Minolta Maxxum XT Si Instruction manual

E INSTRUCTION MANUAL

QUICK

OPERATION

GETTING

STARTED

FULL-AUTO

OPERATION

SUBJECT

PROGRAM

SELECTION

CREATIVE

EXPOSURE

MODES

ADDITIONAL

FEATURES

APPENDIX

This manual has been designed to help you understand the operation of your Minolta camera more quickly. After familiarizing yourself with the camera, start with Level I and learn to operate the camera in Full-Auto mode.

Move on to Level II and the Subject Program modes when you are comfortable with the camera and want to have more control. Here you decide the type of image you want to photograph and leave the exposure details to the camera.

When you are ready for full control, move on to Level III and the ASM exposure modes.

The information in this manual is relevant for products introduced before December, 1998. Contact the nearest authorized Minolta

Service facility to obtain compatibility information for products released after this date.

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 certifies that this product meets the requirements of the EU

(European Union) concerning interference causing equipment regulations.

CE stands for Conformité Européenne (European Conformity).

FOR PROPER AND SAFE USE

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

WARNING

Batteries may become hot or explode due to improper use.

• Use only the batteries specified in this instruction manual.

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

• Do not subject batteries to fire or high temperatures.

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

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

• Tape over lithium battery contacts before disposal.

• Follow local regulations for battery disposal.

Use caution, accidents may occur when using this product near young children.

Keep batteries and other things that could be swallowed away from young children. Contact a doctor immediately if an object is swallowed.

Immediately remove the batteries and discontinue use if…

• the camera is dropped or subjected to an impact in which the interior is exposed.

• the camera emits a strange smell, heat, or smoke.

Do not disassemble. Electric shock may occur if a high voltage circuit inside the camera is touched. Take your camera to a Minolta

Service Facility when repairs are required.

Do not look directly at the sun through the viewfinder.

CAUTION

Do not allow a camera lens to point directly at the sun. Fire may occur if sunlight comes to focus on a flammable surface. Replace the lens cap when the product is not being used.

1

2

TABLE OF CONTENTS

NAMES OF PARTS ..............................................................4

QUICK OPERATION ............................................................8

GETTING STARTED

Strap ....................................................................................11

Batteries ..............................................................................12

Lens ....................................................................................14

Loading Film ........................................................................16

Handling the Camera ..........................................................18

Eye-Start ..............................................................................19

FULLY-AUTOMATIC OPERATION

Taking Pictures in Full-Auto ................................................21

Focus Signals ......................................................................22

Special Focus Situations......................................................23

Focus Hold ..........................................................................24

Using the Built-in Flash

Flash signals....................................................................26

Flash range......................................................................26

Fill flash ..........................................................................27

Flash cancel ....................................................................27

Red-eye reduction ..........................................................28

Rewinding the Film ..............................................................29

SUBJECT PROGRAM SELECTION

Portrait Mode ......................................................................31

Landscape Mode ................................................................32

Close-up Mode ....................................................................33

Sports Mode ........................................................................34

Night Portrait Mode..............................................................35

Photographing Night Scenes ..............................................36

Self-timer..............................................................................37

Continuous Advance ............................................................38

TABLE OF CONTENTS

CREATIVE EXPOSURE MODES

A-MODE – Aperture Priority ................................................40

A-mode flash ..................................................................41

Aperture control ..............................................................42

S-MODE – Shutter Priority ..................................................43

S-mode flash ..................................................................44

Shutter control ................................................................45

M-MODE – Manual ..............................................................46

Metering in manual mode ................................................47

M-mode flash ..................................................................48

TAKING TIME EXPOSURES (buLb) ..................................49

ADDITIONAL FEATURES

FOCUS

Wide Focus Area ..............52

Spot AF..............................53

Manual Focus ....................54

AF Illuminator ....................55

EXPOSURE

14 Segment Metering ........56

Spot Metering ....................57

Exposure Compensation ..58

Setting the ISO Manually ..59

Bracketing..........................60

Multiple Exposure ..............63

FLASH

High-Speed Sync ..............66

Slow Sync..........................67

Wireless/Remote Flash ....68

FOR OWNERS OF THE PANORAMA MODEL ..................73

FOR OWNERS OF THE DATE MODEL

Exposing the Date/Time ....74

Setting the Date/Time........75

Replacing the Battery ........76

CUSTOM FUNCTIONS

Setting ..............................77

Details................................78

APPENDIX

Program Reset Button ......83

Accessories ......................84

Exposure Warnings ..........87

Trouble Shooting ..............88

Care and Storage ..............90

Specifications ....................92

3

NAMES OF PARTS

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

Body

Built-in flash (25-28)

Self-timer lamp (37)

Flash-mode button

Function button

Shutter-release button

Function dial

NAMES OF PARTS

Main switch

Accessory shoe

Viewfinder*

Eyepiece sensor

Film window

Data Panel

Subject-program button (31-36)

Program-reset button (83)

Remote-control terminal (50)

Grip sensor

Control dial

Lens contacts*

Mirror*

Lens mount

* Do not touch

4

Back-cover release

Panorama switch (73)

(not on all models)

Focus-mode button (54)

Lens release (15)

Exposure-compensation button (46, 58)

Manual-rewind button (29)

Spot AF button (53)

Eye-start switch

Spot/AE lock button (57)

Battery-chamber door (12)

Battery-chamber lock

Tripod socket

Strap eyelet (11)

Self-timer/Drive-mode button (37, 38)

5

NAMES OF PARTS

Data Panel

Flash-mode indicators

Red-eye reduction indicator

Multiple-exposure indicator

Exposure-bracketing indicator

Exposure-mode indicators

Manual-focus indicator

Shutter-speed/ISO display

Aperture/Exposurecompensation display

Exposure-compensation indicator

Subject-program pointer

Subject-program indicators

NAMES OF PARTS

Viewfinder

Focus frame

6

Self-timer indicator

Battery-condition indicator

Wireless flash indicator

High-speed flash sync indicator

Drive mode indicator

Cartridge mark

Film transport signal

Frame counter/Multiple-exposure/

Custom-function setting display

Spot-metering area

Spot-focus area

Focus signals

Focus-area indicator

Shutter speed display

Exposure-compensation indicator

Aperture/Exposure-compensation display

Spot/AE lock indicator

High-speed sync indicator

Flash signal

7

8

QUICK OPERATION

1. Insert batteries.

• This camera uses two CR2 lithium batteries.

QUICK OPERATION

5. Set Full-Auto operation.

• Press the program-reset button to set the camera to fully-automatic operation.

2. Attach lens.

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

3. Slide the main and eye-start switches to ON.

4. Load film.

• Align the film tip with the red mark, then close the back cover.

6. If using a zoom lens, rotate the zooming ring to frame your subject as desired.

7. Center your subject in the focus frame.

• The camera will focus and set exposure automatically.

8. Take the picture.

• Gently press the shutter-release button all the way down to take the picture.

9

LEVEL I

This section provides the information necessary to operate your camera in most photographic situations.

This section covers:

• Battery Installation

• Attaching and Removing the Lens

• Loading the Film

• Camera Handling

• Fully Automatic Camera Operation

• Special Focus Situations

• Basic Flash Operation

• Rewinding the Film

Once you fully understand the instructions in this section, proceed to

Level II, Level III, and Additional Features to obtain more enjoyment from your camera.

G E T T I N G S T A R T E D

Attaching the Strap

10

BATTERIES

Installing the Batteries

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

1. Using a coin or similar object, turn the batterychamber lock to OPEN, then open the battery-chamber door.

2. Insert the batteries as indicated by the + and – marks.

3. Close the battery-chamber door, then turn the batterychamber lock to CLOSE.

• Setting the camera down with the batterychamber door open may damage the camera.

BATTERIES

Checking Battery Power

Each time the main switch is set to ON, a battery symbol appears in the data panel indicating the power status of the batteries.

Full-battery symbol

Power is sufficient for all camera operations.

• will only appear for five seconds.

Blinking low-battery symbol

Power is extremely low. All functions are operational, but the batteries will need to be replaced soon. Flash recycling time may be slow.

Blinking low-battery symbol appears alone and the shutter locks.

Power is insufficient for camera operation. Replace the batteries.

No display

Power is too low for the camera to operate. Replace the batteries or make sure they have been inserted correctly.

12 13

LENS

Attaching the Lens

1. Remove the body and rear lens caps.

2. Align the red mounting dots on the lens and camera body.

LENS

Removing the Lens

1. Press the lens release and turn the lens counterclockwise until it stops.

2. Gently remove the lens and replace caps, or attach another lens.

Caution

• Do not force the lens if it does not turn smoothly.

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

3. Gently 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 when attaching the lens.

14 15

LOADING FILM

Check the film window before loading film. If film is loaded, do not open the back cover. Refer to Manual Rewind on page 29 for instructions on removing a partially exposed roll.

• Load film in the shade to reduce the chances of fogging the film.

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

• If DX-coded film is used, the camera automatically sets the correct ISO (film speed).

• If non DX-coded film is used, the camera will use the previous roll’s ISO setting. Refer to page 59 to set the film speed manually.

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

1. Slide the back-cover release down to open the back cover.

LOADING FILM

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

• If the film tip extends beyond the index mark, push the excess film back into the cartridge.

4. Close the back cover.

• The camera automatically advances the film to the first frame. 1 will appear in the frame counter.

• The ISO is displayed in the data panel for

5 seconds after loading.

16

2. Insert a film cartridge into the film chamber.

• blinks in the frame counter and the shutter locks when the film is loaded incorrectly. Open the back cover and repeat steps 2 – 4.

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

If film is loaded with the power off…

The films ISO and appear in the data panel for approx. five seconds to indicate successful loading, then the camera shuts down.

• If the film did not load, shuts down. Reload the film.

will blink in the data panel before the camera

17

HANDLING THE CAMERA

Holding the Camera

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

• Do not touch the end of the lens barrel while taking a picture.

• Use a tripod when using slow shutter speeds or a telephoto lens.

Pressing the Shutter-Release Button

Press the shutter-release button partway down to activate the camera’s autofocus and auto-exposure systems.

Gently press the shutter-release button all the way down to take the picture.

EYE-START

Eye-start automatically activates the camera’s focus and exposure systems as you bring the camera to your eye. Sliding the main and eyestart switches to the ON position activates the grip sensor and data panel. Touching the grip sensor activates the eyepiece sensor located near the viewfinder. When an object is detected near the viewfinder, the camera’s systems are activated to set the focus and exposure as you frame your subject.

Grip Sensor

• Autofocus and exposure systems shut down approx. five seconds after eye or grip sensor contact is broken.

• Infrared absorbing sunglasses or gloves may affect the operation of eye-start.

Eyepiece Sensor

Press the shutter-release button partway down to activate the camera when eye-start is off.

18 19

FULLY-AUTOMATIC

OPERATION

Full-Auto is the camera’s standard operating mode and is suited for use in almost any situation. When selected, the camera sets the focus and exposure automatically and fires the built-in flash when necessary.

Use Full-Auto when you are just starting out or when shooting under conditions that would require you to constantly adjust the focus and/or exposure.

TAKING PICTURES IN FULL-AUTO

1. Slide the main and eye-start switches to ON.

2. Press the program-reset button to set the camera to

Full-Auto.

• The camera will return to its default settings (p83).

3. If using a zoom lens, rotate the lens’ zooming ring to frame the subject as desired.

4. Center your subject in the focus frame [ ].

• or will appear in the viewfinder when focus is confirmed.

• If appears in the viewfinder, press the shutter-release button partway down to pop-up the built-in flash. will disappear, then reappear when the flash is charged.

Continued on next page.

21

TAKING PICTURES IN FULL-AUTO

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

• In low-light conditions, the AF illuminator

(p55) will fire to determine focus distance.

• Use focus hold (p24) if your subject is outside the focus frame.

Focus Signals

The following signals appear in the viewfinder to indicate the focus status when focus is activated.

SPECIAL FOCUS SITUATIONS

The camera may not be able to focus in situations like those described below. When the focus lamp blinks, use focus hold (p24) or manual focus (p54). See page 22 for an explanation of the focus signals.

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.

Focus is confirmed

Continuous autofocus – Focus is confirmed

Continuous autofocus – Lens focusing

Shutter is locked

Focus cannot be confirmed – Shutter is locked.

Subject is too close or is one of the special focus situations described on page 23.

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.

22 23

FOCUS HOLD

Use focus hold when your subject is outside the focus frame or when autofocus is difficult to confirm.

24

Focus hold cannot be used for moving subjects.

1. Center your subject in the focus frame, then press the shutter-release button partway down.

• appears in the viewfinder when the focus is confirmed.

• Focus hold also locks the exposure settings.

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

3. Press the shutter-release button the rest of the way down to take the picture.

• Remove your finger from the shutterrelease button to cancel focus hold.

USING THE BUILT-IN FLASH

In Full-Auto mode (P), the built-in flash pops-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.

• Select flash cancel ( ) when you don’t want the flash to fire.

• Pressing the program-reset button (P) resets the flash to autoflash mode.

Do not use the built-in flash with focal lengths shorter than 28mm. The built-in flash cannot cover focal lengths wider than 28mm.

Custom Function 5 (p79) lets you cancel the built-in flash’s auto pop-up feature. When selected, the flash-mode button must be pressed to raise the built-in flash.

Lens Shadowing

Lens shadowing occurs when the lens or lens hood blocks part of the output from the built-in flash. Lens shadowing appears as semicircular shaded area at the bottom (horizontal) or side (vertical) of your image.

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

• Lens shadowing may occur with the following lenses at 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)

25


Flash Signals

Eye-start ON

– Flash will fire. disappears when the shutterrelease button is pressed partway down, then reappears when the flash is charged.

Eye-start OFF

– Flash is charged.

Previous exposure was correct.

Flash Range

The range of the built-in flash depends on the speed of the film and the selected aperture. Make sure your subject is within the flash range specified in the table below.

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

Aperture f/2.8

f/3.5

f/4.0

f/5.6

ISO 100

1.0 ~ 4.3m

(3.3 ~ 14.1 ft.)

1.0 ~ 3.4m

(3.3 ~ 11.2 ft.)

1.0 ~ 3.0m

(3.3 ~ 9.8 ft.)

1.0 ~ 2.1m

(3.3 ~ 6.9 ft.)

ISO 200

1.0 ~ 6.1m

(3.3 ~ 20. ft.)

1.0 ~ 4.8m

(3.3 ~ 15.7 ft.)

1.0 ~ 4.2m

(3.3 ~ 13.8 ft.)

1.0 ~ 3.0m

(3.3 ~ 9.8 ft.)

ISO 400

1.0 ~ 8.6m

(3.3 ~ 28.2 ft.)

1.0 ~ 6.8m

(3.3 ~ 22.3 ft.)

1.0 ~ 6.0m

(3.3 ~ 19.7 ft.)

1.0 ~ 4.3m

(3.3 ~ 14.1 ft.)

26


Fill Flash

Use fill flash when taking pictures under fluorescent lighting or to eliminate harsh shadows. When set, the flash will fire every time a picture is taken. The TTL automatic flash metering system will ensure correct exposure.

Press the flash-mode button and turn the control dial until appears in the data panel.

• Make sure your subject is within the flash range specified in the table on page 26.

• Press the flash-mode button and turn the control dial until appears to return to autoflash mode.

• For quick shots, hold the flash-mode button down when pressing the shutter-release button to fire the fill flash.

Flash Cancel

Use flash cancel when photographing twilight scenes or to capture the ambiance of existing light.

Press the flash-mode button and turn the control dial until appears in the data panel.

• Press the flash-mode button and turn the control dial until appears to return to autoflash mode.

The shutter speed may be slow.

Use of a tripod is recommended.

27


Red-Eye Reduction

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 redeye effect.

1. Turn the function dial to .

2. Press the function button and turn the control dial until and ON appear in the data panel.

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

Cancelling Red-eye Reduction

Turn the function dial to , then press the function button and turn the control dial until and OFF appear in the data panel.

28

REWINDING THE FILM

Automatic Rewind

After you have exposed the last frame, the camera will automatically rewind the film. When the film is completely rewound, the motor will stop and will blink in the data panel indicating it is safe to open the back of the camera.

1. Wait until the film is completely rewound.

• will appear and will blink in the data panel.

2. Slide the back-cover release down to open the back cover.

3. Remove the film, then close the back cover.

Manual Rewind

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

1. Press the manual-rewind button.

2. Follow steps 1-3 from

Automatic Rewind.

29

LEVEL II

Now that you are comfortable with the operation of the camera, take more control of the creative process by telling the camera what kind of picture you want to take.

The subject program modes let you take more control without leaving the program exposure mode. In each of the subject program modes, the camera will automatically set the best possible shutter speed and aperture for the type of picture you are taking.

This section also lets you explore the use of the Selftimer and Continuous Advance modes.

Subject Program Selection

Portrait Mode

Landscape Mode

Close-Up Mode

Sports Mode

Night Portrait Mode

Photographing Night Scenes

Page

31

32

33

34

35

36

Drive Mode

Self-Timer

Continuous Advance

Page

37

38

Each of these functions can be explored independently after Level I has been mastered.

• Press the program-reset button to return the camera to Full-

Auto operation.


Portrait Mode

Portraits have the greatest impact when a shallow depth-of-field* is used to separate the subject from the background. In Portrait mode, the necessary settings are made automatically, leaving you free to capture the perfect expression.

* Depth-of-field is the area in front of and behind the point you focused on that appears sharp (p42).

Press the subject-program button until the subject-program pointer is under .

Tips

• For best results use a mid-telephoto lens with a large aperture.

• Use fill flash (p27) when your subject is backlit or has strong shadows across the face.

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

31


Landscape Mode

Landscape photography requires a large depth-of-field to make sure everything is in focus. In

Landscape mode, the camera is set to obtain the greatest depthof-field possible, while maintaining a shutter speed fast enough to prevent blur due to camera shake.



Close-Up Mode

Set Close-Up mode when photographing small objects like flowers or jewelry. In Close-Up mode, the camera automatically sets the best possible aperture and shutter speed for the picture you are taking.


Tips

• For best results zoom to a wide view or use a wide angle lens and include a foreground subject or detail to create a feeling of depth in the picture.

• Use flash when a subject in the foreground is backlit or has strong shadows across the face. If there is no subject in the foreground, do not use flash.

• Use a tripod, especially at slower shutter speeds.

Tips

• 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 lens may block the flash, creating a shadow at the bottom of your image (lens shadowing).

• Use a tripod to reduce camera shake.

32 33


Sports Mode

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



Night Portrait Mode

Night portraits require the camera’s flash exposure to be balanced with the background exposure. In Night

Portrait mode, the camera sets the largest possible aperture with a longer shutter speed, allowing the background to appear in the photograph.


Tips

• The built-in flash is only effective when your subject is within the flash range.

• Use fast film and keep the focus frame on your subject.

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

• Use Spot AF to hold the focus in Sports mode (p53).

Tips

• Set the flash to or

See pages 27 and 28.

• Use faster film and a tripod. when using Night Portrait mode.

• Focus on the main part of your subject.

• Warn your subject not to move while the picture is taken.

34 35


Photographing Night Scenes

Cancel the flash in Night Portrait mode to photograph night scenes.

The longer shutter speeds set in

Night Portrait mode let you capture beautiful photographs of twilight scenes and night skylines.

1. Press the subject-program button until the subjectprogram pointer is under .

SELF-TIMER

The self-timer delays the release of the shutter for approximately

10 seconds after the shutter-release button is pressed.

1. Place the camera on a tripod, then press the self-timer button until appears in the data panel.

2. Press the flash-mode button and turn the control dial until appears in the data panel.

Tips

• Use faster film and a tripod.

• If you are photographing a dark night scene, it may be difficult for the camera to focus, use focus hold (p24) or manual focus (p54).

36

2. Center your subject in the focus frame.

3. Press the shutter-release button all the way down to start the timer.

• The self-timer indicator on the front of the camera will blink, then glow just before the shutter releases.

• Self-timer mode is cancelled after the shutter is released.

• Do not press the shutter-release button while standing in front of the camera.

• Attach the eyepiece cap if there is a bright light source behind the camera (p50).

Press the self-timer button or slide the main switch to

LOCK to cancel the self-timer before the shutter releases.

37

CONTINUOUS - ADVANCE MODE

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

• AF Zoom xi and Power zoom lenses cannot be zoomed when continuousadvance mode is selected.

1. Press the drive-mode button until appears in the data panel.

2. Press the shutter-release button down and hold.

• When taking flash pictures, the shutter will release after the flash is charged.

• When the subject is moving, the shutter will release after the camera focuses on the subject.

• To return to single frame mode, press the drive mode button until data panel.

appears in the

LEVEL III

In this section you take full creative control of your camera. Depending on the selected exposure mode, you will control the aperture, shutter speed, or both when capturing your image.

In the previous sections, only the Program (P) exposure mode has been explored. Here you will learn to use the

Aperture Priority (A), Shutter Priority (S), and Manual (M) exposure modes. Select A-mode to control the depth-of-field in your images. Set S-mode to control the way moving subjects appear in your images. Set M-mode when you want full control over all the exposure functions.

A-Mode

S-Mode

Manually select aperture

Manually select shutter speed

M-Mode Manually select the shutter speed and the aperture

• Each exposure mode can be explored independently.

40

43

46

38

A-MODE – APERTURE PRIORITY

In A-mode, you select the aperture and the camera automatically sets the shutter speed required for proper exposure. Set the camera to A-mode when you want to control the range of sharpness (depthof-field) in an image. Refer to Aperture Control on page 42.


2. Press the function button and turn the control dial until A appears in the data panel.


A-Mode Flash

When the built-in flash is up or an attached accessory flash is on, it will fire each time a picture is taken. The camera’s TTL automatic flash metering system will ensure proper exposure.

Press the flash-mode button to pop-up the built-in flash.

• will appear in the data panel.

• The shutter speed is automatically set to

1/125 or slower.

• A smaller aperture (larger f-number) will result in a shorter flash range. Refer to

Flash Range (p26) to determine the range of the built-in flash at the selected aperture.

If 125 blinks in the viewfinder and the data panel, the light level is too bright for the selected aperture. Turn the control dial until the blinking stops or cancel the flash.

3. Turn the control dial to select the aperture.

Cancelling the Flash

Push the built-in flash down or turn the accessory flash off.

• will be displayed in the data panel.

40

If 4000 or 30 s blinks in the data panel, the required setting is beyond the camera’s shutter speed range. Turn the control dial until the blinking stops.

41


Aperture Control

S-MODE – SHUTTER PRIORITY

In S-mode, you select the shutter speed and the camera automatically sets the aperture required for proper exposure. Use

S-mode when you want to control the blur caused by subject movement.


Large Aperture

(small f-number)

Small Aperture

(large f-number)

The size of the aperture (lens opening) determines the depth-of-field in the final image as well as the intensity of the light falling on the film. Depth-of-field is the range in front of and behind the focus point that appears sharp in the final image. In the viewfinder, only the plane the camera is focused on will appear sharp. The photographed image however, will have a depth-of-field corresponding to the selected aperture.

Large apertures (small numbers) limit the depth-of-field to a narrow range in front of and behind the point of focus. Set a larger aperture when photographing portraits to make your subject stand out from the background.

Small apertures (large numbers) provide greater depth-of-field. Set a small aperture when photographing landscapes to ensure your entire scene is sharp.

• Usable apertures will depend on the aperture range of the lens you are using.

42

2. Press the function button and turn the control dial until S appears in the data panel.

3. Turn the control dial to select the shutter speed.

• The number 60, or 125, displayed in the data panel stands for 1/60th or 1/125th of a second.

• The seconds indicator appears in the viewfinder and data panel if the shutter speed is one second or longer.

If the aperture display in the data panel blinks, the required setting is outside the aperture range of the lens. Turn the control dial until the blinking stops.

43


S-Mode Flash

When the built-in flash is up or an attached accessory flash is on, it will fire each time a picture is taken. Flash exposure is controlled by the camera’s TTL automatic flash metering system.

1. Press the flash-mode button to pop-up the built-in flash.


2. Turn the control dial to select any shutter speed up to

1/125th of a second.

• The camera automatically sets the aperture for the selected shutter speed.


Push the built-in flash down or turn the accessory flash off.



Shutter Control

Fast Shutter Speed Slow Shutter Speed

In addition to controlling the duration of the exposure, shutter speed determines how moving subjects will appear in the final image.

Depending on the speed of your subject, slow shutter speeds will make a moving subject appear to flow, creating a feeling of motion.

In addition to stopping action, fast shutter speeds can help prevent blur caused by camera movement during exposure, known as camera shake.

• Use a fast shutter speed to stop the motion of your subject.

• Use a slow shutter speed to blur the motion of your subject.

44 45

M-MODE – MANUAL

M-mode gives you full control of the exposure. The camera’s meter index displays how your settings compare to the exposure determined by the camera’s metering system.


2. Press the function button and turn the control dial until M appears in the data panel.


Metering in Manual Mode

In manual mode, the meter index in the viewfinder and the data panel indicates how your exposure compares with the camera’s meter reading.

– The exposure will overexpose your subject.

3. Turn the control dial to select the shutter speed.

– The exposure will underexpose your subject.

4. Press the exposurecompensation button and turn the control dial to select the aperture.

If an exposure compensation indicator does not appear, your settings agree with the exposure determined by the camera.

46 47


M-Mode Flash

When the built-in flash is up or an attached accessory flash is on, it will fire each time a picture is taken. Flash exposure is controlled by the camera’s TTL automatic flash metering system.

1. Press the flash-mode button to pop-up the built-in flash.


2. Turn the control dial to select any shutter speed up to

1/125th of a second.

TAKING TIME EXPOSURES (buLb)

Set the shutter speed to bulb when you want to take time exposures. When bulb is selected, the shutter remains open as long as the shutter-release button is pressed.

1. Mount the camera on a tripod.

2. Set the camera to M-mode, then turn the control dial until appears in the data panel.


• Refer to the flash range table on page 26 to determine the aperture setting and the flash range.


Push the built-in flash down or turn the accessory flash off.


48


4. Compose the scene and focus on your subject.

• If the scene is too dark for autofocus to operate, press the focus-mode button and focus the lens manually (p54).


49

TAKING TIME EXPOSURES (buLb)

5. Firmly press the eyepiece cap into the eyepiece.

• The eyepiece cap prevents light from entering thru the viewfinder and affecting the metered exposure.

6. Press and hold the shutterrelease button to take the picture.

• The shutter remains open as long as the button is pressed.

Attaching the Remote Cord

To reduce image blur, attach either the Remote Cord RC-1000S or

RC-1000L (sold separately).

1. Flip the remote-controlterminal cover up.

2. Insert the plug into the terminal.

Do not use the Wireless Controller IR-1N with this camera.

Permanent damage will occur.

50

A D D I T I O N A L

F E A T U R E S

FOCUS – Wide Focus Area

Wide focus area uses the camera’s three focus sensors to automatically focus on your subject. The wide focus area provides greater framing flexibility and makes it easier for the camera to focus on moving subjects. Wide focus area is the camera’s standard focus mode.

The camera determines which sensor is focusing on your subject and sets the focus accordingly.

• The focus areas are not visible in the viewfinder frame.

The focus area indicator in the viewfinder tells you which sensor the camera is using.

FOCUS – Spot AF

Spot AF uses the center focus sensor and the current metering mode

(p56) to lock focus and exposure. The focus and exposure settings remain locked until the spot AF button is released.

1. Place your subject inside the spot-focus area.

2. Press and hold the spot AF button.

• Focus is confirmed when appears in the viewfinder.

will appear in the viewfinder, indicating the center focus sensor is being used.

52


• Focus and exposure readings are held until the spot AF button is released.

53

FOCUS – Manual Focus

Focus the lens manually when autofocus is not suitable and focus hold is not possible. The autofocus system will monitor focus and indicate when a subject in the focus frame is in focus.

1. Press the focus-mode button.

will appear in the data panel.

2. Turn the focusing ring until your subject appears sharp and focused.

• appears in the viewfinder when the subject in the focus frame is in focus.

• Press the focus-mode button again to return to the autofocus mode.

AF Power Zoom and xi-Series Lenses

Pull and turn the control ring until your subject appears sharp.

FOCUS – AF Illuminator

The AF Illuminator is a secondary function of the built-in flash. When the scene is too dark for the camera to focus accurately, the built-in flash fires a few short bursts when the shutterrelease button is pressed partway down to provide the illumination necessary for the camera to focus on your subject.

• Pressing the spot AF button also activates the AF illuminator.

• The range of the AF Illuminator flash is approximately one to five meters.

• The AF illuminator will not fire in continuous focus mode flash cancel ( ) is selected.

or if

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

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

• When an accessory flash is attached, its AF illuminator will be active in place of the camera’s AF illuminator.

Custom Function 9 (p82) lets you cancel the built-in flash’s

AF illuminator if it will interfere with your subject or is inappropriate.

54 55

EXPOSURE – 14 Segment Metering

Fourteen-Segment Honeycomb-Pattern Metering uses information from the autofocus system to set the metering pattern according to the position of the main subject. The light metered by each applicable segment is then evaluated to determine the degree of spot-lighting or backlighting present in your scene. The focus-area indicator displays the sensor being used when the shutter release button is pressed partway down.

Fourteen-Segment Honeycomb-Pattern Metering is the camera’s standard metering mode and is appropriate for most photographic situations.

EXPOSURE – Spot Metering

Use only the center metering segment to lock the exposure settings without locking the focus.

The exposure remains locked until the spot/AE lock button is released.

• Pressing the spot/AE lock button sets the flash to slow sync mode (p67).

1. Place the spot-metering area on the subject whose exposure you want to lock.

2. Press and hold the spot/AE lock button.

• and the locked exposure will be displayed in the viewfinder.

56

3. Recompose the scene as desired, then press the shutter-release button all the way down to take the picture.

• The exposure is held until the spot/AE lock button is released.

57

EXPOSURE – Exposure Compensation

The metering system in this camera averages the readings from each active metering segment to determine an exposure that will achieve an average middle grey tone on the film.

Compensated Exposure

Bright scenes such as snow or beach scenes are often underexposed. Dark scenes are often overexposed. Exposure compensation lets you adjust the metered exposure +/– 3 stops in 1/2 stop increments.

Metered Exposure

This effect is most visible when slide film is being used.

Press the exposurecompensation button and turn the control dial until the desired compensation value appears in the data panel.

• Exposure compensation remains until it is reset or cancelled.

• To cancel exposure-compensation, repeat the above procedure and select 0.0 or press the program-reset button.

• Exposure compensation is not available in

M-mode.

EXPOSURE – Setting the ISO Manually

Set the film speed manually when you want to override the DX-coded film speed or when using non-DX-coded film. Film speeds can be set from ISO 6 to 6400 in 1/3EV increments.

Film must be loaded before the ISO can be changed.

1. Turn the function dial to ISO.

2. Press the function button and turn the control dial until the desired ISO value appears in the data panel.

58 59

EXPOSURE – Bracketing

Metered Exposure 1/2 Stop Under 1/2 Stop Over

This function automatically exposes a 3 frame 1/2 stop increment bracketed series. The order of the exposures will be the metered exposure, 1/2-stop under the metered exposure, 1/2 stop over the metered exposure.

• The automatic bracketing feature cannot bracket flash exposures.

This effect is most visible when slide film is being used.

1. Turn the function dial to

.

2. Press the function button and turn the control dial until appears in the data panel.

• appears in the frame counter after the function button is released.


3. Select the desired drive mode.

• The drive mode is initially set to single

( ) or continuous ( ) whichever was set with exposure bracketing last.

4. Focus on and frame your subject, then press the shutter-release button all the way down to take the picture.

Hold the shutter-release button down until the series is finished.

Press the shutter-release button for each exposure.

• Exposure is locked on the first frame of the series.

• The exposure settings will change automatically.

Flash Notes

• The built-in flash is set to flash cancel ( selected.

) when bracketing is

• An attached Minolta accessory flash will be set to off when bracketing is selected.

• If an AF series flash is mounted and on when bracketing is selected, will blink in the data panel and the shutter will lock until the flash is turned off.

60 61


Cancelling Bracketing


2. Press the function button and turn the control dial until OFF appears in the data panel.

EXPOSURE – Multiple Exposure

The multiple-exposure function makes it possible to expose two or more images on the same frame.


Sliding the main switch to LOCK in the middle of a bracketing series resets the bracketing series to the first frame ( ).

Bracketing with the

Exposure Compensation Button

While pressing the exposurecompensation button, press the shutter release button all the way down and hold.

• The camera automatically exposes a three frame bracketed series.

• Releasing either button before the series is complete cancels the exposure series.

2. Press the function button and turn the control dial until appears in the data panel.

• appears in the frame counter.

3. Compose the scene, then press the shutter-release button all the way down to take the first exposure.

62


63


blinks in the data panel, indicating the next exposure will be the last in the series.

• To take more than 2 exposures, repeat steps 1 and 2 until ME glows in the data panel.

4. Press the shutter-release button all the way down again to take the last exposure.

• Multiple-exposure mode is cancelled after the last exposure has been taken.

Cancelling Multiple Exposure


2. Press the function button and turn the control dial until OFF appears in the data panel.


Metering Multiple Exposures

The meter in your camera determines exposure (EV) based on the assumption that only one exposure will be made on each frame.

When making multiple exposures, the EV for each additional exposure needs to be reduced or over exposure will result.

• Compensation is not necessary if all of the exposures have dark backgrounds and the subjects of the exposures will not overlap.

Compensate the exposures as follows:

Number of

Exposures

Exposure

Adjustment

• The above corrections are intended as a general guideline. Some testing may be necessary to produce the desired results.

• Exposure can be compensated in 1/2 EV increments using the exposure compensation function (p58) and in 1/3 EV increments by changing the ISO manually (p59).

64

Sliding the main switch to LOCK does not cancel multiple exposure mode.

65

FLASH – High-Speed Sync

The maximum sync speed for this camera is 1/125. However, with the

5400HS accessory flash (sold separately) shutter speeds up to

1/4000 can be used. High-speed sync (HSS) allows faster shutter speeds when fill flash is used on moving subjects outdoors.

High-speed Sync

HSS also lets you use large aperture/high shutter-speed combinations to separate your subject from the background by limiting the depth-of-field.

Conventional Fill Flash

Attach the 5400HS flash and set it to standard mode.

• The camera will automatically switch to HSS mode and H will appear in the viewfinder and data panel.

• HSS cannot be used under fluorescent lights.

• Flash and color meters cannot meter the flash when high-speed sync is selected.

Refer to the 5400HS instruction manual for details.

FLASH – Slow Sync

In P and A-modes, slow-shutter sync sets a slower shutter speed to increase the background or ambient lighting exposure in a flash picture.

Flash output will automatically be decreased to maintain a correct exposure of your subject.

Conventional Flash

1. Frame your subject.

2. While pressing the spot/AE lock button, press the shutterrelease button all the way down to take the picture.

• If the background is bright or a large aperture is set (A-mode), the shutter speed may not be reduced.

• Use a tripod if the shutter speed becomes

• too slow to allow sharp, hand-held pictures after you press the spot/AE lock button.

and the locked exposure will be displayed in the viewfinder.

Slow-shutter Sync

66 67

FLASH – Wireless/Remote Flash

Normal Flash

Wireless/Remote Flash

Wireless/Remote Flash is available with the Minolta

5400HS, 5400xi, and 3500xi accessory flashes.

Wireless/Remote flash lets you experience the creative control available with an accessory flash.

In Wireless/Remote flash mode, the off-camera flash is triggered by a coded signal from the camera’s built-in flash when you press the shutter-release button. When proper exposure has been received, another signal cuts the accessory flash off.

You can also achieve a 2:1 lighting ratio automatically.

When remote ratio flash is selected, the off-camera flash provides 2/3 of the full exposure while the built-in flash provides the remaining 1/3.


Setting Wireless/Remote Flash Mode

1. Attach the accessory flash to the camera, then turn the camera and the flash on.

2. Turn the function dial to WL.

3. Press the function button and turn the control dial until WL and On appear in the camera’s data panel.

Wireless/Remote Ratio Flash

68

4. Detach the accessory flash, then press the camera’s flash mode button to raise the builtin flash.

69


Taking Pictures in Wireless/Remote Flash Mode

The off-camera flash will provide all of the exposure.

1. Position your camera and 3500xi flash unit using the information on this page.

• If you are not using the 3500xi flash, refer to your flash instruction manual for the correct camera to subject and flash to subject distances.

Aperture Camera – Subject Distance 3500xi – Subject Distance f/2.8

1.4 – 5.0m (4.6 – 16 ft.) 1.0 – 5.0m (3.3 – 16 ft.) f/4.0

f/5.6

1.0 – 5.0m (3.3 – 16 ft.)

1.0 – 5.0m (3.3 – 16 ft.)

0.7 – 4.5m (2.3 – 14.5 ft.)

0.5 – 3.2m (2.3 – 10.5 ft.)

• Calculated for ISO 100 film only.


2. Wait until both flash units are fully charged.

• appears in the viewfinder when the builtin flash is charged.

• When the off-camera flash is charged, its

AF illuminator will blink.

Press the spot/AE lock button to test fire the accessory flash.


Wireless/Remote Ratio Flash

Press the flash-mode button when taking the picture. Both flashes will fire when the shutter is release at a 2:1 ratio. The built-in flash will provide 1/3 and the accessory flash will provide 2/3 of the total exposure.

CAUTION: Set CUSt – 8 (Spot/AE Lock) to setting 1 when Wireless/Remote flash mode is on. If setting 2 is selected, test firing the flash will activate slow-shutter sync (p82).

70 71


Cancelling Wireless/Remote Flash Mode

1. Attach the accessory flash to the camera, then turn the flash on.

2. Turn the function dial to WL.

FOR OWNERS OF THE PANORAMA MODEL

Select panorama mode to take panorama-format images any time, even in the middle of the roll.

• Panorama mode does not change the number of exposures on a roll of film.

• The top and bottom parts of the film will not be exposed.

• The imprinting position for the quartz data back is automatically changed when panorama format is selected.

1. Turn the panorama switch to P.

• The viewfinder changes to a panorama format.

72

3. Press the function button and turn the control dial until WL and OFF appear in the camera’s data panel.

4. Detach the accessory flash.

A

B

2. Frame your subject in the viewfinder and take the picture.

After taking panoramic images…

Attach one of the supplied panoramaformat stickers to the film cartridge. Two sticker types are available. Use A if all the images on the roll were exposed in panorama format. Use B if the roll contains both panorama and standard format images.

• Contact the nearest Minolta Service Facility to obtain additional panorama stickers.

73

FOR OWNERS OF THE QUARTZ DATE MODEL

The Quartz-data function lets you record the date or time onto the lower-right corner of the photograph. The quartz data back has an automatic calendar through the year 2019.

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

• Imprinting size and position may differ according to printing conditions.

• Do not use the data back when temperatures exceed the operating range of

0 to 50 °C (32 to 122 °F).

Print indicator

Mode button

Select button

Adjust button

Exposing the Date/Time

Before taking the picture…

1. Press the mode button to choose the data imprinting format.

• The display changes as follows:


Setting the Date/Time

1. Press the mode button to choose the data imprinting format.

• M will appear above the month.

2. Use the select button (SEL) to move between different parts of the displayed data.

• The selected part will blink, indicating that it is the data to be changed.

3. Press the adjust button (ADJ) to change the data to the correct value.

• Data continues changing as long as the button is held down.

• When the time is displayed and : is blinking, pressing the adjust button resets the seconds counter to zero (not shown).

4. When all data is correct, press the select button (SEL) until the data stops blinking.

2. Take the picture.

• If the print indicator blinks after the shutter is released, the data was exposed.

74 75


Replacing the Battery

The quartz data back uses a CR2025 lithium battery, located on the inside of the back cover. Replace the battery if the display or imprinted data becomes dim.

1. Open the back cover.

2. Using a coin or similar object, turn the battery cover counter-clockwise, then remove it.

76

3. Remove the old battery and replace it with a new one.

• The + side should face up.

4. Replace the battery cover, then reset the date and time.


Using the custom functions, you can tailor selected camera settings to suit your shooting style or preferences. The functions you can customize are explained on pages 78-82.

Setting the Custom Functions

1. Turn the function dial to CUST.

2. Turn the control dial to select the number of the custom function you want to change.

3. Press the function button and turn the control dial to select the desired setting.

4. Turn the function dial to any position other than CUST.

• The shutter cannot be released if the function dial is set to CUST.

To reset all of the custom functions to their default setting (1)…

1. Slide the main switch to LOCK.

2. Turn the function dial to CUST.

3. Press the function button and slide the main

• switch from LOCK to ON.

will blink in the data panel.

77


Cust 1 – AF Release Priority

1 – AF priority

Shutter will not release until or appears in the viewfinder.

2 – Release Priority

Shutter releases even if the focus cannot be confirmed. Use Release priority when photographing moving subjects.

• When continuous-advance mode is selected, the camera will not update the focus while the shutter-release button is pressed.

Cust 2 – Film Rewind Start

1 – Automatic

Film is automatically rewound at the end of the roll.

2 – Manual

Press the manual-rewind button to initiate rewind. (p29).


Cust 4 – DX Memory

1 – DX Memory Off

Film speed is always set to the DX-coded ISO. Non-DX-coded film is set to the ISO of the previous roll.

2 – DX Memory On

Changes to the film speed for a DX coded roll are saved and applied to future rolls with the same DX coded ISO. Use to consistently over/under-expose a specific film type.

• Film must be loaded before the ISO can be changed.

Cust 5 – Flash Control in P Mode

1 – Autoswitchover

Built-in flash pops-up when shutter-release button is pressed partway down. Flash will fire when necessary.

2 – Fill Flash (Manual Switchover)

Flash-mode button must be pressed to raise the built-in flash (p27). Flash will fire every time the shutter is released.

• The TTL exposure system will ensure correct exposure.

• Push the built-in flash down to select flash cancel ( ).

Cust 3 – Film Tip

1 – Film is completely rewound into the cartridge.

2 – Leader is left out of the cartridge after rewind.

• Sliding the main switch to LOCK during rewind causes the film to be rewound into the cartridge when the power is switched back on.

78 79


Cust 6 – Focus-hold button (LENS)

The mounted lens must have a focus hold button.

1 – Focus Hold

Pressing the focus-hold button on the lens locks the focus.


Cust 7 – Spot AF button

1 – Spot Focus

Press the Spot AF button to lock the focus using the center focus sensor (p53).

2 – Spot Focus

Pressing the focus-hold button on the lens selects the center focus sensor (p53).

3 – Continuous Focus

Select this setting when focusing on moving subjects.

Pressing the focus-hold button on the lens selects continuous focus.

2 – Selectable focus area

Press the Spot AF button and turn the control dial to specify the desired local focus area.

• The selected focus area is displayed in the viewfinder data panel.

• The focus area remains selected until it is changed or CUSt – 7 is returned to setting 1.

• When the RF 500mm lens or the AF

Power Zoom 35-80mm lens is attached, only the center local focus area can be selected.

Local Focus Area Locations

The sequence is:

Wide focus area Left local focus area Center spot focus area Right local focus area

80 81


Cust 8 – Spot/AE Lock button

1 – Press to activate

Spot area is used for metering until the spot button is released.

2 – Press once to activate, press again to cancel.

Spot metering area is used for metering until the spot/AE lock button is pressed again.

• Slow-shutter sync is set when the flash is selected.

Cust 9 – AF Illuminator (built-in flash)

1 – AF IIluminator on

When the built-in flash is up, its AF illuminator will fire when necessary to assist focus.

• The AF illuminator does not fire when flash cancel ( ) is selected.

2 – AF Illuminator cancelled

The built-in flash’s AF illuminator will not fire. Other flash functions will operate normally.

• An attached accessory flash’s AF illuminator will not be cancelled.

Cust 10 – Eyepiece Sensor

1 – Grip sensor activated

Eyepiece sensor is activated when the grip sensor is tripped.

2 – Main switch activated

Eyepiece sensor is activated when the main switch is in the ON position. Use this setting when the grip sensor is not being tripped

(user wearing gloves).

• Slide the main switch to LOCK when the camera is not being used.

82

APPENDIX

Program Reset Button

Press the program-reset button to return the following camera functions to their program settings.

FUNCTION

Exposure mode

Focus mode

Flash mode

Exposure Compensation

Film-drive mode

Self-timer

Wireless/Remote Flash

Bracketing

Multiple Exposure

P-MODE SETTING

P mode

Autofocus

Auto-on

+/– 0

Single-frame advance

Cancelled

Cancelled

Cancelled

Cancelled

• Date, red-eye reduction, ISO settings, and custom function settings will not change.

• Pressing the program-reset button will also reset an attached dedicated accessory flash’s program settings. Refer to the flash instruction manual for details.

ACCESSORY INFORMATION

This camera is designed to work specifically with lenses and accessories manufactured and distributed by Minolta. Using incompatible accessories with this camera may result in unsatisfactory performance or damage the camera and accessories.

Compatibility of Accessories

Lenses

• All Minolta AF lenses can be used with this camera.

• MD and MC series lenses (manual focus) cannot be used with this camera.

Flashes

• All Minolta i, si, and HS series flash units, and the Vectis SF-1 flash, are compatible with this camera. The flash will always fire when the flash unit is on. (Unless Custom Function #5 is set to

Autoflash (setting 1). In this case, the flash will fire only when necessary when it is on and the camera is in Full-Auto and

Subject Program modes.)

• The Flash Shoe Adapter FS-1100 is required to mount AF series flash units (4000AF, 2800AF, 1800AF, and Macro flash 1200AF).

• When the FS-1100 is used…

- The flash will fire every time the shutter is released.

- The AF illuminator will not activate.

- The built-in flash is set to fill flash when the accessory flash is removed.

• X-series flashes and flashes sold by other manufacturers cannot be used with this camera.

Others

• The following accessories are not compatible with this camera:

Control Grip CG-1000

Creative Expansion Cards

Magnifier

Data Receiver DR-1000

Anglefinder

Wireless Controller IR-1N

* Permanent damage will occur if the Wireless Controller IR-1N is used with this camera.

84


Accessory Flash Control

When using an accessory flash, the desired flash mode can be selected using the camera or the flash.

CAMERA

Press the flash-mode button and turn the control dial to select the desired flash mode.

• The camera transfers data to the accessory flash immediately.

FLASH

Press the flash’s ON/OFF button to select the desired flash mode.

• Data is not transferred from the flash until the shutter-release button is pressed partway down.

• Fill flash cannot be selected when the camera is set to Full-Auto or any of the

Subject Program modes.

85


For owners of the optional lens kits

Lens Hood

Flare is non-image forming light that degrades image quality. A lens hood improves image quality by reducing flare.

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

Fit the lens hood into the mount at the end of the lens barrel, then turn the hood clockwise until it stops.

• To store the hood, reverse it, attach it to the lens , then replace the lens cap.

Lens Specifications

Construction:

Angle of View:

Min. Focus Distance:

Max. Magnification:

Min. Aperture:

Filter Diameter:

Dimensions:

Weight:

AF Zoom

35 – 70mm f/3.5-4.5

7 elements/ 7 groups

63° – 34°

0.5m (1.6 ft.)

0.15X

f/22–27

49mm

68.5 x 63mm

210g (7.44 oz)

AF Zoom

28 – 80mm f/3.5-5.6

10 elements/10 groups

75° – 30°

0.38m (1.2 ft.)

0.26X

f/22–38

62mm

69 x 74mm

230g (8.125 oz)

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

86

EXPOSURE WARNINGS

Indicators will blink in the viewfinder or data panel when there is a problem with the exposure.

MODE DISPLAY

P

A

S

M

P

CAUSE

Light level is beyond the range of available shutter speeds and apertures.

Scene or subject brightness is beyond the camera’s metering range.

ACTION

Bright Light

Use slower speed film, a neutral density

(ND) filter, or reduce the light level of your surroundings.

Low Light

Use higher speed film or a flash.

A

The required shutter speed is beyond the range of the camera.

Select a larger or smaller aperture until the display stops blinking.

S

The required aperture is beyond the range of the lens.

Select a faster or slower shutter speed until the display stops blinking.

87

TROUBLE SHOOTING

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

PROBLEM

No display appears when the camera is switched on.

CAUSE

Batteries are loaded incorrectly.

Batteries are exhausted.

Situation is unsuitable for autofocus.

Autofocus does not work when shutterrelease button is pressed partway down.

Camera is set to manual focus mode.

Subject is too close.

Shutter cannot be released.

Focus cannot be confirmed.

Camera is attached to a microscope or telescope.

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

The AF illuminator is on.

Flash picture is too dark.

Subject is beyond flash range.

Lower part of flash picture is dark.

Lens hood attached.

Err appears in the data panel.

Camera Malfunction

88

TROUBLE SHOOTING

SOLUTION

Remove and reinstall the batteries.

If the camera battery is exhausted, install a new battery.

Use focus hold or manual focus.

Press the focus mode button to return the camera to autofocus mode.

Check the minimum focus distance for your lens.

Use focus hold or manual focus.

PAGE

12

12

24/54

54

–

24/54

Contact a Minolta service facility for information.

–

This is a normal camera operation.

Make sure the subject is within the flash range.

Remove lens hood.

Remove and reinstall the batteries. If normal camera operation does not resume or the camera malfunctions repeatedly, contact an authorized Minolta Service

Facility.

–

26

86

12

89

CARE AND STORAGE

Operating Temperature and Conditions

• 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 the glove compartment of a car.

• Data panel response time will be slow at colder temperatures.

The display will temporarily darken at higher temperatures, but will restore when the temperature normalizes.

• Never subject the camera to extreme humidity.

• To prevent condensation from forming, place the camera in a sealed plastic bag when bringing it from cold environment to a warm environment. 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, repeat turning the camera on and off.

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

Storage

When storing your camera for extended periods,

• Always attach the protective caps.

• Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area away from dust and chemicals such as moth balls. For long periods, 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.

CARE AND 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, if necessary, moisten a lens tissue with lens cleaning fluid and gently wipe the lens in a circular motion, starting from the center.

• 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 picture quality.

• Never use compressed air to clean the camera’s interior, it may cause damage to sensitive interior parts.

• Never use organic solvents to clean the camera.

• Never touch the lens surface with your fingers.

Before Important Events

• 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.

Questions and Service

• 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, please contact an authorized Minolta Service Facility for details.

90 91

SPECIFICATIONS

Camera Type:

Lens Mount:

Viewfinder:

35mm SLR with built-in flash, autoexposure

(AE), and action predictive autofocus (AF)

Minolta A-type bayonet mount

SLR roof mirror type, 90% field of view,

Magnification: 0.75X

Shutter

Type:

Speeds:

Flash sync speed:

Electronically-controlled, vertical-traverse, focal-plane type

30 sec. - 1/4000 sec., bulb

1/125 or slower (synchronizes with all speeds in HSS mode).

Focus

Type: TTL phase-detection system, multi metering with cross hair type CCD line sensor metering cell. Autofocus and manual focus modes.

AF Sensitivity Range: EV -1 to18 (ISO 100)

AF Illuminator: Built-in with range of 1.0 - 5.0m.

Automatically activated in low-light/ lowcontrast situations.

AF Control: Single-shot, continuous, automatic AF-mode selection.

Exposure

Modes:

Type:

Metering Cell:

P, A, S, M, and 5 Subject Program modes

(Portrait, Landscape, Close-up, Sports, Night

Portrait)

TTL metering; direct TTL metering for flash

14-segment honeycomb pattern SPC for ambient light and flash-metering SPC for flash.

Metering Range: Multi-segment metering: EV 1 - 20, Spot metering: EV 4 - 20

(ISO 100, f/1.4 lens)

Film-speed Setting: Automatic: ISO 25 to 5000 for DX-coded film.

Manual: ISO 6 to 6400 in 1/3 EV increments.

Flash: ISO 25 - 1000.

92

SPECIFICATIONS

Film Transport

Loading:

Drive Modes:

Rewind:

Frame counter:

Auto load

Single frame, continuous advance

(2 frames/sec.), self-timer, exposure bracketing, and multiple exposure.

Auto rewind, manual start (Count-down display)

Forward (shows number of exposures taken)

Built-in Flash

GN:

Coverage:

Recycling Time:

12 (ISO 100 in meters)

28mm angle of view

Approx. 3 sec. (according to Minolta test methods)

Additional

Power:

Battery Performance:

Two CR2 lithium batteries

Flash Use (%)

0

50

100

Condition A

20 °C -10 °C

40 rolls

17 rolls

11 rolls

30 rolls

13 rolls

8 rolls

20 °C

Condition B

-10 °C

65 rolls

23 rolls

14 rolls

50 rolls

18 rolls

10 rolls

* 24 exposure rolls

Condition A: Lens(28-80 f/3.5-5.6) focused from infinity to 2m three times and the shutter-release button held partway down for ten seconds before each exposure.

Condition B: Lens(28-80 f/3.5-5.6) focused from infinity to 2m and the shutter-release button held partway down for five seconds before each exposure.

• Battery performance will vary with usage conditions.

• Exposures taken at a rate of 2 rolls/month.

Dimensions (WxHxD): 135.0 x 90.0 x 58.5mm (WxHxD)

QD model: 135.0 x 90.0 x 61.0mm (WxHxD)

Weight : 375g (w/o camera battery),

QD model: 385g (w/o camera battery)

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

93

Minolta Co., Ltd.

3-13, 2-Chome, Azuchi-Machi, Chuo-Ku, Osaka 541-8556, Japan

Minolta GmbH

Minolta France S.A.

Kurt-Fischer-Strasse 50, D-22923 Ahrensburg, Germany

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

Belgium Branch Prins Boundewijnlaan 1, B-2550 Kontich, Belgium

Minolta (Schweiz) AG

Minolta Svenska AB

Finland Branch

Minolta Portugal Limitada

Riedstrasse 6, CH-8953 Dietikon, Switzerland

Albygatan 114, S-171 54 Solna, Sweden

Niittykatu 6 PL 37, SF-02201 Espoo, Finland

Av. do Brasil 33-A, P-1700 Lisboa, Portugal

Minolta Corporation

Head Office

Los Angeles Branch

Minolta Canada Inc.

101 Williams Drive, Ramsey, New Jersey 07446, U.S.A.

11150 Hope Street Cypress, CA 90630, U.S.A.

Head Office

Vancouver Branch

369 Britannia Road East, Mississauga, Ontario L4Z 2H5, Canada

230-3771 Jacombs Road, Richmond, B.C. V6V 2L9, 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

© 1998 Minolta Co., Ltd. under the Berne Convention and Universal Copyright Convention

Printed in Malaysia 9222-2153-11 MM-C909

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