The Minolta XE-7 (also known in Europe as the XE-1) is a single-lens reflex camera that uses 35mm film. Released in 1974, the XE-7's features included fully automatic exposure, contrast-compensator metering, a self-timer and a new (at the time) "Copal-Leitz Shutter" that operated more quietly and with greater precision than earlier shutters. Although the XE-7 is a complex piece of machinery, the device comes with "automatic" settings that will allow even novice users to take attractive photographs.
Instructions
1. Insert one edge of the small coin into the indentation on the bottom of the camera. Twist the coin counterclockwise to unscrew the battery sleeve; remove the battery sleeve. Insert the two batteries into the battery sleeve with the "+" side facing upward. Reinsert the battery sleeve into the camera and screw it back into place. Locate the power switch on the rear of the camera, next to the eyepiece. Set the switch to the "ON" position.
2. Pull the back-release knob (located on top of the camera, on the side opposite the shutter button) upward to open the back of the camera. Insert the canister of 35mm film into the left side of the film chamber, directly underneath the back-release knob. Lower the back-release knob to secure the canister in place.
3. Pull out the leader edge of the film. Align the film such that it threads between both of the spools on the right, is held in place by one of the slots in the rightmost spool, and the tooth on the rightmost spool catches on the notch nearest the end of the strip. Use the film advance lever (located above the power switch) to wind the film until the teeth on both sides of the rightmost spool catch on notches in the film. Close the back of the camera.
4. Examine the frame-counter dial, located to the right of the power switch. Advance the film until you see "S1" appear on the dial. Use the film speed dial (located beneath the back-release knob) to select the speed that corresponds to the type of film you are using (consult the film's packaging if you are unsure).
5. Turn the selector dial (located above the film advance lever) to the option labeled "AUTO." Adjust the size of the lens opening by turning the aperture ring (located at the base of the camera lens) clockwise or counterclockwise. Examine the numbers on the ring to determine the current setting; if you are uncertain which setting to use, a setting of "5.6" or "8" will be acceptable in most situations.
6. Hold the camera up to your eye and examine your subject through the viewfinder. Turn the focusing ring (located near the end of the camera lens) until the images in the center spot of the viewfinder are properly aligned. Tuck your elbows against your body to help steady the camera and slowly squeeze the shutter button to take your picture. Continue taking pictures in this manner until you are finished with the film.
7. Turn the camera over and press the rewind release button. Unfold the crank attached to the back-release knob. Turn the crank clockwise until you no longer feel any tension as you turn. Lift the back-release knob to open the back of the camera and remove the film canister. Close the back of the camera and turn the power switch to the "OFF" position.
Tags: back-release knob, back camera, battery sleeve, power switch, dial located, rightmost spool