Minolta XG9
The Minolta XG9 was a precursor to the digital cameras we have today. Back in the late 1970’s and early 1980’s the Minolta XG9 was a happy medium between the high-XD-11 and the XG-7. Back then, when you bought the Minolta XG9 camera, you were getting one of the founding fathers of today’s digital camera. Today, it would be considered a dinosaur. However, you can still find this camera in use by those sentimentalists who prefer lining up their own shots and such.

First of all, unlike many cameras today, the Minolta XG9 did not have video camera capabilities. Rather, it had a host of other features that were considered the best of its day. For instance, it was an electronic 35 mm camera with manual and automatic exposure control. In addition, it had touch switch metering. Back in the day, while not totally cheap, the Minolta XG9 camera, in review, was the best affordable camera at the time.

Other characteristics of the Minolta XG9 included automatic exposure compensation, both an un-metered manual mode as well as a preferred aperture mode for shutter speed issues, and a viewfinder with an LED grid in which to set shutter speed automatically and to view exposure marks. There was also a focusing screen that had a split image finder. Picture count automatically reset when new film was loaded in it. The Minolta XG9 used two A76 batteries and had a battery check built-in as well as an on and off switch. There was also a lever type of film winding as well.

In regards to Minolta XG9 camera accessories, there were a number of interchangeable lenses depending on what you were shooting. There was also a tripod and even a handy Minolta XG9 camera case in which to tote your camera and an extra lens or two. It was rather bulky and weighed over one pound.

Way past its prime, the Minolta XG9 camera for sale is scarce. However, eBay often has deals for used models and even some that can be cannibalized for parts. Cameras have come a long way since the premiere of the Minolta XG9, but this model still holds a memorable spot in revolutionizing the modern camera.