The Minolta FS-E is a snapshot camera. It was developed by Minolta and presented in the 80s. The model was later followed by the Minolta FS-E II. In the USA, the camera could be bought as the Minolta Freedom I.
The photo camera comes with a fixed focal length. The focal length of the lens, which is composed 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 35mm photo camera is equipped with a built-in light meter. It is designed for films from ISO 100 to ISO 1000, and the Minolta FS-E reads the ISO value via the DX code on the cartridge. However, the sensitivity can also be set manually. The choices are 100, 200 and 400, and the exposure settings are set automatically by the 35mm camera.
A flash is installed for pictures in low light. The power reaches up to 1.5 meters at ISO 100. The flash is automatically switched on if there is not enough light for the photo.
There is no tripod socket 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 to rechargeable copies. The batteries also provide the necessary power for automatic film transport.
Films for the Minolta FS-E
The Minolta FS-E requires photographic film to take pictures. More precisely, 35mm films are needed. Possible films for the compact camera are the Kodak Gold 200* for color pictures and the Ilford Delta 400* for black and white pictures. Both films deliver solid results and convince in test reports. Of course, there are other films for the camera.
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 | USA: Minolta Freedom I |
| Estimated value / Used price | 47,48 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 18 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 44,92 Euro (47.63 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 47,65 Euro (50.87 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 37,56 Euro (40.05 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Minolta FS-E
What type of lens does the Minolta FS-E have?
It features a fixed 35mm focal length lens composed of four elements with a maximum aperture of f/4.5. The focus is fixed, and the minimum focusing distance is 150cm.
How does the camera's light meter work, and what ISO settings are supported?
The built-in light meter automatically determines the exposure settings. It supports ISO 100-1000 film speeds, reading the DX code or allowing manual selection of 100, 200, or 400 ISO.
Does this point-and-shoot camera have any special features like a self-timer or tripod mount?
No, the Minolta FS-E lacks both a self-timer and a tripod mount.
What kind of power source does the compact camera use, and what is its weight?
It runs on two AA batteries, which also power the automatic film advance. The camera weighs approximately 230 grams.
What film types are compatible with the Minolta Freedom I?
The Minolta Freedom I (also known as the Minolta FS-E) uses standard 35mm film. Both color and black and white films are suitable.