Minolta Hi-Matic AF2-M

The Minolta Hi-Matic AF2-M is a 35mm camera. It was introduced in the early 1980s. It was produced in a factory in Japan. The camera was one of Minolta’s first attempts at a fully automatic camera.

The model is part of the Hi-Matic series and one of three cameras with autofocus. The autofocus system can automatically set the distance via infrared. This requires a minimum distance of one meter to the subject. In the viewfinder, there is an indicator for the set distance. There is no manual mode for focusing.

The Minolta is equipped with a 38 mm lens. The largest aperture of the lens is f/2.8, the smallest aperture is f/17. Aperture and shutter speed are set automatically by the built-in light meter. There is no manual mode. However, the film speed can be freely selected and can also be changed within a film roll. Values from ISO 25 to ISO 400 can be selected, and the camera warns with a warning tone in case of underexposure.

The camera comes with a tripod thread on the bottom. A self-timer is also available. It has a lead time of ten seconds. There is no connection for a cable release. There is also no bulb mode. According to the manual, the dimensions of the Minolta Hi-Matic AF2-M are 13.3 x 7.7 x 5.4 cm. It weighs 360 grams.

The 35mm photo camera comes with a built-in flash. This also works automatically and there are no setting options. Instead, it can be switched on and off freely. The range of the flash is given as up to 4.8 meters. This value refers to the use of an ISO 100 film.

For use, the camera needs two AA batteries (eBay / Amazon*).

Films for the Minolta Hi-Matic AF2-M

The Minolta Hi-Matic AF2-M is loaded with 35mm film. It is the only model in the series with automatic film advance. Each time the shutter button is pressed, the motor transports the film to the next free area. On the top side there is a counter with the taken pictures. The return transport is also automatic. A normal film needs about 30 seconds until it is back in the cartridge.

35mm film is still made today and is fairly easy to get. One option for B&W images is Ilford XP2 Super*. A very good film for color images is the Fujifilm Superia 400*. Both photo films can convince in professional tests and guarantee reliable results in everyday life or even when traveling. Foma, Kodak, Adox and also Rollei are still other suppliers of 35mm films. The color film is processed in the C-41 development process. This is offered by almost every professional photo lab. The black and white film is not developed in the C-41 process, but it needs other photographic chemistry. Under guidance, it can also be developed at home.