The Carena SX-300 is an SLR camera. The model was developed by Minolta (Minolta X300), built under license by Shanghai Camera Factory in China and sold under Photo Porst’s house brand in Germany. The same model was also sold under the name “Carena DF-300”.
The lens of the Carena SX-300 is interchangeable. Lenses with a Minolta SR bayonet are usable with the camera. There is no autofocus function on the Carena SX-300. The focus is set manually.
An exposure meter is built into the Carena SX-300. It was designed for films with a sensitivity of ISO 12 to ISO 3200. The SLR determines the exposure when metering through the lens (TTL). It can be operated in aperture priority or manual mode.
There is a bulb mode for long exposures. Here, the shutter remains open as desired. An external flash can be triggered via the built-in hot shoe.
The 35 mm camera has a thread for a tripod. In addition, there is a connection for a cable release and a self-timer. With a size of 13.7 x 9 x 5.1 cm, the body weighs 470 grams. The camera requires two LR44 batteries (eBay / Amazon*).
Films for the Carena SX-300
Cartridges with 35mm film are exposed in the Carena SX-300. 35mm film is still manufactured and is developed without problems at most photo labs. A color film for the 35mm camera would be the Agfaphoto Vista 400*. A possible film for black and white images is the Ilford Delta 400*.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Single lens reflex camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Manual |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Lens mount | Minolta SR mount |
| Focus | Manual |
| Exposure times | 1/1000 second to 4 seconds, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 12 to 3200 |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | No |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | Hot Shoe |
| Flash sync speed | 1/60 s |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | Yes |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Power supply | 2x LR44 batteries |
| Size | 13,7 x 9 x 5,1 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 5.39 x 3.54 x 2.01 inches |
| Weight | 470 Grams |
| Manufacturer | Shanghai Camera Factory |
| Country of production | China |
| Estimated value / Used price | 66,46 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 8 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 46,00 Euro (49.79 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 66,00 Euro (71.44 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 85,85 Euro (92.00 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Carena SX-300
Is the Carena SX-300 an automatic camera?
No, the Carena SX-300 is a manual focus camera. It doesn't have autofocus. You adjust the focus yourself using the lens's focusing ring.
What kind of lenses can I use with this camera?
The Carena SX-300 uses Minolta SR bayonet mount lenses. You can find a variety of lenses compatible with this mount, both new and used.
How do I take long exposure pictures with the SLR?
The Carena SX-300 has a bulb mode. This allows you to keep the shutter open for as long as you need, ideal for low-light photography or light trails.
Does this 35mm camera have a built-in light meter?
Yes, it has a built-in TTL light meter designed for film speeds from ISO 12 to ISO 3200. It helps you determine the correct exposure settings.
What type of batteries does the camera need?
The Carena SX-300 uses two LR44 batteries. These are readily available and inexpensive to purchase online or at most electronics stores.