Konica Minolta MAXXUM 3, DYNAX 3L User Manual

E INSTRUCTION MANUAL

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

2

FOR PROPER AND SAFE USE .....................................................5

NAMES OF PARTS.........................................................................8

Body......................................................................................................8

Data Panel...........................................................................................10

Viewfinder............................................................................................11

QUICK OPERATION.....................................................................12

GETTING STARTED.....................................................................14

BATTERIES.................................................................................................14

Installing the Batteries.........................................................................14

Battery Condition Indicators................................................................15

DATE AND TIME SETTING

- For Owners of the Quartz-date Model..............16

Names of Parts for Date and Time Setting .........................................16

Setting the Date and Time..................................................................17

Selecting the Imprinting Format..........................................................18

Changing the Date Format..................................................................19

Storing the Date and Time Setting When Changing Batteries............19

STRAP.........................................................................................................20

LENS...........................................................................................................22

Attaching the Lens ..............................................................................22

Removing the Lens.............................................................................22

FILM ............................................................................................................23

Loading the Film..................................................................................23

Rewinding the Film..............................................................................26

Manual Rewind....................................................................................26

BASIC OPERATION......................................................................27

HANDLING THE CAMERA .........................................................................27

Pressing the Shutter-release Button...................................................27

Holding the Camera............................................................................27

TAKING PICTURES....................................................................................28

Focus Signals......................................................................................29

FOCUS LOCK.............................................................................................30

SPECIAL FOCUS SITUATIONS .................................................................31

AF ILLUMINATOR.......................................................................................31

BUILT-IN FLASH..........................................................................................32

Changing the Flash Mode ...................................................................32

Flash Range ........................................................................................32

Flash Signals.......................................................................................33

Lens Shadowing..................................................................................33

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Autoflash .............................................................................................34

Autoflash with Red-eye Reduction ......................................................34

Fill Flash ..............................................................................................35

Fill Flash with Red-eye Reduction ......................................................35

Flash Cancel ......................................................................................36

Setting the Default Autoflash Mode.....................................................36

SUBJECT PROGRAM.................................................................................37

Subject Program Selection..................................................................37

Portrait.................................................................................................38

Landscape...........................................................................................38

Close-up..............................................................................................39

Sports..................................................................................................39

Night Portrait .......................................................................................40

Night Scene.........................................................................................40

DRIVE MODES ...........................................................................................41

Self-timer.............................................................................................41

Continuous Advance ...........................................................................43

Remote-control Function - For Owners of the Quartz-date Model .....44

Focus Lock in Remote Control Mode..................................................45

ADVANCED OPERATION.............................................................46

SPOT FOCUS.............................................................................................46

MANUAL FOCUS........................................................................................47

FLASH.........................................................................................................48

Program Flash.....................................................................................48

Flash Metering.....................................................................................49

Flash Notes.........................................................................................49

WIRELESS / REMOTE FLASH...................................................................50

Setting Wireless / Remote Flash Mode...............................................51

Taking Pictures in Wireless / Remote Flash Mode .............................52

Canceling Wireless / Remote Flash Mode..........................................53

APPENDIX.....................................................................................54

USEFUL INFORMATION.............................................................................54

Reset Default ...............................................................................54

Canceling Shutter-release Lock...................................................54

Canceling the AF Illuminator ........................................................55

ACCESSORY INFORMATION....................................................................56

TROUBLESHOOTING ................................................................................58

CARE AND STORAGE................................................................................60

SPECIFICATIONS.......................................................................................62

3

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4

Thank you for purchasing this camera. Please take time to read this
manual so that you can enjoy all the features of your new camera.

This product is designed to work with accessories manufactured and
distributed by Minolta. Using accessories or equipment not endorsed
by Minolta may result in unsatisfactory performance or damage to the
product and its accessories.

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the
following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference,
and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference
that may cause undesired operation. Changes or modifications not approved by
the party responsible for compliance could void the user's authority to operate
the equipment. This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the
limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These
limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference
in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate
radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the
instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However,
there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If
this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception,
which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is
encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following
measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

• Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver.

• Connect the equipment to an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the
receiver is connected.

• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.

This mark on the bottom of your camera is there to inform
you that this camera meets the requirements of the EU
(European Union) concerning interference causing equipment
regulations. CE stands for Conformité Européenne (European
Conformity).

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5

FOR PROPER AND SAFE USE

Read and understand all warnings and cautions before using this
product.

Using batteries improperly can cause them to leak harmful solutions,
overheat, or explode which may damage property or cause personal
injury. Do not ignore the following warnings.

• Only use the batteries specified in this instruction manual.

• Do not install the batteries with the polarity (+/–) reversed.

• Do not use batteries which show wear or damage.

• Do not expose batteries to fire, high temperatures, water, or
moisture.

• Do not attempt to recharge, short, or disassemble batteries.

• Do not store batteries near or in metallic products.

• Do not mix batteries of different types, brands, or ages.

• Do not use leaking batteries. If fluid from the batteries enters your
eye, immediately rinse the eye with plenty of fresh water and
contact a doctor. If fluid from the batteries makes contact with your
skin or clothing, wash the area thoroughly with water.

•Tape over lithium battery contacts to avoid short-circuiting during
disposal; always follow local regulations for battery disposal.

• Do not disassemble this product. Electric shock may cause injury if
a high voltage circuit inside the product is touched.

• Immediately remove the batteries and discontinue use if the
camera is dropped or subjected to an impact in which the interior,
especially the flash unit, is exposed. The flash has a high voltage
circuit which may cause an electric shock resulting in injury. The
continued use of a damaged product or part may cause injuries.

• Keep batteries or small parts that could be swallowed away from
infants. Contact a doctor immediately if an object is swallowed.

WARNING

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FOR PROPER AND SAFE USE

• Store this product out of reach of children. Be careful when around
children not to harm them with the product or parts.

• Do not fire the flash directly into the eyes. It may damage eyesight.

• Do not fire the flash at vehicle operators. It may cause a distraction
or temporary blindness which may lead to an accident.

• Do not look at the sun or strong light sources directly through the
viewfinder or lens. It may damage your eyesight or cause
blindness.

• Do not expose this product to liquids or operate this product with
wet hands. If liquid enters the product, immediately remove the
batteries and discontinue use. The continued use of a product
exposed to liquids may cause damage or injury through fire or
electric shock.

• Do not use the product near inflammable gases or liquids such as
gasoline, benzine, or paint thinner. Do not use inflammable
products such as alcohol, benzine, or paint thinner to clean the
product. The use of inflammable cleaners and solvents may cause
an explosion or fire.

• If the product emits a strange odor, heat, or smoke, discontinue
use. Immediately remove the batteries taking care not to burn
yourself. The continued use of a damaged product or part may
cause injuries.

•Take the product to a Minolta Service Facility when repairs are
required.

WARNING

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• Do not point the product directly at the sun. If sunlight is focused
on an inflammable surface, a fire may result. Replace the lens cap
when the product is not in use.

• Do not use or store the product in a hot or humid environment such
as the glove compartment or trunk of a car. It may damage the
product and batteries which may result in burns or injuries caused
by heat, fire, explosion, or leaking battery fluid.

• If batteries are leaking, discontinue use of the product.

• Do not fire the flash while it is in contact with people or objects.
The flash unit discharges a large amount of energy which may
cause burns.

CAUTION

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NAMES OF PARTS

Body

Built-in flash* (32)

Shutter-release button (27)

Self-timer lamp /
Remote-control
receiver**(41)

Lens contacts* (22)

Mirror* (22)

Lens mount (22)

Focus-mode switch (47)

Lens release (22)

Manual-rewind button(26)

Flash-mode button (32)

Strap eyelet (20)

Battery-chamber door (14)

Tripod socket

For information on specific parts, refer to the page numbers shown in paren­thesis.

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* This camera is a sophisticated optical instrument. Care should be taken to

keep these surfaces clean. Please read the care and storage instructions in
the back of this manual (p. 60).

** Quartz-date model only. The quartz-date model is equipped with remote-

control function.

Main switch (28)

Data panel (10)

Subject-program
button (37)

Drive-mode button (41)

Strap eyelet
(20)

Back-cover release (23)

Spot AF button (46)

Adjust button** (16)

Select button** (16)

Date button** (16)

Film window (23)

Viewfinder*

(11)

Eyepiece cup (57)

Accessory shoe (48)

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NAMES OF PARTS

Data Panel

Autoflash
Autoflash with red-eye reduction

Fill flash
Fill flash with red-eye reduction

Flash cancel

Portrait
Landscape
Close-up
Sports
Night portrait / Night scene

Subject-program indicators (37)

Flash-mode indicators (32)

Single frame /
Continuous advance
indicator (41)

Wireless / Remote flash indicator (48)

Date / time
display

2

(17)

Self-timer indicator (41)
Remote-control indicator

1

(44)

Battery condition indicator (15)

Frame counter (25)

Film transport signals (25)

Cartridge mark (25)

Program-mode indicator (28)

Manual-focus indicator (47)

1 Available on the remote-control model only.
2 Available on the quartz-date model only.
The quartz-date model is equipped with remote-control function.

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Blinks

11

Viewfinder

• When the flash signal does not blink after taking the picture, the subject was
not within the flash range. Please check the flash range (p. 32).

Wide focus frame (28)Spot-focus area (46)

Flash signals (33) Focus signals (29)

Flash output was sufficient to provides correct expo­sure.

Steady

Flash is charged and will fire when the shutter­release button is pressed.

Flash signals

Focus is confirmed with a moving subject. The camera
continues to focus while the shutter-release button is
pressed partway down.

Steady

Focus is confirmed and locked.

Focus cannot be confirmed.

• The shutter is locked (p. 31).

Blinks

Steady

Focus signals

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QUICK OPERATION

1. Insert the batteries (p.

14).

• This camera uses two CR2
lithium batteries.

3. Attach the lens (p. 22).

• Align the red mounting index on the lens
with the one on the camera. Carefully
insert the lens into the mount and turn it
clockwise until it clicks into the locked
position.

4. Slide the main switch to the on

position.

2. If the camera is the quartz date
model, set the date and time,
and imprinting format (p. 16).

• The clock and calendar are powered

by the camera’s batteries.

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5. Open the back cover and
load the film (p. 23).

• Align the film tip with the red

mark, then close the back
cover.

6. Center the subject in the wide
focus frame. If using a zoom
lens, rotate the zooming ring to
frame the subject (p. 28).

•The camera will focus and set exposure

automatically when the shutter release
button is pressed partway down.

7. When the focus signal appears

in the viewfinder, press the
shutter-release button all the
way down to take the picture (p.

28).

• Use focus lock if your subject is off-

center and outside the focus frame
(p.30).

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BATTERIES

GETTING STARTED

Installing the Batteries

2. Insert the batteries with the polarities
as indicated by the illustration next to
the battery chamber.

3. Close the battery-chamber door and
push until it clicks into place.

The camera uses two 3V CR2 lithium batteries to supply power for all camera
operations.

• Setting the camera down with the battery-chamber door open may damage

the camera.

• Read

the

for proper and safe use section

(p. 5)

before using batteries.

1. Slide the battery-chamber release as

shown, and open the door.

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Battery Condition Indicators

Slide the main switch to on position.

•Abattery indicator appears on the data panel
indicating the power status of the batteries.

• If the data panel is blank, the batteries may be dead or installed incorrectly.

• Occasionally, the battery-condition indicator will give a false low-battery­power warning, even though there is enough power capacity. Turn the
camera on and off a few times to reset the display.

Full-battery indicator.

• Power is sufficient for all camera operations.

Half-battery indicator blinks.

• Power is low. All functions are operational, but
the batteries should be replaced soon. Flash
recycling time may be slow.

Half-battery indicator blinks and no other
indicators appear on the data panel.

•Power is insufficient for camera operation and
the shutter is locked. Replace the batteries.

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The clock and calendar are powered by
the camera’s batteries. If the clock and
calendar have not been set, “-- -- --”
blinks on the date / time displays of the
data panel when the camera is on.

Before the initial use of the camera, or after changing the bat­teries, the date and time should be set. The imprinting format
should be selected at this time.

To store the date and time in the camera’s internal memory
before changing batteries, see page 19.

16

DA TE AND TIME SETTING

- FOR OWNERS OF THE QUARTZ-DATE MODEL

GETTING STARTED

The quartz-date function records the date or time in the lower-left
corner of the photograph. The quartz date back has an automatic cal­endar through the year 2039.

• Imprinted data may be difficult to read if the lower-left corner of the
photograph is bright or non-uniform.

• Only use the data back in temperatures between 0° to 50°C (32° to 122°F).

• Since the date is recorded when the film is advanced to the next frame,
sometimes the last frame of the roll will not have the date printed on it.

Names of Parts for Date and Time Setting

Date button

Use this button to change the imprinting
format.

Select button

Use this button to select the item to be
changed.

Adjust button

Use this button to change the date and
time values.

• Gently press these buttons using a blunt object like a pen. A sharp object
may cause damage.

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Setting the Date and Time

2. Press the select button to select the year.

• ‘03 will blink indicating 2003.

• The item will cycle as follows.
Year Month Day Hour Minute

3. Press the adjust button to change the
year.

• ‘04 indicates 2004.

• The item continues increasing as long as the button
is held down.

• During the cycle the year jumps from ‘39 down to ‘03.

The following example changes the date and time from the default
setting of 2003, January 1, 0:00 to 2004, March 24, 15:45.

4. Press the select button to select the month.

• The month register will blink. The initial setting is
January.

5. Press the adjust button to change the
month value.

6. Press the select button to select the day.

• The day register will blink. The initial setting is 1st.

7. Press the adjust button to change the day
value.

1. Slide the main switch to the on
position.

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DA TE AND TIME SETTING

- FOR OWNERS OF THE QUARTZ-DATE MODEL

GETTING STARTED

9. Press the adjust button to change the hour
value.

• The data back has a 24-hour clock 3pm is 15.
.

10.Press the select button to select the
minute.

• The minute register will blink. The initial setting is 00.

11. Press the adjust button to change the
minute value.

12.Press the select button to set the clock and
calendar.

• The data panel will stop blinking and return to the
initial display.

• Pressing the shutter-release button partway down or pressing the date button
will also set the clock and calendar.

•To synchronize the camera to another clock, set the minute register to the
upcoming time and press the adjust button when the other clock reaches that
time.

Selecting the Imprinting Format

Press the date button to choose the date imprinting format.

• The display changes as follows:

8. Press the select button to select the hour.

• The display will be changed from date to time.

• The hour register will blink. The initial setting is 0.

• Confirm the date when adjusting the clock to a
different time zone or near midnight.

No imprinting

Year/ Month/ Day

Day/ Hour/ Minute

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Changing the Date Format

1. Press and hold the select button for 3 seconds until the
date on the data panel blinks.

2. Press the adjust button to change the format.

• The format will change in the following sequence:

3. Press the shutter-release button

partway down to set the format.

Year/ Month/ Day

Month/ Day/ Year

Day/ Month/ Year

Date button Select button Adjust button

Storing the Date and Time Setting When Changing Batteries

If the date imprinting display (-- -- --) blinks
after changing the batteries, the clock and cal­endar have been reset. To prevent this, just
before changing batteries slide the main
switch from off to on, and then to off again to
store the date and time setting in the cam­era’s internal memory.

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ATTACHING THE STRAP

GETTING STARTED

4. Pass the tip of the strap through the
holder ring.

• If the ring is tight, fold the strap, and slide the
holder ring over the tip (1). Hold the strap, and
slide the holder ring in the direction shown (2).

2. With the visible protrusions on the
inside of the holder ring oriented as
shown, pass the tip of the strap
through the ring.

3. Pass the tip of the strap through the
camera’s strap eyelet from below.

• Attach the strap so the tip comes between the
strap and the camera.

•The eyepiece cap should be on the same side of
the camera as the flash mode button.

1)

2)

Holder ring

Protrusions

1. Confirm the eyepiece cap is attached
to the strap. The strap is threaded
through the cap to prevent loss.

Eyepiece cap

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6.Push the holder ring toward the
strap eyelet to secure the strap
to the camera.

• Repeat with the other end of the camera
strap.

5.Pass the tip of the strap
through the buckle and pull to
tighten.

• Leave some slack in the camera strap (A)
so the tip may be threaded through the
buckle easily.

Take care not to cover the lens or flash with the strap when using the cam­era. When changing film, be careful not to catch the strap in the camera
when closing the back cover.

Camera Notes

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LENS

GETTING STARTED

1. Remove the body and rear lens
caps.

2. Align the red mounting index on
the lens and camera body.
Carefully insert the lens into the
mount, then turn it clockwise until
it clicks into the locked position.

• Do not insert the lens at an angle.

• Do not press the lens release button when
mounting the lens. The lens will not
couple properly.

While pressing the lens release, turn
the lens counter-clockwise until it
stops. Carefully remove the lens.

• Replace the cap on the lens and attach
the body cap or another lens to the
camera.

This camera uses interchangeable lenses. See page 56 for informa­tion on which lenses are compatible with this camera.

Attaching the Lens

Removing the Lens

• Never force the lens. If it does not fit, check its orientation with the index
marks. When removing, make sure the lens release is pressed all the way
down.

• Do not touch the inside of the camera, especially the lens contacts and
mirror.

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FILM

2. Press the back-cover release to
open the back cover.

Loading the Film

The camera automatically sets the correct film speed (ISO) with DX­code film. Always load or remove the film under subdued light to
reduce the chances of fogging.

• If non-DX-coded film is used, the camera will use the last DX-coded film’s
ISO setting.

• More than 40 exposures can not be taken on one roll with this camera.
When using 72-exposure film, the camera will start to rewind the film after
40 exposures have been made.

• Do not use Polaroid Instant 35mm film. Winding problems may occur.

• Do not use infrared film in this camera. The camera’s frame counter sensor
will fog infrared film.

1. Check the film window before
loading film to confirm the camera
is empty.

The shutter curtain’s preci­sion design makes it
extremely sensitive to pres­sure. Never touch it with
your fingers or the film tip.

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3. Insert the film cartridge into the
film chamber.

•With the top of the cartridge down, insert
the film at an angle into the bottom of the
film chamber. Push the cartridge into the
chamber until it clicks into place.

FILM

GETTING STARTED

4. Extend the leader between the
guide rails to the index mark.

• Hold the film cartridge down so that the
film lays flat.

• If the film tip extends beyond the index
mark, take the cartridge out and rewind
the excess film back into the cartridge.

5. Close the back cover.

• The camera automatically advances the
film to the first frame.

•Take care not to catch the camera strap
when closing the back cover.

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When the film is loaded incorrectly, the frame

counter (“0”) and film transport signals blink
on the data panel, and the shutter is locked.
If the camera is off, the warning is displayed
for approximately five seconds. Open the
back cover and reload the film.

When the film is loaded correctly with the

camera on, the frame counter (“1”), cartridge
mark, and film transport signals appear on
the data panel.

When the film is loaded correctly with the

camera off, the frame counter (“1”), cartridge
mark, and film transport signals appear on
the data panel for approximately five
seconds.

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FILM

GETTING STARTED

Manual Rewind

Rewinding the Film

2. Press the back-cover release to
open the back cover and
remove the film, then close the
back cover.

Gently press the manual-rewind but­ton using a pen.

• Only use blunt objects. Sharp objects may

damage the camera.

• When the film is rewound, zero will be

displayed on the frame counter and the
cartridge mark will blink on the data panel
indicating that the back-cover can be
opened safely.

Use manual rewind to rewind the film before the roll is finished.

After you have exposed the last frame, the camera will automatically
rewind the film.

• Do not turn the focusing ring when the film is rewinding.

• Although more pictures than specified on the film package may be taken,

the film processor may not print more than the number specified on the film
cartridge.

1. Wait until the film is completely rewound.

• Zero will be displayed on the frame counter and
the cartridge mark will blink on the data panel
indicating that the back-cover can be opened
safely.

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HANDLING THE CAMERA

BASIC OPERATION

• Lean against a wall or rest your elbows on a solid surface to steady the
camera when not using the flash in low-light situations.

• The use of the tripod is recommended when using the camera in low-light
situations, with slow shutter speeds, or with telephoto lenses.

Pressing the Shutter-release Button

Before pressing Pressing

partway down

activates

camera

systems.

Pressing

all the down

releases

the shutter.

Holding the Camera

Press the shutter-release button partway down to activate the cam­era’s autofocus and auto-exposure systems. Press the shutter­release button all the way down to take the picture. When taking a
picture, press the shutter-release button with your index finger gently
so as not to shake the camera during the exposure.

Grip the camera firmly with your right hand while supporting the lens
with your left. Keep your elbows at your side and your feet shoulder­width apart to hold the camera steady. Keep the camera strap
around your neck in the event you accidentally drop the camera.

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TAKING PICTURES

BASIC OPERATION

2. Center your subject in the wide
focus frame. If using a zoom lens,
rotate the zooming ring to frame
your subject as
desired.

3. Press the shutter release button
partway down to activate the
autofocus and exposure systems.

• When flash signal appears in the
viewfinder, the flash will fire (p. 33).

• In low-light conditions, the AF illuminator
will activate to determine focus distance
(p. 31).

1. Slide the main switch to the on
position.

• Every time the camera is turned on, the
program AE (autoexposure) mode is set
and “P” appears on the data panel.

•See p. 54 for details on the camera’s
default settings.

In the standard operating mode, the camera sets the focus and expo­sure automatically and fires the built-in flash when necessary. The
camera’s operation can be optimized for different subjects and situa­tion with subject programs (p. 37), and the drive mode (p. 41) and
flash mode (p. 32) can be changed.

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Focus Signals

When the shutter-release button is pressed partway down, the follow­ing signals appear in the viewfinder to indicate the focus status.

• Focusing time can be longer with macro or telephoto lenses, or in very dark
conditions.

• If the camera is unable to focus, the subject may be too close or one of the
special focus situations (P. 31) is preventing the AF system from focusing.
Use focus lock (p. 30) or manual focus (p. 47).

4. When the focus signal appears in

the viewfinder, press the shutter­release button all the way down to
take the picture.

Steady

Focus is confirmed.

Cannot focus. The shutter is locked (p. 31).Blinks

Steady

Focus is confirmed with a moving subject. The cam­era will continue to focus while the shutter-release
button is pressed partway down.

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FOCUS LOCK

BASIC OPERATION

1. Center your subject in the wide
focus frame.

2. Press the shutter-release button
partway down to lock the focus.

• When focus signal appears in the
viewfinder, the focus is locked.

4. Press the shutter-release button all the way down
to take the picture.

The focus-lock function is used when the sub­ject is off-center and outside the focus frame.
Focus lock may also be used when a special
focusing situation prevents the camera from
focusing on the subject.

• Focus can also be locked with the spot AF button.

• Focus lock also sets the exposure settings.

• When focusing on moving subjects or with the sports subject program,

focus lock cannot be used.

3. Continue to hold the shutter­release button partway down
while you compose your
picture.

• Removing your finger from the shutter­release button cancels the focus lock.

30

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SPECIAL FOCUS SITUATIONS/ AF ILLUMINATOR

Special Focus Situations

The camera may not be able to focus in the situations described
below. Use focus lock (p. 30) or manual focus (p. 47).

If the subject within the focus frame
is very bright, or low in contrast.

If two subjects at different distances
overlap in the focus frame.

If a subject composed of alternating
light and dark lines completely fills
the focus frame.

If your subject is near a very bright
object or area.

The built-in flash is used as an AF Illuminator.
When the scene is too dark for the camera to
focus, the built-in flash fires a few short bursts
when the shutter-release button is pressed part­way down to provide the light necessary for the
camera to focus.

• Pressing the spot AF button can also activate the AF illuminator.

•The range of the AF Illuminator is approximately 1 to 5 m (3.3 to 16.4 ft.).

• The AF illuminator will not fire when focusing on moving subjects or if the
flash cancel mode is selected.

• The AF illuminator may not operate with 300mm or longer focal length
lenses.

• The AF illuminator will not operate with the Minolta 3x-1x Macro Zoom.

• When an accessory flash is attached, the flash will be used as the AF
illuminator in place of the camera’s built-in unit.

• See p. 55 on how to cancel the AF illuminator.

AF Illuminator

31

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32

USING THE BUILT-IN FLASH

BASIC OPERATION

Changing the Flash Mode

Flash Range

•Do not use the built-in flash with with lenses with focal lengths shorter than
28mm.

• Make sure you are at least 1m (3.3 ft.) from your subject when using the
built-in flash.

The subject must be within the flash range specified in the table
below for the image to be properly exposed.

• Except when flash cancel is selected, the built-in-flash will pop-up
automatically when the shutter-release button is pressed partway down.
Once the flash is up, it will fire when necessary.

•The shutter will not release until the flash is charged.

•Push down the built-in flash when the camera is not in use.

• When the camera is turned off, the flash mode is reset to autoflash or
autoflash with red-eye reduction whichever was set last. See p. 36.

When the flash mode button is pressed, the flash mode changes in
the following sequence:

Autoflash
Autoflash with red-eye reduction
Fill flash
Fill flash with red-eye reduction
Flash cancel

28-80mm F3.5-5.6 (D) 35-80mm F4-5.6 II

Wide angle Wide angle Telephoto

1.0 ~ 3.4 m

(3.3 ~ 11.2 ft.)

1.0 ~ 4.0 m

(3.3 ~ 13.1 ft.)

1.0 ~ 4.0 m

(3.3 ~13.1 ft.)

1.0 ~ 2.1 m

(3.3 ~ 6.9 ft)

1.0 ~ 3.0 m

(3.3 ~ 9.8 ft.)

1.0 ~ 2.1 m

(3.3 ~ 6.9 ft.)

1.0 ~ 4.0 m

(3.3 ~13.1 ft.)

1.0 ~ 4.0 m

(3.3 ~13.1 ft.)

TelephotoFilm Speed

ISO 100

ISO 400

LENS IN USE

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33

Flash Signals

When the shutter-release button is pressed partway
down, the viewfinder flash signal indicate the status
of the flash.

• Remove the lens hood before using the built-in flash.

• Lens shadowing may occur with the following lenses at the shorter focal
lengths.
AF Zoom 28-70mm f/2.8G
AF Zoom 17-35mm f/3.5G
AF Zoom 28-135mm f/4.0-4.5
AF Zoom 28-85mm f/3.5-4.5

• The built-in flash can not be used with the following lenses:
AF 300mm f/2.8 (APO tele)
AF 600mm f/4.0 (APO tele)

Lens shadowing occurs when the lens or lens hood blocks part of the
output from the built-in flash. Lens shadowing appears as a semi-cir­cular shadow area at the bottom (horizontal pictures) or side (vertical
pictures) of the image.

Lens Shadowing

Blinks

•Ifflash signal does not blink after taking the picture, the subject was not
within the flash range. Please check the flash range (p. 32).

The signal will blink after taking the picture to indicate the
flash output was sufficient to provide the correct exposure.

Steady Flash is charged and ready to fire.

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34

USING THE BUILT-IN FLASH

BASIC OPERATION

Press the flash mode button until the
flash mode indicator appears on the
data panel.

•Warn your subject that the flash will fire a few
times just before the picture is taken.

• When the camera is turned off, the flash mode
is reset to autoflash or autoflash with red-eye
reduction whichever was set last. See p. 36.

Light reflecting from your subject’s eyes may
produce the effect known as red-eye. Use the
built-in flash’s red-eye-reduction mode to pro­duce more natural looking photographs by
reducing the red-eye effect.

In auto-flash, the built-in flash pops-up auto­matically when the shutter release button is
pressed partway down in low light situations.
Once the flash is up, it will fire when necessary.

Press the flash mode button until the
flash mode indicator appears on the
data panel.

• When the camera is turned off, the flash
mode is reset to autoflash or autoflash with
red-eye reduction whichever was set last.
See p. 36.

Autoflash

Autoflash with Red-Eye Reduction

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35

Fill Flash

Fill Flash with Red-Eye Reduction

Use fill flash when taking pictures under fluo­rescent lighting or to eliminate harsh shadows
under strong direct lighting or sunlight. When
set, the flash will fire every time a picture is
taken.

Press the flash mode button until the
flash mode indicator appears on the
data panel.

•To return to autoflash mode, repeat the step
above until autoflash indicator appears.

Press the flash mode button until the
flash mode indicator appears on the
data panel.

•Warn your subject that the flash will fire a few
times just before the picture is taken.

•To return to autoflash mode, repeat the step
above until autoflash indicator appears.

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Press the flash mode button until the
flash mode indicator appears on the
data panel.

• The flash will not fire even if the built-in flash is
up.

• The shutter speed may be slow. Use a tripod
to reduce camera shake.

•To return to autoflash mode, repeat the step
above until autoflash indicator appears.

36

Flash Cancel

Use flash cancel to photograph landscapes at
twilight, to capture the ambiance of the existing
light, or when flash photography is not permitted.

Setting the Default Autoflash Mode

USING THE BUILT-IN FLASH

BASIC OPERATION

When the camera is turned off, the flash mode is reset to autoflash
or autoflash with red-eye reduction whichever of the two modes was
set last. The camera’s initial setting is autoflash. To have autoflash
with red-eye reduction as the default flash mode when the camera is
turned on, simply set the mode and turn the camera off.

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37

SUBJECT-PROGRAM SELECTION

Portrait

Landscape

Close-up

Sports

Night Portrait /Night scene

Programmed autoexposure

Press the subject program button to
select any one of the following sub­ject program.

• Set the appropriate flash mode according to
the subject program selected. See the
following descriptions of each subject
program.

• Every time the camera is turned on, programmed autoexposure mode is set

and “P” appears in the data panel.

The subject-program modes optimize camera settings for specific sit­uations.

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38

Landscape photography requires a large depth­of-field to make sure the subject and back­ground are in focus. This mode uses the great­est depth-of-field possible, while maintaining a
shutter speed fast enough to prevent blurring
from camera shake.

Press the subject-program button until
the subject-program indicator points to
the landscape mode.

• Use fill flash when a subject in the foreground
is backlit or has strong shadows across the
face.

• Flash has no effect on landscape pictures.

• For best results use a wide-angle zoom setting
or lens. Include a foreground subject or detail to create depth.

• The use of a tripod is recommended.

•Use night portrait mode (p. 40) with scenery at night.

Portrait

SUBJECT-PROGRAM SELECTION

BASIC OPERATION

Landscape

Portraits have the greatest impact when a shal­low depth-of-field is used to separate the subject
from the background. Depth-of-field is the area in
front of and behind the subject that appears
sharp. In portrait mode, the necessary settings
are made automatically, leaving you free to cap­ture the perfect expression.

Press the subject-program button until
the subject-program indicator points to
the portrait mode.

• For best results use the telephoto setting of
the lens.

• Use fill flash (p. 35) when your subject is
backlit or has strong shadows across the face.

• Focus on your subject’s eyes and be ready to capture the perfect
expression.

• Use night portrait mode (p. 40) with subjects at night.

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Close-up

Sports

Press the subject-program button until
the subject-program indicator points to
the close-up mode.

Use the close-up mode when photographing
small objects like flowers or jewelry. In the
close-up mode, the camera automatically sets
the best possible aperture and shutter speed for
close-up photography. Focusing time can be
longer with macro lenses.

• Use a tripod to reduce camera shake.

• For best results use a macro lens or a macro
capable zoom lens.

• Do not use the built-in flash if your subject is closer than 1.0m (3.3 ft.). The
flash will overexpose the subject.

• At close distances, the lens or len hood may block the flash, creating a
shadow at the bottom of the image (p. 33). The use of an accessory flash is
recommended.

• Make sure the subject is not closer than the minimum focusing distance of
lens. Refer to the lens manual.

Fast shutter speeds are needed to stop action.
In the sports mode, the camera will set the
fastest possible shutter speed and continually
adjust the focus to track moving subjects.

Press the subject-program button until
the subject-program indicator points to
the sports mode.

• The camera continues to focus as long as the
shutter-release button is pressed partway
down.

• When using flash, the subject must be within
the flash range. When the subject is out of
range, use flash cancel (p. 36).

• The use of fast film is recommended.

• Mount the camera on a tripod or monopod when using telephoto lenses.

39

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40

Cancel the flash in night portrait/night scene
mode to photograph views at night. The longer
shutter speeds used in this mode allow twilight
scenes and night skylines to be captured.

1. Press the subject-program button
until the subject-program indicator
points to Night Portrait Mode /Night
scene mode.

2. Press the flash-mode button to set
flash cancel (p. 36).

• Use a tripod to reduce camera shake.

• The use of fast film is recommended.

• Dark night scenes may be prevent the AF system from focusing, use focus

lock (p. 30) or manual focus (p. 47).

• Night scenes tend to be better at twilight rather than in the darkness of

night. The faint light in the early evening sky adds detail to the shadows of
the scene.

Night portraits balance the camera’s flash expo­sure with the background exposure. In this
mode, the camera controls the aperture and
shutter speed, allowing the background to
appear in the photograph.

1. Press the subject-program button
until the subject-program indicator
points to the night portrait /night
scene mode.

2. Make sure to set any flash mode other
than flash cancel (p. 32).

• The use of fast film is recommended.

•Warn your subject not to move after the flash fires; the shutter may still be

open to capture the background.

• The shutter speed may be slow. Use a tripod to reduce camera shake.

Night Portrait

SUBJECT-PROGRAM SELECTION

BASIC OPERATION

Night Scene

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41

SELF-TIMER

3. Press the shutter-release button
partway down to lock the focus.

• Focus lock can be used for
off-center subjects (p. 30).

1. Place the camera on a tripod. Press
the drive-mode button until the self­timer indicator appears on the data
panel.

• When the drive mode button is pressed, the
drive mode changes in the following
sequence:

2. Center your subject in the focus
frame.

The self-timer delays the release of the shutter for approximately 10
seconds after the shutter-release button is pressed.

Single frame

advance

Self-timer Continuous

advance

Remote-control

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42

• Do not press the shutter-release button while standing in front of the
camera.The focus and exposure is set when the shutter-release button is
pressed.

• The self-timer is canceled after the picture is taken.

•To cancel the self-timer countdown, press the drive-mode button or turn the
camera off before the shutter releases.

• Attach the eyepiece cap if there is a bright light source behind the camera
(p. 20, 57).

4. Press the shutter-release button all

the way down to start the timer.

• The self-timer lamp on the front of the
camera will blink during the countdown. It
will glow steadily just before the shutter
releases.

SELF-TIMER

BASIC OPERATION

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43

CONTINUOUS ADV ANCE

1. Press the drive-mode button until
continuous advance indicator appears
on the data panel.

2. Press and hold the shutter-release
button to begin taking a series of
pictures.

• The camera takes a maximum of 1.7 frames per second when the shutter-

speed is 1/250 second or above, flash set to flash cancel, and new
batteries. The frame rate is slower when using the built-in flash as the flash
must charge between exposures. With accessory flashes, the shutter will
continue to release even if the flash is charging.

•With moving subjects or the sports subject program, the shutter will release

only when the camera has focused on the subject between exposures.

•To return to single frame mode, press the drive-mode button until single

frame advance indicator appears on the data panel.

• AF zoom xi and power zoom lenses cannot be zoomed when taking

pictures with continuous advance.

In this mode, the camera continues to release the shutter and
advance the film as long as the shutter-release button is held down.

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44

REMOTE-CONTROL FUNCTION

FOR OWNERS OF THE QUARTZ-DATE MODEL

BASIC OPERATION

1. Place the camera on a tripod.

2. Press the drive-mode button until
remote-control indicator appears on
the data panel.

3. Arrange the camera and subject to
compose the picture.

4. Point the emitter window toward the
remote-control receiver and press the
release or the delay button.

• If the release button is pressed, the lamp on
the front of the camera will blink once before
the shutter releases.

• If the delay button is pressed, the lamp on the
front of the camera will blink for two seconds
before the shutter releases.

• The remote control may not work under fluorescent lighting or in backlit
situations.

• If the built-in flash pops up when the release button on remote control is
pressed, wait a few seconds for the flash to charge before pressing the
release button again.

•To save power, remote-control mode is
canceled if the remote control is not used for
more than 5 minutes.

• Attach the eyepiece cap if there is a bright light
source behind the camera. See p. 20 and 57.

The quartz-date model can be operated
up to 5m (16.4 ft.) away with the IR
Remote Control RC-3 (sold separate­ly).*

* The quartz-date model is equipped with

the remote-control function.

Emitter window

Delay button

Release button

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2. Center your subject in the
focus frame, then press the
shutter-release button partway
down until viewfinder focus
signal appears.

• Focus and exposure is set for the picture.

•Press the shutter-release button partway
down again to reset the focus.

• Focus can also be locked with the spot AF
button (p. 46).

45

FOCUS LOCK IN REMOTE CONTROL MODE

1. Set the camera to the remote-control
mode.

4. Recompose the picture.

5. Point the remote toward the front of
the camera and press the release or
delay button.

When your subject is not centered in the focus frame, use manual
focus or focus lock. Focus lock cannot be used with moving subjects
or the sports subject program.

• The focus lock will remain in effect after the picture is taken allowing

multiple remote-control pictures to be made . To cancel the focus lock,
select the remote-control mode again with the drive mode button.

3. Lift your finger from the shutter­release button.

• The focus signal will remain lit indicating
focus lock.

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46

SPOT FOCUS

ADVANCED OPERATION

1. Place your subject inside the spot
focus area.

2. Press and hold the spot AF button.

• The focus signal appears in the viewfinder.

• Focus and exposure are set and remain
locked until the spot focus button is released.

3. While holding the spot AF button,
press the shutter-release button all
the way down to take the picture.

• When the spot AF button is released, the wide
focus frame is active.

By simply pressing the spot AF button, the
center spot focus area is activated.

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47

MANUAL FOCUS

1. Slide the focus-mode switch down
and release.

• “MF” will appear on the data panel.

2. Turn the focusing ring until the
subject appears sharp.

• When the shutter-release button is pressed
partway down, the AF system monitors the
focus. The viewfinder focus signal glows when
the object in the focus frame is in focus.

•To return to the autofocus mode, slide the
focus-mode switch down a second time; the
manual focus indicator on the data panel will
disappear. Manual focus is canceled when the
camera is turned off.

The lens can be focused manually. The autofocus system can be
used to monitor focus and indicate when a subject in the focus frame
is in focus.

• When using manual focus with ‘D’ series lenses, multi-segment metering is
employed. With other lens, the camera automatically switches to center­weighted metering. The metered exposure may be different between
autofocus and manual focus.

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The flash mode can be set with the flash unit. With the flash on and mount­ed on the camera, change the flash mode on the flash
unit. Set the mode by pressing the shutter-release
button partway down; the camera will display the cor­responding flash mode indicator on the data panel.
Only autoflash or flash cancel are available. The other
flash modes must be set from the camera.

48

FLASH

ADVANCED OPERATION

This section of your manual covers the operation of accessory flash­es as well as the built-in flash.

Program Flash

An optional accessory flash improves flash performance over the
built-in flash.

Only Minolta D series flash units are compatible with this
camera.

Press the flash-mode button on the camera
to select the desired flash mode.

• Red-eye reduction cannot be used with accessory flashes.

• The viewfinder’s flash signal shows the status of the accessory flash.

• Refer to the accessory flash’s instruction manual for the flash range.

• The shutter speed is set automatically to a 1/90 second or slower. High­speed sync is not compatible with this camera.

• The flash cancel indicator is displayed on the data panel with no other
icons when an incompatible flash unit is attached.

WL

Slide the flash units onto the accessory shoe
located on the top of the camera.

•The built-in flash should be down before attaching the
flash.

Camera Notes

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Flash Metering

Flash metering changes according to the lens used.

ADI flash metering

Advanced Distance Integration (ADI) metering is employed when using D
series lenses. ADI metering combines distance information from the autofo­cusing system with information from a pre-flash exposure. Unlike conventional
TTL flash metering, ADI is not influenced by the reference of the subject or
background ensuring optimum exposures.

Flash Notes

The certain accessories will prevent proper exposure when used with the
camera during flash photography. Do not use filters which alter the required
exposure such as neutral density or polarizing filters. Do not use close-up fil­ters or lenses on the camera lens, or a close-up diffuser with the flash.

An accessory flash cannot be connected to the camera using a cable. For
more on flash accessory compatibility, see page 56.

49

ADI metering

Conventional TTL metering

Pre-flash TTL

Pre-flash TTL metering is used with non-D series lenses or when a wireless /
remote flash or bounce flash is used. Like ADI metering, Pre-flash TTLcom­pensates for difference in transmission in the optics by measuring the flash
output through the lens, but does not use distance information to calculate the
exposure.

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50

WIRELESS / REMOTE FLASH

ADVANCED OPERATION

1. Normal flash 2. Wireless flash

Photographs taken with a flash attached to the camera are flat as
shown in example 1. An accessory flash positioned away from the
camera creates three-dimensional lighting as shown in the second
example.

Wireless / Remote flash uses the camera’s built-in flash to control
flash units placed around the subject. The proper exposure is deter­mined automatically by the camera.

Red-eye reduction cannot be used with wireless/ remote flash. Since
the flash unit is positioned to one side, the red-eye effect will not
influence the subject.

Only Minolta D series flash units are compatible with this
function.

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51

2. Press the flash mode button on the
camera until WL appears on the
camera’s data panel.

Setting Wireless / Remote Flash Mode

3. Detach the accessory flash.

1. With the camera and flash off, mount the
flash unit on the camera. Turn both the
camera and flash on.

• The flash must first be mounted on the accessory
shoe so the camera can set the wireless/ remote
function.

4. Press the camera’s flash-mode button to
raise the built-in flash.

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52

FLASH

ADVANCED OPERATION

1. Position your camera and flash unit around the subject. See
the description below for subject distances.

• Photograph in dark locations.

• Refer to the flash unit’s manual for specific information.

• The shutter speed will be set to 1/45 second or slower automatically. The use
of a tripod is recommended.

• Ratio-flash control is not available.

Taking Pictures in Wireless / Remote Flash Mode

Flash-Subject

Distance

Camera-Subject

Distance

The remote/ wireless
flash may not detect
the control signals if it
is placed behind the
subject.

Place the camera and flash unit within a 5 m radius of the subject

The accessory flash is controlled by a light signal from the built-in
flash. Although the built-in flash fires, it does not add to the exposure,
but simply controls the accessory flash. The position of the camera
and flash is critical to control the lighting of the subject.

Telephoto

ISO 100

ISO 400

1.0 ~ 5.0m

(3.3 ~16.4ft.)

2.0 ~ 5.0m

(6.6 ~16.4ft.)

1.0 ~ 5.0m

(3.3 ~ 16.4ft.)

1.0 ~ 3.5m

(3.3 ~11.5ft)

2.0 ~ 5.0m

(6.6 ~16.4ft.)

2.0 ~ 5.0m

(6.6 ~16.4ft.)

1.0 ~ 2.5m

(3.3 ~ 8.2ft)

2.0 ~ 5.0m

(6.6 ~16.4ft.)

Wide Angle TelephotoWide angle

Camera - Subject Distance

3600HS(D) - Subject Distance

Film speed

• The chart is based on the use of the 35-80mm f/4-5.6 II AF lens.

When using the 5600HS(D) flash, the flash to subject distance is 1.0 ~ 5.0 m
(3.3 ~ 16.4 ft) at all focal lengths with ISO 100 film, and 2.0 ~ 5.0 m (6.6 ~

16.4 ft) with ISO 400 film.

2165_E.qxd 03.2.10 2:06 PM Page 52

3. Press the subject program button
to test fire the wireless/ remote
flash.

• If the accessory flash does not fire, change
its position.

4. When both flash units are fully charged, press the shutter­release button all the way down to take the picture.

• If the exposure from the accessory flash was sufficient for the subject, the
flash signal on the flash unit will glow.

2. Wait until both flash units are fully
charged.

• When the shutter-release button is pressed
partway down, the viewfinder flash signal
will show the status of the built-in flash.

• When the accessory flash is charged, the
AF illuminator on the front blinks, and the
flash signal on the rear of the unit glows.

Canceling Wireless/ Remote Flash Mode

1. Attach the accessory flash to the
camera.

2. Press the flash mode button on the
camera until WL no longer appears
in the data panel.

•Turning off the camera with the accessory
flash attached also cancels wireless flash.
If the flash is not attached, the
wireless/remote function will not be
canceled on the flash unit. Refer to the
flash’s instruction manual to cancel the function.

53

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1. Turn the camera off.

2. Press and hold subject-program
button and drive-mode button.

3. With both buttons held down,
turn the camera on.

• Repeat the procedure to activate the shutter-release lock.

To prevent the film from being fogged, the shutter cannot be released
if a lens is not attached to the camera. This can be changed when
mounting the camera on a non-dedicated lens mount such a T-mount
on a telescope or microscope. Only disable the shutter-release lock
when necessary.

Reset Default

APPENDIX

USEFUL INFORMATION

When the camera is turned off the following functions are reset:

Function Default Setting Page

Subject program Canceled, Program AE active. 37

Flash Autoflash 32

Focus mode Autofocus 47

Self-timer Canceled

41

Continuous advance Canceled 43

Wireless/remote flash Canceled 52

Remote-control Canceled

44

Canceling the Shutter-release Lock

Shutter locked.

Shutter can be released.

54

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1. Turn the camera off.

2. Press and hold flash-mode
button.

3. While holding the button down,
turn the camera on.

55

Canceling the AF Illuminator

The built-in flash is used as an AF illuminator and will fire when nec­essary to assist the autofocus system in low light. The AF illuminator
function can be turned off.

• This does not affect an accessory flash’s AF illuminator.

AF illuminator is canceled.

AF illuminator active.

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56

APPENDIX

ACCESSORY INFORMATION

Accessory Flashes

The following accessory flash units are compatible with this camera:

Program Flash / Maxxum Flash 5600HS (D)
Program Flash / Maxxum Flash 3600HS (D)

• The flash cancel indicator is displayed on the data panel with no other
icons when an incompatible flash unit is attached.

• An accessory flash cannot be connected to the camera using a cable.

This manual contains information on products and accessories
available at the time of printing. To obtain compatibility information
for products not contained in the manual, contact a Minolta service
facility listed on the back cover.

All Minolta AF lenses can be used with this camera.

• Only Minolta A mount lenses are compatible with this camera. MD and MC
series lenses cannot be used.

• The certain lens attachments will prevent proper exposure during flash
photography. Do not use filters which alter the required exposure such as
neutral density or polarizing filters. Do not use close-up filters or lenses.

• ADI metering is compatible with Minolta D series lenses (p. 49).

• Use of a lens hood is recommended to avoid flare (non-image forming light
that degrades image quality) when taking pictures without flash.

• Remove the lens hood before using the camera’s built-in flash.

Lenses

AA Battery Pack BP-200

AA Battery Pack BP-200 allows the camera to be powered by four
AA alkaline or Ni-MH batteries.

• AA-size lithium batteries cannot be used.

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57

Angle Finder VN / Magnifier VN

The 90° Angle Finder VN allows the
camera to be used in hard-to-view
positions or at low angles.

The Magnifier VN enlarges the
viewfinder image by approx. 2.3X and
is ideal for macro photography, copy­ing, and telephotography.

Remove the eyepiece cup when attaching a finder accessory.

• Push up to remove the eyepiece cup.

Eyepiece Corrector 1000

For eyeglass wearers, an Eyepiece Corrector 1000 can be attached
to the viewfinder. Nine correction lenses are available from - 4 to + 3
diopters.

Incompatible Accessories

The following accessories are not compatible with this camera.

• Remote Cords RC-1000 S/L

• Close-up Diffuser CD-1000

•Wireless/Remote Flash Controller

•Off-Camera Cable OC-1100

•Off-Camera shoe OS-1100

•Triple Connector TC-1000

• Cable CD

• Data Receiver DR-1000

•Wireless Controller IR-1N (WARNING: the use of this accessory can
permanently damage the camera.)

• Control Grip CG-1000

•Vertical Control Grip VC-7

• Data Saver DS-100

2165_E.qxd 03.2.10 2:06 PM Page 57

58

APPENDIX

TROUBLESHOOTING

Problem

Focus cannot be
confirmed.

Camera is attached to
a microscope or tele­scope.

Slide the focus­mode switch down.

Use focus lock or
manual focus.

Cancel the
shutter-release
lock.

–

30/

47

54

The lens is not
attached correctly.

Attach the lens so
that it clicks into
place.

22

Check the minimum
focus distance of
the lens.

Use focus lock or
manual focus.

30/

47

Subject is too close.

Situation is unsuitable
for autofocus (p. 31).

Camera is set to
manual focus mode.

47

Flash is used as AF
illuminator to assist
the autofocus sys­tem.

To turn off the AF
illuminator, set the
flash mode to
flash cancel or
cancel AF-illumi­nator function.

31/

55

Contact your nearest Minolta Service Facility if the following informa­tion does not cover the problem which you are experiencing or the
condition continues.

Shutter cannot be
released.

Autofocus does
not work when the
shutter-release
button is pressed
partway down.

Flash fires when
the shutter-release
button is pressed
partway down.

Cause Solution

Page

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59

Problem Cause Solution Page

Lens hood
was attached
or subject
distance was
less than 1m.

Subject is
beyond flash
range.

Make sure the subject is within
the flash range.

32/

33

32

Camera mal­function

Turn the camera off and on. If normal
camera operation does not resume or
the camera malfunctions repeatedly,
contact an authorized Minolta Service
Facility.

Remove the lens hood.
To prevent lens shadowing, the
subject must be at least 1m (3.3ft.)
from the camera.

Flash pic­ture is too
dark.

“Er”
appears on
the data
panel.

When using
the built-in
flash, the
bottom of
the picture
is dark.

Picture is
blurred.

Flash did not
fire in a low­light situation
and the shut­ter speed was
slow

.

Use fill flash, a tripod, or faster
film.

–

The date and
time are not
set or the
date imprint­ing function
is off.

17/

18

The clock and calendar needs to
be set if the date and time display
blinks. Turn on the date imprinting
function.

The date or
time cannot
be imprint­ed.

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60

APPENDIX

CARE AND ST ORAGE

• Check the camera’s operation carefully, or take test photographs.

• Minolta is not responsible for any loss that may occur due to an
equipment malfunction.

Before Important Events

• This camera is designed for use from -20° to 50°C (4 to 122 °F).

• Never leave your camera where it may be subjected to extreme
temperatures such as in the glove compartment of a car.

• The data panel response time will be slow at cold temperatures.
The display will temporarily darken at high temperatures, but will
be restored when the temperature normalizes.

• This camera is not waterproof or splashproof. When using the
camera in the rain, protect the camera and lens.

• Never subject the camera to extreme humidity.

•To prevent condensation from forming, place the camera in a
sealed plastic bag when bringing it from a cold environment to a
warm one. Allow it to come to room temperature before removing it
from the bag.

• The low-battery symbol may appear even with fresh batteries
depending on the storage conditions. To restore camera power,
turn the camera off and on several times.

• Battery capacity decreases at colder temperatures. Keep your
camera and spare batteries warm when shooting in cold weather.
Batteries will regain some of their capacity when warmed to nor­mal operating temperature.

Operating Temperature and Conditions

2165_E.qxd 03.2.10 2:06 PM Page 60

• If you have questions about your camera, contact your local cam­era dealer or write to the Minolta distributor in your area.

• Before shipping your camera for repair, contact an authorized
Minolta Service Facility.

Questions and Service

When storing your camera for extended periods:

• Always attach the protective caps.

• Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from dust and chem­icals such as naphthalene or moth balls. For long periods of dis­use, place the camera in an airtight container with a silica-gel dry­ing agent.

• Periodically release the camera’s shutter to keep it operating prop­erly.

• Before using after prolonged storage, check the camera’s opera­tion to make sure it is functioning properly.

Storage

Cleaning

• If the camera or lens barrel is dirty, wipe it gently with a soft, clean,
dry cloth. If the camera or lens comes in contact with sand, gently
blow away loose particles - wiping may scratch the surface.

•To clean the lens surface, first brush away any dust or sand then,
gently wipe the lens in a circular motion, starting from the center
with a cloth or tissue designed for optics. Use lens cleaning fluid if
necessary.

• Never place lens fluid directly on the lens.

• Never touch the interior of the camera, especially the shutter and
mirror, doing so may impair their alignment and movement.

• Dust on the mirror will not affect the exposure but may affect the
focus. Use a blower brush to remove dust from or around the mir­ror.

• Never use compressed air to clean the camera’s interior, it may
damage delicate internal mechanisms.

• Never use organic solvents to clean the camera.

• Never touch the lens surface with your fingers.

61

2165_E.qxd 03.2.10 2:06 PM Page 61

APPENDIX

SPECIFICATIONS

62

CAMERA TYPE: 35mm autofocus SLR with autoexposure (AE) and a

built-in flash

LENS MOUNT: Minolta A mount
AUTOFOCUS SYSTEM:

Detection system: TTL phase-detection
Autofocus sensors: CCD line sensors (3-point AF system with a center

cross-hair sensor)
Autofocus sensitivity range: Ev -1 – 18 (ISO 100)
AF illuminator: Built-in flash Automatically activates in low light, low-

contrast situations.

Range:1 - 5m / 3.3 – 16.4 ft. (approx.)
Autofocus areas: Wide focus area, Spot focus area
Predictive focus control: Multi-dimensional predictive focus control for moving

subjects

EXPOSURE SYSTEM:

Metering: TTL, 14-segment honeycomb-pattern metering
Metering cell: 14-segment honeycomb-pattern SPC
Metering range: Ev 1-20 (ISO 100, f/1.4 lens)
Exposure control: Programmed AE
Subject programs: Portrait, Landscape, Close-up, Sports, Night portrait
ISO settings: - Automatic with DX-coded film between ISO 25 –

5000 in 1/3 Ev increments.

- ISO 25 – 1000 with flash

AE lock: Exposure is locked with focus.

SHUTTER:

Type: Electronically-controlled, vertical-traverse, focal-plane

shutter
Speed range: 30 - 1/2000 s
Flash-sync speed: 1/90 s or slower
Wireless/Remote flash-sync speed: 1/45s or slower.

FLASH:

Flash metering: Pre-flash TTL, ADI
Type: Built-in
Guide number: 12 (in meters at ISO 100) /39 (in feet at ISO 100)
Flash range: 1 - 4m / 3.3 – 13.1 ft.
Flash coverage: 28mm angle of view
Flash modes: Autoflash, Autoflash with red-eye reduction, Fill flash,

Fill flash with red-eye reduction, Flash cancel,

Wireless/Remote flash (with dedicated flash units)
Recycling time: 4 s (approx.)

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63

Specifications are based on the latest information available at the time of
printing and are subject to change without notice.

VIEWFINDER:

Type: Eye-level fixed roof mirror
Focusing screen: Spherical acute matte
Field of view: 90% (vert.) x 90 % (hor.)
Magnification: 0.75x (with 50mm lens focused at infinity)
Eye relief: 16mm (13mm from the eyepiece frame)
Diopter: -1 diopter
Eyepiece cup: Removable

FILM TRANSPORT:

Film advance: Single-frame advance, Continuous advance
Continuous advance speed: 1.7 fps (max.)
Loading: Automatic loading
Rewinding: Automatic rewind, Manual rewind
Rewind time: 8 s (approx.) with 24-exposure film

Self-timer: 10 s
IR remote control receiver: Quartz-date model only

IR Remote Control RC-3 (sold separately)

POWER: Two 3V CR2 lithium batteries
Battery performance:

Condition A Condition B

Flash Use (%) 20 °C (68 °F) -10 °C (14°F) 20 °C (68 °F) -10 °C (14°F)

0 30 rolls 24 rolls 45 rolls 35 rolls

50 14 rolls 11 rolls 18 rolls 14 rolls

100 9 rolls 7 rolls 11 rolls 9 rolls

Condition A:
Lens (35-80 f/4-5.6 II) focused from infinity to 2m (6.6ft.) three times, and the shutter-release
button held partway down for ten seconds before each exposure. Other basic photographic pro­cedures are performed.
Condition B:
Lens focused from infinity to 2m (6.6ft.), and the shutter-release button held partway down for
five seconds before each exposure. Other basic photographic procedures are performed.

•With 24-exposure film, fresh battery. Exposures taken at a rate of 2 rolls per month.

• Battery performance will vary with usage conditions

DIMENSIONS: 127(W) x 87(H) x 60.5(D) mm

5(W)x 3.4(H)x 2.4(D) in.

WEIGHT: 310g (10.9oz.) without batteries, accessories, or

attachments

2165_E.qxd 03.2.10 2:06 PM Page 63

9222-2165-11 P-B302
Printed in Japan

Minolta Co., Ltd. 3-13, 2-Chome, Azuchi-Machi, Chuo-Ku,

Osaka 541-8556, Japan

Minolta Europe GmbH Minoltaring 11, D-30855 Langenhagen,

Germany

Reparatur/Repair Senator-Helmken-Strasse 1, D-28197 Bremen,

Germany

Minolta France S.A.S. 365 Route de Saint-Germain, F-78420

Carrieres-Sur-Seine, France

Minolta (UK) Limited 7 Tanners Drive, Blakelands, Milton Keynes,

MK14 5BU, England

Minolta Austria Ges. m.b.H. Amalienstrasse 59-61, A-1131 Wien, Austria
Minolta Camera Benelux B.V. Zonnebaan 39, P.O. Box 6000, NL-3600 HA

Maarssen, The Netherlands

Belgian Branch Prins Boudewijnlaan 1, B-2550 Kontich, Belgium
Minolta (Schweiz) AG Riedstrasse 6, CH-8953 Dietikon, Switzerland
Minolta Svenska AB Albygatan 114, S-171 54 Solna, Sweden

Finnish Branch Niittykatu 6 PL 37, SF-02201 Espoo, Finland
Minolta Portugal Limitada Av. do Brasil 33-A, P-1700 Lisboa, Portugal
Minolta Corporation 101 Williams Drive, Ramsey, New Jersey 07446,

U.S.A.

Minolta Canada Inc. 369 Britannia Road East, Mississauga, Ontario

L4Z 2H5, Canada

Minolta Hong Kong Limited Room 208, 2/F, Eastern Center, 1065 Kings

Road, Quarry Bay, Hong Kong

Minolta Singapore (Pte) Ltd. 10, Teban Gardens Crescent, Singapore 608923
Shanghai Minolta Optical
Products Co., Ltd. 368 Minolta Road, Songjiang, Shanghai, China

© 2003 Minolta Co., Ltd. under the Berne

Convention and Universal Copyright Convention

2165_E.qxd 03.2.10 2:06 PM Page 64