The Minolta FS-35 is a simple 35mm camera. It was offered by Minolta Camera Co., Ltd. from Japan in the late 1980s. The model is limited to the basic functions and was honestly aimed at hobby users. Under the name “Minolta Freedom 50“, the 35mm photo camera was marketed in North America.
In 1991, the Minolta Riva 35 was announced as its successor. This model is identical in features, but differs visually from the FS-35.
The 35mm photo camera comes with a fixed lens. 35mm is the focal length of the lens. The camera’s widest aperture is f/4.5, and there is no autofocus. The lens is fixed and cannot be changed. The closest focusing distance is 150 cm for this lens.
The 35mm camera has a built-in light meter. It is designed for films from ISO 100 to ISO 400. The film speed is read via the DX code; if this code is not present on the cartridge, the camera selects ISO 100. The shutter speed is always fixed at 1/125 second. The aperture is f/8.
For photos taken with the built-in flash, the camera selects the maximum aperture of f/4.5 The power of the flash depends on the read-out sensitivity of the film. The range with an ISO 100 film is given as up to 4 meters. The flash does not have different modes. In return, the flash can be deactivated.
According to the manual, the camera with its plastic housing weighs 200 grams. The dimensions are 12.7 x 7.3 x 4.9 cm. The camera requires two AA batteries (eBay / Amazon*). Here, of course, you can reach for rechargeable batteries. They usually last for over 1300 pictures.
Films for the Minolta FS-35
According to the instruction manual, the Minolta FS-35 is equipped with 35mm films. The camera automatically transports the film to the next frame after each photo. Also at the end, the film is automatically wound back into the cartridge. The number of frames taken is displayed on the top of the camera.
Nice films for black and white or color pictures are the Ilford XP2 Super* and the Kodak Ultramax 400*. They deliver solid results with the compact camera. Of course, you can also reach for films from other manufacturers. The only important thing is that the films are in a range from ISO 100 to ISO 400.
The two films are developed using the C-41 process. This process is offered by almost every photo lab. For example, you can hand in your films for development at many drugstores in Germany.
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 |
| Exposure times | 1/125 second |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 100 to 400 |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | Yes |
| Manual exposure settings | No |
| Flash | Integrated flash |
| Flash range | 1,5 to 4 Meter / 4.92 to 13.12 Feet |
| Tripod mount | No |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | No |
| Power supply | 2x AA batteries |
| Size | 12,7 x 7,3 x 4,9 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 5.00 x 2.87 x 1.93 inches |
| Weight | 200 Grams |
| Estimated value / Used price | 28,80 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 9 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 38,40 Euro (41.13 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 32,40 Euro (34.64 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 35,79 Euro (37.88 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Minolta FS-35
Is the Minolta FS-35 difficult to use for someone who's never used a film camera before?
The Minolta FS-35 is designed to be quite simple to operate, making it suitable for beginners. It has basic functions and automatic film loading and rewinding which eliminates some of the difficulties associated with older film cameras. However, because it has a fixed focus lens, subjects closer than 1.5 meters will be out of focus.
Does this camera automatically focus on the subject or do I have to adjust something?
This camera does not have autofocus. The focus is fixed, meaning that everything within a certain range will be in focus. The closest distance the lens can focus is 1.5 meters.
What kind of batteries does the Minolta FS-35 need, and how long do they usually last?
The camera uses two AA batteries. A fresh set of batteries should be enough for over 1300 pictures, so you shouldn't have to change them too often.
Can I change the lens on this compact camera to take different kinds of pictures?
Unfortunately, the lens on this camera is fixed, meaning you cannot change it. The built-in lens has a focal length of 35mm and an aperture of f/4.5. If you want more flexibility in photography, you will need to change the entire camera.
What happens if the film I use doesn't have a DX code?
If your film cartridge doesn't have a DX code, the camera will automatically default to ISO 100. This is the slowest sensitivity the camera can set. You may want to choose a film with DX coding to make sure the settings are right.