The Minolta Mac-Tele was introduced by Minolta in the 1980s as a compact camera for spontaneous shooting. In the US, it was marketed as the Minolta Freedom Tele, while in Europe it was known as the Minolta AF-Tele Super. There were also variants such as the Leica AF-C1 based on the model, as well as a version with a data back.
The 35mm camera is equipped with a fixed lens that can be switched between two focal lengths. There is a normal lens with a 38 mm focal length and a maximum aperture of f/2.8, and an 80 mm lens for portrait shots with a maximum aperture of f/5.6.
The focus is automatically set by the camera technology and the minimum distance to the subject should be 70 cm. There is no manual adjustment option for the focus.
In general, there are no manual setting options for the aperture, shutter speed and other general settings. These are set automatically by the camera. The film speed is read from the encoding on the film cartridge and supports values from ISO 50 to ISO 3200. If the film is not encoded or not in this range, the default is ISO 100.
The camera has a built-in flash that fires automatically, but can also be activated manually.
The 35mm photo camera has a tripod mount on the bottom of the body and a self-timer function that is ideal for group shots or selfies. The self-timer’s lead time is 10 seconds.
According to the manual, the dimensions of the Minolta Mac-Tele are 13.6 x 7.6 x 5.5 cm and the weight is 450 grams. The camera is powered by a 2CR5 battery (eBay / Amazon*), which also powers the LCD display and shows information such as the number of pictures taken.
Films for the Minolta Mac-Tele
The Minolta Mac-Tele is a camera designed specifically for use with 35mm film. The 35mm format is still very popular due to its simplicity and reliability. There are still several manufacturers that produce film for this format. For color images, the Kodak Ultramax 400* 35mm film is a good choice, while the Ilford Delta 100* film is good for black and white images. Of course, there are films from other manufacturers to choose from as well.
The common development process for color film in 35mm format is the C-41 process, which is offered by most photo labs. In Germany, for example, films can be dropped off for development at many drugstore chains. The development steps for black-and-white film are slightly different from those for color film, but can be done at home with the proper instructions and photographic chemistry.
The Minolta Mac-Tele’s negatives are 24mm x 36mm, which allows about 36 exposures to be made with a standard 35mm film. The camera automatically moves the loaded film along with a motor after each frame.
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 | 38 mm, 80 mm |
| Widest aperture | f/2.8 |
| Minimum focus distance | 70 cm / 2.296 ft |
| Focus | Autofocus |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 50 to 3200 |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | Yes |
| Exposure modes | Program automatic |
| Manual exposure settings | No |
| Date imprinting | Model variant |
| Flash | Integrated flash |
| Flash modes | Fill-in flash |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | Yes, Self-timer function with 10 seconds lead time |
| Power supply | 1x 2CR5 battery |
| Size | 13,6 x 7,6 x 5,5 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 5.35 x 2.99 x 2.17 inches |
| Weight | 450 Grams |
| Names in other markets | Europe: Minolta AF-Tele Super, USA: Minolta Freedom Tele |
| Country of production | Japan |
| Estimated value / Used price | 61,75 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 5 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 43,12 Euro (46.54 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 43,83 Euro (46.54 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 68,15 Euro (73.60 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Minolta Mac-Tele
What type of film does this compact camera use?
The Minolta Mac-Tele uses standard 35mm film, allowing for approximately 36 exposures per roll. This is a popular format still widely available.
Does the camera offer manual controls for settings like aperture and shutter speed?
No, the Minolta Mac-Tele is fully automatic. It automatically sets aperture, shutter speed, and focus based on the scene.
How is the focus managed on this point-and-shoot camera?
The camera employs autofocus, with a minimum focusing distance of approximately 70 cm. There's no manual focus option available.
What kind of lens does the Minolta Freedom Tele have and how does it function?
It features a switchable lens; a 38mm lens for general use and an 80mm lens for portraits. Both lenses are fixed and the switch between them is manual.
Besides the automatic flash, what other features improve usability?
The camera includes a self-timer with a 10-second delay, handy for group photos or selfies, and a tripod mount for stability.