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OWNTR'S MANUAL
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 www.butkus.us

Your Minolta XE-7 is a top-quality single-lens ref lex camera whose

electronic system will control exposure for you automatically, freeing
you for more enjoyment or greater creativity. You can also control
exposure manually, with or without reference to the meter indication.
In either case, your XE-7 offers full control of all camera exposure
variables, and all necessary information is visible without taking your
eye from the finder. This eminently refined and well-thought-out
camera with its unique new electronic shutter lets you enjoy easy
handling, utmost smoothness and quietness, and considerate "fail-safe"
features throughout. Further, your XE-7 is an integral part of the
Minolta SLR system and uses all interchangeable lenses and applicable
system accessories. lt is thus ready to grow with you and your needs for
utmost versatility even in advanced, professional, or specialized
scientific or technical use.
Before using your camera for the first time, study this manual
carefully all the way through - or at least all the sections needed to
cover your own photographic needs. As you read, attach the lens to the
camera body(see p.50), load batteries, and handle your XE-7 and
acquaint yourself with its parts and features. Then load it with film and
proceed to actual picture taking. In this way, you can take good photos
and begin to realize the broad potential of your XE-7 right from the
start. Be sure to keep this manual for reference later as necessary.
CONTENTS

MAIN FEATURES 4 EXPOSU RECONTROL FUN DA.

MENTALS .. 20
NAMES OF PARTS 6
XE.7 METERINGPOINTERS ..... 21
SUMMARY OF OPERATION
(on "AUTO") 8 STOP.DOWN BUTTON ...., 22

BATTERIES AND POWER 10 METERING METHODS .... 22

lnstalling batteries 11
HOLDING THE CAMERA .. 23
Testing batteries 12
Power switch 12 VIEWFINDER ., 24
Cold-weather oPeratio n 13 AUTOMATIC EXPOSURE CONTROL
Low-voltage warning 13 Automaticoperation ...' 25
LOADING AND ADVANCING FILM 14 Eyepieceshutter '...26
Film-advance lever and frame counter . . ' 17
WAYS OF USING AUTO MODE ... 27
FILM SPEED METERED/MANUAL EXPOSUR E CONTROL
Film-speedselector ...18 Metered/manualoperation ...... 30
ASA/DIN conversionscale ...... 19 "X" and "B" settings ... ....... 32
Memoholder ..19
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FOCUSING .33 USING OTHER THAN MC LENSES

Depth-of-field scale .34 AutoRokkorlenses
Depth -of d preview
......b1
-f iel
.35 RF (mirror-type) and Manual-preset
Infrared index . .35 Rokkorlenses
Film-plane index ....51
. .35 CAMERASPECIFICATIONS
RELEASING THE SHUTTER .... .. 52
.36 COUPLED AUTOMATIC EXPOSUR
REWINDING AND UNLOADING FILM E
.38 RANGE ..,. g
FLASH PHOTOGRAPHY .40 STANDARD-LENS SPECIFICATIONS . .
SELF-TIMER . .. . 55
.43 CARE ANDSTORAGE
MULTIPLE EXPOSURES ..... 56
.45
EXPOSU R E.ADJUSTMENT CON TROL .47
WHEN AND HOW MUCH TO
ADJUST EXPOSURE .48
ATTACHING AND REMOVING LENSES .50
 il
MAIN FEATURES
Ou+stanclinn electrnn ic exposttre sl/stem High:perf ormance ner,\, shutter
Incorporating the electronic auto-exposure The XE-7's unique new "CLS" ("CoPal-
control system developed for Minolta's top XK Leitz Shutter") is a metal-blade vertical-run
model, the XE-7 covers a wide range of photo' type providing high precision and durability. lt
graphic conditions with high accuracy and very operates more quietly and smoothly and offers
low power consumption. lt resists temperature admirable compactness.
and humidity and maintains high performance With basic design by Germany's Ernst Leitz
from general photography through highly spe- GmbH, the CLS was developed through joint
cialized work. The XE-7's system features: work with Japan's Copal Co., Ltd., who further
o Fully automatic exposure by stepless shut- contributed experience and original ideas.
ter speeds from 1/1000 to four full seconds, Minolta supported and cooperated with both
plus metered and full manual Copal and Leitz in this Project.
o Monolithic-lC memory and control circuits
. Minolta's exclusive contrast-compensator (. o'nolete i nf ormation -ecnter vierruf inder

metering o Focusing can be done in three ways: By the

o Better operation at high and low tempera- split-image or microprism focusing aid or on
tures the mat f ield.
o Two tiny silver batteries as a power source r Shutter speed, aperture figure, exposure
mode, coupled limits, and metering informa-
tion are all visible while you view'
o Metered-manual exposure control is possible
by matching shutter-speed numbers in the
fi nder.
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'Minolta SLR
bayonet lens mount Oversize mirror; image cutoff negligible even
o Virtually all existing Rokkor-X interchange- with 160omm RF Rokkor-X lens
able lenses can be used in either automatic Exclusive Safe Load Signal monitors film
or manual operation, the current line includ- alignment and advance.
ing some thirty models from 16mm fisheye Shutter release locked when power switch
through 1600mm extreme telephoto. At_ off
taching is simple, quick, and sure, with . Mirror stays up, no exposure made if shutter
full-aperture- metering for MC lenses, stop- released when battery power insuff icient.
down type for others. . "X" (1/90 sec. with X/FP sync.) and "8"
o The XE-7 also uses all appl icable system (bulb) settings operate without battery
accessories of the more than 1b0 currently power.
available. , , /. r Safety locks on "AUTO" setting, ASA dial,
15uJKaS, u) and exposure-adjustment control
Versatile, easy, "fail-safe" operation r Handy memo holder and ASA/DlN conver-
o Unusually smooth, positive multiple expo- sion scale on back
sures without framecounter advance o Unusually smooth short-stroke film advance
. Up to two stops' continuous exposure ad-
justment over or under the normal electron-
ic setting
o X or FP flash synchronization through the
hot shoe or single terminal with switch
o Self-timer with adjustable delay for auto or
manual exposure control
o Eyepiece shutter for unmanned or similar
operation
 iiA i-;i Hot shoe
Serial number
'
,--t.- Scale-il lumination window
.
Back-release knob
Film-advance lever
Rewind crank
Sh utter-speed/f unctio n selector
Film-speed selector
Sh utter-release button
Selector release
Mu ltiple-exposure lever
E xposu re-adi ustme nt control
AUT'O-setting release
Adiustment control release
StraP lug
Lens-release button
Meter-coupler pin
Sync. terminal
Aperture scale
Sync. selector switch
Self-timer lever
Focusing grip
Aperture ring
Depth-of-field scale
Distance scale
Stop-down button
mike Digitally signed by mike butkus
DN: cn=mike butkus,
o=orphancameras, ou=29,

butkus [email protected], c=US

Date: 2018.01.14 14:24:21 -05'00'
 www.butkus.us

Battery checker
Eyep iece-sh utter ever
I

Finder eyepiece
Power switch
Safe Load Signal window
Frame counter
Shutter blades
Sprocket
Take-up spool
Back cover
Pressure plate

Rewind release
Tripod socket
Battery-chamber cover
 The steps picture on this page outl ine use of perfectly exposed pictures with this camera and
your XE-7 on automatic mode. They give a are keyed to corresponding sections of the
general idea of how very easy it is to get manual for ready reference. This brief guide

Check batteries (see P. 12). ove power switch to Open back cover (p. 14).
lp. 121.

Set selector dial to "AUTO" Set lens aperture (P.25). Adjust focus (p.33).
(p. 25).
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may also be usef ul as a quick refresher for good the detailed instructions in the rest of this
results after you have not used the camera for manual, which should be thoroughly studied
some time. lt is not, however, a substitute for for best results.

Load f ilm properly; close cover Advance film to "1" (p. 16).
(p.15).

l: ril rm-

Release shutter (p. 36).

- Turn power off (p. 12). Rewind and remove f ilm (p. 38).
-
 I

10 BATTERIES AND POWER

Two 1 .S-volt silver-oxide batteries, Eveready
5-76 or equivalent, supply the power for the
meter, electronic exposure control, and elec-
tronic shutter settings,

IMPORTANT:
Should viewing become impossible because
the mirror of your XE-7 remains up after the
shutter has been released, it does NOT mean
that the camera is out of order. This occurs
automatically to warn you when there is
insuff icient battery power for proper operation
at electronic shutter settings. To return the
mirror for viewing, simply turn the shutter-
speed/function selector to "X" or "8." For
f urther deta ils, see P. 1 3.
 www.butkus.us

1. Using a coin or similar object, turn the out into the sleeve on the inside of the
battery-chamber cover counterclockwise cover. (lf batteries are inserted improperly,
and remove it. they will not make contact, and no current
2. Af ter wiping terminals with a clean dry will flow.)
cloth and handling only by the edges, insert 3. Replace the cover and screw it in clockwise
two of the specified batteries plus (+) side as far as it will qo.

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Testing batteries
Depress the battery-checker lever toward
the bottom of the camera. lf the red lamp
I ights, batteries are serviceable. Power switch
Test batteries immediately after installing To operate the camera, move the power
them. lf the lamp does not light, make sure that switch to "ON." This will unlock the shutter-
they are fresh and have been inserted correctly. release button and cause the meter needle in
Batteries should be tested from time to time the finder to move if there are sufficient light
thereafter, preferably before starting each new and battery power.
roll of film and particularly before starting When not operating the camera, always be
picture-taki ng sessions or trips. A set of bat- sureto move the power switch to "OFF." This
teries will generally last for about one year in will lock the shutter release
against accidental
proper normal use. exposures and prevent needless battery drain.
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Qgl6J,rrraa+ho- -areaian Lov'. "olta- -*ning 13

Batteries by nature tend to decrease in Your XE-7 is equipped with a device to
capacity as the temperature goes down. Though warn you and prevent wasted film if battery
the silver-oxide batteries used for the XEJ are voltage becomes insufficient while the shutter-
superior to most others in this respect, it also speed/function selector is at an electronic set-
happens with them. ting (i.e., any one other than "X" or "B"l: lt
lf old batteries are used at temperatures the shutter is released when voltage is too low,
below OoC €,zoFl , the camera's electronic no exposure will be ffiade r,n fhe f ilm, and the
operation may not be satisfactory. You should mirror will remain up to prevent viewing.
thus replace older batteries with fresh ones Turning the shutter-speed/function dial to
before using your XE-7 in cold weather and either "X" or "B" (mechanical settings) will
carry spare fresh batteries with you during such reset the mirror to its viewing position. The
use. camera may then be operated at either of these
mechanical settings without replacing batteries
or at any electronic or mechanical setting after
inserting serviceable batteries. In either case,
use the multiple-exposure lever (see p.45) to
rer.rck the shutter without wasting a frame of
film. (The mirror will also reset automatically
after film has been advanced in the usual way
and the shutter released once.)

NOTE:
lf the camera is not to be used for more
than two weeks, it is advisable to remove the
batteries.
 2. Leavi ng the knob pulled out, position a f ilm
cartridge in the chamber with the project-
ing-spool end toward the bottom of the
camera. Then push the back-cover release
Pull out on the back cover release knob knob all the way in, rotating it slightly to do
until the camera back springs open. so if necessary.

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3. Insert the end of the film leader as shown

into one of the slots in the take-up spool so THIS way
that the tooth is engaged with a sprocket
hole near the end of the leader. Make sure
that the end of the leader does not project
f rom another slot between tabs on the
spool.

NOT this way

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4. Operate the film-advance lever slowly until 5. Close the camera back and push in on it
the film has begun to wind firmly around until it clicks locked.
the take-up spool and the sprocket teeth are 6. A red "S" should now appear opposite the
engaged with holes on both edges of the index in the frame-counter window. Ad-
film. lf the pdvance lever stops at the end of vance film and release the shutter until the
a full stroke during this procedure, release index points to "1" on the frame-counter
the shutter and continue. dial.
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7. A red bar should also now appear at the left vances film and frame counter and cocks the
in the Safe Load Signal window. This indi- shutter for the next exposure. (To cock the
cates that the film is loaded and winding shutter without advancing f ilm, see p. 45.)
properly on the take-up spool. lf the Safe When the lever stops and resists further
Load Signal does not appear or swings far to movement at the end of a film, never attempt
the right in, the window, repeat steps 1 to force it farther. (See p.38 for instructions
through 6 to assure that f ilm is properly en- on rewinding and unloading film.)
gaged on the spool. As you continue to take The frame counter does not advance when
pictures, the red signal will move gradually two or more exposures are made on the same
toward the right in the window, indicating frame. The counter automatically resets for
that f ilm is advancing properly. film loading when the camera back is opened.

Film should be handled and loading done in

subdued light - at least shaded from direct
sunlight by the body.

The film-advance lever is designed with 30o

unengaged movement before the beginning of
its engaged stroke to allow swinging it out from
the body so that the right thumb will fit
comfortably behind it. Continuing to move the
lever through its engaged angle of 130o until it
springs back to the unengaged position ad-
 FILM SPEED
to

Film-speed selector
Each f ilm on the market has an ASA or DIN 16
exposure-index number to indicate its sensitivi- 20
ty to light. For correct exposure, the meter
must be set for the effective exposure index of 32
the f ilm in use. 40
To do this, depress the selector release and ]---_ 64
turn the f ilm-speed selector until the proper \__
ASA value indication clicks into place opposite 80
its index. Dots between numbered graduations \__ 125
indicate ASA numbers as shown at right. 160
250
L___ 320
500
640
1000
125O
2000
L2500
-
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i9
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When setting film speed, the index of the Around the ASA/DlN conversion table is a
exposure-adjustment control (see p. 47) should convenient frame that can be used to keep
generally be locked at its zero position. memos handy with the camera. lt is just the
right size to hold the film-box end, which can
/-1,S/\l il I l\tr tt,t nversi.n: n $ca I e be inserted as a reminder of the f ilm in use.
A convenient scale for converting DIN to
ASA film-speed ratings is located on the back
cover of the camera.
20
EXPOSURE.CONTROL FUNDAMENTALS
The two camera exposure-control settings speed. Other things being equal, using the next
are lens opening (aperture) and shutter speed. smaller f-number (i.e., giving one stop more
The size of the aperture determines the amount exposure) will balance using the next higher
or volume of light reaching the film frorn a shutter speed (i.e., giving one stop less expo-
given subject and lighting. The shutter speed sure), and so on. A great range of combinations
determines the length of time this light acts (e.9., f/5.6 at 113O, f l4 at 1160, f 12.8 at 11125,
upon the film. Apertures are expressed in f 12 at 11250, etc.) will thus yield the same total
f-numbers, which are larger for small openings exposure. The specific combination you choose
and vice versa G.9., fl16 represents a small under given lighting conditions will depend
opening, f 12 a large one) . Shutter speeds are upon the degree to which you want the greater
expressed in seconds or fractions thereof, which depth of field (see p. 34) of smaller apertures
are generally the reciprocals of the numbers and the greater movement-blur preventing abili-
shown on shutter-speed scales (e.9., 60 = 1/60 speeds (p. 29).
ty of faster
sec., but 2s or a yellow 2 on this camera = 2 full
seconds) . At usual apertures, each f-number
setting (e.g., f/8) lets in twice as much light as
the next numerically larger one (f /1 1 ) and half
as much as the next smaller (f/5.6). Similarly,
each shutter speed (e.9., 1/60 sec.) allows light
to strike the film twice as long as the next
higher speed (11125l. and half as long as the
next lower one (1/30). The interval between
two standard f-numbers (say, f l4 and f/5.6) or
shutter speeds (say, 1/15 and 1/30) is one
"stop." Total exposure on the film is deter-
mined by the combination of aperture and
 www.butkus.us
XE.7 METERTNG POINTERS
Minolta's exclusive contrast_compensator shade and the camera is in sunlight, when bright 21
metering system employs two CdS cells mount_
sidelight falls between eye and eyepiece, or
ed on the pentaprism to take separate, overlap-
ping light readings. These cells are circuited so when stop-down metering is used, particularly
at small apertures. When viewing is unnecessary,
that the reading of each affects that of the the eyepiece shutter (see p. 26) can be used to
other to automatically yield optimum exposure
completely eliminate this problem.
in both normal and most high_contrast situa- Besides offering exceptionally long
tions. For best results, the photographer should .--
life
service
and consistent conversion of light ti electri_
thus generally not make compensatory adjust_
cal values, the CdS cells in your XE_7, like all
i ment for such differences. One exception is others, have characteristics comparable to hu_
that exposure should generally be decreased man vision. They are able to ,,see,, roughly
one to two stops if the most important subject the
same light and color as your photo
area is much brighter than the rest of the "y",for"njaccurate
film can; this is a great advantage
picture (e.g., is in a spotlight or shaft of exposure. Like your eyes, however, their time
sunlight). Some photographers also prefer to of response varies
increase exposure a half stop or more with
with the intensity of the light
backlighted subject or one whose most import_
a falling on them. lt
thus takes them a while to
become accustomed to low light levels after
ant area is considerably darker than the area exposure to bright light. For accurate exposure,
surrounding it. (For further details, see p. 4g). you should thus be careful not to point the
Though the XE-7's special system and f inder camera at very bright natural or artificial light
are designed to minimize the effect on the sources before making exposures. And you
meter of light entering through the finder should give your CdS electric eyes a short time
eyepiece under usual conditions, care must be to get accustomed to darker conditions, when,
exercised to prevent this especially if you wear for example, taking pictures in shadow or
eyeglasses. Use of a rubber finder eyecup is indoors after shooting in bright sunlight.
further recommended when the subject is in
 With "MC" (meter-coupled) lenses, metering
is done at full aperture, with the stop-down
button at its inner position (see left) , for
greatest sensitivity and accuracy. The view-
The stop-down button on the XE-7 has two finder thus remains at maximum brightness for
positions: Inner for full-aperture metering and utmost ease of composing and focusing, with
outer f or stop-down metering (see right) or the automatic diaphragm closing down only at
depth-of-field preview (see p. 35). the moment of exposure to the aperture preset
Pushing the button once will set it at one of on the aperture ring.
these positions; pushing it again will set it at the Stop-down metering is used for lenses other
other. than the MC type (see P.51).
At full aperture Stopped down
 www.butkus.us

used to turn the apertu re ring. G rasp the

Your camera should be held in a comfort- camera body firmly with the right hand as
able position that will provide suff icient steadi- shown so that the index finger rests on the
ness. A recommendable way that permits ready shutter-release button. In this position, the
operation of important controls is shown here. thumb can conveniently operate the film_
To hold the camera horizontally, cradle the advance lever.
bottom of it In the palm of the left hand with The camera may be rotated to a vertical
the tlrumb and index or middle finger on the position when held this way, the only differ-
focusing grip of the lens. The th unnb. and ence being that its rewind-crank end will rest in
middle or ring finger of the same hand can be the palm of the left hand.
 As you look through the view-
finder of your XE-7 , You can see:
F-number of lens aperture set,
Shutter setting ("A" for auto-
matic; "X" or "8," or sPeed num-
ber for manual mode),
Split-image/microPrism focus-
ing spot,
Shutterspeed scale,
Indicator needle (shows sPeed
being set on automatic mode; indi-
cates correct exposure when aligned
with scale number corresponding to
speed manual ly set), and
Meter coupling range limits.
For operation details, see the
following sections on exposure con-
trol and focusing.
 www.butkus.us

,A UTr*!IVIAT H
di E KPft.S q-j qq r:

2. Set the desired

lens opening by turning the
aperture ring on the lens barrel. The f-
number set will appear centered above the
1. Turn the shutter-speed/function selector to frame in the finder, and the shutter speed as
align "AUTO" with the index, at which indicated by the needle at the right of the
point it is locked to prevent accidental frame will vary automatically and steplessly
movement. A red letter "A" will appear as to yield proper exposure for the aperture
the shutter-setting indication at the right and other settings with the light being
above the f inder frame. meterd.
26

3. It is then only necessary to confirm focus Eyepiece shutter

(see p. 33) , compose your picture, and re- For remote or unmanned operation or when
lease the shutter (p. 36). the camera is set on a support and used without
The accurate range of shutter operation on viewing on automatic mode, be sure to rotate
4.
the lever at the left rear on the finder {
automatic mode is 1 /1000 to 4 sec., as as
indicated by the indention on the left side indicated to close theeyepiece shutter. This
of the shutter-speed scale. When the needle will prevent unwanted light from entering
moves above or below this indention, cor- through the eyepiece and affecting the meter
rect exposure will not be obtained, and the reading and exposure when the eyepiece is not
aperture or other conditions should be being shielded by the photographer's head, as it
adjusted so that it points to a value within normally would be.
the coupled range.

NOTE:
To continuously provide more or less expo-
sure on automatic mode, see p. 47.
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27

WAYS OF USING AUTO MODE

On AUTO mode, your XE-7 will set the
precise shutter speed for proper exposure for
you automatically. Even so, you have consider-
able control over results and can adjust aperture
and shutter speed over considerable ranges to
suit the conditions and yourself .

General use
For usual good personal pictures with a
minimum of care where no particular effect is
desired, simply turn the aperture ring to set a
medium aperture (say, about f/8) that will
provide as much depth of field (see p.34) as
possible while producing a shutter speed (say
about 11125 sec.l fast enough to stop any
motion necessary in the subject and guard
against blur from camera movement (see p. 36).
 camera select the shutter speed. Small f-num-
There may be times when it will be most bers yield a shallow field of sharp focus, as in
important to set the lens aperture to obtain a Example A below, wh ile large f-numbers give
particular effect, such as rendering a certain greater depth of field, ds in Example B. To 1
range in sharp focus or emphasizing a subject determine actual depth of f ield, use the depth-
against an out-of-focus background. In this of-field scale (see p. 34) or stop-down button J
case, set the desired aperture, and let the (p.221 .

A: Large lens opening B: Small lens opening

openinq

\
I
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I ''000 sec. can "f reeze" fast action, as in

At other times, the
subject or effect you Example C below. Such slow speeds as 1 12 to 1
want may make the shutter speed more impor- sec. can be used to emphasize subject flow or
tant. In this case, turn the aperture ring until motion, as in Example D.
the needle indicates the required speed on the No matter how the camera is used, it is im-
finder scale; exposure will automatically be portant to support it (see p. 23) and release the
correct. High shutter speeds such as 1/500 to shutter properly (p. 36).

C: High shutter speed D: Low shutter speed

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1. While depressing the AUTO-setting release if
from the "AUTO" setting, turn the shutter-
speed/function selector to align any step
indication from "1000" through the yellow 2. To set proper exposure for light as metered,
"4" with the index. The number of the turn the aperture ring until the needle
speed set will appear as the shutter-setting extends through the center of the number
indication at the right above the finder on the shutter-speed scale that corresponds
f rame. to the shutter-setting number appearing
above the frame. lf necessary alignment
cannot be achieved, adjust the shutter-speed
setting or other conditions to permit it.

Correct metered-manual exPosure

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3. Needle alignment can of course be disregard-

ed and any shutter-speed and lens-aperture
combination set for full manual operation.

Full-manual setting
"_{." iliilqt ""i,-J" si.tii:r l:tili
Both "X" and shutter settings are tronic flash, existing continuous light, and/or
mechanically controlled. With either of these FP flashbulbs. "X" will appear at the right
letters aligned with the index, then, you can above the finder frame at this setting.
view, make exposures, and advance film even Turning the shutter-speed/function selector
though batteries are unserviceable or complete- to align "8" with the index (while depressing
ly lacking. the AUTO-setting release if from "AUTO"
Turning the shutter-speed/function selector setting) sets the camera for making "bulb"
to align "X" with the index (while depressing exposures. That is, the shutter will open when
the AUTO-setting release if from "AUTO" the shutter release is depressed and remain open
setting) provides a fixed shutter speed of 1/90 until it is released. "8" will appear at the right
sec. for fully synchronized exposure with elec- above the finder frame at this setting.
 www.butkus.us

Though the most satisfactory focusing aid

The focusing screen of your XE-7 features a and method depend upon the conditions and
split-image spot surrounded by a band of personal preference of the photographer, the
microprisms in the center of a mat field. above method may provide best results with
To f ocus the camera visually with usual lenses of about 35mm to 100mm focal length.
lenses, look through the viewfinder with lens at Generally speaking, however, you will prob-
full aperture and turn the focusing collar on the ably find that using the split-image spot will
lens until the upper and lower subject images in result in most accurate focus with subjects
the spot are exactly aligned with no broken having vertical lines and with wideangle lenses;
lines between them and/or the subject image in the microprism band f or lenses f rom about
the band does not shimmer or appear broken 35mm through 1OOmm, especially with subjects
up. At this point, the subject image within the not having vertical lines; and the plain mat field
focusing aid should appear clearest and seem to for longer lenses or macro or other work
blend with that on the mat field around it. involving considerable lens extension.

Out of focus Subject in focus

 The near and far limits of acceptable sharp-
The distance behind and in front of the ness can be determined from the depth:of-field
focused distance within which the image ap- scale on the lens barrel. With the lens focused at
pears acceptably sharp is called the depth of a given point, the image will be in satisfactory
field. Besides being greater the shorter the focal focus from the nearer value to the farther value
length of the lens and vice versa, this increases on the distance scale indicated by the depth-cf-
as the lens is stopped down and becomes field scale marks for the aperture to be used.
greater the farther from the camera the lens is For example, if a 50mm lens is focused at
focused. lt is at its least for any given lens in 5m (about 16 ft.) and the aperture is f/8, the
normal mounting when the lens is at maximum appropriate graduations to left and right of the
aperture (as when metering and focusing nor- index on the depth-of-field scale indicate ac-
mally with Minolta MC-type lenses) and at ceptable sharpness .from about 3.4m to 9.7m
mi nimum focusi ng distance.
(approx. 1 1 to 32 ft.).

O
$
arp fiel

l-r--Focused d ista nce--n

 www.butkus.us

Depth of field at any aperture and focusing precisely where desired for photomacrography,
distance can be previewed visually by pushing close-ups, etc.
the stop-down button to release it to its outer
position. This will stop the diaphragm down to
the aperture corresponding to the f-number
preset on the aperture ring, allowing you to see
through the viewfinder how much of the
subject is acceptably sharp.
Pushing the stop-down button again to fix it
at its inner position will reopen the diaphragm
to full aperture.

For proper focus when making pictures with

infrared radiation, first focus your subject with
visible light as described above, then turn the
focusing ring to the right to align the point of
proper focus on the distance scale with the
index designated with small red "R" in the l0?g 0
depth-of-field scale.

The symbol on the camera top plate to the

right of the viewfinder indicates the exact plane
occupied by the film in the camera. This can be
used to measure distance from subject to film
36 RE LEASING TH E SH UTTE R

The way the camera is supported (see p. 23) DANGER OF BLUR FROM
when exposures are made and how the shutter CAMERA/SUBJECT MOVEMENT
is released are as important as focusing for best
photographic results, and to avoid blurred
pictures due tO camera movement during expo-
sure these factors become more critical the
slower the shutter speed.
You may wish to use the figure "30" on the
shutter$peed scale as the reference point to
gauge the chance of camera movement. When 1 ,_.,.
the meter needle swings below it, you should
pay special attention to both camera and sub-
ject movement in taking pictures.
With the possible exception of highest
speeds, the camera orhands holding it should
generally be firmly steadied against your face
or body when you release the shutter.
I''".'
At slower speeds, it is advisable to steady
the camera against a doorframe, post, or other
firm support while depressing the release.
 www.butkus.us

The shutter should always be released with a lf the eyepiece is not being shielded by the
slow, steady squeeze - never a quick jab - pre- photographer's head when the sh utter is re-
ferably while holding your breath. leased in this way, the eyepiece shutter should
For maximum sharpness when making ex- be closed (see p. 26).
posures too long to permit hand-holding the
camera, mount it on a tripod using the built-in
socket on the bottom and trip the shutter with The sh utter-release button is locked and
a cable release screwed into the threaded socket cannot be depressed when the power switch is
provided in the sh utter-release button. off .
 2. Unfold the rewind crank and turn it in the
direction indicated by the arrow on it until
1 . Push the rewind release. the red Safe Load Signal bar moves out of
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3. When you care certain that the film is

the window to the left. You will then feel completely rewound, pull out the back-
tension on the f ilm increase and disappear, cover release knob to open the back and
and the crank will turn freelV. remove the cartridge.
40 FLASH PHOTOGRAPHY

Your Minolta XE-7 is circuited for X-or FP

flash synchronization through either its thread-
ed PC sync. terminal or its convenient hot shoe.
NI^TE
You can thus use either direct-contact cordless
flashguns or units having cords on it. Since, as indicated by the table, 1/90 is the
maximum shutter speed for proper X synchro-
Synchronization nization, do not use speeds faster than this with
Turning the sync. selector switch so that its electronic or auto-flash units. FP flashbulbs
index points to the appropriate indication sets synchronize at all auto and manual shutter
the camera for synchronization as f ollows: setti ngs.

Sync. Synchronized speed range in seconds

selector Type of
switch f lash On automatic mode On metered/manual mode .

setti ng (stepless speeds) (step speeds) I

Electronic
f lash 4 through 1/90 4 through 1/60, X (1/90), B
("st robe" )
X
Class M or 4 through 1/30* 4 through 1 /30*, B
M F f lashbulbs

Class FP 4 through /1 000 4 through 1/1000, X, B

FP 1
f lashbulbs
I
* Certain Class-M bulbs have a flash duration long enough to cover higher speeds.
 www.butkus.us

Bracket-type flash units are attached to the

camera by means of its tripod socket.
Cordless clip-on flash units are attached and
electrically connected by simply sliding them
into the camera's hot shoe. Sy nc. cords of
either clip-on or bracket-type conventional
units requiring them must be plugged into the
camera sync. terminalfor operation.
 www.butkus.us

SE L F--I-IME R 43

The self-timer built into your Mlnolta XE-7

can be used to delay release of the shutter for a
variable number of seconds after actuation.
To operate it:
1. Advance film.
2. Cock the self-timer by moving the lever
counterclockwise. Moving it as far as it wl ll Moving it to align the pointer with the lower
go so that the small pointer on the opposite white mark will set it for about six seconds'
side is aligned with the white reference mark delay. Delays between these limits can be
nearer the top of the camera sets the obtained by setting the pointer at inter-
self-timer for a delay of about ten seconds. mediate positions.
3. To start the self-timer, push the small
release button which is hidden under the For proper exposure when the self-timer is
end of the lever when in its rest position. used with the camera set on AUTO, be sure to
lf the shutter is not cocked, the self-timer cf ose the eyepiece shutter (see p. 261 .

will stop operating part way through its

cycle; it can be reset either before or after
advancing film. You can override the self-
timer's release of the shutter by pushing the
shutter-release button to trip the shutter at
any time before or after the self-timer has
started operating.
 www.butkus.us

45
MULTIPLE EXPOSURES
Double or multiple exposures are very
smooth and positive with the xE-7. To inten-
tionally make more than one exposure on a
single frame of film:
1. Make the first exposure in the usual way. 3. Operate the film-advance lever. This will
2. Move the multiple-exposure lever to the cock the shutter for the next exposure, but
right as far as it will go, uncovering the red the film and counter will not advance. (The
dot normally hidden beneath it. (Do not multiple-exposure lever will return to its
touch the lever or hold it in position during original position.)
the next step.) 4. Make your second exposure.

WY
5. Repeat steps 2 and 3 as many times as
desired if you wish to make f urther ex-
posu res.
6. After the last multiple exposure, advance
f ilm to the next frame in the usual way, not
moving the multiple-exposure lever.

Exposure adjustment if and as desired for

multiple exposures with the camera on auto-
matic or metered-manr.ial mode can be made by
means of the exposure-adjustment control (see
p.49).
 www.butkus.us

E X F{:.!S l.i l i []: -i\. [],j ("j $

"1-':,,,1
F [,i l"'i
To deliberately give more or less exposure indicates one stop more or double the zero-
on either automatic or metered/manual mode, position exposure, and "+2" means two stops
use the exposure-adjustment control as follows: or four times more exposure; "-1 " is one stop
While depressing the adjustment-control re- fess or one half the exposure, and "-2"
lease, turn the index to the side having plus (+) produces two stops' less or one quarter the
numbers to produce more exposure or to the normal exposure) . There is a lock at the "0"
side having minus (-) numbers to produce less (zero) position and click-stops at both plus and
exposure. The numbers indicate the amount of minus "1" and "2" positions. The index may
adjustment in stops or EV steps (i.e., "+ 1" be set at intermediate positions.

i'i!'rJ' l- [ :

Exposure-adjustment control can not be

turned to the plus direction when film-speed
sefector is set at ASA 12, and can not be turned
to the minus direction when the selector is set
at ASA 3200.

f/\t-rT tcl\:
Always return the exposure-adjustment con-
trol to zero after use.
1. lf the contrast-compensating system of your
XE-7 does not automatically provide as
much exposure as desired in pictures whose
most important area is considerably darker
than the area surrounding it, set the index 2. lf the most important subject area is much
of the exposure-adjustment control at from brighter than the rest of the picture, set the
+1 12 to +2. Examples of such pictures are index of the exposure-adjustment control at
ones with strong backlighting and no fill-in f rom
-1 to -2. Examples of th is kind of
illumination, such as Examples A and B, or picture are subjects in a spotlight or shaft of
subjects against a background of snow or sunlight, or against a very dark background,
light-colored sand, unless the bright area as Examples C and D, unless the background
occupies a very small part of the image occupies only a small area in the image
f rame. f rame.
A: Without adiustment E xposure increased
 www.butkus.us
3. As above, when copying documents printed for a "spirit" or "ghost" picture in which
on white stock or other subjects that are background details seem to show through a
predominantly light in color, an adjustment semitransparent subject: With the camera
to +112 or more may be called f or. Similar- set on a tripod so that it cannot move and
ly, you will probably want to make an exposure adjusted to -1 to reduce light by
adjustment from-1 to -2 for predominant- half, two exposures are made on the same
ly dark copy matter or that on a dark frame (see p. a5); one of only the back-
background. ground, the other with the subject in place
4. You may also want to use the adjustment before it.
control when making multiple exposures. The above suggestions will serve as starting
Exactly how it should be set will depend points for trial; individual conditions and
upon the number of exposures and the taste will of course determine exact final
effect desired. A simple example would be exposure.

C: Without adjustment Exposure decreased

 Align the red dot on the lens barrel with the
red dot on the camera lens-mount flange; insert
the lens bayonet into the mount; and turn the While pushing the tens-release button, turn
lens clockwise until it locks into place with a the lens counterclockwise as far as it will go;
click. then lift the lens bayonet out of the mount.
 www.butkus.us

Metering and exposure with RF Rokkor and 2. Use automatic or manual mode as explained
Rokkor-X (reflex-mirror type), Auto Rokkor, on p. 25 or 30, respectively. The viewf inder
and Manual-Preset Rokkor lenses is by the field will darken as the lens is stopped
stop-down method as follows: down, and the split-field spot and micro-
prism band may become unusable due to
darken ing.
1. After focusing, push the stop-down button 3. Leave the lens stopped down to the proper
to release it to outer oosition. taking aperture when releasing the shutter.

Proceed as for Auto Rokkors above, except

that the stop-down button need not be pushed,
as metering may be done and exposure made
with it in either inner or outer position.
52 CAMERA SPECIFICATIONS
Type: 35mm single-lens reflex with automatic and metered/full-manual exposure control
Lens mount: Minolta SLR bayonet, 54o rotating angle; coupling for full-aperture metering and
automatic diaphragm control with Minolta MC lenses (stop-down metering used
for other than MC lenses); button for depth-of-field preview and stop-down
metering. (Standard lenses: MC Rokkor-X 50mm t11.7, SOmm t11.4, or SBmm
t11.2; see p. 55 for specif ications.)
Auto-exposure Special low-voltage circuit incorporating 2 monolithic lC's varies shutter speed
control: continuously and steplessly to yield proper exposure according to metering
system indication at the aperture, film speed, and exposure adjustment set.
Autocxposure range: EV 1 to EV 17 (e.g.. 1 sec. at f|1.4 to 1/1000 at f/11)at
ASA 100 with f 11.2 lens: see diagram , p.54.
Shutter: Vertical-traverse metal-blade focal-plane type; electronical ly controlled speeds:
1/1000 to 4 sec., steplessly on automatic mode or in steps on manual mode'
mechanically controlled settings (no battery power required) : "X" (1/90 sec.), "8"
Shutter release locked when power switch off
Light metering: Full-aperture TTL type with overlapping reading taken by 2 CdS cells mounted
on the pentaprism and circuited to provide optimum exposure in both flat- and
most contrast-l ighting situations; stop-down metering also possible
Film-speed range: ASA 12 to 32OO set by dial (around rewind-crank/back-releasq
knob) with lock
Device opposite film-speed dial provides up to + 2 EV continuous adjustment of
auto or metered manual exposure with 1 EV click-stops and a lock at zero setting.
Mirror: Oversize quick-return type (PO value: 14omm; finder image cutoff negligible even
with 1600mmt111 RF Rokkor-X extreme telephotol
Fi nder: Eye-level fixed pentaprism type showing94o/o of 24 x 36mm film-frame area'
magnification: 0.84X with SOmm lens focused at inf inity
 www.butkus.us

53

Mat-Fresnel-field focusing screen with central horizontally oriented split-image

focusing spot surrounded by microprism band
F-number set and manual shutter setting or "A" (for AUTO mode) visible above
the frame, stepless speeds or metered-rnanual exposure setting indicated by needle
on scale at right of frame; indention shows meter-coupling range.
Eyepiece shutter positioned by lever
Flash sync.: Threaded PC terminal and hot shoe with switch for X or FP delay; X contact:
Electronic flash synchronizes at "X" (1/90 sec.) and lower stepless and step
speeds; FP contact: FP flashbulbs synchronize at all settings.
Film advance: Lever type, single 130o stroke after 3Oo unengaged movement
Safe Load Signal indicates f ilm loading and advancing condition.
Multiple-exposure lever coaxial with advance lever allows unlimited recocking of
shutter without advancing film.
Advancing-type frame counter resets automatically when camera back opened (no
advance with multiple exposures).
Self -timer: Lever type, operating time variable from approx.6 to 10 sec.
Power: Two 1.5v silver-oxide cel ls, Eveready 5-76 or equivalent, contained in camera base
power both auto exposure control and shutter's electronically governed operation;
battery checker on end of body.
Mirror stays up (no exposure made) as warning when voltage too low for

orr rocks shutter rerease wcuL/,

?:iliil'ilJ:lili?l^ 'tbff6'ug
Oth ers 4-slot take-up spool; memo holder and ASA-DlN conversion scale on back cover
:

Size and weight: 61 x 97 x 148mm (2-3lB x 3-1 3/1 6 x 5-1 3/1 6 in.), 7l5g 127 -5 I 1 6 oz.) without lens
 WITH 58MM f/1.2 LENS
E; 32
;*
t,i

AsA 400
(DrN 27)

w*%ffi
1.4 ASA 25
(DrN 15)
1.2

^.-'" C
 www.butkus.us

STAN DAR D LENS SPECIFICATIONS

Lens: 50mm f 11.7 MC Rokkor-X 50mm f 11.4 MC Rokkor-X 58mm f 11.2 MC Rokkor-X

Type: Meter-coupled Gauss-type standard lens

Construction: 6 elements in 5 groups 7 elements in 5 groups 7 elements in 5 groups

Angle of view: 460 460 410

Coating: M inolta Achromatic

Min. focusing dist.: 0.5m (1 .74 ft.l 0.5m (1.75 ft.l 0.6m (2 ft.)

Diaphragm: F ul ly automatic meter-coupled

1 .7 ,2.8, 4,5.6,8, 1 1, 16 1 .4, 2,2.8, 4,5.6, 8, 1 1 , 16 1.2, 2, 2.8, 4,5.6, 8, 1 1, 16

Aperture scale:
Each with full and half click-stops
Focusi ng: Double helicoid system

Filter thread diam.: 55mm

64.5mm x 41mm 65mm x 46mm 70.5mm x 54mm

Dimensions: x2-1l9"l
la2-9116" x 1-518"1 lo2-9116" x 1-1 3/16") @2-13116"

Weight: 2309 (8-1 18 oz.l 3059 (10-314 oz.l 4759 n6314 oz.l
56 CARE AND STORAGE
o As with all high-precision instruments, no Never touch lens or other glass surfaces with
part of your XE-7 should ever be forced at the fingers. lf necessary, remove loose mat-
any time. lf operation is not as you think it ter from them with a blower lens brush. Use
should be, carefully restudy the applicable special photographic lens tissue or a soft
instructions or consult an authorized clean cloth to remove smudges or fi nger-
Mi nolta service representative. prints with a gentle circular motion. Only if
o Always keep your camera in its case with absolutely necessary, the tissue may be
the lens capped when not in use. moistened very slightly with not more than
o Never subject your camera to shock, high one drop of a satisfactory quick-evaporating
heat and/or humidity, water, or harmful fluid cleaner specially compounded for
chemicals or gases. photographic lenses. Such fluids must never
o Never lubricate any part of the body or lens. be dropped directly on the glass surface.
o Always use a body cap when a lens is not Smudges or fi ngerprints on the mirror may
installed on the body. Keep lenses, properly be removed with lens tissue slightly moisten-
capped front and rear, in their cases when ed with lens-cleaning fluid as above.
not in use. External camera and lens-barrel - but not
glass - surfaces may be wiped with a soft,
o Never touch the shutter blades or anything
inside the front of the body with the
fi ngers. These parts and the inside of the
icone-treated cl oth.
sil
Never leave the shutter or self-timer cocked
I
back should be dusted with a soft brush when the camera is to be stored overnight or
from time to time as necessary, with parti- longer. lt is advisable to operate the film
cular care never to exert pressure on the advance and release the shutter once or
shutter blades. The anti-corrosion treatment twice from time to time during extended
of these blades may cause them to appear sto rage.
brownish or soiled, but this is normal and a lf the camera is not to be used for more
may be disregarded. than two weeks, the batteries should be
removed.
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lf thecamera is to be stored for a long

period of time, body and lens should be
returnd to thei r original packing and kept
in a cool, dry place away from dust or
chemicals, preferably in an airtight con-
t tainer with a drying agent such as silica gel .

il
Specifications subject to change without notice

Minolta Camera Co., Ltd.,30,2-Chome, Azuchi-Machi, Higashi-Ku, Osaka 541, Japan

Minolta Corporation, 101 Williams Drive, Ramsey, New Jersey 07446, U.S.A.
 rro lr
MlnOIlO MTN.LTAMASTER'PH.T.GRAPHY

€) 1975 Minolta camera co., Ltd. under the Berne convention and
Universal Copyright Convention Printed in Japan
XE7 EO4E.A4