The Revue DF-300 is a camera for 35mm film. The model is based on the Minolta X300. However, it was built by a Chinese company under Minolta’s approval. The Shanghai Camera Factory offered it as Seagull DF-300, but also sold it to trade partners. One of these dealers was Foto Quelle from Nuremberg (Germany), who offered it under their own brand “Revue”.
The lenses of the Revue DF-300 are interchangeable. Due to the development by Minolta, lenses with a Minolta SR bayonet can be used. The lens is focused manually. The Revue DF-300 does not have an autofocus.
The Revue DF-300 has a built-in light meter. The exposure meter is designed for 35mm film from ISO 12 to ISO 3200. The correct exposure is measured through the lens. Both the desired aperture and the shutter speed can be set by the user. However, there is also an aperture priority mode.
A bulb mode is available for long exposures. Here, the shutter can remain open for a variable time. An external flash can be triggered via the built-in hot shoe.
The Revue DF-300 has a thread for a tripod and cable release. It also has a self-timer. The dimensions of the 35mm camera are 13.7 x 9 x 5.1 cm. It weighs 470 grams. For the power supply provides two LR44 batteries (eBay / Amazon*).
Films for the Revue DF-300
Nothing works for the Revue DF-300 without photographic film. More precisely, the camera needs 35mm films. 35mm films are still manufactured by various producers. Nice 35mm films for color or black and white photography are the Fujifilm Superia 400* and the AgfaPhoto APX 400*.
The color film is designed for development in the C-41 process. The C-41 process is performed by almost all photo labs. You can hand in your films at most drugstore chains in Germany, for example.
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 |
| Exposure times | 1/1000 second to 4 seconds, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 12 to 3200 |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | No |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | Hot Shoe |
| Flash sync speed | 1/60 s |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | Yes |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Power supply | 2x LR44 batteries |
| Size | 13,7 x 9 x 5,1 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 5.39 x 3.54 x 2.01 inches |
| Weight | 470 Grams |
| Company name of the brand | Foto Quelle |
| Manufacturer | Shanghai Camera Factory |
FAQ about the Revue DF-300
Is the Revue DF-300 a 35mm camera?
Yes, the Revue DF-300 is a 35mm film camera. It uses standard 35mm film rolls. This means you can shoot a lot of photos on one roll.
How do I focus the lens on this camera?
The Revue DF-300 has manual focus. You need to turn the lens ring to adjust the focus yourself. There's no autofocus feature.
Can I use a flash with the Seagull DF-300?
Yes, it has a hot shoe, which allows you to mount and trigger an external flash unit. This gives you more lighting options.
Does the camera have a built-in light meter?
Yes, the Revue DF-300 has a built-in light meter to help you determine the correct exposure settings. It works with film ISO speeds from 12 to 3200.
What type of batteries does the 35mm camera need?
The Revue DF-300 runs on two LR44 batteries. These are common and easily replaceable.