Minolta Dynax 3

Manufactured by Minolta in the 2000s, the Dynax 3 SLR camera is characterized by user-friendliness and extensive automatic functions, and also provides a number of manual options.

The camera should not be confused with the Dynax 3.

It was offered under different names in different markets: In Europe it was known as the Dynax 4, and in China as the Alpha 3 (α-3). In Japan, camera enthusiasts could buy it as the α-Sweet II L (Alpha Sweet II L).

Lenses

With its interchangeable lens port, the camera can accommodate a variety of lenses. A variety of exciting lenses that fit the Minolta A bayonet are available, covering most major focal lengths. In addition, zoom lenses are available.

For snapshots, the camera’s automatic focusing system is especially handy. In lower light conditions, the focusing light helps to adjust the focus. If desired, manual focusing is also available.

Exposure meter

An essential feature of this camera is the exposure meter, which can be used with various film speeds. Manually, values can be set from ISO 6 to ISO 6400 in 1/3 increments.

When using automatic detection, values from ISO 25 to ISO 5000 can be used. These are recognized via the coding on the film cartridge. If this coding is missing, one should resort to the manual setting.

When using the integrated flash, values from ISO 25 to ISO 1000 can be applied.

Exposure Settings

The Minolta Dynax 3 holds a selection of exposure modes to meet the needs of different shooting situations and creative preferences.

In P (programmed auto) mode, aperture and shutter speed are automatically set for optimal exposure.

A (Aperture Priority) mode allows the photographer to manually set the aperture, with the camera adjusting the shutter speed accordingly.

In S (Aperture Priority) mode, the opposite occurs: the photographer sets the shutter speed while the camera adjusts the aperture.

In M (Manual) mode, the photographer has complete control over the aperture and shutter speed settings.

PA/PS (programmed aperture/shutter speed) modes combine manual control and automatic adjustments for specific shooting situations.

In addition to these exposure modes, the Minolta Dynax 3 has five scene modes: Portrait, Landscape, Macro, Sports and Night Portrait. These mode-specific programs optimize the camera settings for the specific situation, allowing for the best results.

Shutter speeds and apertures

The Minolta Dynax 3 is equipped with an electronically controlled focal-plane shutter that runs vertically. It allows shutter speeds from 1/2000 second to 30 seconds. In addition, the camera offers a Bulb mode for long exposures.

The available aperture values depend on the lens being used.

Built-in flash and flash connector

The camera has a built-in flash whose guide number is 12. At an ISO setting of 100, the maximum range of the flash is up to 4 meters.

Various flash modes are available, including auto flash, auto flash with red-eye reduction, fill-in flash, and flash cancel. In addition, an external flash can be connected. The sync speed is 1/90 second.

The Minolta Dynax 3 has a self-timer with a lead time of 10 seconds. A cable release can be connected, special Minolta cable types RC-1000S or RC-1000L are required.

A multiple exposure mode is available in this camera. There is a thread on the bottom of the body for mounting on a tripod.

The Minolta Dynax 3 measures 12.7 x 8.7 x 6.05 cm and weighs 315 grams without the lens. This makes it very handy for a 35mm camera with interchangeable lenses.

Power supply of the camera

The power supply of the Minolta Dynax 3 is provided by two CR2 batteries (eBay / Amazon*), which are easily available nowadays. How long the batteries last depends on the usage.

When using the built-in flash for about half of the shots, one set of batteries can be expected to last for about 14 films with 24 pictures each.

Film Selection for the Minolta Dynax 3

The Minolta Dynax 3 is designed for the 35mm film format. There is still a wide selection of 35mm films that can be easily purchased for this camera.

Various types of films are available online for this iconic SLR camera from Japan. Among them are, for example, the Ilford Delta 100* for impressive black and white photographs and the Kodak Gold 200* for vivid color photographs. Both films are highly praised in reviews for their wide range of applications.

Color film development can be done in the C-41 process, which is offered in most professional photo labs. In Germany, well-known drugstores also offer this service. Black-and-white film development requires a special black-and-white developer.

Film transport system

The Minolta Dynax 3 is equipped with a 35mm format exposure area of 24mm x 36mm. Its motorized film transport system ensures that the film is automatically transported further after each release. It can achieve a speed of about 1.7 frames per second in the process. After the entire film has been exposed, it is automatically wound back into the cartridge. For a 24-frame film, this process takes about 8 seconds; for a 36-frame film, it takes slightly longer.

Market value of the camera

The current value of the camera is, of course, affected by the fact that it is no longer in production and is only available as a used item.

Currently, the price for such a specimen is approximately 55,89 Euro. However, the final purchase or sale price may depend on the condition, operability, and accessories included.