Minolta SR-T MC-II

The Minolta SR-T MC-II is an SLR camera. It was built by Minolta from 1977 to 1980. It is the successor model of the Minolta SR-T SC. The model was sold exclusively at some retailers. In the U.S., it was available at K-Mart and J.C. Penney. In Europe, photographers could buy it at Hertie and K-Markt. A similar model was sold at Sears under the name “SR-T SC-II.”

The entry-level photo camera was equipped with interchangeable lenses. A Minolta SR bayonet was installed for this purpose. Often the camera was sold together with the Minolta MD Rokkor-X 50mm f/1.4. As usual at that time, the focus has to be adjusted manually on the camera. There is no autofocus system.

The 35mm camera has a built-in light meter. It is designed for films with a sensitivity of ISO 6 to ISO 6400. As with most SLR cameras, the exposure metering is done through the lens. The exposure time and aperture can be freely selected. There is no automatic exposure control on this model.

The shutter in the camera is designed for times from 1/1000 second to 1 second. If you want to take long exposures, you can use the Bulb setting. You can also mount the camera on a tripod for this purpose. A cable release can also be connected to the shutter release.

An external flash can be used via the hot shoe or the PC flash connector. When using a flash, the exposure time must be 1/60 second or slower.

The Minolta SR-T MC-II measures 14.5 x 9.5 x 4.75 cm and weighs 675 grams according to the manual. A 1.35 V mercury battery is responsible for the power supply. The battery is only needed for the light meter. The rest of the camera works mechanically.

Films for the Minolta SR-T MC-II

The film transport is also mechanical. There is a quick release lever for this. This must be operated after each exposure. During this step, the frame counter also jumps forward. The negatives of the Minolta SR-T MC-II have a size of 24 mm x 36 mm. About 36 frames fit on a normal film (135-36).

The camera exposes films in 35 mm format. 35-mm film is still readily available today and is developed by most photo labs. A 35mm film for color photography is the Kodak Gold 200*. A possible black and white film is the Ilford Delta 100*. Both films are well suited for everyday use and can convince in test reports. Of course, there is a large selection of other suitable films for this camera.

The development of the color film is done in the C-41 process. This process is offered by most professional photo labs. You can have your films developed at most drugstores, for example. The development of the black and white film must be done in a true black and white developer. Instructions are available for most films.