Minolta Alpha 70

The Japanese company Minolta is the manufacturer of the Alpha 70 (Minolta α-70) SLR camera, which went on sale in 2004. Its extensive automatic functions make it especially suitable for beginners. It was manufactured in a Chinese factory.

A similar model was sold under different names around the world. This is how the Minolta Dynax 60 found its way to the European market. In Japan, this model was offered as the Minolta Alpha 70, while in the USA it was known as the Minolta Maxxum 70.

Lenses

The camera has an interchangeable lens mount. It is compatible with Minolta A bayonet lenses. A range of lenses with different focal lengths are available for this mount. Additionally, 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.

The camera is equipped with an autofocus system. The focus is automatically adjusted for each image. An optical indicator in the viewfinder tells if the focus is set correctly.

An additional auxiliary light supports the autofocus in poor lighting. There is a mode for single autofocus as well as continuous autofocus. Manual focus adjustment is also possible if required.

Exposure metering and film speed

The camera’s exposure meter ensures suitable exposure ratios and is designed for films with ISO values between 6 and 6400. There is an option to set the film speed either manually or automatically.

However, when using the automatic setting, which reads the ISO value from the cartridge, only settings from ISO 25 to ISO 3200 are feasible.

If no cartridge is encoded and automatic is still used, the unit will set the ISO value to 25. In such a case, it would be advisable to perform the ISO setting manually.

Exposure options

The Minolta Alpha 70 offers several exposure options. Typical modes, also found in current cameras, include P, A, S and M, often referred to as “PSAM” modes. In addition, the Minolta has special scene modes designed for specific shooting situations 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 determines the aperture while the camera automatically sets the shutter speed for optimal exposure. Aperture selection can be used to control the depth of field and thus the blur or sharpness of the background.

S mode (aperture priority): Here the photographer sets the shutter speed and the camera adjusts the aperture for proper exposure. The shutter speed determines how long the camera sensor is exposed and affects motion blur and the ability to capture or freeze motion.

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

In addition to PSAM modes, many cameras have special scene modes designed for specific shooting situations:

Portrait mode: this mode uses a wide aperture to achieve a shallow depth of field, emphasizing the subject against a blurred background. This setting is ideal for capturing appealing portraits.

Landscape mode: when shooting landscapes, a smaller aperture is usually selected to achieve a greater depth of field and ensure that both the foreground and background are captured in focus. This mode is particularly useful for capturing sweeping panoramas and detailed landscape scenes.

Macro Mode: Macro mode optimizes camera settings for close-up shots of small objects, such as flowers or insects. A shorter focusing distance and smaller aperture can be used to increase sharpness.

Sports Mode: Sports mode focuses on fast shutter speeds to freeze motion and minimize motion blur. This setting is ideal for capturing fast-moving subjects in sports or other dynamic 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 sets a balanced combination of ambient light and flash to achieve an aesthetically pleasing image.

Shutter and exposure times

The SLR camera has an electronically controlled, vertically running shutter. This shutter allows a wide range of exposure times, from 1/2000 second to 30 seconds. With the Minolta Alpha 70’s Bulb mode, there is also the option to take long exposures.

Flash

The Minolta camera’s built-in flash has a guide number of 16 at ISO 100 and can be used with lenses up to 28mm. Several modes are available, including auto, fill-flash, and the ability to disable the flash. However, there is no option to reduce the red-eye effect.

In addition, an external flash from Minolta can be connected, with a sync speed of 1/90 second.

Additional features and size of the camera

In addition to the main features, the Minolta Alpha 70 has a self-timer and a tripod mount on the bottom. Furthermore, there are modes for multiple exposures and bracketing.

According to the manufacturer’s specifications, the device weighs 375 grams. The dimensions are 13.5 x 9.2 x 6.65 cm.

Batteries for the camera

Two CR2 batteries (eBay / Amazon*) are needed to operate the camera, and they are readily available online.

Battery life may vary depending on the specific conditions of use. Various tests have been conducted under specific conditions to determine performance.

Films for the Minolta Alpha 70

The Minolta Alpha 70 is designed for use with 35mm film. Despite the advent of digital technologies, the 35mm format has retained its charm and remains popular with many photographers due to its universality and ease of use. For this reason, various manufacturers continue to produce films in this format.

The Fujifilm Superia 400* for color images and the Kodak T-Max 400* 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

The C-41 process is used to develop color films. This process is standard in most photo labs and is often offered in drug stores. Therefore, in most 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, it is possible to perform this process at home in your own photo lab.

Film transport

The negatives of the Minolta Alpha 70 have a size of 24 mm x 36 mm. This camera is equipped with a motorized film transport that allows automatic operation, without manual intervention. The speed of the film transport is approximately 3 frames per second.

When a roll of film is fully exposed, the film is automatically rewound. It is important to note that the back of the camera should not be opened and the film removed until this rewinding process is complete.

Value and Price

The Minolta Alpha 70 was discontinued and is only available used these days. The price of a used one varies depending on condition and other factors. On average, the price for a used Minolta Alpha 70 is around 129,37 Euro. It is advisable to compare prices from different sellers to find the best deal.