Awesome video. After watching this I dug out my x-700 that I bought in 1985 (I was 15). I found the original receipt for $350 Canadian. Have no idea where I got the money but still have the camera after all these years!
Years ago (80's) my husband bought me a Minolta X700 camera. Takes the most beautiful pictures. You can see bees inside the flowers from yards away. The best pictures ever of our family are with this camera. I never even used most of the features this camera has. Because I now have a little digital camera (actually have not graduated to the phone camera yet), I brought this camera to Hunt's Camera in Maine seeing what they may buy it from me. No way, according to the clerk Apparently there are many more cameras that are far superior and they would not be able to sell mine. So, now I'm thinking maybe I should save the moments that are special for just this camera. The nice thing about the digital camera is if the picture doesn't come out as planned, you can see it right away. But, all in all, most pictures taken with the Minolta always came out great. I really enjoyed your comments and instructional video. There is so much more to this camera than I realized. Thank you.
You forgot to mention another neat little feature. Above the lens on the prism itself is a little window. So when you look through the viewfinder, you can see what aperture you are on without having to bring the camera down to look. Very quick camera to use when shooting action. Love this camera to death!
I'm obsessed with this feature. I don't understand why there weren't more cameras made with this. I think I've run into one other camera with that feature. I forget what it is, but it's very useful on the Minolta.
Dustin Hern I believe the Pentax MX also had that feature. But like you said, I am also surprised more camera companies didn't include that feature. It was literally a game changer for photojournalists of the time when those cameras (minolta, etc) came out.
Yes I have to agree that seeing the aperture in the finder is very helpful!!! Nikon has actually been doing it since the early 1970's with the introduction of the "ai-s" system. You'll notice on older Nikon lenses TWO aperture numbers on the ring. The smaller number was intended for a "through the finder" reading of the aperture! As a Nikon shooter I actually didn't realize that this was NOT standard for most cameras. Thanks for the info guys!
I picked my X700 two months ago and have loved everything about it so far. Love the fact that it meters in manual mode unlike another minolta i own. You can also view the shutter speed in the view finder. This is my second minolta camera. Great review video!
This is the very first camera I used when I started film photography. Don't have to think too much when using it now, pretty much another extension of my body.
This was quite the refreshing review of this Minolta. I pulled the case out of Storage bcuz I got the feel to shoot 35mm film again. Bought my X700 in the early 80's. Standard lens along with a 135mm and the auto winder. Flash was by Soligor but now that you have explained the communication between that 280PX flash and x700, I will buy one. I've been also intrigued by the now films. I will be trying for the first time, the Portra 400. I am also activating the Canon AE-1 and try the Ektar 100 on this one. Purchased new batteries for both slrs. Has been decades since my days of photography in weddings, birthdays, graduations and all kinds of celebrations. I hope I will enjoy the results.
Superb introduction to this camera! I actually bought one about six years ago in Vancouver via Craigslist. The guy wanted $120, He opened the bag he had the camera (with leather case) in and showed me a showroom mind camera and case. He explained that he had shot one roll of film with it and then put it aside in a closet! It sat since around the mid-80's totally unused in a smoke-free environment (and yes as I asked!). Not wanting to piss him off in the least (as I normally will lowball/counter-bid the price) I gave him his $120 and walked away feeling like I had bought a Rolex for $120! Fantastic camera and ironically it was the first film camera that I had bought (I've shot digital since the late 90's).
Can you imagine that the surplus of 18-year long produce now goes from free to $ 100. Bought a body for 20 Euro. One tiny scratch, the rest was brand new. Excellent camera.
thank you for sharing, Minolta X-700 was my very first camera back in the 80ty's I started into photography, thank you for reminding me of how much I missed using Minolta, when digital cameras came out I was a bit sad, tried them out but didn't give me the passion I was missing, so, yes I am going back to Minolta. I am so excited. Thank you thank you thank you. Look forward to learn more from your show.
Got mine recently from a customer and it is Mint! It has a 50mm f/1.7 lens which is awesome! Need a 35mm so on the lookout for one of those. The best things about the camera are 1: Weight - Nice and light 2: Size - Not thick like a SLR, More like a range finder 3 The shutter - Oh that shutter......Sounds SO nice!! Best shutter sound so far! Thanks for the great video. I learnt a lot.
Nice work on the review of this camera. Something that I learned is that it will not advance at all unless the batteries are good, and the camera electronics are getting power. Different than other earlier film cameras.
My buddy in College in the 80s was a user of this rig and tried to convince me to move from my Canon AE-1, but stuck with Canon and did so until 2017 when I switched to Fuji. That said, the X-700 was a really nice rig, I borrowed a few times as it had a Motor Drive and shot a few Basketball games with it I was impressed.
Great video. Loved it and the B&W was absolutely fine.We get so carried away, B&W is just perfect in so many situations, we're almost obsessed with colour but I'm seeing a lot more B&W. I started a Photographic career back in the 70's working mainly in B&W because so much news paper and magazine stuff was B&W. I got re routed into IT at some point, which I regret but I've never given up on my photography and now it's my only interest. Though I can code. But, I bought an X-700 about 4 months ago, then I've just bought the Rokkor 58mm 1.4f lens and a 28mm lens. I LOVE the feel of the camera, the features, which you've explained well, and the opportunity for some great photos, mainly B&W for me. I've got to say, I've worked with Nikon and Canon in the past so I've missed the X-700, I even worked for Nikon at one point. There should be an X-700 club. But most of all I've missed working with Film. Happy to be back in the frame!
Yes, I agree the X-700 is a great camera, and I think you missed one of the features. The button on the front near the " X-700" has two functions. If you press is down. A light will come on to show you that our camera battery is ok. If you snap the button up. You just turn on the self timer, After you push the shutter button the light on the front will start blinking faster and faster. You can also buy a "multifunction programmable data back". For example, You can program the X-700 to turn itself on at 5 a.m.and take 5 pictures at 5 minute intervals. But they are hard to find. You can also get a huge flash for the camera, like a Sunpak 544 with an integrated module for the TTL ( through the lens ) metering the range is about 50 feet, with ASA 100 film, etc.. You did a great review, Later.
Fine video on a fantastic camera. I have been useing my consistently since the 80s just now upgraded to a minolta a9 waiting a few more days for lenses. Like to see your take on one. Black and white sets you off different.
My first serious camera was a Minolta X-700. I had the Minolta 50mm f1.7 and the Minolta 70-200mm zoom. I used it in college when I worked for the school newspaper. It was a work horse and never let me down. I wish I still had it. I changed to a Nikon N90 after the X-700. The only complaint I had with the X-700 was the metering was a little hot after about 5 years of use. It was an easy fix by using the exposure compensation dial to underexposed by 1 EV. So that knob was useful for me. I used to shoot all black and white. I miss the days of loading exposed film onto reels in the dark, developing and enlarging. I especially miss the smell of fixer. Call me weird. It was a true art form back then. All the way from composing down to enlarging techniques like dodging and burning. Most younger photographers have no idea what any of that is, but I enjoyed it. Thanks for the video. It was a walk down memory lane for me.
I suggest using the ISO dial instead (e.g. setting it to 400+1/3 when you actually are rating at 800) to fix the aggressive meter, so that the compensation dial remains neutral, free and clear for normal use.
Great video! I picked up an X-370 I. December, shot a roll with it and really enjoyed it, so almost immediately picked up an X-700 with that same flash and an extra lens. It was in mint condition, c,earned it up this past week and it’s ready to shoot this weekend!
I got one back in the late 80s then I worked as an Army photographer for 3rd Armored Division Public Affairs Office, where they also used the X-700 for their official camera. I loved the camera and took many great photos with it. my only complaint was the batteries had a habit of dying in cold weather, Which meant I would miss my shot. I brought a backup camera the Pentax K1000 because it only used the battery for the light meter. Otherwise the X-700 did a great job. I don't have one now but would get another one.
Enjoyed your Minolta X-700, I bought mine in 1985 new and I am still using it with all the feature to program , aperture priority, and manual. It was and is my work horse camera for everything, wedding, industrial photography, portrait, landscape, travelling photos, and of course family photos.. Keep your flash, you can use it with program for fill flash.
Thanks for the review! Lot of neat features I didn't know about! I got this camera from my dad, it's one he kept in his closet and used to take photos of us as kids. I had it cleaned up a few years ago but am only getting around to use it more now. Had a roll of Acros developed the other day, using this camera and some of what you shared in your video about reading light and think they came out pretty decent. Currently have a roll of HP5 In it and hoping to get more decent shots. ;) BTW, I like the b&w videos.
I bought one of these from a friend of a friend about 2 years ago. It's in mint condition. I don't think I've ever put more than one roll through it, but that's mostly because the only lens I have for it is some tele zoom. I keep forgetting to get a nifty fifty for this camera. It reminds me of my Canon AE-1 Program in many ways. I think the viewfinder in the Minolta might even be brighter than the Canon's. Both cameras are mega easy to focus. I recently eyeballed an XG7 and I have to say you're right about the difference in quality between those and the X700. This is a camera that seems to fly under the radar, with everybody pining over some Pentax, Canon, or Nikon, but the X700 can run with the best of them, no doubt.
X700 was my second, and favorite, camera. It took great pictures and was easy to operate so I could concentrate on content and not fight with the controls. I mean back in the eighties Nikon was top of the line, but this was affordable, had an early version of TTL flash, and depth of field button like the F3- it was awesome! Also, that little window that indicates if the film is loaded correctly was great for me. Maybe it was just me, but I used to screw up the loading of film all the time, and without that window you could only tell if something was wrong by the resistance on the winding lever; not a great method.
Excellent overview! I was given an x700 with some other photo gear from an older couple, but haven't messed with it yet aside from timing the shutter speeds.
Thanks for a great video. After many years sitting, I just broke out my old X700 with auto winder G, data back, PX360 flash and 4 lenses for my youngest to use in a photography class in High School where they start off with film. This video reminded me of why I purchased it way back in 1985 in Japan. I just installed new batteries and it appears to be functioning well. I going to run a few rolls through it to make sure but I am confident it will work fine. I use Nikon DSLR's now but this is going to be fun. Again thanks for a great video on the under rated X700.
Great explanation of the Minolta X-700. I got one of them, bought brand new in 1986. I did wedding photography with it with Flash 360PX in TTL setting. Even did macro photography with Minolta auto bellow III, Flash 360PX, with Minolta OC cable attach to camera hotshoes and the flash, I got fantastic result all the time. However, I still like to use my camera in Aperture mode or manual mode instead of Program mode. You are correct, the viewfinder metering is very good, even to this day. Great review. The other model that I enjoyed very much from Minolta is the X-570. I hope you find one of those model. Sorry mine are not for sell.
pure art...Best cameras ever to one learn how to take good pictures. I have 5 old style Minolta, first acguieved in 1982. srt 101, x 700 and others and a full collection of lens, filters etc.... really they are like durable strong war equipments, perfect for extreme conditions, best teaching for anyone who aspire the art of perfect phography.
I still have an X-700 along with a couple of X-370's, but my favorite is the X series cameras is the X-570. The 570 didn't have a program setting, but it had a wonderful metered manual setting instead. Also, motor drives for the X-series cameras are not only cheap, they make the cameras fit your hand like a glove.
Hello! How did you like X-700 and X-370? I’m thinking of getting one as I want to start film photography as a hobby. Nothing professional, just for documentation purposes. I would want something that has program mode? Which will take care the setting for me as I have zero knowledge with what ISO, shutter, aperture is as of right now. Wha would you recommend for a newbie? Who’s very clueless with film camera tech? 😅
The split image and microprism focusing aid is pretty cool. I use the same on a Pentax MX (think it's pretty common in Pentaxes as far as I know). Speaking of the MX, if you ever get your hands on one you should definitely do a review! Great channel by the way!
Also check out the Minolta XD (aka XD11 and XD7) which is my main shooter. A lot of the same tech and features (minus ttl) but a more old school metal build and I think it's beautiful. One of the best manual focus SLRs ever
Hi, I know your comment is really old, but I was wondering, you happen to have experience with both x-700 and xd-11? I'm interested in buying a Minolta camera, it'd be my first film camera (besides the ones we used in the 90's lol), and I can't decide between the x-700 (I feel like this would be the best option?) and xd-11. Could you maybe help me out a bit? Thank you!
Nice review, Ive learned a lot. I just bought one (130$ CAD) in mint condition. Right now im just getting use of all the settings and function. Cant wait to go buy some films and shoot!
I have the 135 2.8 and it takes awesome portraits on my X-700 loaded with Ilford PANF 50. I've been looking for the 28 2.8 to do some long exposure landscape stuff! Great review of my favorite 35mm MF camera! I'm going to subscribe to you. Keep up the great vids!
I have to agree with you on the 135 it's a great lens! And it's funny you mention the 28 2.8 lens because I just found one a few hours ago. Let me know if you're interested in it
Great video man, I really dig your stuff. I just ordered one of these, can't wait to try it out. I've been shooting Minoltas for a long time. I don't know if you've ever used one, but the XD11 (also known as the XD7 or simply the XD) is very similar to this, but even better in many ways. A lot of people say it's the best manual-focus camera Minolta ever made. I've loved using mine, but it's been having issues and nobody services them anymore, and the bodies are relatively expensive. Hopefully the X-700 will be more reliable in the long run.
If you like that look into the minolta XK, the XE-7, the XD-11, and the CLE (rangefinder). These were minolta's premier 35mm camera's in the 70's till the early 80's. The last three I mentioned were co-developed with Leitz (Leica) and their associated Leica model numbers, respectively, are: R-3, R-4 - R-7, and the CLE. Minolta's are excellent and very under- rated.
I shot my way through college with two Canon AE-1 Programs and all the goodies (motor drive etc.) I did buy an X-700, 50mm lens, winder for about $700 if I remember. I loved the camera but it did not hold up as well as the Canon cameras. The Minolta is long gone but I still shoot with the same Canon cameras with nothing ever done to them but CLAs every few years. That's like 35 years and going strong. (Never any shutter squeak) Needless to say, all my 35mm and digital equipment is Canon! By the way, the Rokkor Minolta lenses are great glass!
Wow thank you so much for the kind words! Ironic that you're from Vienna. I will be in Vienna towards the end of the month backpacking in Europe. Maybe we can meet up and shoot!
ForesthillFilmLab Yeah that would be great! For how long are you backpacking Europe? Do you have an email address where i can reach you for exchanging contact info? Mine is robert (at) 3globe.net I am looking forward to welcome you in Vienna! Best, Robert
Very cool. I had built up quite a large collection with a fairly close to complete set of accessories before switching to digital. I like to pull some of out once in a while to reminisce.
I have one also . Thanks for the video I need to learn how to use this thing I have 4 old cameras and some lenses that I need to learn they are all about the same age. I forgot I like photography I decided to get back into it. I love the black-and-white pictures and video that is my favorite kind of photography so far.
I have the 700 and the little brother 570. The last time I shot film was in 2007 or so with my 570. Unfortunately I don't shoot much film anymore because I don't know how to develop and the cost seems pointless to send out to develop. I guess I could learn but saw that it was so time consuming to get it to digital format to be able to share my work. Love the look using Ilford HP5 though. Film really tells a better story.
I have one more comment: The " +2 to -2" dial is for bracketing. If the lighting is unusual. You move that dial to shoot one under exposed ,and one normal, and overexposed with out changing any of your other your settings (up to 2 stops). If are shooting at night with no flash, you can use the dial for push your film to a higher film speed. If you load 800 ASA film and set the dial to -2. You can use your light meter as normal. But your photo lab will need to process your film and if it was 3200 ASA or a push +2. And I apology you did not miss the self timer ( My Bad ).. I hope are still enjoying your X-700
I just bought one of these for $5 with a bunch of lenses, leather case, and lenses bag. Beautiful camera. And the guy who owned it never really used it. All of the lenses have caked on dirt and camera/flash had the batteries left within them. I wish not to damage the lenses/mirrors/camera itself. You have any tips on cleaning or should I just take them to a camera shop to get them looked at?
How is the x-300? I've always wanted one but don't know if it's worth it..... I shoot with a x-700 actually just posted a video shooting ektar 100 on it! Check it out!
X-300 is good. Model is based upon the X-600. It shows selected shutter speed like X-500/570. A cool advantage. It doesn't have P or A, but I used it for many years without any issues. Only one capacitor too. Recommended (when it is cheap).
Hi Travis, keep doing it in B&W. I thi nk it's really cool and different. And better good our eyes too especially when we are working on computer and mobile screens half of our time. It's good to see B&W. And BTW.... I got myself a Yashica FX-3 super 2000...finally got myself a fully mechanical SLR for the first time yesterday. Read some really good reviews on it. Can't wait to shoot a roll with it. If you have that camera do make a video on it. Cheers n keep shooting😉
Great explanation! I just purchased (from E-Bay) a Minolta x 700 To try it, no flash; I never use it, but, may try this "special" flash. Be well, keep up with the good work, very inspiring...
Awesome video, I have some Minolta cameras recently purchased. Your video is very helpful & educational. thank you for posting this vidi- Staisha from Bolo Up
Travis. Thanks so much for this video. I wanted to get into film cameras and forgot I had this one. My grandpa gave it to me in 1982. I only used it a few times. Your video has encouraged me to get back into it. Do you suggest a place where I could search for lenses?
Maybe my new favorite camera. Thanks for this video, you really made a compelling case. I was already a Minolta guy - I have the classic SRT 102 and a few lenses. But I really didn't have anything in 135 with any degree of automation ( besides my XA). I was thinking of getting the X570, but changed my mind after seeing this video. So glad I did! Got a beautiful CLA'd version and a flash for just around $100, and I consider that a screaming good deal (the camera is essentially brand new). I think I will end up using this way more than the SRT 102. Props to the Old School, but I love being able to use this like a manual focus point and shoot, and the automation with the flash is a killer bonus. Awaiting the results of my first roll Had a question about that flash - do you know if you can get it fire for fill flash in the sun etc.? I've tried a few times in the sort of situation that would benefit from fill, but I couldn't tell if the flash fired.
To have full controll over A priority the minolta x-570 is a better option it does have aperture and shooter speed in the viewfinder and in M mode too .
The motor drive that I got with my xg-m from an estate sale came with the receipt in the back of the manual and was purchased 12-16-1981 and was $195.65 after taxes
Love my 700x use it on a daily basis there's nothing else like it. Also by using an older 35mm camera like the 700 x will make you realize the cell phone cameras are junk!
i had a butt load of cameras and after a kept coming back to my minolta x-570. Now i have the same set up he has on his 700 with the data back which is the best for astro photos.
It will beep when it's lower than 1/60, because 1/30 is considered too slow. And I tend to agree, it feels like it's long enough to make too much motion visible.
Hey, Cool Camera, I was looking at one of these the other day on Ebay, but picked up a Fuji GS645S for a steal, also I just bought a Mamiya Super 23 Press Camera for a Steal as well, Keep up the great work = Respect
Love your vid's watch them when I can, the only problem is people like you got me spending a half a ton. Buying old lenses and cameras so many that I had to get a dehumidifier just to store them... lol
Bruh, I'm a photographer and a friend gifted me this camera. It's sick AF. I have a few film cameras annnnnnd I'm thinking of dipping digital and going back to analog, haha
I've got two 9000's and yes - these cameras are so good. What on earth happened to all the parts that Minolta must have produced? Where did they all go?
Awesome video. After watching this I dug out my x-700 that I bought in 1985 (I was 15). I found the original receipt for $350 Canadian. Have no idea where I got the money but still have the camera after all these years!
Years ago (80's) my husband bought me a Minolta X700 camera. Takes the most beautiful pictures. You can see bees inside the flowers from yards away. The best pictures ever of our family are with this camera. I never even used most of the features this camera has. Because I now have a little digital camera (actually have not graduated to the phone camera yet), I brought this camera to Hunt's Camera in Maine seeing what they may buy it from me. No way, according to the clerk Apparently there are many more cameras that are far superior and they would not be able to sell mine. So, now I'm thinking maybe I should save the moments that are special for just this camera. The nice thing about the digital camera is if the picture doesn't come out as planned, you can see it right away. But, all in all, most pictures taken with the Minolta always came out great. I really enjoyed your comments and instructional video. There is so much more to this camera than I realized. Thank you.
You forgot to mention another neat little feature. Above the lens on the prism itself is a little window. So when you look through the viewfinder, you can see what aperture you are on without having to bring the camera down to look. Very quick camera to use when shooting action. Love this camera to death!
I'm obsessed with this feature. I don't understand why there weren't more cameras made with this. I think I've run into one other camera with that feature. I forget what it is, but it's very useful on the Minolta.
Dustin Hern I believe the Pentax MX also had that feature. But like you said, I am also surprised more camera companies didn't include that feature. It was literally a game changer for photojournalists of the time when those cameras (minolta, etc) came out.
Yes I have to agree that seeing the aperture in the finder is very helpful!!! Nikon has actually been doing it since the early 1970's with the introduction of the "ai-s" system. You'll notice on older Nikon lenses TWO aperture numbers on the ring. The smaller number was intended for a "through the finder" reading of the aperture! As a Nikon shooter I actually didn't realize that this was NOT standard for most cameras. Thanks for the info guys!
Flaming Brendanq
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My Praktica B series cameras have this window too. Very useful, as long as you have enough light to see it :)
I picked my X700 two months ago and have loved everything about it so far. Love the fact that it meters in manual mode unlike another minolta i own. You can also view the shutter speed in the view finder. This is my second minolta camera. Great review video!
Love the black and white presentation.
Probably one of the best consumer SLR made by any manufacturer. I love my minoltas .
I picked up a Minolta x700 2 years ago... I still haven’t used it! After watching your videos, I’m gonna finally take it for a whirl !
This is the very first camera I used when I started film photography. Don't have to think too much when using it now, pretty much another extension of my body.
I had X700 for many years and I still miss it
This was quite the refreshing review of this Minolta. I pulled the case out of Storage bcuz I got the feel to shoot 35mm film again. Bought my X700 in the early 80's. Standard lens along with a 135mm and the auto winder. Flash was by Soligor but now that you have explained the communication between that 280PX flash and x700, I will buy one. I've been also intrigued by the now films. I will be trying for the first time, the Portra 400. I am also activating the Canon AE-1 and try the Ektar 100 on this one. Purchased new batteries for both slrs. Has been decades since my days of photography in weddings, birthdays, graduations and all kinds of celebrations. I hope I will enjoy the results.
Superb introduction to this camera!
I actually bought one about six years ago in Vancouver via Craigslist. The guy wanted $120,
He opened the bag he had the camera (with leather case) in and showed me a showroom mind camera and case. He explained that he had shot one roll of film with it and then put it aside in a closet! It sat since around the mid-80's totally unused in a smoke-free environment (and yes as I asked!).
Not wanting to piss him off in the least (as I normally will lowball/counter-bid the price) I gave him his $120 and walked away feeling like I had bought a Rolex for $120!
Fantastic camera and ironically it was the first film camera that I had bought (I've shot digital since the late 90's).
Can you imagine that the surplus of 18-year long produce now goes from free to $ 100. Bought a body for 20 Euro. One tiny scratch, the rest was brand new. Excellent camera.
thank you for sharing, Minolta X-700 was my very first camera back in the 80ty's I started into photography, thank you for reminding me of how much I missed using Minolta, when digital cameras came out I was a bit sad, tried them out but didn't give me the passion I was missing, so, yes I am going back to Minolta. I am so excited. Thank you thank you thank you. Look forward to learn more from your show.
Have been using mine for about a decade, love it
Got mine recently from a customer and it is Mint! It has a 50mm f/1.7 lens which is awesome! Need a 35mm so on the lookout for one of those. The best things about the camera are
1: Weight - Nice and light
2: Size - Not thick like a SLR, More like a range finder
3 The shutter - Oh that shutter......Sounds SO nice!! Best shutter sound so far!
Thanks for the great video. I learnt a lot.
when you focus with the prism ,my top half keeps going black and i have no idea if my photos will be in focus 😅
The 28mm 2.8's are a lot more abundant on ebay for wide primes
Nice work on the review of this camera. Something that I learned is that it will not advance at all unless the batteries are good, and the camera electronics are getting power. Different than other earlier film cameras.
well done. I really like my x-700. grabbed two last summer to compliment the XG-1 I bought new in the late 70s. Keep up the informative videos.
My buddy in College in the 80s was a user of this rig and tried to convince me to move from my Canon AE-1, but stuck with Canon and did so until 2017 when I switched to Fuji. That said, the X-700 was a really nice rig, I borrowed a few times as it had a Motor Drive and shot a few Basketball games with it I was impressed.
who is here from #MinoltaGang ?
Me
Great video. Loved it and the B&W was absolutely fine.We get so carried away, B&W is just perfect in so many situations, we're almost obsessed with colour but I'm seeing a lot more B&W. I started a Photographic career back in the 70's working mainly in B&W because so much news paper and magazine stuff was B&W. I got re routed into IT at some point, which I regret but I've never given up on my photography and now it's my only interest. Though I can code. But, I bought an X-700 about 4 months ago, then I've just bought the Rokkor 58mm 1.4f lens and a 28mm lens. I LOVE the feel of the camera, the features, which you've explained well, and the opportunity for some great photos, mainly B&W for me. I've got to say, I've worked with Nikon and Canon in the past so I've missed the X-700, I even worked for Nikon at one point. There should be an X-700 club. But most of all I've missed working with Film. Happy to be back in the frame!
Yes, I agree the X-700 is a great camera, and I think you missed one of the features. The button on the front near the " X-700" has two functions. If you press is down. A light will come on to show you that our camera battery is ok. If you snap the button up. You just turn on the self timer, After you push the shutter button the light on the front will start blinking faster and faster. You can also buy a "multifunction programmable data back". For example, You can program the X-700 to turn itself on at 5 a.m.and take 5 pictures at 5 minute intervals. But they are hard to find. You can also get a huge flash for the camera, like a Sunpak 544 with an integrated module for the TTL ( through the lens ) metering the range is about 50 feet, with ASA 100 film, etc.. You did a great review, Later.
I shoot digital, my wife gave me her old x700 just a few days ago. She used it in college in 1999-2001, and didn’t touch it since,
I love it.
Fine video on a fantastic camera. I have been useing my consistently since the 80s just now upgraded to a minolta a9 waiting a few more days for lenses.
Like to see your take on one.
Black and white sets you off different.
My first serious camera was a Minolta X-700. I had the Minolta 50mm f1.7 and the Minolta 70-200mm zoom. I used it in college when I worked for the school newspaper. It was a work horse and never let me down. I wish I still had it. I changed to a Nikon N90 after the X-700. The only complaint I had with the X-700 was the metering was a little hot after about 5 years of use. It was an easy fix by using the exposure compensation dial to underexposed by 1 EV. So that knob was useful for me. I used to shoot all black and white. I miss the days of loading exposed film onto reels in the dark, developing and enlarging. I especially miss the smell of fixer. Call me weird. It was a true art form back then. All the way from composing down to enlarging techniques like dodging and burning. Most younger photographers have no idea what any of that is, but I enjoyed it. Thanks for the video. It was a walk down memory lane for me.
I suggest using the ISO dial instead (e.g. setting it to 400+1/3 when you actually are rating at 800) to fix the aggressive meter, so that the compensation dial remains neutral, free and clear for normal use.
Great video! I picked up an X-370 I. December, shot a roll with it and really enjoyed it, so almost immediately picked up an X-700 with that same flash and an extra lens. It was in mint condition, c,earned it up this past week and it’s ready to shoot this weekend!
Great input on the X700. Bought one in 1995, and loved it.
I got one back in the late 80s then I worked as an Army photographer for 3rd Armored Division Public Affairs Office, where they also used the X-700 for their official camera. I loved the camera and took many great photos with it. my only complaint was the batteries had a habit of dying in cold weather, Which meant I would miss my shot. I brought a backup camera the Pentax K1000 because it only used the battery for the light meter. Otherwise the X-700 did a great job. I don't have one now but would get another one.
The Minolta X-700 is truly a superb SLR.
One of the most underrated camera's of all time..! I love this camera so much that I have 3 with a bunch of lenses and accessories!
iczerone2000 I love my x700. it was underrated by nikon enthusiasts.
I have a Minolta x-700 it's my 2nd favorite camera to shoot. I've actually had two of them lol am glad you decided to give the Minolta a chance :)
Enjoyed your Minolta X-700, I bought mine in 1985 new and I am still using it with all the feature to program
, aperture priority, and manual. It was and is my work horse camera for everything, wedding, industrial photography, portrait, landscape, travelling photos, and of course family photos.. Keep your flash, you can use it with program for fill flash.
thank you for this! i have a x700 and this video made me excited to go out and keep on shooting
I have two of these plus an XGM that I still shoot with. Awesome review.
Thanks for the review! Lot of neat features I didn't know about! I got this camera from my dad, it's one he kept in his closet and used to take photos of us as kids. I had it cleaned up a few years ago but am only getting around to use it more now. Had a roll of Acros developed the other day, using this camera and some of what you shared in your video about reading light and think they came out pretty decent. Currently have a roll of HP5 In it and hoping to get more decent shots. ;) BTW, I like the b&w videos.
I bought one of these from a friend of a friend about 2 years ago. It's in mint condition. I don't think I've ever put more than one roll through it, but that's mostly because the only lens I have for it is some tele zoom. I keep forgetting to get a nifty fifty for this camera.
It reminds me of my Canon AE-1 Program in many ways. I think the viewfinder in the Minolta might even be brighter than the Canon's. Both cameras are mega easy to focus. I recently eyeballed an XG7 and I have to say you're right about the difference in quality between those and the X700. This is a camera that seems to fly under the radar, with everybody pining over some Pentax, Canon, or Nikon, but the X700 can run with the best of them, no doubt.
It was my first slr. I now have 5 of them with all kinds of accessories.
love my x-700. Shooting it with the 50mm14 which takes great photos (especially for how affordable the glass was).
X700 was my second, and favorite, camera. It took great pictures and was easy to operate so I could concentrate on content and not fight with the controls. I mean back in the eighties Nikon was top of the line, but this was affordable, had an early version of TTL flash, and depth of field button like the F3- it was awesome! Also, that little window that indicates if the film is loaded correctly was great for me. Maybe it was just me, but I used to screw up the loading of film all the time, and without that window you could only tell if something was wrong by the resistance on the winding lever; not a great method.
Just picked up this camera. Thanks for the video I can't wait to get out and shoot with it.
Hope to see you back soon, your vlogs are always interesting and educational
Excellent overview! I was given an x700 with some other photo gear from an older couple, but haven't messed with it yet aside from timing the shutter speeds.
Thanks for a great video. After many years sitting, I just broke out my old X700 with auto winder G, data back, PX360 flash and 4 lenses for my youngest to use in a photography class in High School where they start off with film. This video reminded me of why I purchased it way back in 1985 in Japan. I just installed new batteries and it appears to be functioning well. I going to run a few rolls through it to make sure but I am confident it will work fine. I use Nikon DSLR's now but this is going to be fun. Again thanks for a great video on the under rated X700.
Greetings from Austin TX. Thanks for another great video. I've been enjoying your videos and appreciate the effort you put into them.
Great explanation of the Minolta X-700. I got one of them, bought brand new in 1986. I did wedding photography with it with Flash 360PX in TTL setting. Even did macro photography with Minolta auto bellow III, Flash 360PX, with Minolta OC cable attach to camera hotshoes and the flash, I got fantastic result all the time. However, I still like to use my camera in Aperture mode or manual mode instead of Program mode. You are correct, the viewfinder metering is very good, even to this day. Great review. The other model that I enjoyed very much from Minolta is the X-570. I hope you find one of those model. Sorry mine are not for sell.
pure art...Best cameras ever to one learn how to take good pictures. I have 5 old style Minolta, first acguieved in 1982. srt 101, x 700 and others and a full collection of lens, filters etc.... really they are like durable strong war equipments, perfect for extreme conditions, best teaching for anyone who aspire the art of perfect phography.
I still have an X-700 along with a couple of X-370's, but my favorite is the X series cameras is the X-570. The 570 didn't have a program setting, but it had a wonderful metered manual setting instead. Also, motor drives for the X-series cameras are not only cheap, they make the cameras fit your hand like a glove.
The MD-1 isn't cheap anymore!, for a good one expect to pay over 100 USD, i am lucky i only paid 80 for mine.
Hello! How did you like X-700 and X-370? I’m thinking of getting one as I want to start film photography as a hobby. Nothing professional, just for documentation purposes. I would want something that has program mode? Which will take care the setting for me as I have zero knowledge with what ISO, shutter, aperture is as of right now. Wha would you recommend for a newbie? Who’s very clueless with film camera tech? 😅
An excellent camera. I own one myself. Paid $99 and it is in super excellent condition.
The X700 is the first good camera I owned. I bought it the first month they first hit the stores :)
Vintage! Oh my gosh I’m getting old… I own and love this camera.
I just picked one of these up today at a thrift shop for $24. Thanks for explaining the features. :)
today I bought one myself and frankly I think I fell in love :)
The split image and microprism focusing aid is pretty cool. I use the same on a Pentax MX (think it's pretty common in Pentaxes as far as I know). Speaking of the MX, if you ever get your hands on one you should definitely do a review! Great channel by the way!
Also check out the Minolta XD (aka XD11 and XD7) which is my main shooter. A lot of the same tech and features (minus ttl) but a more old school metal build and I think it's beautiful. One of the best manual focus SLRs ever
Hi, I know your comment is really old, but I was wondering, you happen to have experience with both x-700 and xd-11? I'm interested in buying a Minolta camera, it'd be my first film camera (besides the ones we used in the 90's lol), and I can't decide between the x-700 (I feel like this would be the best option?) and xd-11. Could you maybe help me out a bit? Thank you!
XE-7 are cool (and classic) too.
Nice review, Ive learned a lot. I just bought one (130$ CAD) in mint condition. Right now im just getting use of all the settings and function. Cant wait to go buy some films and shoot!
I love my Minolta X-700. It's my "go to" manual camera.
I have the 135 2.8 and it takes awesome portraits on my X-700 loaded with Ilford PANF 50. I've been looking for the 28 2.8 to do some long exposure landscape stuff!
Great review of my favorite 35mm MF camera! I'm going to subscribe to you. Keep up the great vids!
I have to agree with you on the 135 it's a great lens! And it's funny you mention the 28 2.8 lens because I just found one a few hours ago. Let me know if you're interested in it
What is your name on instagram?
Great video man, I really dig your stuff. I just ordered one of these, can't wait to try it out. I've been shooting Minoltas for a long time. I don't know if you've ever used one, but the XD11 (also known as the XD7 or simply the XD) is very similar to this, but even better in many ways. A lot of people say it's the best manual-focus camera Minolta ever made. I've loved using mine, but it's been having issues and nobody services them anymore, and the bodies are relatively expensive. Hopefully the X-700 will be more reliable in the long run.
My first camera it still works great.
If you like that look into the minolta XK, the XE-7, the XD-11, and the CLE (rangefinder). These were minolta's premier 35mm camera's in the 70's till the early 80's. The last three I mentioned were co-developed with Leitz (Leica) and their associated Leica model numbers, respectively, are: R-3, R-4 - R-7, and the CLE. Minolta's are excellent and very under- rated.
I shot my way through college with two Canon AE-1 Programs and all the goodies (motor drive etc.) I did buy an X-700, 50mm lens, winder for about $700 if I remember. I loved the camera but it did not hold up as well as the Canon cameras. The Minolta is long gone but I still shoot with the same Canon cameras with nothing ever done to them but CLAs every few years. That's like 35 years and going strong. (Never any shutter squeak) Needless to say, all my 35mm and digital equipment is Canon! By the way, the Rokkor Minolta lenses are great glass!
Your videos are really good. Very informative, good to follow and interesting. Keep up the good work. Best from Vienna,Austria
Wow thank you so much for the kind words! Ironic that you're from Vienna. I will be in Vienna towards the end of the month backpacking in Europe. Maybe we can meet up and shoot!
ForesthillFilmLab Yeah that would be great! For how long are you backpacking Europe? Do you have an email address where i can reach you for exchanging contact info? Mine is robert (at) 3globe.net I am looking forward to welcome you in Vienna! Best, Robert
I got mine yesterday for $50, what a wonderful camera.
was deciding between the ni f1 and mil x700. this was great
Very cool. I had built up quite a large collection with a fairly close to complete set of accessories before switching to digital. I like to pull some of out once in a while to reminisce.
I have one also . Thanks for the video I need to learn how to use this thing I have 4 old cameras and some lenses that I need to learn they are all about the same age. I forgot I like photography I decided to get back into it. I love the black-and-white pictures and video that is my favorite kind of photography so far.
I have the 700 and the little brother 570. The last time I shot film was in 2007 or so with my 570. Unfortunately I don't shoot much film anymore because I don't know how to develop and the cost seems pointless to send out to develop. I guess I could learn but saw that it was so time consuming to get it to digital format to be able to share my work. Love the look using Ilford HP5 though. Film really tells a better story.
great vid! love the black and white too! I just bough one of these, but didnt realize the mirror was stuck up!!!
Great video Travis! I love this camera as well and some of the other old minolta (XD-11) cameras.
Great video. I’m a fan of Minolta. For film. I have the SR-3 Wouldn’t trade anything for it
I have one more comment: The " +2 to -2" dial is for bracketing. If the lighting is unusual. You move that dial to shoot one under exposed ,and one normal, and overexposed with out changing any of your other your settings (up to 2 stops). If are shooting at night with no flash, you can use the dial for push your film to a higher film speed. If you load 800 ASA film and set the dial to -2. You can use your light meter as normal. But your photo lab will need to process your film and if it was 3200 ASA or a push +2. And I apology you did not miss the self timer ( My Bad ).. I hope are still enjoying your X-700
I just bought one of these for $5 with a bunch of lenses, leather case, and lenses bag. Beautiful camera. And the guy who owned it never really used it. All of the lenses have caked on dirt and camera/flash had the batteries left within them. I wish not to damage the lenses/mirrors/camera itself. You have any tips on cleaning or should I just take them to a camera shop to get them looked at?
I bought one. Or two... 50 Euro total. One is almost brand new. Still using my X-300, but next film goes into a X-700. Excellent review!
How is the x-300? I've always wanted one but don't know if it's worth it..... I shoot with a x-700 actually just posted a video shooting ektar 100 on it! Check it out!
X-300 is good. Model is based upon the X-600. It shows selected shutter speed like X-500/570. A cool advantage. It doesn't have P or A, but I used it for many years without any issues. Only one capacitor too. Recommended (when it is cheap).
vangestelwijnen okay thanks! I found one for like $15 bucks in okay shape guess I'll try it out!
I used the X-700 as my work camera when I was in the army working as a photographer
Picked up one of these brand new boxed from eBay from an estate sale. Have a mint 35mm 1.8 on the way to set it up.
I learn photography on my X700 which was my first SLR
Hi Travis, keep doing it in B&W. I thi nk it's really cool and different. And better good our eyes too especially when we are working on computer and mobile screens half of our time. It's good to see B&W. And BTW.... I got myself a Yashica FX-3 super 2000...finally got myself a fully mechanical SLR for the first time yesterday. Read some really good reviews on it. Can't wait to shoot a roll with it. If you have that camera do make a video on it. Cheers n keep shooting😉
Great explanation! I just purchased (from E-Bay) a Minolta x 700 To try it, no flash; I never use it, but, may try this "special" flash. Be well, keep up with the good work, very inspiring...
one of my favorite cameras.
I still have a 7000 with 2 lenses and a flash. They have been used for maximum of 4 rolls of film. And it has autofocus!
Like the black and white video !
Awesome video, I have some Minolta cameras recently purchased. Your video is very helpful & educational. thank you for posting this vidi- Staisha from Bolo Up
This would probably the 1st camera that I will buy. Thank you for making this video. I'm really impressed by the motor. Hahahaha! God bless!
kiitos valaisevasta esityksestä löysin samanlaisen kameran .ja otan käyttöön nyt kun annoit hyvää tietoa kiitos ...
Travis. Thanks so much for this video. I wanted to get into film cameras and forgot I had this one. My grandpa gave it to me in 1982. I only used it a few times. Your video has encouraged me to get back into it. Do you suggest a place where I could search for lenses?
Maybe my new favorite camera. Thanks for this video, you really made a compelling case. I was already a Minolta guy - I have the classic SRT 102 and a few lenses. But I really didn't have anything in 135 with any degree of automation ( besides my XA). I was thinking of getting the X570, but changed my mind after seeing this video. So glad I did! Got a beautiful CLA'd version and a flash for just around $100, and I consider that a screaming good deal (the camera is essentially brand new). I think I will end up using this way more than the SRT 102. Props to the Old School, but I love being able to use this like a manual focus point and shoot, and the automation with the flash is a killer bonus. Awaiting the results of my first roll
Had a question about that flash - do you know if you can get it fire for fill flash in the sun etc.? I've tried a few times in the sort of situation that would benefit from fill, but I couldn't tell if the flash fired.
Wonderful info. I loved the BW video. It caught my eye and helped me focus on what you were saying
Thanks.
To have full controll over A priority the minolta x-570 is a better option it does have aperture and shooter speed in the viewfinder and in M mode too .
Great video man! Love the black and white it works really well, particularly with the black and white sample images too! :D
The motor drive that I got with my xg-m from an estate sale came with the receipt in the back of the manual and was purchased 12-16-1981 and was $195.65 after taxes
Love my 700x use it on a daily basis there's nothing else like it. Also by using an older 35mm camera like the 700 x will make you realize the cell phone cameras are junk!
What lense do you recommend using this x700 ?
i had a butt load of cameras and after a kept coming back to my minolta x-570. Now i have the same set up he has on his 700 with the data back which is the best for astro photos.
It will beep when it's lower than 1/60, because 1/30 is considered too slow. And I tend to agree, it feels like it's long enough to make too much motion visible.
My mom and dad were great Minolta shooters.
Travis can you change out the focusing screen and how ?? Thanks Neil .
Hey, Cool Camera, I was looking at one of these the other day on Ebay, but picked up a Fuji GS645S for a steal, also I just bought a Mamiya Super 23 Press Camera for a Steal as well, Keep up the great work = Respect
enjoy your videos looking to get into film i shoot mostly digital but wish i had started way back with film .
Love your vid's watch them when I can, the only problem is people like you got me spending a half a ton. Buying old lenses and cameras so many that I had to get a dehumidifier just to store them... lol
Anthony Dark Unfortunately we all get a case of G.A.S. It should pass, eventually. Lol
Bruh, I'm a photographer and a friend gifted me this camera. It's sick AF. I have a few film cameras annnnnnd I'm thinking of dipping digital and going back to analog, haha
I've got two 9000's and yes - these cameras are so good. What on earth happened to all the parts that Minolta must have produced? Where did they all go?
You forgot to mention the original ringflash and it has a kind of wireless release an auto belliws with movements