Minolta Maxxum 70

Minolta, a Japanese company, has produced the Maxxum 70 SLR camera. This was launched on the market in 2004. Because of its many automatic functions, it is an excellent choice for beginners. It was produced in a factory in China.

A model very similar to this one was sold under various names around the world. For example, the Minolta Dynax 60, which was available in Europe. In Japan, this model was sold as the Minolta Alpha 70, and in the US it was known as the Minolta Maxxum 60.

Lenses

The 35mm camera has an interchangeable lens mount and is compatible with Minolta A bayonet lenses. A variety of lenses with different focal lengths are available. In addition, the Minolta can be used with zoom lenses. A typical standard lens for the SLR is the Minolta 28-100 mm f/3.5-5.6.

This camera has an autofocus system that automatically adjusts the focus for each frame. An optical indicator in the viewfinder shows if the focus is correct, and an auxiliary light improves autofocus in low light. A single autofocus mode and a continuous autofocus mode are available. Focus can also be adjusted manually.

Light metering and ISO values

The camera’s light meter allows for appropriate exposure settings and is designed for films with ISO values from 6 to 6400. A choice can be made between manual or automatic setting of film speed. However, when using the automatic setting, which reads the ISO value from the cartridge, only ISO 25 to ISO 3200 are allowed.

If no cartridge is encoded and automatic is still selected, the camera will set the ISO value to 25. In such a case, it is better to set the ISO manually.

Exposure settings

The Minolta Maxxum 70 provides various exposure settings. Common modes also found in modern cameras include P, A, S and M, often referred to as “PSAM” modes. In addition, the Minolta has specific programs for different shooting situations such as portrait, landscape, macro, sports and night portrait.
P mode (Program Automatic): This mode allows the camera to automatically set aperture and shutter speed for balanced exposure.

A mode (Aperture Priority): This is where the photographer sets the aperture while the camera automatically adjusts the shutter speed for optimal exposure. Aperture selection allows control over depth of field and thus background blur or sharpness.

S (Aperture Priority) mode: In this mode, the photographer sets the shutter speed and the camera adjusts the aperture accordingly to ensure proper exposure. The shutter speed determines how long the camera’s sensor is exposed, affecting motion blur and the ability to capture or freeze motion.

M Mode (Manual): In manual mode, the photographer has complete control over aperture and shutter speed. These settings are made according to their artistic intent and the available lighting conditions. This mode requires a deep understanding of exposure principles.

Aside from PSAM modes, many cameras also have special scene modes tailored to specific shooting situations:

Portrait mode: in this mode, the camera uses a wide aperture to create a shallow depth of field and emphasize the subject against a blurred background. This setting is perfect for appealing portrait shots.

Landscape Mode: for landscape photography, a smaller aperture is typically selected to increase depth of field and ensure that both the foreground and background are clearly captured. This mode is especially useful for capturing sweeping panoramas and detailed landscapes.

Macro Mode: Macro mode optimally adjusts camera settings for close-up shots of small objects such as flowers or insects. A smaller focusing distance and aperture can be used to increase sharpness.

Sports mode: In Sports mode, the camera focuses on fast shutter speeds to freeze motion, and a fast motion sequence.

Night portrait mode: Night portrait mode combines a slower shutter speed with the use of the flash. This allows for well exposed portraits against a nighttime background. This mode achieves a balanced mix of ambient light and flash to produce an aesthetically pleasing result.

Shutter and exposure times

The shutter mechanism of the SLR camera consists of a vertically running, electronically controlled shutter. With this shutter, exposure times can be set from 1/2000 second to 30 seconds. The Minolta Maxxum 70 also features Bulb mode, which allows for long exposures.

Flash

The Minolta has a built-in flash with a guide number of 16 at ISO 100, and this flash can be used with lenses up to a focal length of 28 mm. When using the built-in flash, there are several modes to choose from, including auto, fill-flash, and the option to disable the flash. However, there is no option to reduce the red-eye effect.

Additionally, an external flash from Minolta can be connected, with a sync speed of 1/90 second.

Additional features and size of the camera

In addition to the main features, the Minolta Maxxum 70 has a built-in self-timer and a tripod socket on the bottom. Furthermore, it offers modes for multiple exposures and bracketing.

According to the manufacturer’s specifications, the camera weighs 375 grams. The dimensions are 13.5 x 9.2 x 6.65 cm.

Batteries for the camera

To power the camera, two CR2 batteries (eBay / Amazon*) are needed. These batteries are readily available online.

Battery life varies depending on the specific conditions of use. Various tests have been conducted under specific conditions to verify the performance of the batteries.

Films for the Minolta Maxxum 70

The Minolta Maxxum 70 is designed for use with 35mm film. Despite the advent of digital technologies, the 35mm format has retained its charm and remains popular with many photographers due to its universality and ease of use. For this reason, various manufacturers continue to produce films of this format.

The Fujifilm Superia 400* for color images and the Kodak T-Max 400* for black and white images are excellent options. Product tests and testimonials confirm that these films offer solid performance and are suitable for a wide variety of photographic needs.

Film Development

Color films are typically developed using the C-41 process, which is a standard procedure at most photo labs. Often this process is also offered in drug stores. Thus, in most cases, it is possible to have color films developed without any problems. Professional photo labs, of course, also offer this service.

For the development of black and white films, a special black and white developer is needed. With the right equipment and chemicals, you can also perform this process at home in your own photo lab.

Film transport

The Minolta Maxxum 70 uses 35mm format film with negatives that are 24mm x 36mm in size. This camera has a motorized film transport that works without manual operation. The speed of the film transport is about 3 frames per second.

After a roll of film is fully exposed, the film is automatically rewound. It is important to note that the back of the camera should not be opened and the film removed until this rewinding process is complete.

Value and Price

Since production of the Minolta Maxxum 70 has been discontinued, the camera is only available used these days. The price of a used copy varies depending on its condition, averaging around 69,32 Euro.