A 35mm camera called Minolta Maxxum 350si was developed in the 1980s. It belongs to the group of SLR cameras and was marketed as Minolta Maxxum 350si in the USA. Additionally, it was marketed under the name Minolta Alpha 101si in Japan.
The 35mm camera’s interchangeable lens mount allows the use of lenses with a Minolta A bayonet. An autofocus system is responsible for focusing, but it is also possible to adjust the focus manually. In such cases, the camera indicates whether the selected focus is considered correct.
In contrast, the camera lacks a manual exposure mode. Instead, it offers a normal program automatic that automatically sets the aperture and shutter speed. In addition, various scene modes are available that have been optimized specifically for different areas of use.
The camera’s exposure meter is suitable for films with an ISO range of 25 to 5000. Sensitivity is set automatically by the camera reading the DX code on the film cassette. If no DX code is present, the camera automatically selects an ISO setting of 100.
The camera allows shutter speeds from 1/2000 second to 30 seconds, but does not have a Bulb mode.
There is a built-in flash for low-light shooting, with a guide number of 12 (at ISO 100) according to the manual. The charging time of the flash is 2 seconds. There is also the option to connect an external flash to the Minolta connector.
The photo camera is equipped with a self-timer and a tripod thread on the bottom of the body. Additionally, it has a data function and a fake panorama mode. A display on the top shows the set values.
To operate the camera, a 2CR5 battery (eBay / Amazon*) is needed to power all functions. This battery is readily available online and can be easily purchased.
Films for the Minolta Maxxum 350si
The Minolta Maxxum 350si is designed for the 35mm format. It exposes film of this format, for which there is still an extensive selection of color and black-and-white material.
If you’re looking for a high-quality 35mm film for black and white, the Kodak T-Max 100* might be a good choice.
For color photography, the Kodak Gold 200* could be an alternative. According to various reviews, it works well for everyday shooting and delivers solid results. Of course, there is also a wide range of other suitable films for this camera.
The exposure range of the 35mm photo camera is 24mm x 36mm. After shooting, the camera automatically rewinds the film. The motor allows a shooting speed of approximately one frame per second.
Production of the Minolta Maxxum 350si has been discontinued, so it is only available used today. The price for the camera can vary depending on its condition.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Single lens reflex camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Automatic |
| Film transport mechanism | Motor |
| Pictures per second | 1 |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Lens mount | Minolta A mount |
| Focus | Autofocus |
| Exposure times | 1/2000 second to 30 seconds |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 25 to 5000 |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | Yes |
| Exposure modes | Program automatic |
| Manual exposure settings | No |
| Date imprinting | Yes |
| Panorama function | Yes |
| Double and/or multiple exposure function | No |
| Flash | Integrated flash |
| Flash modes | Fill-in flash, Red-eye reduction |
| Flash Connection | Connection for Minolta flash units |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | Yes, Self-timer function with 10 seconds lead time |
| Power supply | 1x 2CR5 battery |
| Names in other markets | Japan: Minolta Alpha 101si, USA: Minolta Maxxum Panorama Elite |
| Estimated value / Used price | 79,25 Euro 14112973656691405186492 Estimate based on used prices of 3 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of October 27, 2025 |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 69,00 Euro (74.69 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Minolta Maxxum 350si
What type of focusing system does the Minolta Maxxum 350si utilize?
It features an autofocus system, but also allows for manual focus adjustment. The camera provides feedback indicating whether the manual focus is deemed correct.
Does this 35mm SLR offer manual exposure control?
No, it lacks a manual exposure mode. Instead, it uses a program auto mode that automatically sets aperture and shutter speed, supplemented by various scene modes.
What is the range of shutter speeds available on the Minolta Alpha 101si?
The camera offers shutter speeds ranging from 1/2000th of a second to 30 seconds. However, a bulb mode is not included.
How does the camera determine the film's ISO speed?
The Minolta Maxxum 350si automatically reads the DX code from the film canister to determine ISO. If no DX code is present, it defaults to ISO 100.
What kind of battery does the photographic device need for operation?
The camera operates on a 2CR5 battery, which powers all functions. This battery type is readily available online.