The Minolta Freedom I is a point-and-shoot camera. It was developed by Minolta and introduced in the 1980s. The model was later replaced by the Minolta Freedom 100. In other parts of the world, you could buy the camera as the Minolta FS-E.
The photo camera is equipped with a fixed focal length. The focal length of the lens, which consists of four lenses, is 35 mm. The maximum aperture is f/4.5 and the focus of the lens is fixed. The closest focusing distance is 150 cm.
The 35 mm photo camera is equipped with a built-in light meter. It is designed for films from ISO 100 to ISO 1000, and the Minolta Freedom I reads the ISO value via the DX code on the cartridge. However, the sensitivity can also be set manually. Choices include 100, 200, and 400, and exposure settings are made automatically by the 35mm camera.
A flash is built in for low-light shooting. The output reaches up to 1.5 meters at ISO 100, and the flash turns on automatically if there is not enough light for the photo.
There is no tripod mount on this model. There is also no self-timer.
According to the manual, the camera weighs 230 grams. The housing is made of plastic. The dimensions are 13.1 x 6.55 x 4.55 cm. The power source of the camera are two AA batteries (eBay / Amazon*). Here, of course, you can also reach for rechargeable ones. The batteries also provide the necessary power for automatic film transport.
Films for the Minolta Freedom I
The Minolta Freedom I requires photographic film to take pictures. More specifically, 35mm films are needed. Possible films for the compact camera are the Kodak Gold 200* for color shots and the Ilford Delta 100* for black and white shots. Both films deliver solid results and convince in test reports. Of course, there are other films for the camera. So there is some suitable material from Foma, Lomography and Rollei.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Snapshot camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Automatic |
| Film transport mechanism | Motor |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Focal length | 35 mm |
| Widest aperture | f/4.5 |
| Minimum focus distance | 150 cm / 4.92 ft |
| Focus | Fixed |
| Lens design | 4 elements in 4 groups |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 100 to 1000 |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | Yes |
| Exposure modes | Program automatic |
| Manual exposure settings | No |
| Flash | Integrated flash |
| Flash range | 1,5 to 3,3 Meter / 4.92 to 10.83 Feet |
| Tripod mount | No |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | No |
| Power supply | 2x AA batteries |
| Size | 13,1 x 6,55 x 4,55 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 5.16 x 2.58 x 1.79 inches |
| Weight | 230 Grams |
| Names in other markets | International: Minolta FS-E |
| Estimated value / Used price | 32,43 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 3 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of February 19, 2024 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 36,18 Euro (38.97 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 34,33 Euro (36.80 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Minolta Freedom I
What is the lens focal length of the Minolta Freedom I and what is its maximum aperture?
The Minolta Freedom I features a 35mm fixed focal length lens with a maximum aperture of f/4.5. This provides a standard field of view, suitable for various photographic situations.
Does this compact camera have any manual settings, or is it fully automatic?
While largely automatic, the camera allows manual ISO setting (100, 200, 400). The exposure is otherwise determined automatically by the built-in light meter.
What type of film does the Minolta Freedom I use, and what is its flash range?
It uses standard 35mm film. The built-in flash has a range of up to 1.5 meters at ISO 100, automatically activating when needed.
What are the physical dimensions and weight of the Minolta Freedom I?
The camera measures 13.1 x 6.55 x 4.55 cm and weighs approximately 230 grams. It's a compact and lightweight point-and-shoot.
What power source does the point-and-shoot camera require for operation?
The Minolta Freedom I operates on two AA batteries, which also power the automatic film advance. Rechargeable batteries can be used.