Minolta Freedom DL

The Minolta Freedom DL is a snapshot camera from the Japanese manufacturer. It was introduced to the world public in the 1980s and offered from then on. The model was also sold to photographers under the name “Minolta Freedom Dual” and “Minolta AF-DL“.

The camera belongs to the generation of predecessors of zoom cameras. Thus, this model allows you to choose between two focal lengths. One can choose between 35 mm and 50 mm. With these focal lengths, one is equipped for many everyday situations. The focal lengths have a maximum aperture of f/3.5 (35 mm) and f/5.6 (50 mm). They are composed of three and five lenses. A switch can be used to conveniently switch between the two focal lengths. Focusing is automatic via an infrared system. The closest focusing distance for autofocus is 52 cm at 35 mm.

For taking pictures, the 35 mm camera is equipped with an exposure meter. It is designed for films with ISO 100 and ISO 400. The camera technology determines the correct film speed via the DX code. If this code is not present on the cartridge, ISO 100 is selected. The exposure settings are determined automatically by the camera. You cannot select the shutter speed and aperture yourself.

The built-in flash provides sufficient light. According to the manual, the flash’s output reaches up to 2.3 meters at ISO 100 and 50 mm. At 35 mm, the flash even reaches up to 3.6 meters. Charging time is about 1.8 seconds, depending on the batteries.

Four AAA batteries (eBay / Amazon*) are responsible for the power supply. Of course, you can also reach for rechargeable batteries here. These batteries last for about 20 rolls of film. According to the manual, the camera’s housing weighs 275 grams and measures 13.2 x 6.9 x 5.1 cm.

Films for the Minolta Freedom DL

What kind of films are needed for the Minolta Freedom DL? The camera is designed for 35mm film. The film transport is motorized. After each frame, the camera rewinds the film and sets the frame counter to a higher number. Also, the motor transports the film back into the cartridge at the end of the roll.

Possible films for the camera from Japan are the Kodak Portra 400* for color images and the Ilford XP2 Super* for black and white images. Both photo films are good for everyday or vacation shots and can convince in test reports. Especially for the 35mm format, there are other manufacturers of film material. Fujifilm and Foma, for example, offer great films for different results.