Konica Big Mini F 35mm f/2.8 point and shoot film camera

Good condition Konica big mini f with a 35mm 2.8 lens. The body contains some scratches, but nothing that affects the overall performance.

Konica Big Mini F, a 35mm point-and-shoot film camera that deserves more attention than it often receives.

Konica Big Mini F: A Hidden Gem

1. Overview:

   • The Konica Big Mini F, released in 1997, is part of the Big Mini series—a line of mid-level Japanese point-and-shoot cameras.
   • Unlike its predecessors, the Big Mini F features a fast 35mm f/2.8 lens, making it stand out in the crowd.
   • Its design is minimalist and sleek, with an aluminum front shell that exudes a premium feel.

2. Specifications:

   • Lens: The fixed Konica 35mm f/2.8 lens consists of 3 elements in 4 groups. The wider aperture (compared to previous models with f/3.5) allows for better low-light performance and creative depth of field.
   • Shutter Speed Range: From 4 seconds to 1/450 second.
   • Minimum Focus Distance: 35 cm.
   • Auto Mode: Shutter priority auto-exposure.
   • Metering: Active infrared autofocus with exposure compensation of +/-1.5 EV.
   • ISO Range: 25 to 3200.
   • Flash: Built-in flash with on/off capability.
   • Self-Timer: 10-second delay.
   • Battery: Powered by a single CR123 lithium battery.
   • Viewfinder: Provides framing lines but no additional information display.
   • Dimensions: Approximately 115 x 63 x 34.5mm.
   • Weight: Without the battery, it weighs 180g; with the battery, it's 197g.

3. History and Context:

   • The Big Mini F was the pinnacle of Konica's Big Mini line and the last model with a fixed lens.
   • Prior to the Big Mini series, there was the Konica A4 (which was essentially the predecessor), later renamed simply "Big Mini."
   • In 1996, Minolta introduced the Minolta TC-1, aiming to compete with popular point-and-shoots like the Contax T2 and Yashica T4.
   • Eventually, Konica merged with Minolta, and the Minolta TC-1 outlasted the Big Mini line.

4. Why It Matters:

   • The Big Mini F's f/2.8 lens sets it apart from its siblings, allowing for better low-light performance and creative possibilities.
   • Its aluminum finish gives it a premium touch, and the minimalist design appeals to those seeking elegance in simplicity.
   • Despite being relatively young (only 16 years old as of now), the Big Mini F has garnered a dedicated following among film enthusiasts.

In summary, the Konica Big Mini F is a hidden gem—a compact, capable point-and-shoot that combines aesthetics, functionality, and that coveted f/2.8 aperture. If you come across one, consider giving it a shot (pun intended)!