Minolta Dynax 700si

The Minolta Dynax 700si is a 35mm camera. It belongs to the group of SLR cameras and was introduced in the early 1990s. In the US, it was marketed as the Minolta Maxxum 700si. In Japan, the camera was available as Minolta Alpha 707si.

Lenses

Lenses for the Minolta Dynax 700si are interchangeable, allowing users to use different lenses depending on their needs and preferences. Lenses with a Minolta A bayonet can be used.

With a variety of lenses available, users can adjust the focal length, aperture, and other settings to achieve their desired photographic results. From wide-angle lenses for landscape photography to standard lenses for everyday photography to telephoto lenses for sports or portrait photography, the Minolta A-bayonet system offers a wide range of lenses for various photographic applications.

Autofocus

The autofocus system of the Minolta Dynax 700si is based on TTL (Through-The-Lens) phase detection technology and uses four CCD sensors. Autofocus can be activated by eye-launch or by half-pressing the shutter button.

The camera also features omnidirectional/multidimensional predictive focus control, which enables precise focusing on moving subjects. In addition, an AF illuminator is integrated to automatically activate in low-light and low-contrast conditions, enhancing the camera’s autofocus capabilities.

Those who want full control over focus can also adjust the focus manually.

Exposure Meter

The Minolta Dynax 700si has an exposure meter. It is designed for an ISO range of 6 to 6400. The camera technology can read the sensitivity of the film material via a code on the film cartridge. For automatic film speed setting, only values from ISO 25 to 5000 are supported.

Exposure Modes

The Minolta Dynax 700si offers several exposure modes, which include program auto (P mode), aperture priority auto (A mode), shutter priority auto (S mode), and manual exposure (M mode). In the automatic modes, there is an exposure compensation of +-3 stops.

In program auto mode, the camera automatically controls aperture and shutter speed based on lens specifications and subject characteristics. The camera also has PA (Programmed Aperture Control) and Ps (Programmed Shutter Control) modes that allow creative control of program settings.

In Aperture Priority mode, the user can manually select any aperture in 0.5 EV increments, and the camera automatically sets the shutter speed based on the automatic exposure program.

In shutter priority auto mode, the user can manually select any shutter speed between 1/8000 and 30 seconds in 0.5 EV increments, and the aperture is automatically set by the automatic exposure program.

In manual mode, the user has full control over shutter speed and aperture, with shutter speed and aperture selectable in 0.5 EV increments. The viewfinder indicates correct exposure, over- and underexposure when using manual exposure settings, and the camera has a Bulb setting for long exposures.

Flash

The Minolta Dynax 700si’s built-in flash has a guide number of 12 (in meters at ISO 100) and covers a 24mm field of view. The flash recharging time is about 2.5 seconds and it is powered by the camera. The flash also features a pre-flash to reduce red-eye and wireless remote flash control. In addition, an external flash can be connected.

Dimensions & Batteries

According to the manual, the dimensions of the 35mm camera are 15.3 x 9.8 x 7.1 cm. At the same time, it weighs 595 grams without film and lens. The power source of the SLR camera is a 2CR5 battery (eBay / Amazon*). You can easily find this type of battery online.

There is a thread for a tripod on the bottom of the camera body. This is useful when using the camera’s self-timer for group photos or self-portraits. The self-timer has a lead time of ten seconds. A mode for double exposures is also available with the camera.

Films for the Minolta Dynax 700si

35mm is the film format for which the Minolta Dynax 700si is designed, and it exposes films accordingly. There is still an extensive amount of film available for color and black and white images in this format.

Available photo films for the Minolta Dynax 700si, which can be obtained straightforwardly from online retailers, are the Kodak Ultramax 400* for magical color shots and the Ilford FP4 Plus* for brilliant B&W shots. Both photo films can convince in professional tests and guarantee reliable results in everyday life. Adox, Foma, Rollei and Co. of course also offer films for this format.

Exposure area & film transport

The exposure area of the camera is 24 mm x 36 mm. The typical number of frames on a roll of film is about 36. The inserted film is automatically advanced by the camera with a motor after each frame. The camera’s motor can manage a maximum of three frames per second. This will probably be utilized in very few cases, otherwise the end of the film roll will be reached quickly.

Price & Value

Camera prices can change over time and also vary depending on location, sales channel, condition of the camera (new or used), and additional accessories or lenses that are included.

To find out the current price for a Minolta Dynax 700si camera, one should check various online trading platforms, camera retailers, or auction and second-hand platforms. There, one can find current price information for used or new copies. It is also advisable to check the condition and features of the camera to make sure it meets the desired requirements.