Minolta's Dynax 4 — entry late autofocus SLR, fully electronic, Minolta A mount, 2001.
The Minolta Dynax 4, from 2001, was an entry-level autofocus SLR near the end of Minolta's 35mm film line. It was sold as the Dynax 4 in Europe, the Maxxum 4 in North America and the Alpha 4 in Japan. It sat below the Dynax 5 as a lighter, simpler consumer body on the Minolta A mount.
It is a 35mm single-lens-reflex on the Minolta A bayonet with body-integral autofocus. It offers program and manual exposure with through-the-lens metering, and is a fully electronic body whose electronically controlled shutter and motorised transport both depend on battery power, with an LCD for settings. A built-in flash and subject-program modes reflect its beginner-oriented design.
The Dynax 4 suits a beginner or traveller wanting a light, inexpensive autofocus SLR with access to the Minolta A lens range. It handles as a simple, mostly automatic camera with scene programs for everyday use. Its limits are the reduced controls compared with the Dynax 5 and its complete reliance on electronics.
When buying used, check the LCD for missing segments and confirm the autofocus and electronic shutter operate. Test the motorised advance and rewind, verify the meter and built-in flash, and inspect the foam light seals for perishing. Clean the battery contacts, confirm the correct battery, and note the fully electronic body needs power to fire.