The Minolta AF-S is a snapshot camera. It was offered by Minolta from the mid-1980s. The model was produced in a factory in Japan. In addition to the normal version, a Quartz Date variant was also offered. This one can imprint the time of shooting into the pictures.
The still camera comes with a fixed lens. The manufacturer’s name of the lens is “Minolta Lens”. The focal length is 35 mm and the maximum aperture is f/2.8. The camera is equipped with autofocus. The closest focusing distance is 85 cm.
There is a built-in light meter in the point-and-shoot camera. It can be used with films from ISO 25 to ISO 1000. Sensitivity is set manually on the front of the camera. Exposure settings are set automatically by the 35 mm camera. There are no manual adjustment options on this camera.
The only available setting option is the self-timer. This can be activated via a red button on the front. If the light is too low, the camera’s automatic flash is used. According to the manual, the flash’s power reaches up to 4.8 meters at ISO 100.
The dimensions of the Minolta AF-S are 12.3 x 7.35 x 4.75 cm. At the same time, it weighs 290 grams. Two AA batteries (eBay / Amazon*) are responsible for the power supply. On the bottom of the camera there is a thread for a tripod.
Films for the Minolta AF-S
The Minolta AF-S is loaded with 35mm film. The film is automatically transported on after each photo. The return transport to the cartridge also works automatically. A display on the top gives information about number of pictures taken.
Possible films for the Minolta AF-S that can still be purchased today are the Kodak Ultramax 400* for color photos and the Ilford Delta 100* for B&W images. Typically, 36 images fit on one film. The color film is processed in the C-41 development process. The C-41 process is standardized and is offered by most developing laboratories. The B/W film must be developed in a suitable developer according to the instructions.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Snapshot camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Automatic |
| Film transport mechanism | Motor |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Lens name | Minolta Lens |
| Focal length | 35 mm |
| Widest aperture | f/2.8 |
| Minimum focus distance | 85 cm / 2.788 ft |
| Focus | Autofocus |
| Filter thread | 40.5 mm |
| Lens design | 4 elements in 3 groups |
| Exposure times | 1/625 second to 1/8 second |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 25 to 1000 |
| Exposure modes | Program automatic |
| Manual exposure settings | No |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | No |
| Date imprinting | Model variant |
| Flash | Integrated flash |
| Flash range | 0,85 to 4,8 Meter / 2.79 to 15.75 Feet |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Power supply | 2x AA batteries |
| Size | 12,3 x 7,35 x 4,75 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 4.84 x 2.89 x 1.87 inches |
| Weight | 290 Grams |
| Country of production | Japan |
| Estimated value / Used price | 71,97 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 13 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 74,22 Euro (80.10 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 66,38 Euro (71.44 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 61,79 Euro (66.03 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Minolta AF-S
Is this camera easy to use, even for a beginner?
Yes, the Minolta AF-S is a point-and-shoot camera, meaning it's designed for simplicity. It automatically sets exposure and focuses, so you just need to point and shoot. There are no manual settings to adjust.
What kind of film does the snapshot camera use?
It uses standard 35mm film. You can use color film like Kodak Ultramax 400 or black and white film like Ilford Delta 100. Each roll typically holds 36 exposures.
How does the focusing work on this camera?
The Minolta AF-S has autofocus, so you don't need to manually adjust the focus. It automatically focuses on your subject. The minimum focusing distance is 85cm.
Does the device have a built-in flash?
Yes, it has a built-in automatic flash that activates when there's not enough light. The flash range is up to 4.8 meters with ISO 100 film, according to the manual.
What is the lens like on this camera?
It has a fixed 35mm lens with a maximum aperture of f/2.8. This means the lens is relatively wide angle, suitable for various subjects, and quite light sensitive.