Minolta Maxxum 50

The Maxxum 50 SLR camera is a product of the Japanese manufacturer Minolta, which has been available since 2004. Its numerous automated functions make it particularly attractive for beginners in photography.

This model was offered globally under different names. In Europe, it is known as the Minolta Dynax 40. In other territories, it was marketed as the Dynax 30. In Japan, it was marketed as the Minolta Alpha 50, and in the United States, it was called the Minolta Maxxum 50.

Lenses

The 35mm format photo camera has a device for changing lenses. It is compatible with lenses that use the Minolta A bayonet. There is a wide range of lenses with different focal lengths for this mount. The Minolta can also be used with zoom lenses. The Minolta 28-100 mm f/3.5-5.6 is a common standard lens for this SLR camera.

The camera is equipped with an autofocus system. The focus is automatically adjusted with every shot. A visual cue in the viewfinder informs if the focus is correct and an auxiliary light assists the autofocus in poor lighting. A single autofocus mode and a continuous autofocus mode are available. There is also the option to manually adjust the focus.

Exposure meter and film speeds

The camera’s built-in light meter ensures correct exposure settings. It is designed for films with an ISO sensitivity of 6 to 6400. The film speed can be adjusted either manually or automatically. However, if you use the automatic setting, which reads the ISO value via the cartridge, only settings from ISO 25 to ISO 3200 are possible.

If no cartridge is encoded and automatic is selected anyway, the system sets a value of ISO 25. In such a case, it is better to determine the ISO sensitivity manually.

Exposure modes

Several exposure modes are part of the Minolta Maxxum 50. The most common modes, which are also common in current cameras, include P, A, S, and M, often referred to as “PSAM” modes. In addition, the Minolta has scene modes specifically tailored to certain shooting situations such as portrait, landscape, macro, sports, and night portrait.

P mode (Program Automatic): This mode allows the camera to automatically set both aperture and shutter speed to ensure a balanced exposure.

A mode (Aperture Priority): This allows the photographer to set the preferred aperture while the camera automatically determines the appropriate shutter speed for proper exposure. By setting the aperture, the depth of field and thus the blur or sharpness of the background can be influenced.

S mode (Aperture priority): In this mode, the photographer sets the shutter speed and the camera adjusts the aperture for proper exposure. The shutter speed selected determines how long the camera sensor is exposed, which affects motion blur and the ability to capture or record motion.

M Mode (Manual): In manual mode, the photographer takes full control of both aperture and shutter speed. They are set according to the creative vision and the given lighting conditions. This mode requires a deep understanding of exposure principles.

In addition to PSAM modes, some cameras have specific scene modes that are optimized for specific shooting situations:

Portrait mode: in this mode, a larger aperture is selected to create a shallow depth of field so that the subject is in focus against a blurred background. This is ideal for creating flattering portraits.

Landscape Mode: Landscape mode typically uses a smaller aperture to maximize depth of field and ensure that both foreground and background are in focus. This mode is great for capturing sweeping vistas and detailed landscapes.

Macro Mode: Macro mode optimizes camera settings for close-up shots of small subjects, such as flowers or insects. A shorter focus distance and smaller aperture can be used to improve sharpness.

Sports mode: Sports mode prioritizes fast shutter speeds to freeze action and minimize motion blur. It is suitable for capturing moving subjects in sports or other fast-paced situations.

Night Portrait Mode: This mode combines a slower shutter speed with the use of a flash to capture well-exposed portraits against a nighttime background. It balances ambient and flash light to achieve a pleasing end result.

Shutter and shutter speeds

The SLR camera is equipped with a vertically running, electronically controlled shutter. The shutter offers exposure intervals from 1/2000 second to 30 seconds. Long exposures are possible with the Minolta Maxxum 50’s Bulb mode.

Flash

The Minolta has a built-in flash. At ISO 100, the flash has a guide number of 12, and it can be used with lenses up to 28 mm. When using the retractable flash, there are several modes to choose from, including an auto mode, fill-flash mode, and the ability to turn the flash off. Both flash modes also offer a red-eye reduction option.

Additionally, an external flash from Minolta can be connected. The sync speed is 1/90 second.

Other features and size specifications

In addition to the standard features, the Minolta Maxxum 50 has a self-timer and a tripod screw on the bottom. It also offers modes for multiple exposures and bracketing.

According to the manufacturer, the camera weighs 335 grams. The dimensions are 13.5 x 9.2 x 6.65 cm.

Battery supply

The camera will not work without batteries. It requires two CR2 batteries (eBay / Amazon*) for operation. These types of batteries can be easily found online.

The battery life is highly dependent on the operating conditions. Various tests were performed under defined conditions.

In scenario A, at a temperature of 20°C/68°F, 30 rolls of film were used with a Minolta 28-100 f/3.5-5.6 lens. Before each exposure, the shutter release was half-pressed for ten seconds and the focus was changed from infinity to 2m (6.6 ft.). In this scenario, the batteries could power 24 rolls of 24 shots each.

In scenario B, at a temperature of -10°C/14°F, 24 rolls of film were used. Here, the shutter release was half-pressed for five seconds before each exposure and the focus was set from infinity to 2m (6.6 ft.). Under these conditions, the batteries could supply 18 rolls with 24 exposures each.

Film selection for the Minolta Maxxum 50

What film should be used with the Minolta Maxxum 50? The camera is designed to use 35mm film. The 35mm format remains popular with many photographers because of its wide compatibility and ease of use, and therefore it continues to be produced by various manufacturers.

For color and black-and-white images, the Kodak Ultramax 400* and the Ilford FP4 Plus* are excellent options. Research and testimonials show that these films deliver reliable, high-quality results and are suitable for a wide range of uses.

Film development

Developing a color film is done using the C-41 process, which is standard at most photo labs. Many drug stores offer color film development, as do professional photo labs.

Black and white films, on the other hand, are processed in a special black and white developer. This process can also be done at home in your own photo lab if you have the necessary equipment and skills.

Film transport

The negatives of the 35mm camera measure 24 mm x 36 mm. This model has a motorized film transport that does not require manual operation. The speed is about 1.7 frames per second.

At the end of the film roll, the return transport starts automatically. Only when this process is complete may the back of the camera be opened and the film removed.

Value and price

Production of the Minolta Maxxum 50 has ceased, so it is only available used today. Prices for the camera vary depending on its condition. The average price for a used model is around 223,51 Euro. Please note that the actual price may vary depending on many factors such as the condition of the camera, the accessories that come with it, and the market where you buy.