Binding: Electronics Brand: Minolta EAN: 0043325606168 Feature: 35mm SLR camera kit with 28-100mm and 75-300mm zoom lenses Has Red Eye Reduction: 1 Label: Minolta Manufacturer: Minolta Maximum Focal Length: 100 Minimum Focal Length: 28 Model: 70 Date Optical Zoom: 3.6 Publisher: Minolta Studio: Minolta
Features
35mm SLR camera kit with 28-100mm and 75-300mm zoom lenses Fast, precise focusing with 9-point AF sensor system Advanced AF focus-point indication accurately tracks moving subjects High-grade body construction for balanced, responsive handling Powerful built-in flash (GN52.5 in feet) for worry-free low-light shooting
On the Maxxum 70, the AF sensor count has been increased to nine for consistently reliable focusing over a wider area of the frame. Drawing on years of experience in auto focusing technology, the new Center-Cross 9-Point system's coverage extends not just vertically and horizontally from the center point, but diagonally into all four quadrants of the frame. The result is sharp focus even when your subject's position changes unexpectedly.Autofocusing speed is one of the Maxxum 70's greatest strengths, so you're always ready to capture those magic moments you want to preserve forever.As an added benefit of the Center-Cross 9-Point AF system, the Maxxum 70 boasts a remarkable new level of responsiveness and auto-tracking ability when subjects are moving toward or away from the camera even diagonally. In addition, a red mark is superimposed on the image in the viewfinder to provide you with visual confirmation of the auto-tracking focus point.The built-in flash has a guide number of 16, and provides powerful illumination with up to 28mm wide-angle coverage. It offers a choice of Auto Flash, Fill Flash and Flash Cancel modes, as well as a Red-Eye Reduction mode that's perfect for parties and indoor events. When used in combination with any of the (D) series lenses, ADI (Advanced Distance Integration) assures proper illumination of your subject even when shooting against a very dark or light background.High-quality materials and construction provide a solid feel with sure handling. Operation is easy and intuitive, with a new 'dual-dial' control layout that provides ready access to mode and function settings.
Spotlight customer reviews:
Customer Rating: Summary: Discontinued Autofocus Model -- Still Cool! Comment: I've been an advanced amateur photographer for some time but still have yet to take the digital plunge. I've had the Minolta 70 for some years now and find it to be a reliable workhorse especially when taking candid shots at parades and city events.
The lenses change quickly, the controls are easy to learn. Yes, there is a manual focus just read the manual and figure it out. It also suppresses auto flash when you can simply hook a flash unit on top.
Minolta has a strange slot for a flash unit when you compare to Nikon or Canon. Once in, it locks in and that's fine with me.
The lenses for the 70 are also compatible with Sony's new Alpha system.
Sony Alpha A100K 10.2MP Digital SLR Camera Kit with 18-70mm f3.5-5.6 Lens
Sony Alpha DSLRA350K 14.2MP Digital SLR Camera with Super SteadyShot Image Stabilization DT 18-70mm f/3.5-5.6 Zoom Lens
Konica Minolta 18-70mm f/3.5-5.6 Digital Zoom Lens for 5D and 7D Digital SLR Cameras
Sony took over Minolta's camera line so you will no longer see Minolta 70 Maxxum. It is now a discontinued model. Best bet is to take your Minolta kit over to Sony.
Customer Rating: Summary: Awesome Camera for Price! Comment: This camera is light, easy to use yet feature rich. I compared it to digital (still to expensive for comparable resolution to 35mm film) and other SLR cameras. The auto focus is fast and reliable, although in low light it strobes its built in flash to assist with focusing. The built in flash is fairly powerful and convenient because it is always available. The complex metering system has handled difficult lighting situations well.
The focus may also be done manually, with focus assist. The f stop and/or shutter speed can be set manually. In addition to the default fully automatic setting there are 5 built in subject programs designed for portraits, close ups, sports, etc. There is a depth of field preview which I have not found on similar priced cameras.
Overall I am quite happy with this camera. I was also happy to find that it works with my old Minolta compatible Vivitar 100-300 telephoto lens, and my old Minolta dedicated 3200i flash. For the money I highly recommend you consider this 35mm camera. Customer Rating: Summary: Camera good Comment: The camera has been fantastic! It works marvelously, and the zoom lenses are amazing.
[...] Customer Rating: Summary: Judge the camera for what it is - and READ THE MANUAL! Comment: First, I would like to comment on previous reviews:
As for the lens shadows: REMOVE THE SUN SHADE from the lens. If you leave the sun shade on during flash/zoom photography, you will get the "shade/shadow effect" you talked about. It's not the lens, it's the shade. This information is included in the manual (always READ THE MANUAL before posting negative reviews!)
To the user disappointed in the manual focus: USE THE FOCUSING INDICATOR. Even in manual focus, the camera will still check for focus. When the small green dot inside the view finder goes solid, you are in focus. Again, this information is in the manual. READ THE MANUAL before posting negative reviews!
Overall, the camera is an excellent value. It is packed with features that were exclusive to cameras costing hundreds (sometimes thousands) of dollars more just a few short years ago. Prices are dropping due to the change in market focus (everyone wants to go digital.) Where else can you get a feature packed camera like this one for under $300?
For the beginner, a good film camera like this one is a great place to start. Learn the basics and KNOW the camera before making snap judgements. If you take the time to learn the camera and how to take pictures, you will NOT be disappointed by this hardware. Customer Rating: Summary: Lens Shadows Very Disappointing Comment: I purchased this package as I'm an avid fan of Minolta Cameras... and have to say I'm disappointed with the lenses. Either during wide-angle or 100% zoom, the corners of each photo have the lens in them.
I'm in the process of contacting Minolta about the issue because I love the camera but can't take the chance of losing good photos with the lenses.