Minolta-35 Model II

Standard Lens of Minolta-35

The Super Rokkor Coated F/2.8-45mm lens provides sharp focus from its shortest range to infinity, offering superior clarity. It is also noted for its color transparency capacity, highly praised by photography specialists. This lens is preferred for its fine depiction quality, even compared to lenses with larger diameters.

Structure of Minolta-35

The camera's structure includes several key components:

• 1. Super Rokkor Lens F/2.8-45mm: A lens with a wider covering angle and deeper focus range than typical 50mm lenses, suitable for snap-shooting.
• 2. Iris-Stop Dial: Graduated from F 2.8 to F 16, with markings for focus range from 1 meter (3.3ft) to infinity.
• 3. Focal Plane Shutter: Coupled with shutter speeds of 1/25-500 second and 'B' for rapid shutter, and 1/8 second to 'T' for slow shutter.
• 4. Counter Dial: Tracks exposures from '0' up to '39'.
• 5. Coupled Range-Finder and Viewer: A two-image coincidence type rangefinder integrated with the through-finder, offering a view slightly larger than the film frame.
• 6. Visual Regulating Finder: An adjustable eyepiece for clear viewing, particularly useful for far-sighted individuals. It features a two-terminal synchro system.
• 7. Back Cover Operation: The back cover opens and closes by aligning the 'Shut' or 'Open' mark, which also controls the magazine window.
• 8. Magazine: Composed of a spool, inner case, and outer case, designed for loading film cut to the proper length in a dark room.

Handling of Camera

Regulation of Shutter Speeds

The following features operate correctly after winding the film:

1. Rapid Shutter: Set speeds from 1/25 to 1/500 second by turning the Rapid Shutter Dial. The Slow Shutter Dial should be set to 1/25 sec.
2. Slow Shutter: For speeds from 1-1/8 sec., turn the dial to the point marked '•'. The Rapid Shutter Dial must be set to 1/25 sec.
3. Bulb Shutter: Set the Rapid Shutter Dial to 'B'. The shutter remains open as long as the button is pressed. The Slow Shutter Dial should be set to 1/25 sec.
4. Time Shutter: Set the Slow Shutter Dial to 'T' and press the button to open the shutter. Remove the dial from 'T' to 'I' (1 second) to close it. The Rapid Shutter Dial must remain at 1/25 sec.

How to Use Self-Timer

To use the self-timer, move its lever in the direction of the arrow. It will stop at any position. Pressing the starter button initiates the self-timer, which then operates the shutter automatically. At a right angle, the working time is about 8-9 seconds; at a 1-3 degree angle, it's about 4 seconds.

Coupled Range Finder & Viewer

Align the double images in the rangefinder by moving the lens barrel with the Focusing Lever until the two images coincide. This indicates correct focus. The visual adjuster can be turned to suit your eyesight for easier viewing through the finder.

Flash Synchronizer

Connect the flash cord terminal to the plug at the red point. Use F.P. bulbs for focal plane shutters. For electric discharge tube (Speed Flash), align the red mark 'X' on the Slow Speed Dial with the point '•' and set the '25' on the High Speed Dial to the arrow-marked point. This enables flash synchronization at 1/25 sec. Flash can also be used at speeds slower than 1/8 sec. by setting it to the point '•'.

Handling of Back Cover

Turn the Back Cover Lock to 'Open' at the bottom of the camera. To re-secure the cover, ensure the magazine is correctly positioned and the rewinding nozzle is not upward, otherwise, the cover may not fix properly.

Interchange of Lenses

To interchange lenses, turn the lens barrel anti-clockwise approximately two or three times until the lens detaches.

Handling of Magazines

Magazines for the Minolta-35 Camera consist of three parts: A, B, and C. Assemble them carefully, ensuring part 'B' is not upside down within 'C', and that the windows of 'C' and 'A' align straight for proper fixation. A 'Tick' sound indicates secure fitting.

Film to Magazine

Load the film end into spool 'B' with the emulsion side facing inward. For long film, cut approximately 1.6 meters (5 ft.). Insert into 'C' from side 'b' of 'B'. Ensure the film end does not hinder smooth insertion. If the film end is slightly bent outward, it aids in the next steps. To close the magazine window, push the film end and turn 'C' anti-clockwise until a 'Tick' is heard. If the film is difficult to pull out, turn 'C's knob or spool 'B' anti-clockwise to release the film end.

Film Loadings

1. Set the Rewinding Lever to 'R'. The Film Winding Knob will turn freely.
2. Open the back cover.
3. Pull up the Rewinding Knob, insert it from the bottom of the magazine, and attach it to the Rewind Shaft. Ensure the film comes from the center of the magazine; otherwise, the back cover may not close.
4. Turn the Film Winding Knob and fix the film end to the Spring Clip.
5. Wind the knob slowly to ensure the film perforation engages the Sprocket Gears, then close the back cover.
6. Return the Rewind Lever to its original position.
7. Turn the Film Winding Knob until it stops automatically, then release the shutter. Repeat this two or three times to wind any slack film onto the Take-up Spool.
8. Turn the Counter Dial to '0' at the arrow mark.

How To Take Pictures

General Procedure

1. Hold the camera firmly against your face to prevent shaking. For shutter speeds slower than 1/25 sec., use a tripod or stable surface.
2. Wind the Film Winding Knob until it stops. The Rewinding Knob's rotation indicates film winding.
3. Set the Shutter Speed Dial to the desired speed.
4. Set the Iris Stop Ring (aperture) to the desired setting.
5. Align the two images in the finder by moving the Focusing Lever until they coincide.
6. Gently push the release button. Avoid jerky movements for a fine exposure.

Determination of Exposure Times

Accurate exposure depends on light conditions, season, and film sensitivity. For beginners, using an exposure meter is recommended until theoretical understanding is mastered.

Relation of Iris Stop vs Shutter Speeds

Lens aperture numbers (e.g., F 2.8, 4, 5.6) indicate light volume. A smaller number means a wider aperture and more light. The table below shows relative light volumes and recommended settings:

Remarks: Left side figures in the time column denote A.M., right side figures denote P.M. Exposure times for other conditions: double for bright cloudy weather, double for winter season, half for summer season. Aperture can be adjusted by the following ratios: F 3.5 (1/5), F 4 (1/4), F 5.6 (1/2), F 8 (1), F 11 (2), F 16 (4).

Depth of Focus

Depth of focus refers to the range of distances that appear sharp when a subject is focused. This range is influenced by the aperture setting; a smaller aperture (larger F-number) results in a deeper depth of focus. For example, focusing at 10 feet with an F4 aperture provides sharpness from approximately 8-12 feet.

Film Rewindings

1. The Film Winding Knob stops automatically when shooting is complete.
2. Set the Rewinding Lever to 'R'.
3. Pick up the Rewinding Knob and turn it to rewind the film into the magazine. You will notice a lightness in the winding motion when all the film has been wound.
4. Open the bottom cover and remove the film.

Minolta's Interchangeable Lenses

Minolta offers various interchangeable lenses for different photographic needs:

• Standard Super Rokkor Coated F/2.8 f=45mm: Weight: 5 oz (150g). Length: 1.5 in (3.8cm).
• Super Rokkor Coated F/2.8 f=85mm: Weight: 13 oz (370g). Length: 3 in (7.6cm). Ideal for close-up portraits and distant scenes. Angle range: 26°. Magnification: 1.9x.
• Tele Rokkor Coated F/5.6 f=110mm: Weight: 9.5 oz (270g). Length: 2.7 in (6.8cm). Compact and lightweight, popular for general use. Angle range: 20°. Magnification: 2.4x.
• Tele Rokkor Coated F/4 f=135mm: Weight: 18.5 oz (520g). Length: 4 in (10cm). Excellent for distant subjects and sports photography. Angle range: 17°. Magnification: 3x.

Minolta's Accessories

Available accessories include:

• Interchangeable Lenses: Super Rokkor F/2.8-85mm, Tele Rokkor F/5.6-110mm, Tele Rokkor F/4-135mm.
• Lens Shade: Round Type.
• Filters: 3 Color Set in a celluloid case.
• Flash Unit: Minolta B.C. Model & Minolta Penlite Model E.
• Enlarger: "Pennant" 6x6 Model with "E. Rokkor" 50mm or 75mm lens.

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