Minolta HI-MATIC F, 1972, 35mm rangefinder,

Introduction to the camera and it's functions then loading and unloading Kodak Gold 200

[@n9iui]

I’ve had one of these cameras for many years. It gives very nice results; good little lens. I’ve put so much film through it and it keeps on going! Maybe I need to get it off the shelf and take it for a walk.

[@KDSproule]

This was the most helpful walk through I’ve found! Thank you ☺️

[@aui101]

Sweet little thing. I love it so much. I also love the Olympus XA, but the range finder of the minolta is much more „contrasty“, very similar to the Yashica Electro.

[@thephotographersbag]

Totally agree....

[@ianhand5006]

It’s well worth fixing that one Graham. The only rangefinder I have, is an Olympus XA. I’ve had it since 1997 and it’s quite tatty now, but it has never let me down.

[@thephotographersbag]

Hi Ian, yes it will get repaired at some point, I want to use it, the images I've seen from online are impressive, have an XA as well, must dig it out for a video, great design....

[@ladislavszabo2490]

thanks

[@Blofeld76]

Have same Minolta and for my experience there's no need for compensation when using two sr44 batteries. There is discussion at Rangefinderforum about Hi-matic F's battery issue. Someone had done tests giving camera voltage between 1.5 and 4 volts and there wasn't any change in exposure.

[@thephotographersbag]

Thanks for the very useful information, beautiful camera, can't wait for the weather to let improve.....

[@victoriaromero6472]

Do I need batteries to operate this camera?

[@Blofeld76]

@Victoria Romero Yes. This camera needs batteries for the lightmeter and electronically-controlled shutter.

[@eskillarsson3418]

So if i was to use two batteries, each with voltage 1.5, and then load ISO 200 film... would i set the ASA to somewhat higher than 200?

[@thephotographersbag]

Hi, no, you can safely shoot at the "box speed" of 200, negative film benefits from a bit of overexposure whether black and white or colour print, reversal or slide film needs very accurate exposure but is rarely shot nowadays, the difference in voltage will have no visible effect, just check the meter to ensure its accuracy with a known good meter or app on your phone, hope this reassures you, any problems please feel free to come back to me....

[@joeprete7424]

What size is the lens cap?

[@thephotographersbag]

Hi, I think it takes a 46mm lens cap, plenty for sale on the usual sites like eBay, good idea to protect the camera when not in use.....

[@joeprete7424]

@@thephotographersbag Does the Minolta cap slip over the outside? Thank You!

[@thephotographersbag]

@@joeprete7424 Hi, I think it sits on the inside , the outside cap is 48mm if I remember correctly....

[@rogeramdahl4992]

PX-640A are the replacement for the original batteries. They are 1.5V though.

[@thephotographersbag]

Hi, I use the Wien cells as they are 1.35v but a 1.5v battery works well, the exposure can be adjusted via altering the ASA/ISO if required, use whatever is available in your area at the lowest cost.....

[@cnccontroller]

In Russian there is a saying: the small - but perfectly formed! (Мал - да удал!) Or literally: small - but can do a lot!

[@thephotographersbag]

Agreed, I will repair this camera, I want to use it, such a good looking piece of design...

[@dreamdiction]

As far as I know, a flat battery will not stop the shutter working, a flat battery will only stop the light meter and aperture working, so you can still take picture but the aperture will remain at f2.7 (wide open) every shot.

[@AFortnightInJune]

I've got one of these if anyones interest in it. Its been sitting on a shelf for years. Clean battery bay. Im in tthe process of sourcing batteries for it now. Open to offers.