The Minolta Memo is a viewfinder camera. The model was introduced in the late 1940s. It was produced in a factory in Japan by Chiyoda Kōgaku Seikō, Minolta’s company name at the time. Many copies therefore bear the imprint “Made in occupied Japan”.
A fixed lens is installed in the camera. The focal length of the lens is 50 mm. The maximum aperture is f/4.5. The photo camera has no autofocus. Therefore, you have to focus by hand. The aperture also has to be set manually.
The Minolta Memo does not have a built-in light meter. For the shutter speed, you have the choice between 1/100 second, 1/50 second and 1/25 second.
The 35mm camera comes with a bulb mode. There is a connection for a tripod for long exposures. The model does not have a self-timer.
Interestingly, the Rokkor lens comes with two covers. One lens cap protects the lens, the second cap additionally protects the shutter and serves as a lens hood when turned upside down.
The 35mm photo camera is mechanical and can take photos without batteries. The camera has been built quite high quality. However, the housing is made of Bakelite, a typical material of the time. The weight of the camera without film is about 600 grams.
Films for the Minolta Memo
The Minolta Memo requires 35mm film. There is still a good selection of material for color and black and white images for this film format. One possible film for color images is the Kodak Gold 200*. A possibility for B&W images is the Ilford XP2 Super*.
The color film is processed in the C-41 development process. This development process is offered by most laboratories. The cost of development is usually between five and ten euros.
The exposure area of the Minolta Memo is 24 mm x 36 mm. This usually allows 36 exposures per film (135-36). There is no automatic film transport. The film has to be rewound by hand. The lever for this is located on the bottom and is unfortunately also made of Bakelite, which loses some stability over the years.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Viewfinder camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Manual |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Focal length | 50 mm |
| Widest aperture | f/4.5 |
| Focus | Manual |
| Exposure times | 1/100 second, 1/50 second, 1/25 second, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Self-timer | No |
| Power supply | Not necessary |
| Weight | 600 Grams |
| Country of production | Japan |
| Estimated value / Used price | 268,20 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 3 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 1, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 466,25 Euro (504.40 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Minolta Memo
Is the Minolta Memo camera automatic, or do I need to adjust the settings manually?
The Minolta Memo is entirely manual. You have to adjust the focus, aperture, and shutter speed yourself. There's no autofocus or automatic exposure metering.
What kind of film does this old camera use?
It uses standard 35mm film, both color and black and white. You can find many options still available, like Kodak Gold 200 or Ilford XP2 Super.
How many pictures can I take with one roll of film?
A standard 35mm roll usually allows for 36 exposures. Remember that there's no automatic film advance, so you have to wind the film manually.
Does the camera need batteries to work?
No, the Minolta Memo is a completely mechanical camera. It doesn't require batteries to operate; all functions are controlled manually.
What's the lens like on the Minolta Memo?
It has a fixed 50mm Rokkor lens with a maximum aperture of f/4.5. It comes with two caps; one for the lens and a second that also protects the shutter and doubles as a lens hood.