Minolta Maxxum STsi QD Panorama Date 35mm SLR Camera Kit w/ 35-80mm & 75-300mm Lenses, Silver

The Minolta STsi features two detachable lenses--a 35-80mm lens and a 75-300mm lens. It offers selectable automatic or manual focus, a built-in pop-up flash with four modes, a self-timer, and eight-segment honeycomb-pattern exposure metering. There are five exposure modes, aside from the traditional auto exposure mode: portrait, landscape, close-up, sports action mode, and night portrait.

In the box, you receive the Minolta Maxxum STsi body, two Minolta lenses and lens caps, an adjustable neck strap, a user's manual, and warranty information. The camera operates on two 3-volt CR2 lithium batteries, which are sold separately.

The two types of lens will meet most of my photography needs, but I love the idea that I can upgrade lens to the higher powered Minolta lens. This camera allows the amateur photographer to develop their skills and maybe even the ability to turn "pro" because of the ability to expand. IT'S GREAT! IT'S MORE THAN GREAT, IT IS OUTSTANDING!!!


So far I like it   November 17, 2001
9 out of 10 found this review helpful

I decided to buy this camera for my trip to Dominican Republic. First, I would like to mention the Amazon service, which is great; I got the camera the next day after I ordered.

I am not a professional photographer, I don't even know why I need a second lense yet, but I had a lot of fun taking my first roll of film. The camera is not bulky as it looks and very light. I did not have any trouble understanding automatic features and if you have a good memory you will have no problem mastering manual settings. I stopped by Ritz Camera store and got a couple filters for calendar quality ocean pictures, try Cokin filters website, you will get hooked for yourself. I think it's an exclellent camera, but if you are not a professional make sure you actually need a second zoom lens; otherwise you paying (...) extra for something you might not need (I bought it just in case, but I did not use it yet). Good luck.


Great Camera   February 26, 2002
Rebecca Howard (Huntington, WV United States)
4 out of 4 found this review helpful

I bought this camera to replace an old Minolta. I used it for the first time this weekend and loved it! I would recommend reading the book first before you mess with all its gadgets! I really like the features that it offers. Red eye reduction and the extra lens were a plus!


LOVE IT!!!!!   June 26, 2002
N. J. Snyder (fort wayne, in United States)
2 out of 2 found this review helpful

I was initially overwhelmed with all the bells and whistles on this camera, but the instruction book is well written and I'm catching on to the countless features.

I bought this camera to replace a Canon AE-1. I am an amateur photographer with an introductory college level photography class. There is absolutely no comparison to the quality of pictures I've taken with the Minolta vs. Canon.

I took a couple of test rolls initially on the automatic mode without any expectation of the results. I was amazed how terrific ALL of my pictures turned out---even the ones I took in the park with one hand holding the camera and the other holding onto the leash of an impatient 80 pound dog. This led me to believe the camera is all but idiot proof on the automatic mode.

I am still learning how to use many of the features, but I'm having the time of my life learning the joy of using a camera that works with me vs. against me. Now I can focus more on creativity. I love the automatic focus because manually achieving perfect focus has always been one of my weaker points. Using a 75-300mm lens is new to me and I'm in awe of the versatility it offers from close ups to distance shots such as wildlife or sports. One of my favorite 'surprise,it turn out' shots from my first test roll of film was a pot of calla lilies shot from half a greenhouse away. Post card gorgeous!