The Minolta Hi-Matic AF is a viewfinder camera. It is the predecessor of the Minolta Hi-Matic AF2. It was introduced in the late 1970s. This member of the Hi-Matic family was produced in a factory in Japan.
It is the first model in the series with autofocus function. The autofocus system works with infrared. The set distance is displayed to the photographer in the viewfinder. The Minolta is equipped with a 38 mm Rokkor lens. The lens has a maximum aperture of f/2.8, and it can be closed down to f/17.
The camera comes with a light meter. The aperture and shutter speed are set automatically by the technology. The exposure meter is designed for 35mm film in the range of ISO 25 to ISO 400.
The camera comes with a built-in flash, this can be added if desired. The 35mm photo camera comes with a thread for a tripod. A self-timer is also built in. Power is supplied to the camera by two AA batteries (eBay / Amazon*).
Films for the Minolta Hi-Matic AF
The Minolta Hi-Matic AF is a film camera and is loaded with 35mm film. The film must be advanced manually with a lever, unlike later autofocus cameras. During this step, the counter for the number of pictures taken also changes. When the film is full, it must be transported back into the cartridge with a crank.
For this film format, there is still a good selection of material for color and black and white images. Possible films for the Japanese camera that can still be purchased today are the Kodak Ultramax 400* for color images and the Ilford FP4 Plus* for black and white images. Both films deliver reliable results and can also convince in professional test reports.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Viewfinder camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Manual |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Lens name | Rokkor |
| Focal length | 38 mm |
| Widest aperture | f/2.8 |
| Focus | Autofocus |
| Filter thread | 46 mm |
| Exposure times | 1/430 second to 1/8 second |
| Light meter | CdS light meter |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 25 to 400 |
| Exposure modes | Program automatic |
| Manual exposure settings | No |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | No |
| Flash | Integrated flash |
| Flash sync speed | 1/40 s |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Power supply | 2x AA batteries |
| Country of production | Japan |
| Estimated value / Used price | 114,81 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 44 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 115,74 Euro (124.48 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 118,19 Euro (127.72 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 108,19 Euro (116.90 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Minolta Hi-Matic AF
Is this camera automatic or manual?
The Minolta Hi-Matic AF is mostly automatic. It has autofocus and automatic exposure settings for the aperture and shutter speed. However, you do have to manually advance the film using a lever.
What kind of lens does the camera have?
It features a Rokkor 38mm lens. This lens offers a maximum aperture of f/2.8 and can be stopped down to f/17, giving you control over depth of field.
Does it have a built-in flash?
Yes, the Minolta Hi-Matic AF has a built-in flash that can be switched on or off as needed. This is helpful for low-light situations.
What type of film does this camera use?
It uses standard 35mm film. You'll need to load the film yourself, advance it with a lever after each shot, and rewind it manually once it's finished.
How is the focusing done on this device?
This camera utilizes infrared autofocus, a system that was innovative for its time. The focusing distance is displayed in the viewfinder for your reference.