between ISO 25 and ISO 1600, and these values are supported by the light meter.
Great films for the Minolta XG 9 that are still available today are the Fujifilm Superia 400* for color photos and the Ilford FP4 Plus* for black and white photos. According to reviews, the films deliver good results in most everyday situations. Of course, you can also use films from other manufacturers.
The color film is developed using the C-41 process. This development process is performed by all photo labs that offer development of 35mm film. Black and white film can be developed either in the lab or at home. Instructions for development can easily be found online.
The film transport is mechanical. However, there is a motor available as an accessory to transport the film further. A counter provides information about the number of photos already taken.
