I have been using 35mm cameras for around 40 years. I started using Minolta cameras 12 years ago, I always found them reliable and user friendly. I watched the growing digital market with some skepticism, looking on the digi’s as nothing more than an expensive boy’s toy.
In October 2001 I decided to purchase either a Fuji 6900Z or the Minolta Dimage 5. I physically compared both cameras side by side (I had read test reports on both and also printed out sample shots from both cameras). Finally the Minolta won. This was decided on construction, power source (metal hydride AAs), design and performance.
I have since found that it is a wonderful camera to use and the results still impress me even after a period of over a year. The only thing I was not impressed with was the fact that although it is fitted with a dynax type accessory shoe it is not compatible with all dynax flash equipment, this I found disappointing, it had been my intention to incorporate it with my existing set-up.
I have read reports that criticise its appetite for batteries, I find that I can get approximately 80 to 100 shots to one set depending on use of flash etc, I find this more acceptable than changing film after every 36 shots. The lens is good and more than adequate in most scenarios, The most impressive thing about it is the 500mm zoom available using the x2 digital, I usually print A4 and A3 using the Epson 1290s printer and Photoshop 7 software and find that the results are excellent even at the larger size.
The main thing to realize is that digital photography is the marriage of many components. Good software and a quality printer using a good photo quality paper coupled with a competent user can produce acceptable results from a low resolution cheap camera. These will be comparable to those from a cheap 35mm camera.
Digital photography is not a cheap option to 35mm it is about equal, you must have knowledge and first rate equipment for perfect results. The Minolta Dimage 5 is a very important ingredient in this recipe.
I would rate this camera to be an asset to any competent photographer, I would only advise people with good knowledge of a 35mm SLR to consider this camera otherwise you may be a little disappointed.
The price has come down to about £500.00 since I bought mine making it even better value, I recommended the Dimage 5 to a friend and he is also pleased with his purchase.
I forgot to mention it comes with the full kit of cables, software, Batteries and charger. All you need to provide is the computer and printer.
More details
Durability
Good
Reliability
Excellent
Size
Average
Weight
Average
Instruction Manual
Excellent
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