The Minolta Alpha 3700i is a 35mm camera for the Japanese market. It belongs to the group of SLR cameras with automatic exposure and autofocus. In other parts of the world, the model was available under the name “Minolta Dynax 3000i”. Photographers in the USA could buy a functionally identical model under the name “Minolta Maxxum 3000i”.
The lens of the 35mm photo camera is interchangeable. A Minolta A bayonet was installed for this purpose. The photo camera is equipped with an autofocus. However, it is also possible to adjust the focus manually.
The exposure values cannot be set manually. The camera has a light meter with program automatic. Shutter speed and aperture are set automatically. The settings are based on the ISO value of the inserted film. The camera can be used with film from ISO 32 to ISO 3200. Film speed is determined by the DX code on the film cartridge. Values from ISO 32 to ISO 1000 can be selected manually.
The SLR camera does not have a built-in flash. An external flash can be connected via the proprietary connector. It can be attached to a tripod via the thread on the bottom. There is also a self-timer. The self-timer has a lead time of ten seconds.
The dimensions of the camera body are 14.2 x 8.85 x 6.05 cm. At the same time, it weighs 420 grams without the lens. The power source of the 35mm camera is a 2CR5 battery (eBay / Amazon*).
Films for the Minolta Alpha 3700i
What kind of films are needed for the Japanese SLR camera? The camera is designed for 35mm film. 35mm film is still produced today and can be developed in most labs. Available photo films for the Minolta Alpha 3700i that are easy to get are the Ilford XP2 Super* for black and white images and the Kodak ColorPlus 200* for color images. According to various reviews, they are well suited for everyday shooting and deliver solid results. Of course, there are other suitable films from other manufacturers, such as Rollei, Foma, Fujifilm or Lomography.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Single lens reflex camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Automatic |
| Film transport mechanism | Motor |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Lens mount | Minolta A mount |
| Focus | Autofocus |
| Exposure times | 1/4000 second to 4 seconds |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 32 to 3200 |
| Auto DX | Yes |
| Exposure modes | Program automatic |
| Manual exposure settings | No |
| Date imprinting | Through accessory |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | Yes, Self-timer function with 10 seconds lead time |
| Power supply | 1x 2CR5 battery |
| Size | 14,2 x 8,85 x 6,05 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 5.59 x 3.48 x 2.38 inches |
| Weight | 420 Grams |
| Names in other markets | USA: Minolta Maxxum 3000i, Europe: Minolta Dynax 3000i |