The Minolta AF-SP is a camera from Minolta. It is a snapshot camera. It was introduced in the 1980s.
The 35mm camera comes with a fixed focal length. The focal length is unchangeable and there is no zoom. With 35mm, most everyday situations can be captured in pictures. The widest available aperture is f/4.5. The 35mm photo camera has an infrared autofocus. The closest focusing distance for this lens is 95 cm. You have to keep this distance to the subject for sharp pictures.
Taking pictures is made easier by the built-in exposure meter. It is designed for ISO 100 and ISO 400 films. The Minolta AF-SP determines the correct film speed via the DX code. If this code is not present on the cartridge, ISO 100 is used. There is no manual setting option for film speed. Aperture and shutter speed are also selected automatically by the camera.
There is a built-in flash for taking pictures in low light conditions. The flash range is specified as up to 3.3 meters. This value refers to ISO 100. The 35 mm camera has a self-timer and a tripod socket. The self-timer is set by a button on the top.
The camera weighs 270 grams and measures 13.9 x 7.2 x 5.2 cm. Four AAA batteries (eBay / Amazon*) are responsible for the power supply. However, it is also possible to use the camera with a DL233A battery-.
Films for the Minolta AF-SP
According to the instruction manual, the Minolta AF-SP requires 35mm films. This type of film is still produced and can be processed by most photo labs without any problems. The film is automatically rewound by a motor in the camera. Rewinding also works automatically. The frame counter on the top tells you how many photos have been taken.
A good choice for color and black and white pictures is the Kodak Portra 400* and the Ilford XP2 Super*. Of course, there are several other films for the Japanese compact camera.
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 |
| Focal length | 35 mm |
| Widest aperture | f/4.5 |
| Minimum focus distance | 95 cm / 3.116 ft |
| Focus | Autofocus |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 100 to 400 |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | Yes |
| Exposure modes | Program automatic |
| Manual exposure settings | No |
| Date imprinting | Model variant |
| Flash | Integrated flash |
| Flash range | 0,95 to 3,3 Meter / 3.12 to 10.83 Feet |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Power supply | 4x AAA batteries |
| Size | 13,9 x 7,2 x 5,2 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 5.47 x 2.83 x 2.05 inches |
| Weight | 270 Grams |
| Country of production | Japan |
| Estimated value / Used price | 44,23 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 4 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 65,81 Euro (70.36 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 57,63 Euro (61.70 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 45,21 Euro (48.71 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Minolta AF-SP
Is the Minolta AF-SP a zoom camera, or does it have a fixed lens?
The Minolta AF-SP has a fixed 35mm lens. It doesn't zoom; the focal length is unchangeable. This is typical for a point-and-shoot camera of its era.
How does the camera focus, and how close can I get to my subject?
It uses infrared autofocus. The minimum focusing distance is 95cm. You need to be at least that far away from your subject for sharp images.
What kind of film does this little camera use?
The Minolta AF-SP uses standard 35mm film. It automatically advances and rewinds the film. Many types of film can be used, including color and black and white.
Does the camera have a built-in flash? How powerful is it?
Yes, it has a built-in flash. The flash range is up to 3.3 meters at ISO 100. This means it's suitable for close-range shots in low light.
What type of batteries does this snapshot camera need?
The camera can run on four AAA batteries or alternatively a DL233A battery. This provides power for the autofocus, flash, and motor functions.