The Minolta TC-1 is a snapshot camera from the Japanese manufacturer. It was manufactured from 1996 to 2005 and positioned as a high-end model. For example, the housing is made of titanium, there are a lot of setting options and, unlike many snapshot cameras from that time, very high-quality optics were installed.
More specifically, the camera comes with “Minolta G Rokkor 28mm f/3.5”. It is a fixed focal length; there is no zoom function on this model. The focal length is 28mm. The largest aperture is f/3.5. The lens is focused by autofocus. The minimum distance to the subject must be 45 cm. There is also the possibility to adjust the focus manually. Here you can choose from twenty different values.
The camera is equipped with an automatic exposure mode. The exposure mode “aperture priority” gives the user the possibility to freely select the aperture value and the camera technology sets the appropriate shutter speed. The camera has values from 1/750 s to 8 s at its disposal. The aperture setting options are somewhat more limited. Here you can choose between f/3.5, f/5.6, f/8 and f/16. There is a mechanical switch on the front for this.
The Minolta TC-1 can determine the correct film speed via the DX code on the film cartridge. This function is designed for an ISO range of 25 to 3200. Manually, you can even choose from values from ISO 6 to 6400.
The exposure settings can be influenced with the exposure compensation. Here you can overexpose or underexpose up to 4 stops. The exposure is measured either center-weighted or in a spot metering method.
The 35mm photo camera has a built-in flash. The power reaches up to 2 meters at ISO 100, and it usually takes around 5 seconds to charge. There are several flash modes, so there is an automatic, a fill flash, a flash for shooting at night and the possibility to turn the flash off. There is also a red-eye prevention function.
Another function is the self-timer. This can take a picture after either two or ten seconds after the shutter button is pressed.
The dimensions of the Minolta TC-1 are 9.9 x 5.9 x 2.95 cm, according to the instruction manual. This makes it very compact and fits in your pocket. You don’t have to worry about the weight either. It weighs 185 grams. There is a thread for a tripod on the bottom.
Power is supplied by a CR123A battery (eBay / Amazon*). This type of battery is still easy to find today. With one battery you can take about 312 photos. At this value, for half of the pictures, the flash is used. Should you do without the flash, the battery will last even longer.
Films for the Minolta TC-1
The Minolta TC-1 has been built for the 35mm format. This film format allows the construction of compact cameras. Films for the format and therefore the compact camera are still being produced. For color images, there is such as the Kodak Ultramax 400*. A nice option for black and white images is the Ilford FP4 Plus*. Of course, there are many more films you can put in the camera.
Film transport is automatic on the TC-1. After each shot, the film is rewound a bit. When the end is reached, the film is also transported back into the cartridge.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Snapshot camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Automatic |
| Film transport mechanism | Motor |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Lens name | Minolta G Rokkor 28mm f/3.5 |
| Focal length | 28 mm |
| Widest aperture | f/3.5 |
| Minimum focus distance | 45 cm / 1.476 ft |
| Focus | Autofocus |
| Lens design | 5 elements in 5 groups |
| Exposure times | 1/750 second to 8 seconds |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 25 to 3200 |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | Yes |
| Exposure modes | Aperture priority |
| Exposure compensation | ± 4EV (0,5EV to) |
| Flash | Integrated flash |
| Flash range | 0,45 to 2 Meter / 1.48 to 6.56 Feet |
| Flash modes | Fill-in flash, Red-eye reduction |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | Yes, Self-timer function with 10 seconds lead time |
| Power supply | 1x CR123A battery |
| Size | 9,9 x 5,9 x 2,95 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 3.90 x 2.32 x 1.16 inches |
| Weight | 185 Grams |
| End of production | 2005 |
| Production duration | 9 years |
| Estimated value / Used price | 1.422,15 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 34 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 1.069,17 Euro (1.16 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 1.119,54 Euro (1.21 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 1.042,00 Euro (1.13 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Minolta TC-1
What type of lens does the Minolta TC-1 use, and what are its key specifications?
The Minolta TC-1 features a fixed Minolta G Rokkor 28mm f/3.5 lens. This means it doesn't zoom, has a 28mm focal length, and a maximum aperture of f/3.5.
How does the camera handle focusing, and are there manual options available?
The camera utilizes autofocus, but also offers manual focus override. Manual focus allows selection from twenty different focus distances.
Describe the flash capabilities of this compact camera.
The Minolta TC-1 includes a built-in flash with a range up to 2 meters at ISO 100. Various modes are available, including auto, fill-flash, night mode, and red-eye reduction.
What is the battery life and type used in this high-end point-and-shoot?
It's powered by a CR123A battery, readily available. Expect approximately 312 shots per battery, with roughly half of those using the flash.
What film formats are compatible with the Minolta TC-1, and how is film advanced?
The camera is designed for 35mm film. Film is automatically advanced after each shot, and rewound at the end of the roll.