Minolta Maxxum 5 35mm SLR Kit w/ 28-80mm Lens

Design
Measuring just 5 by 3.4 by 2.4 inches and weighing in at around 12 ounces, the body of the Maxxum 5 is about the same size as many point-and-shoot cameras--of course, the lens adds to this size and weight, but it's still an extremely compact design. To save weight, much of the body is made of high-impact plastic, with a metal lens mount and tripod mount for durability. The camera uses Minolta A-mount lenses, and a 28-80mm Minolta AF zoom lens with a maximum aperture of f3.5 to f5.6 is included.

Key Features
Primary features include spot-metering and spot-focusing, depth-of-field preview, a built-in multimode flash, 7-point autofocus system, a maximum shutter speed of 1/4,000th of a second, 3 FPS rapid-fire shooting, and 14-segment metering. A powerful processor and speedy motor combine to provide one of the fastest autofocus systems available.

Additional Features
In addition, the Maxxum 5 features "eye-start automation," a performance enhancer that senses when you put your eye to the viewfinder and starts preparing to take a shot immediately. If you're planning to use the camera in the studio, the wireless flash setting communicates with Minolta off-camera flash units.

Contents
The kit comes with the Maxxum 5 body, 28-80mm AF zoom lens, shoulder strap, lens cap, and a pair of CR2 batteries.

Product Description
So, you know about the high performance and superior image quality you can get with a Minolta Maxxum AF SLR camera, but you say that all SLR cameras are too big and bulky to carry around? Well, Minolta heard you. Maxxum 5 is one of the world's smallest and lightest 35mm AF SLR. It's easy to pack, carry, and handle, so you can instantly react on your creative impulses anytime and anywhere. Plus, Maxxum 5 houses a powerful array of high-performance features that will quickly satisfy beginner photographers and yet be valuable tools for photo hobbyists. If you want a true take-anywhere SLR, the little Maxxum 5 is the big winner.The Maxxum 5's high-response autofocus system makes sure your once-in-a-lifetime moments will be razor sharp. This new-generation Maxxum features an improved high-power AF drive motor and high-speed microcomputer for quicker and more precise AF control. It tracks even fast action and random movements effortlessly, right up to the moment the shutter releases. Maxxum 5 uses Minolta's new 7-point AF system. The focus sensors are laid out in a wide area to the "rule of thirds," so you have the creative flexibility of positioning your subject anywhere within the focus frame. The center crosshair sensor keeps the focus sharp regardless of vertical or horizontal subject contrast. When using the wide focus frame, you'll always know exactly what your Maxxum 5 is focusing on. Minolta's LED-illuminated superimposition technology highlights the focus sensor being used.

I have not found anything that I don't like about this camera.


An awesome camera for a great price   June 25, 2003
4 out of 4 found this review helpful

If you're looking for a nice camera to get you started in your photography hobby, I highly recommend checking this out. I have used both the Maxxum 4 and Maxxum 5. You can't go wrong with either - the quality that Minolta keeps is wonderful.

Granted, the Maxxum 5 has a few more features that the Maxxum 4, such as the eye-start feature and a few other custom functions. One that I particularly like is the fact that you can have the camera leave the film leader out of the cannister. It may seem trivial to do so, but if you want to change 35mm film in the middle of the roll, this becomes quite useful.

In addition, the Maxxum 5 has a faster autofocus servo and you can tell a definite difference there. My Maxxum 5 focuses much faster than my brother's Maxxum 4. On top of that, the Maxxum 5 features a metal lens mount, whereas the Maxxum 4 only has a plastic mount. This adds durability to the camera as well as the lens.

In conclusion, I think that the features that Minolta packed into this camera are wonderful. I also looked at getting a Cannon Rebel 2000 and a Nikon N65 when looking for the camera but found the Maxxum 5 to have the greatest number of features for the price. In addition, I thought the control layout on the camera fit my hand better than the other two cameras.


The Ideal Beginner Camera   May 30, 2003
Clare (Venice, FL United States)
1 out of 1 found this review helpful

I am a 15-year old interested in photography. I spent most of my picture-taking years with either a Kodak Advantix or a disposable camera.
Finally, when I took photography seriously enough, my parents purchased the Minolta Maxxum 5. We did not really know much about cameras at the time, but now about 6 months later, I know this was the right choice.
The biggest thing I hated about Advantix cameras was that it took nearly 2 or so seconds to take a picture. Those who take pictures a lot can probably understand how fustrating this can be. The Maxxum 5 can take up to 3 frames per second.
Another thing I was upset about was the zoom. The Advantix cameras have a set zoom and that's it. With SLR cameras you can buy new lenses, though a bit pricy, to get what you want. The lens this package comes with is the 28-80. This is VERY similar to what my Advantix was. (NOTE: For those who wish to have more zoom should as well purchase a 70-300mm lens) I was disappointed I didn't have more zoom but enjoyed the fact I had a new camera to play with...so many features!
From the different modes, including Sports, Potrait, Landscape, Closeup, and Night time, to multiple photos on one frame. This camera offers more than it's size tells!
This little bugger is very light as well. The weight will increase with the larger lens, so you don't want a heavy camera body.
Auto and manual focus were very easy to figure out, as well as changing lenses. Those used to Advantix cameras and not those which use 35mm film will spend a LITTLE bit of time figuring out how to insert a roll of film. Doesn't take long, and soon you'll be changing film so quickly, no one near you even notices!
To this day, I still haven't learned every feature this camera offers. It's a bit hard to memorize the way to prepare some of these features, but that's why you keep your little manual with you.
Perfect for beginners in photography, including teenagers.


great way to upgrade froma point and shoot   October 25, 2002
Laura Staats (Ben Lomond, CA USA)
I tried a few different point and shoot cameras that I was unhappy with. They were either too slow so I missed the shot or the pictures were blurry. I love the autofocus on this camera. These are the best pictures I've ever taken.


Get some sleep, this one is a sure thing   September 28, 2002
1 out of 1 found this review helpful

I researched the heck out of SLR camera's before making this purchase. First, I must say that the reviews here were very helpful so I ultimately made the purchase through Amazon. Second, I am thrilled with the camera and all its features. In comparing the Maxxum 5 with the competition, I was a bit worried that I was missing something obvious since it clearly has a superior price point in relation to the features offered. But in the end, it was the superficial that swayed me: the Maxxum 5 absolutely blows the competition away with its great look, feel, and sturdy compact size. Pickup "Understanding Exposure" as well to supplement the minimalist owners manual.