Your videos are so ... professional, I could not image how to make it more professional. But this doesn't mean , that your videos are .. boring or something like that. I wait always after each video for your next video. Great that you are back !! I always grab a coffee or tea, and some sweeties and have 10-20 min journey into the very interesting world of analog photography !! I would be interested in some Contax / Yashica Stuff.... Thanks for sharing !
No matter what review I watch on this camera, no one ever says anything about the picture preview button on the bottom left side, next to the lense. Not a single person mentions it.
Busy clearing out my father in laws place and found this exact camera. All it seemed to need was the batteries and a roll of film. It’s now part of my camera kit sitting next to my Nikon D850 for when I shoot historic motoring events.
Have my Mum's X700 with 35 - 70 zoom, I love this camera. It had an unused film loaded in it so I went out and took some shots and I was amazed how good they are. Always switch off when not shooting as batteries can drain.
My first camera was an X-700. I leaned photography with that camera. It was a solid camera. I used it in my early photojournalism days. I moved to Nikon only when the meter started to drift and all my shots were hot. I just used exposure compensation to correct it or stopped up either aperture or shutter. Regardless, I bought it in 1986 and passed over the Maxuum. Glad I did because the X-700 is a classic. No one talks about the Maxuum line.
Yes I agree, I have all the Minolta X series, from X-370, X-570, and X-700 which I bought in 1985-86, my favorite is X-570 because the metering in manual mode is better than X-700. However, I used the X-700 as well in manual mode or Aperture mode , very rare in Program mode.
X700 most definitely does not lack metered manual mode... The only thing the 570 gains is that it shows you what shutter speed you have selected in the viewfinder (which is not the same thing as "not metering"--both of them show you what shutter speed you SHOULD have, which is the metering part). In exchange, it loses both exposure compensation and P mode, which is way way more impressive than "literally just linking the shutter dial to some LEDs 1:1"
Just acquired a fine Minolta X700 specimen. With the bag and a ton of lenses, and all the accessories. I have to admit at first I was daunted, but there seems to be a lot of Info on this model. I’m just starting out on my photography journey and wanted to use film to learn. it’s nice to know that I happened upon one that would be helpful to learn film and is geared towards student photographer in many ways. Your video was very helpful! Thank you. Subscribed.
This format is really working. Great video. I reckon you should explore some of the old folding, roll film cameras from the 1920s-1950s. There’s a lot of lost beauty in them, they take photos with a “classic” look suited to their age, and can sometimes be found dirt cheap in working order. The same can be said of some Baldax and Agfa fixed lens rangefinders out there (Balda Super Baldina and Agfa Super Silette, which are only a few dollars).
Good idea. Could be interesting to see how that worked out. How the pictures turned out in the hand of a dedicated photographer that know how to appreciate good old mechanical craftmanship. Have some of them "classics" myself, but so far just on display.
I agree, I have been keeping my eye out for cameras that age. I do have a Kodak Junior six-20, but finding info on the cameras to the same degree is very difficult. None the less my eyes are peeled. Thanks :)
great job man! I love the fact you took the time to go over the camera. It was really helpful for a beginner like me. I'm sure many people will find it useful as well!
I’ve had X700’s and X570’s over the years, also many older manual Minolta. Although I liked the X700 I preferred the X570 since I like to shoot in manual mode. Alas neither the X700 or the X570 are working anymore. I think the Florida humidity has done them in. Thanks for the video. I’m glad you’re back.
Glad to see a new vid from you dude, my Minolta X-700 is currently loaded with ilford HP5+, the 50mm f,1.4 and the motor drive attached as I post this comment, great video as always and keep up the good work
@@AzrielKnight just got it checked out by the local camera shop, The shutter doesn’t advance. I have other cameras so it’s no big deal, but I would love to take the first shots with it since new.
This camera has been my go to for all things music venue photography! I have a f1.4 for it and it does amazing! Its a tough camera and makes super sharp images!
Very informative video for someone that's new to this, thank you. I just picked up one with a lens and flash for only $7. Can't wait to see how the pictures turn out
I admit, I watched this episode somewhat anxiously. I personally carry a Minolta X-570 as my daily camera (which is almost identical to the X-700, +/- a couple features. I agree, it's nothing fancy but it's got a certain understated charm to it. It's also very reliable and the images never disappoint. As always, your review was well-rounded and fair :)
I love your camera memory lane thing, but a few details: The X-700 wasn't the last camera produced for their SR mount before the release of the Alpha/Maxxum/Dynax AF cameras, that title actually goes to Minolta X-9 and before that Minolta released the X-500/X-570 and the X-300/X-370 as well as later updates as the X-300s and X-300n. I think Minolta also released the XG-M (X-70 in Japan) slightly after the X-700. The X-500/X570 actually have a feature that is much appreciated; it's not only fully metered during manual mode photography but it also displays the set shutter speed in the viewfinder so in essence you got match-LED fully metered photography with the advanced flash metering system.
A most enjoyable review,I just got a basically new version on Ebay, and am enjoying it immensely. I shoot a lot of digital and film, and this camera is a joy to use. Cheers!
Hey! Thanks for this video! I was given one of these by a friend recently and it's super good to find out a little more about the history. In the scene where you're talking about prices, I think it would be super helpful to actually _write_ CAD as well as saying it.
Great content and research, which is becoming RARE on this platform. Thanks Azriel! (I swear by this camera, I've owned 4 of them. Everything you need, very little you don't.)
Great video. But you forgot one detail, in minolta cameras like the x-700 or the xd in order to take multiple exposure you need to press the film release button an reload the camera, you will notice that the film slide doesnt move and thus keeps the same frame
Great video. Relaxed informative and very good explanations for a novice like me. Have some of these beautiful classics at display at home - got inspiration for finally using them. Thanks for sharing:)
Another fantastic episode Azriel! I personally had a Minolta X500 (the model below the 700) around 5 years ago. Really great camera, though mine had some serious build quality issues, with the film door flying open a few times ruining some rolls of Provia 400X (very expensive even then!) with some memorable shots on them, and the ASA selector dial coming apart in my hands. I ultimately sold it on and switched back to my Olympus OM-10 as my main SLR. Unfortunately I sold some very nice Minolta lenses alongside it I wish I still had for my SRT Super now!
@@AzrielKnight Indeed, I remember the 30DOK episode on that! It's a lovely camera, super satisfying to use, though since mine is missing much of the mirror damper foam the shutter makes an almighty ding as opposed to a click :D
Thanks for the vid, recently bought a good condition one with the original shoulder strap, original instruction manual and a 50mm 1.7, all of that for just 110€
Azriel Knight oh no, it’s not expensive at all considering the body alone goes for 70-80+ € on eBay, then as I told you I got great lenses and accessories with it, so it’s not bad at all, btw I’m in Italy, not in the uk 👌
excellent as always- very glad to see you are posting again- how about a Soviet Zenit, the helios glass can sometimes be very special (sometimes not so much-quality control was a crap shoot)
I have a Zenit kicking around but I worry I wont be able to find information on it. Commercials, magazine articles, that sort of thing. I'm looking for a pop culture angle.
I love my X-700, it's my go to 35mm slr. It's beaten to hell and the frame counter stopped working on the 3rd roll I ever put through it, (which I understand is common) , but she's a shooter.
@@AzrielKnight Or really any of the tlr cameras from Japan. I have a Yashica D and just got a Yashica Mat. I'm hoping to get the Mat CLA'd and then stick with that for awhile. Unless I find a really good deal on a Pentax 67.
I‘ve denied all automated SLRs that I found on fleamarkets recently because I didn’t want to add another one to my Spotmatic SP1000 and FM2n but I had my hands on a working Praktica BC20 with a 50/something and was nearly convinced. According to your video I think I should consider another camera system, though. Maybe you could compare a BC20 (or similar) with the X700.
How about a look at the Konica FT-1 motor. It was quite an advanced camera for its time 😊 I still own one but sadly battery leaks mean it no longer functions.
Sometimes when I try to focus on an object, the microprisms never disappear. The split image is aligned, but sometimes the microprisms never disappear. Do you know why?
Great video, some more Pro's - it is good looking, you can rewind the film without spooling it in the canister. Con: there is a flaw with a capacitor that may stop the release, but this can be relatively remedied by replacing that part. Suggestion for next review something from the 50's all manual.
Oh, I got an idea for cameras to review; pick one of the camera maker Chinon, an early CX or CS or why not a later CE-4 or CE-5? The early should have a little of cult status as they feature modern vertical metal shutters and are not battery dependent for operation except for metering and besides using M42 mount you can find some really interesting lenses from Meyer-Optik Görlitz or others with special character to use or the fact that Chinon bought their lenses from independent lens manufacturers with cult status on their own like Kino Precision Industries (Kiron in the US) or Komine and secondly they have a very American connection few seem to know; Kodak aquired a majority stake of Chinon shares in 1997 so most of the advanced Kodak cameras since was actually made by Chinon.
Have you reviewed any of the manual Nikon cameras like the FM,FM2 , FG and so on . I have a Nikon fm and it's quite a good camera but fully manual . Loved the video .
I think I know where the confusion is. Regarding the Manual cameras produ ed by Minolta, the x700 was the last one produced. However the last one created by Minolta was the X9, which was a few models after the x700 was created. All those models that were created after the x700 had ceased production well before the x700 ceased production. So I think that's where the confusion is. In short, the x700 was the last one produced however it was not the last one created.
I prefer the X-570 / X-500. It doesn't have P mode, only A, but it displays also the chosen shutter speed in the viewfinder when in M mode, so for me it's more useful. All the same accessories still work. And they can be bought really cheaply.
No they can’t. They are rarer and more expensive. The two supposed advantages of the 500 is slow flash sync speed and set speed displayed in viewfinder. I find them a very poor trade off for lack of P. If you set the speed manually you usually remember, or glance before you take the camera to your eye. If it’s really important to you, the X-300 has the same feature. It’s very common and cheap. The slow flash sync is easily done with a manual flash.
These cameras have notorious capacitor failure problems. If you get to test it, it may have a stuck film advance and the meter may read until you press the shutter release. If it does this, you need to replace 1 or 2 capacitors. The one on the bottom is easy while the one on top requires special or homemade tools. Often it is only the bottom capacitor and the fix is easy. If these capacitors have not been replaced, expect failure in the near future.
If you really want to go for an obscure but good camera try and review the Yashica Lynx 14E. I found one at a thrift store and was amazed at how good it is
Nice review. I have and use this camera too. In fact I have a few minolta cameras...... Ok, that's a Lie. I have , many, many, many, many, Minolta cameras and accessories and even more Lenses for them. There's a few things that I wish you had mentioned if not covered in your review with this camera. Such as the common problems with this camera that often makes them sell for pennies on the dollar. These can be fixed really easily. I have three copies of the x700 camera that I picked up on eBay all for less than $50. One of them I got for $20 that was not firing. And one that I picked up for about $35 with a few lenses and flashes ended up not working after a couple of months of use. Both those two cameras I mentioned had a capacitor failure problem. It's an issue that's well-documented all over the Minolta message boards and websites that are dedicated to classics or Minolta cameras. It's easily fixed if somebody knows how to solder. I don't see too many of these deals on eBay anymore for the less than $50, like I used to see about six or seven years ago, but they do come up. When that happens, you can get them for really cheap and fix them yourself for just a few dollars. However it is also means that you must make sure that a Minolta MD camera works, if you're buying one off of eBay or some other website, before you pay more than $75 for it. It's something that seems to happen often and if the seller says he has no battery to test the camera with then you should assume the capacitor is dead or needs replaced really soon (because that's often the case) and spend accordingly. Also the x700 has a hack that can be done to modify the light meter, though I can understand if that may be too complicated to cover in a review
I found a hack to increase the sync speed, I forgot to use it though. I agree with what you said about a guide to technical issues. I'm not a mr. fixit but I have thought about adding a new section with the buyers guide on "common issues". you also made me think I should add a "further reading" section with links in the comments. Though my history and light table sections are super strong, I feel I can do better to keep that momentum up till the end. Thanks for the comment. Super helpful. :)
I was lucky enough to get a Cosina CT1G for £20 recently, basically a K 1000, fell in love with it, ruined my first lot of film by tearing it on the last shot, second roll through (a bit disappointed with the Jessops 400 I put through it as it was very grainy in low light, out of date film, can't complain). Prefer it to my Olympus 350, which is saying something; bought 130mm lens to try out soon. Bought an Olympus OM 10 with autowinder at the same time and haven't looked at it since; doesn't feel right. Funny how the feel of a camera is 80% of its quality.
When I bought my first 35 mm SLR camera in about 1980, after looking at loads of cameras, my final choice was between a Canon AV-1 and an Olympus OM10. I bought the Canon, because I preferred the way it felt in my hands over the Olympus. I still have the Canon, which still works, still looks immaculate, and still feels nice to use.
I’ve got a Minolta X-700, and it’s definitely one of my favorite cameras. Simple, reliable, and capable of amazing shots.
Your videos are so ... professional, I could not image how to make it more professional. But this doesn't mean , that your videos are .. boring or something like that. I wait always after each video for your next video. Great that you are back !!
I always grab a coffee or tea, and some sweeties and have 10-20 min journey into the very interesting world of analog photography !!
I would be interested in some Contax / Yashica Stuff....
Thanks for sharing !
I really like how you put in some old articles and advertisements! It was super fun to see those! Nice review!
Thanks very much :)
No matter what review I watch on this camera, no one ever says anything about the picture preview button on the bottom left side, next to the lense. Not a single person mentions it.
The Knight is back!.... feels like I haven´t see videos of your for ages. Anyway cool video!
Busy clearing out my father in laws place and found this exact camera. All it seemed to need was the batteries and a roll of film. It’s now part of my camera kit sitting next to my Nikon D850 for when I shoot historic motoring events.
I know this video is old but I’ve watched like twenty other guides and this is the best and most comprehensive. Thank you 🙏
Glad I could help Chloe!
Have my Mum's X700 with 35 - 70 zoom, I love this camera. It had an unused film loaded in it so I went out and took some shots and I was amazed how good they are. Always switch off when not shooting as batteries can drain.
I'm so glad you're back to making videos, watching these are honestly so informative and relaxing, I love the vibes
Thanks Martin, appreciate it.
I have had this camera a week I found your discussion very accurate I look forward to future revues.
Thanks Albert!
them beautiful 1980s minolta commercials!! thumbs up for that.
My first camera was an X-700. I leaned photography with that camera. It was a solid camera. I used it in my early photojournalism days. I moved to Nikon only when the meter started to drift and all my shots were hot. I just used exposure compensation to correct it or stopped up either aperture or shutter. Regardless, I bought it in 1986 and passed over the Maxuum. Glad I did because the X-700 is a classic. No one talks about the Maxuum line.
I also did a video on the Maxxum 7000. Interesting camera, but you;re right, it doesn't have the same rep.
By far the greatest video I've seen on the X-700!
Wow, thank you :)
The best Minolta video for the beginners I have ever seen, Thank you!
Thanks, glad I could help :)
Please never stop making videos. You are my favorite camera related channel.
Thanks Pip! I'll try :)
i am a lucky owner of a super rare BLACK japan only version without AEL and a low serial below 1007xxx. It is an amazing camera. Never failed me.
The X570 deserves more recognition as it offers fully metered manual mode which the X700 lacks.
Yes I agree, I have all the Minolta X series, from X-370, X-570, and X-700 which I bought in 1985-86, my favorite is X-570 because the metering in manual mode is better than X-700. However, I used the X-700 as well in manual mode or Aperture mode , very rare in Program mode.
X700 most definitely does not lack metered manual mode... The only thing the 570 gains is that it shows you what shutter speed you have selected in the viewfinder (which is not the same thing as "not metering"--both of them show you what shutter speed you SHOULD have, which is the metering part). In exchange, it loses both exposure compensation and P mode, which is way way more impressive than "literally just linking the shutter dial to some LEDs 1:1"
The X-700 has metering in manual mode, yours is broken I think
Hey bud we spoke about the EOS 3 a little while ago I'm just glad to see you are back and are feeling better
Thanks man :)
Just acquired a fine Minolta X700 specimen. With the bag and a ton of lenses, and all the accessories. I have to admit at first I was daunted, but there seems to be a lot of Info on this model. I’m just starting out on my photography journey and wanted to use film to learn. it’s nice to know that I happened upon one that would be helpful to learn film and is geared towards student photographer in many ways. Your video was very helpful! Thank you. Subscribed.
Glad I could help Matthew! Be sure and join us on the Discord :) discord.gg/NHtjGraK
This format is really working. Great video.
I reckon you should explore some of the old folding, roll film cameras from the 1920s-1950s.
There’s a lot of lost beauty in them, they take photos with a “classic” look suited to their age, and can sometimes be found dirt cheap in working order.
The same can be said of some Baldax and Agfa fixed lens rangefinders out there (Balda Super Baldina and Agfa Super Silette, which are only a few dollars).
Good idea. Could be interesting to see how that worked out. How the pictures turned out in the hand of a dedicated photographer that know how to appreciate good old mechanical craftmanship. Have some of them "classics" myself, but so far just on display.
I agree, I have been keeping my eye out for cameras that age. I do have a Kodak Junior six-20, but finding info on the cameras to the same degree is very difficult. None the less my eyes are peeled. Thanks :)
great job man! I love the fact you took the time to go over the camera. It was really helpful for a beginner like me. I'm sure many people will find it useful as well!
Thanks Lester, glad I could help.
I’ve had X700’s and X570’s over the years, also many older manual Minolta. Although I liked the X700 I preferred the X570 since I like to shoot in manual mode. Alas neither the X700 or the X570 are working anymore. I think the Florida humidity has done them in.
Thanks for the video. I’m glad you’re back.
Thanks for the comment Martin :) We have the opposite problem here, too dry.
glad to see you back with another episode, thanks.
Thanks Socrates. Not sure if you got notified of the others but I made two other episodes.
I get so happy whenever I see one of your vids in my feed!
Thanks Charles :)
Glad to see a new vid from you dude, my Minolta X-700 is currently loaded with ilford HP5+, the 50mm f,1.4 and the motor drive attached as I post this comment, great video as always and keep up the good work
Thanks very much. :)
So glad to see you are back! I really enjoy your videos.
Thanks :)
Great camera i used mine for years with fuji velvia , i never looked at auto focus cameras ,
The fact that i found a new in box x700 with flash, lens, and case, just shows how amazing this camera is
Man, what a find!
@@AzrielKnight just got it checked out by the local camera shop, The shutter doesn’t advance. I have other cameras so it’s no big deal, but I would love to take the first shots with it since new.
Really love the new version, look and feel of your show. Thanks for your content !
Thanks very much! :)
This camera has been my go to for all things music venue photography! I have a f1.4 for it and it does amazing! Its a tough camera and makes super sharp images!
It's one of my more fav manual focus cameras, for sure.
this video was very well made. very professional and helpful
This is a very well thought out and well presented video.
Thanks :)
Very informative video for someone that's new to this, thank you. I just picked up one with a lens and flash for only $7. Can't wait to see how the pictures turn out
Please let me know how it goes. I love hearing about good finds like that :)
I admit, I watched this episode somewhat anxiously. I personally carry a Minolta X-570 as my daily camera (which is almost identical to the X-700, +/- a couple features. I agree, it's nothing fancy but it's got a certain understated charm to it. It's also very reliable and the images never disappoint. As always, your review was well-rounded and fair :)
Thanks very much Shannon
I love your camera memory lane thing, but a few details:
The X-700 wasn't the last camera produced for their SR mount before the release of the Alpha/Maxxum/Dynax AF cameras, that title actually goes to Minolta X-9 and before that Minolta released the X-500/X-570 and the X-300/X-370 as well as later updates as the X-300s and X-300n. I think Minolta also released the XG-M (X-70 in Japan) slightly after the X-700.
The X-500/X570 actually have a feature that is much appreciated; it's not only fully metered during manual mode photography but it also displays the set shutter speed in the viewfinder so in essence you got match-LED fully metered photography with the advanced flash metering system.
Nice video for this popular camera. Very thorough. Thanks
Thanks very much :)
A most enjoyable review,I just got a basically new version on Ebay, and am enjoying it immensely. I shoot a lot of digital and film, and this camera is a joy to use. Cheers!
I love the X700! It's my favorite camera of all time! In fact I have two and want more!
I don't blame you. For the manual focus lover it's a fantastic choice.
Hey! Thanks for this video! I was given one of these by a friend recently and it's super good to find out a little more about the history.
In the scene where you're talking about prices, I think it would be super helpful to actually _write_ CAD as well as saying it.
Good point, thanks for the tip :)
Great content and research, which is becoming RARE on this platform. Thanks Azriel!
(I swear by this camera, I've owned 4 of them. Everything you need, very little you don't.)
Thanks for the kind words :)
Nice review - just picked this one up myself and am super excited to see how it comes out!!
Be sure and let me know!
Great video.
But you forgot one detail, in minolta cameras like the x-700 or the xd in order to take multiple exposure you need to press the film release button an reload the camera, you will notice that the film slide doesnt move and thus keeps the same frame
I probably forgot a lot of details :P
I bought one about a month ago and it's a nice camera to use . Loved the video .
Thanks :)
Great video. Relaxed informative and very good explanations for a novice like me. Have some of these beautiful classics at display at home - got inspiration for finally using them. Thanks for sharing:)
Glad I could help :)
Hi Mr. Knight. Great review of another classic camera. Thanks for the nostalgia. Please review the Canon A-1. Thank you!
Great series. Keep them coming!
Thank you Colin.
Another fantastic episode Azriel!
I personally had a Minolta X500 (the model below the 700) around 5 years ago. Really great camera, though mine had some serious build quality issues, with the film door flying open a few times ruining some rolls of Provia 400X (very expensive even then!) with some memorable shots on them, and the ASA selector dial coming apart in my hands. I ultimately sold it on and switched back to my Olympus OM-10 as my main SLR. Unfortunately I sold some very nice Minolta lenses alongside it I wish I still had for my SRT Super now!
I had an SRT Super once. buttery smooth advancing, lovely shutter click.
@@AzrielKnight Indeed, I remember the 30DOK episode on that! It's a lovely camera, super satisfying to use, though since mine is missing much of the mirror damper foam the shutter makes an almighty ding as opposed to a click :D
@@lindsaymobil22 The mirror foam is super easy to replace, just buy some craft foam and double sided tape and cut to size.
Another fantastic episode!!
Thanks Jb
Thanks for the vid, recently bought a good condition one with the original shoulder strap, original instruction manual and a 50mm 1.7, all of that for just 110€
To me, that seems expensive but I don't know the UK market.
Azriel Knight oh no, it’s not expensive at all considering the body alone goes for 70-80+ € on eBay, then as I told you I got great lenses and accessories with it, so it’s not bad at all, btw I’m in Italy, not in the uk 👌
Love your channel! I wish you had a podcast. Keep up the excellent work.
If only I was working on a podcast .....
excellent as always- very glad to see you are posting again- how about a Soviet Zenit, the helios glass can sometimes be very special (sometimes not so much-quality control was a crap shoot)
I have a Zenit kicking around but I worry I wont be able to find information on it. Commercials, magazine articles, that sort of thing. I'm looking for a pop culture angle.
I want one of those so bad, something about them I like. Possibly owning 2 maxxum 7000's. Keep up the good videos.
Thanks very much :)
You have the Minolta X-700 of beards. Thank you for an amazing video!
LOL, this made my day.
I love my X-700, it's my go to 35mm slr. It's beaten to hell and the frame counter stopped working on the 3rd roll I ever put through it, (which I understand is common) , but she's a shooter.
I also hear that's common. Glad you liked the video :)
I have that camera. The 50mm Minolta lens is great. Sharp images. Again long live Minolta!
Thanks Ruben :)
Nice throwback as always man, you should review the OM 1 for its significance. Also consider the XD7/11 for being minolta's best
I just had an XD11, guess I should have hung onto it.
Thank you for making a new video, I almost gave my hopes
lol, trying to plug one a month out. This is month 3 :)
@@AzrielKnight that's good, but I do hope you receive the canon FTB QL some day
Is that what I should be reviewing next?
@@AzrielKnight yeah ! Absolutely !
YASSSS! MINOLTA X-700 BABY! #minoltagang
You always use time for us to wait to see your awesome content meaning videos !
Great video!! Always like your videos. Do a review of the Agfa Optima IIIs. I have one and I think it's a pretty rugged 35mm.
Thanks for the comment :)
Damn bro, only 100 bucks for a typical X700? In Australia, its like 300 USD after conversions.
That's brutal!
Another great episode! Would love to see something on the F4 if you can get your hands on one, I think it would be interesting
I would love to see a this old camera about the Yashica mat tlr
Will keep my eyes peeled :)
@@AzrielKnight Or really any of the tlr cameras from Japan. I have a Yashica D and just got a Yashica Mat. I'm hoping to get the Mat CLA'd and then stick with that for awhile. Unless I find a really good deal on a Pentax 67.
What about reviewing the Nikon FA or Fujica AX-3?
Again you inform us in your way with beautiful old video material. It brings you back to the photo days in the eighties. Thank you so much .
Thanks for the nice compliment Jan :)
I‘ve denied all automated SLRs that I found on fleamarkets recently because I didn’t want to add another one to my Spotmatic SP1000 and FM2n but I had my hands on a working Praktica BC20 with a 50/something and was nearly convinced. According to your video I think I should consider another camera system, though.
Maybe you could compare a BC20 (or similar) with the X700.
How about a look at the Konica FT-1 motor. It was quite an advanced camera for its time 😊 I still own one but sadly battery leaks mean it no longer functions.
Thanks for the suggestion :)
I have one. I need that drive grip though!
Sometimes when I try to focus on an object, the microprisms never disappear. The split image is aligned, but sometimes the microprisms never disappear. Do you know why?
Great video, some more Pro's - it is good looking, you can rewind the film without spooling it in the canister. Con: there is a flaw with a capacitor that may stop the release, but this can be relatively remedied by replacing that part. Suggestion for next review something from the 50's all manual.
Thanks for the tips. I was considering going older for the next issue. Harder to track down info though.
there are later models made in china i belive, and that model has the bad capacitor.
I must have had one of them :-) Still have 2 more and it is one of the camera's i like most taking out with me.
@@AzrielKnight you have a point there, but why not make the review as if it was 1950?
I have recently acquired a book shelf's worth of Popular Science so I may have research like it's 1950 :P
Fun camera to use, but it ain’t reliable enough. Still think I’ll get mine fixed.
Oh, I got an idea for cameras to review; pick one of the camera maker Chinon, an early CX or CS or why not a later CE-4 or CE-5?
The early should have a little of cult status as they feature modern vertical metal shutters and are not battery dependent for operation except for metering and besides using M42 mount you can find some really interesting lenses from Meyer-Optik Görlitz or others with special character to use or the fact that Chinon bought their lenses from independent lens manufacturers with cult status on their own like Kino Precision Industries (Kiron in the US) or Komine and secondly they have a very American connection few seem to know; Kodak aquired a majority stake of Chinon shares in 1997 so most of the advanced Kodak cameras since was actually made by Chinon.
Review Minolta XG1 please!! That camera is rarely reviewed by anyone!
Have you reviewed any of the manual Nikon cameras like the FM,FM2 , FG and so on . I have a Nikon fm and it's quite a good camera but fully manual . Loved the video .
Thanks Raymond. I have a Nikon FE I plan to review in the near future.
Kodak retina III, please and thank you...keep up the good work, we all appreciate it.
Thanks for the suggestion :)
Nat Geo, Discovery and whoever else. When Attenborough retires, hire this man.
lol, thanks :)
Hi, would you have any chance in the future trying to shoot with medical x-ray films? They are pretty convenience for large format photography.
Not sure how I would get a hold of that.
The x-700 wasn't the last manual focus camera by Minolta. There was the x-500, the x300 and the x300s before the AFs.
ell, since it was made until 1999 it is ;)
I think I know where the confusion is. Regarding the Manual cameras produ ed by Minolta, the x700 was the last one produced. However the last one created by Minolta was the X9, which was a few models after the x700 was created. All those models that were created after the x700 had ceased production well before the x700 ceased production. So I think that's where the confusion is.
In short, the x700 was the last one produced however it was not the last one created.
The Minolta x700 I have, the advance button won’t won’t budge. Does anyone know how to fix that?
Can you review the Canon sure shot line of cameras?
Yessssss !!!! You're Back 😁
I have made three episodes since I came back, just in case you missed!
@@AzrielKnight I know Azriel !
Just that... i'm always waiting with impatience for your next video 😉
I prefer the X-570 / X-500. It doesn't have P mode, only A, but it displays also the chosen shutter speed in the viewfinder when in M mode, so for me it's more useful. All the same accessories still work. And they can be bought really cheaply.
Thanks for the comment!
No they can’t. They are rarer and more expensive.
The two supposed advantages of the 500 is slow flash sync speed and set speed displayed in viewfinder.
I find them a very poor trade off for lack of P.
If you set the speed manually you usually remember, or glance before you take the camera to your eye.
If it’s really important to you, the X-300 has the same feature. It’s very common and cheap.
The slow flash sync is easily done with a manual flash.
I'd like to see something medium format, or another film episode.
Thanks Jake!
good photos this time!
Thanks :)
These cameras have notorious capacitor failure problems. If you get to test it, it may have a stuck film advance and the meter may read until you press the shutter release. If it does this, you need to replace 1 or 2 capacitors. The one on the bottom is easy while the one on top requires special or homemade tools. Often it is only the bottom capacitor and the fix is easy. If these capacitors have not been replaced, expect failure in the near future.
If you really want to go for an obscure but good camera try and review the Yashica Lynx 14E. I found one at a thrift store and was amazed at how good it is
That's a neat looking camera, I'll keep my eyes peeled.
I can’t wait until you make a this old camera video on the Minolta XD series or Minolta a-7 and a-9.
How about medium format 120, like Mamiya 645, great camera own 2 of them.
It's a little out of my price range, plus I've never been able to find a commercial on it.
Do this for the AE-1 Program and the Yashica 35 Electro!
I have one on the ae-1 and ae-1 program together.
@@AzrielKnight thanks! I own that and I think it's quite amazing.
Nice review. I have and use this camera too. In fact I have a few minolta cameras...... Ok, that's a Lie. I have , many, many, many, many, Minolta cameras and accessories and even more Lenses for them.
There's a few things that I wish you had mentioned if not covered in your review with this camera. Such as the common problems with this camera that often makes them sell for pennies on the dollar. These can be fixed really easily. I have three copies of the x700 camera that I picked up on eBay all for less than $50. One of them I got for $20 that was not firing. And one that I picked up for about $35 with a few lenses and flashes ended up not working after a couple of months of use. Both those two cameras I mentioned had a capacitor failure problem. It's an issue that's well-documented all over the Minolta message boards and websites that are dedicated to classics or Minolta cameras. It's easily fixed if somebody knows how to solder.
I don't see too many of these deals on eBay anymore for the less than $50, like I used to see about six or seven years ago, but they do come up. When that happens, you can get them for really cheap and fix them yourself for just a few dollars. However it is also means that you must make sure that a Minolta MD camera works, if you're buying one off of eBay or some other website, before you pay more than $75 for it. It's something that seems to happen often and if the seller says he has no battery to test the camera with then you should assume the capacitor is dead or needs replaced really soon (because that's often the case) and spend accordingly.
Also the x700 has a hack that can be done to modify the light meter, though I can understand if that may be too complicated to cover in a review
I found a hack to increase the sync speed, I forgot to use it though.
I agree with what you said about a guide to technical issues. I'm not a mr. fixit but I have thought about adding a new section with the buyers guide on "common issues". you also made me think I should add a "further reading" section with links in the comments. Though my history and light table sections are super strong, I feel I can do better to keep that momentum up till the end.
Thanks for the comment. Super helpful. :)
Great review. Have you reviewed the Canon T90?
I haven't. That is a good idea!
In after #minoltagang (great vid, as usual).
I'm afraid I don't know what this #minoltagang thing is but I have seen it a couple times :)
@@AzrielKnight I'm trying to get #t90boyz off the ground, personally.
I clicked that and now I am confused :P
@@AzrielKnight Looks like I'll need another hashtag for my Canon T90 posts- this one's claimed! 😅
Can you make a Video about the Nikon FA or the olympus om2
I have my eye out for a Nikon FA. I have an FE is that close enough? :)
And then you test it please shoot some sildes i want to see how the metering works
Give us a review of SR-T 101
I used to have one, lovely camera. Thanks for the suggestion!
Or any of the SR-T series really. I have the 303 (Euro 102) wearing the 58mm f/1.2 and enjoy it!
Are you interested in doing any camera review on more Nikons? If you are, can you please review the FM or FM2? I love mine to bits.
Would you settle for the FE?
@@AzrielKnight Beggars can't be choosers haha--they're pretty much the same thing. Whatever is convenient for you is fine.
I was lucky enough to get a Cosina CT1G for £20 recently, basically a K 1000, fell in love with it, ruined my first lot of film by tearing it on the last shot, second roll through (a bit disappointed with the Jessops 400 I put through it as it was very grainy in low light, out of date film, can't complain). Prefer it to my Olympus 350, which is saying something; bought 130mm lens to try out soon.
Bought an Olympus OM 10 with autowinder at the same time and haven't looked at it since; doesn't feel right. Funny how the feel of a camera is 80% of its quality.
Agreed. It's all about how it feels in your hand. People will rave about a camera and it'll have sharp edges or clumsy focus and I nope outta that.
When I bought my first 35 mm SLR camera in about 1980, after looking at loads of cameras, my final choice was between a Canon AV-1 and an Olympus OM10. I bought the Canon, because I preferred the way it felt in my hands over the Olympus. I still have the Canon, which still works, still looks immaculate, and still feels nice to use.
Nice job, Azriel. How about a Minolta XD review?
I may have had one of those recently, oops ;)
Managed to get one for 71$ on ebay 🎉 i love auctions
Thanks for your great video. ;)
You're very welcome :)
best beginners camera, i use mine X-700 when i can, simple to use, even in manual mode!
Agreed :)
Why not speaking about the Miranda RE-II
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