Minolta FS-35

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.