The Minolta SR-2 was the first SLR camera from Chiyoda Kogaku, later Minolta. It was introduced in 1958 and produced in Japan.
The lenses of the 35mm photo camera can be changed. This is made possible by the Minolta SR bayonet. The Minolta Auto Rokkor-PF 1:1.8 f=55mm is often found on the 35mm camera. The Japanese camera does not have an autofocus. Focusing is manual. The open aperture is used for focusing. Only when the shutter release is pressed, the aperture jumps to the set value. Pressing the quick-release lever after shooting resets the mirror and the aperture.
The correct exposure cannot be measured by the photo camera because it does not have a light meter. Exposure time and aperture can be set completely manually. The shutter allows times from 1/1000 second to 1 second. A bulb mode is available for long exposures.
The use of an external flash unit is possible via the PC flash socket. The flash can be attached to the hot shoe. The flash sync speed is 1/50 second.
A tripod can be connected to the thread on the bottom. A cable release can also be used with the camera. Additionally, the self-timer can be used for taking pictures. Power is not needed for taking pictures.
Films for the Minolta SR-2
Photographic films are exposed in the Minolta SR-2, more precisely 35mm films. 35mm films are still manufactured today. The negatives of the Minolta SR-2 are 24 mm x 36 mm in size. So about 36 pictures fit on one roll of film. The film must be manually rewound by the photographer after each photo. Rewinding into the cartridge is also done manually with a crank.
Possible films for the Minolta SR-2 are the Fujifilm Superia 400* for color photos and the Kodak T-Max 100* for B&W images. Other suitable films are also offered by Foma, Ilford, Rollei and Adox, among others.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Single lens reflex camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Manual |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Lens mount | Minolta SR mount |
| Focus | Manual |
| Viewfinder | Pentaprism finder |
| Exposure times | 1/1000 second to 1 second, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | PC-Flash |
| Flash sync speed | 1/50 s |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | Yes |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Power supply | Not necessary |
| Country of production | Japan |
| Estimated value / Used price | 650,43 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 3 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 510,30 Euro (552.02 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 736,76 Euro (796.65 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 619,48 Euro (670.01 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Minolta SR-2
Is the Minolta SR-2 an automatic camera?
No, the Minolta SR-2 is a manual focus camera. It doesn't have autofocus; you adjust the focus and aperture manually. The aperture only closes to the selected setting when the shutter is released.
How do I take long exposure photos with this 35mm camera?
The Minolta SR-2 has a bulb mode for long exposures. This allows you to keep the shutter open for as long as you need, giving you complete control over exposure time.
Can I use a flash with the Minolta SR-2?
Yes, you can use an external flash. The camera has a PC flash socket and a hot shoe for connecting a flash. Keep in mind the flash sync speed is 1/50th of a second.
What kind of film does this old camera use?
The Minolta SR-2 uses standard 35mm film. You'll need to manually advance the film after each shot and rewind it after the roll is finished. Many brands of 35mm film are still available today.
Does the Minolta SR-2 have a light meter?
No, the Minolta SR-2 doesn't have a built-in light meter. You'll need to determine the correct exposure settings (aperture and shutter speed) yourself based on the lighting conditions.