Minolta Alpha 50

The Japanese company Minolta produced the Alpha 50 (Minolta α-50) SLR camera. Its sale started in 2004. Equipped with numerous automatic functions, it is a good option for beginners.

Under various names, an almost identical model was launched worldwide. For example, the Minolta Dynax 40 was sold in Europe. It was given the name Dynax 30 in other nations. Japanese photographers could purchase this model as the Minolta Alpha 50, while in the US it was known as the Minolta Maxxum 50.

Lenses

The 35mm camera offers an interchangeable lens mount. It is compatible with Minolta A bayonet lenses. Numerous lenses with different focal lengths are available for this mount. In addition, the Minolta can be used with zoom lenses. A typical standard lens for the SLR is the Minolta 28-100 mm f/3.5-5.6.

This camera has an autofocus system. The focus is automatically adjusted for each snapshot. An optical indicator in the viewfinder signals if the focus is positioned correctly, and an auxiliary light improves autofocus in low light conditions. Both a single autofocus mode and a continuous autofocus mode are available. Focus can also be adjusted manually if needed.

Exposure meter and film speeds

The camera’s light meter ensures adequate exposure settings and is designed for films with ISO values from 6 to 6400. One has the choice of setting the film speed manually or automatically. However, when using the automatic mode, which reads the ISO value from the cartridge, only settings from ISO 25 to ISO 3200 are possible.

If no cartridge is encoded and the automatic function is still used, the device will set the ISO value to 25. In such a scenario, it would be appropriate to set the ISO manually.

Exposure modes

The Minolta Alpha 50 has a variety of exposure modes. The most common modes, also found in contemporary cameras, include P, A, S and M, often referred to as “PSAM” modes. In addition, the Minolta has specific scene modes tailored to specific shooting scenarios such as portrait, landscape, macro, sports, and night portrait.

P mode (Program Automatic): This mode allows the camera to automatically regulate both aperture and shutter speed for balanced exposure.

A mode (Aperture Priority): In this mode, the photographer selects the aperture while the camera automatically adjusts the shutter speed for optimal exposure. The choice of aperture can control the depth of field and thus the blur or sharpness of the background.

S mode (Aperture priority): In this mode, the photographer sets the shutter speed and the camera adjusts the aperture for proper exposure. The shutter speed controls how long the camera’s sensor is exposed, which affects motion blur and the ability to capture or hold motion.

M Mode (Manual): In manual mode, the photographer takes full control over aperture and shutter speed. These parameters are set according to their artistic vision and the given lighting conditions. This mode requires a sound understanding of exposure principles.

Aside from the PSAM modes, many cameras offer special scene modes designed for specific shooting scenarios:

Portrait mode: this mode selects a wide aperture to achieve a shallow depth of field that highlights the subject against a blurred background. This is ideal for capturing attractive portraits.

Landscape mode: in landscape mode, a smaller aperture is typically selected to increase depth of field and ensure that both the foreground and background are clearly captured. This mode is especially good for capturing sweeping vistas and detailed landscapes.

Macro Mode: Macro mode optimizes camera settings for detailed shots of small objects, such as flowers or insects. A shorter focus distance and smaller aperture can be selected to improve sharpness.

Sports mode: Sports mode focuses on fast shutter speeds to freeze motion and reduce motion blur. This is ideal for capturing fast-moving subjects in sports or other fast-paced situations.

Night Portrait Mode: this mode combines a slower shutter speed with the use of a flash to create well-exposed portraits against a nighttime background. It achieves a balanced mix of ambient light and flash for aesthetically pleasing results.

Shutter and exposure times

The SLR camera is equipped with a vertically running, electronically controlled shutter. This shutter allows exposure times from 1/2000 second to 30 seconds. The Minolta Alpha 50’s Bulb mode allows for long exposures.

Flash

The Minolta is equipped with a built-in flash. This flash has a guide number of 12 at ISO 100 and can be used with lenses up to 28mm. When using the built-in pop-up flash, several modes are available, including auto, fill-flash, and the option to disable the flash. Both flash modes also offer a red-eye reduction option.

An additional external flash from Minolta can also be connected. The sync speed is 1/90 second.

Additional features and dimensions

In addition to its main features, the Minolta Alpha 50 also offers a self-timer and a tripod mount on the bottom. Furthermore, modes for multiple exposures and bracketing are available.
According to the manufacturer, the device weighs 335 grams. Its dimensions are 13.5 x 9.2 x 6.65 cm.

Batteries for the camera

The operation of the camera requires two CR2 batteries (eBay / Amazon*). This type of battery is easily purchased online.

Battery life varies depending on the specific conditions of use. Various tests have been conducted under specific conditions.

In scenario A, at a temperature of 20°C/68°F, 30 rolls of film were used with a Minolta 28-100 f/3.5-5.6 lens. Before each exposure, the shutter button was half-pressed for ten seconds and the focus was changed from infinity to 2m (6.6 ft.). Under these conditions, the batteries were able to power 24 rolls of 24 shots each.

In scenario B, at a temperature of -10°C/14°F, 24 rolls of film were used. Here, the shutter release was half-pressed for five seconds before each exposure and the focus was similarly adjusted from infinity to 2m (6.6 ft.). Under these conditions, the batteries were able to supply 18 rolls with 24 exposures each.

Film suggestions for the Minolta Alpha 50

Which film fits the Minolta Alpha 50? The camera is designed for use with 35mm film. The 35mm format has retained its charm despite the advent of digital technologies and is still popular with many photographers because of its universality and ease of use. Therefore, various manufacturers continue to produce films of this format.

The Kodak Ultramax 400* for color images and the Ilford FP4 Plus* for black and white images are excellent film options. Product tests and testimonials confirm that these films offer solid performance and are suitable for a wide variety of photographic needs.

Film Development

Color film is developed using the C-41 process. This process is standard at most photo labs and is often offered in drug stores as well. So, in many cases, it is possible to have color films developed without any problems. Of course, professional photo labs also offer this service.

Black and white films require a special black and white developer. With the right equipment and chemicals, you can also perform this process at home in your own photo lab.

Film transport

35 mm camera negatives measure 24 mm x 36 mm. This camera model has a motorized film transport that does not require manual operation. The speed is about 1.7 frames per second.

At the end of a roll of film, the film is automatically rewound. Only when this process is complete may the back of the camera be opened and the film removed.

Value and Price

Production of the Minolta Alpha 50 has been discontinued, and nowadays the camera is only available used. The price of a used copy varies depending on its condition, averaging around 370,76 Euro.