Minolta Dynax 4

Minolta launched the Dynax 4 SLR camera in the 2000s, which scored with its intuitive operation and numerous automatic functions, while still providing some manual options.

Depending on the country, it was available under different model names: in Europe it was sold as Dynax 4, in China as Alpha 3 (α-3). In other regions, it could be found as the Dynax 3 – not to be confused with the Dynax 3L. Japanese photographers could purchase the camera as the α-Sweet II L (Alpha Sweet II L).

Lenses

The camera offers the flexibility to use a variety of lenses, thanks to its interchangeable lens port. A wide range of exciting lenses compatible with the Minolta A bayonet are available, covering most major focal lengths. Zoom lenses are also on offer.

The built-in automatic focusing system is ideal for spontaneous photos. In low light, the focusing light provides assistance with focusing. If needed, manual focusing can also be used.

Exposure meter

An essential component of this camera is the exposure meter, which can work with different film sensitivities. Manually, sensitivities from ISO 6 to ISO 6400 can be selected in 1/3 increments.

In automatic detection mode, sensitivities from ISO 25 to ISO 5000 are possible. The detection is done by the coding of the film cartridge. If no such encoding is available, manual setting is recommended.

When using the flash, sensitivities from ISO 25 to ISO 1000 are usable.

Exposure settings

The Minolta Dynax 4 has a number of exposure options to meet the needs of different shooting scenarios and creative desires.

In P (Program Automatic) mode, the camera automatically controls both aperture and shutter speed for optimal exposure.

A (Aperture Priority) mode gives the photographer the ability to manually select the aperture, with the camera adjusting the shutter speed accordingly.

In S (Aperture Priority) mode, this is reversed: the photographer sets the shutter speed while the camera adjusts the aperture.

In M (Manual) mode, the photographer takes full control of aperture and shutter speed.

PA/PS (Programmed Aperture/Shutter Speed) modes offer a combination of manual control and automatic adjustment for specific shooting situations.

In addition to these exposure options, the Minolta Dynax 4 provides five scene modes: Portrait, Landscape, Macro, Sports, and Night Portrait. Each of these mode-specific programs adjusts the camera settings to achieve optimal results for the specific shooting situation.

Shutter speeds and apertures

The Minolta Dynax 4 has an electronically controlled focal-plane shutter that moves vertically. It allows shutter speeds in the range of 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 connectivity for external flash

The camera is equipped with a built-in flash that has a guide number of 12. With an ISO setting of 100, the flash can be used up to a distance of 4 meters.

Various flash modes are available, including auto flash, auto flash with red-eye reduction, fill-in flash, and flash cancel. It is also possible to connect an external flash. The sync speed here is 1/90 second.

The Minolta Dynax 4 has a self-timer with a lead time of 10 seconds. Furthermore, a cable release can be connected, but this requires special cable types from Minolta, the RC-1000S or RC-1000L.

The camera also offers a mode for multiple exposures. There is a thread on the bottom of the body for mounting on a tripod.

Measuring 12.7 x 8.7 x 6.05 cm and weighing 315 grams (without lens), the Minolta Dynax 4 is very compact for a 35mm camera with interchangeable lenses.

Battery powering the camera

The Minolta Dynax 4 is powered by two CR2 batteries (eBay / Amazon*), which are still easy to find on the market. Battery life varies depending on usage. If the flash is used for 50% of the shots, the batteries can hold about 14 rolls of film of 24 frames each.

Film types for the Minolta Dynax 4

The Minolta Dynax 4 is compatible with the 35mm film format. There are still a variety of 35mm films that are readily available and can be used with this camera.

Different types of film are available online for this classic SLR camera from Japan. For example, the Ilford Delta 100* can be used for stunning black and white shots and the Kodak Gold 200* for colorful images. Both films have been praised in tests for their wide range of applications.

Color films can be developed in the C-41 process, which is offered in most professional photo labs. Many well-known drugstores in Germany also offer this service. A special black-and-white developer is required for developing black-and-white films.

Film transport

The Minolta Dynax 4 has a 35mm format exposure of 24mm x 36mm. With its motorized film advance function, the camera automatically advances the film after each shutter release. It can take about 1.7 pictures per second. Once all the film is exposed, it is automatically rewound into the cartridge, a process that takes about 8 seconds for a 24-frame film and slightly longer for a 36-frame film.

Value on the Used Market

The current value of the camera depends, of course, on the fact that it is no longer manufactured and is only available used. One copy currently costs about 60,10 Euro. However, the actual buying or selling price may vary depending on condition, functionality and included accessories.