The Minolta 7000 camera dates back to the 1980s and was manufactured in Japan. The model was also known as the Alpha 7000. In the United States it was sold under the name 7000, while in other markets it was available as the Minolta 7000.
As with many other models, this 35mm still camera has the option of interchangeable lenses. It is equipped with a Minolta A bayonet. However, unlike some other cameras, the 35mm camera does not require manual focusing. The Minolta 7000 has an autofocus system.
Equipped with a built-in light meter, this 35mm photo camera offers the ability to use film with ISO values from 25 to 6400. To detect the film speed, the DX code on the film cartridge can be read. Exposure metering is done by the lens itself.
The camera offers various exposure modes such as manual mode, aperture priority, shutter priority and program mode. Shutter speeds can be selected between 1/2000 second and 30 seconds. In addition, a Bulb mode is available, which allows for long exposures.
To get additional light for shooting, external clip-on flashes or radio triggers can be connected via the camera’s hot shoe. For more stable shooting, it is possible to attach a tripod to the bottom of the camera body. In addition, the 35mm camera has a convenient self-timer function, which is especially useful for group pictures or selfies.
According to the instructions, the housing without lens and film weighs about 555 grams with a size of 13.8 x 9.15 x 5.2 cm. Two AAA batteries are used for power supply (eBay / Amazon*).
Films for the Minolta 7000
According to the manual, the Minolta 7000 uses 35mm film, which is the most common film format. For this reason, some manufacturers still produce films for this format. Two recommended 35mm films for color and black and white images are the Kodak Gold 200* and the Ilford FP4 Plus*.
The exposure range of the 35mm camera spans 24mm x 36mm. After about 36 exposures, a film change is required. The film is transported automatically. The camera’s motor is designed to achieve a speed of about 2 photos per second to ensure smooth operation.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Single lens reflex camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Automatic |
| Film transport mechanism | Motor |
| Pictures per second | 2 |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Lens mount | Minolta A mount |
| Focus | Autofocus |
| Exposure times | 1/2000 second to 30 seconds, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 25 to 6400 |
| Auto DX | Yes |
| Exposure modes | Program automatic, Aperture priority, Shutter priority, Manual mode |
| Exposure compensation | ± 4EV (0,5EV steps) |
| Date imprinting | No |
| Double and/or multiple exposure function | No |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | Hot Shoe |
| Flash sync speed | 1/100 s |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | Yes, Self-timer function with 10 seconds lead time |
| Power supply | 4x AAA batteries |
| Size | 13,8 x 9,15 x 5,2 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 5.43 x 3.60 x 2.05 inches |
| Weight | 555 Grams |
| Names in other markets | Japan: Minolta Alpha 7000, USA: Minolta Maxxum 7000 |
| Company name of the brand | Minolta Camera Co., Ltd. |
| Country of production | Japan |
| Estimated value / Used price | 60,72 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 98 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of 18.12.2023 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 67,84 Euro (72.52 US-Dollar) |