The Seagull DF-300 is an SLR camera. The model was actually developed by Minolta and sold as the Minolta X-300. In the 90s, the model was licensed by Shanghai General Camera Factory and produced in China. The product could be bought under the “Seagull” brand, but also under various trademarks.
The Seagull DF-300 was sold in three variants with a simple black and silver body, an all-black body and a limited edition version. The limited edition Seagull DF-300x was produced 1000 times for the return of Hong Kong to China in 1997. On the body and lens of the camera are the words “Commemorating the Return of Hong Kong” in Chinese.
The Seagull DF-300 offers the possibility of interchangeable lenses. Lenses with a Minolta SR bayonet are usable with the camera. The lens is focused manually. The Seagull DF-300 does not have an autofocus.
Measuring the exposure is made easier by the built-in light meter. It is designed for shooting film with a sensitivity of ISO 12 to ISO 3200. The light meter is built to measure exposure through the camera’s lens. The camera is equipped with aperture priority. However, the aperture and exposure time can also be set freely by the photographer.
The camera has a Bulb mode. This allows the shutter to remain open for a variable amount of time. An external flash unit can be connected via hot shoe. The sync speed is 1/60 second.
The Seagull DF-300 has a thread for a tripod. In addition, there is a connection for a cable release and a self-timer. The dimensions of the 35mm camera are 13.7 x 9 x 5.1 cm. It weighs 470 grams. Power is supplied by two LR44 batteries (eBay / Amazon*).
Films for the Seagull DF-300
The Seagull DF-300 was built for the 35mm format. This type of film is still produced and can be processed by most photo labs without problems. For color images, there is such as the Kodak Portra 160*. An option for black and white images is the Ilford XP2 Super*.
Other model names
The Seagull was marketed under various names by different dealers and brands.
- Carena DF-300
- Centon DF-300
- Safari DF-300
- Revue DF-300
- Zenit DF-300
- Carena SX-300
- Soligor SR-300 MD
- Vivitar V50
- Texer EX-3
- Samyang DF-400x
- Argus DF-300
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 |
| Date imprinting | 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 | Shanghai Camera Factory |
| Country of production | China |
| Estimated value / Used price | 54,60 Euro 97895045148982059763 Estimate based on used prices of 3 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of November 17, 2025 |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 65,29 Euro (70.36 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Seagull DF-300
Is this camera easy to use for beginners?
The Seagull DF-300 is a manual focus camera, so it requires some learning. However, its straightforward design and built-in light meter make it manageable for beginners who are willing to learn basic photography concepts. Understanding aperture and shutter speed will be crucial.
What kind of lenses can I use with my Seagull?
This camera uses Minolta SR-mount lenses. Many older Minolta lenses are readily available and relatively inexpensive. You'll find a wide variety of focal lengths and lens types to explore.
Does the camera have automatic features?
No, the Seagull DF-300 is a fully manual camera. It lacks autofocus and relies on the user to manually set aperture and shutter speed. However, it does include a built-in light meter to assist with exposure settings.
How do I take pictures in low light with this device?
The Seagull DF-300's light meter works with film sensitivities from ISO 12 to 3200, allowing photography in various light conditions. You might need to use a faster film (higher ISO) or a longer exposure time (potentially requiring a tripod) for low-light situations. A flash can help too.
What type of film does the Seagull DF-300 use?
The Seagull DF-300 uses standard 35mm film. This is a common format, so you can readily purchase both color and black and white films from many retailers and easily get your film developed at most photo labs.