Exploring the Konica Big Mini A4

Jan 31

I recently purchased a tiny point and shoot camera, the Konica Big Mini A4. After some hunting on eBay, I was fortunate enough to snag one in mint condition, which had me buzzing with excitement. So, what better way to test it out than by taking it to the Quoz Arts Fest at Alserkal Avenue in Dubai on Sunday, January 26, 2025?

The Big Mini A4 is a compact 35mm point and shoot with a sleek design and a solid reputation for sharpness and reliability. I loaded it with a roll of Portra 400, Kodak's beloved film stock, known for its vibrant colors and natural skin tones. Perfect for capturing the energy and creativity of an arts festival.

The Quoz Arts Fest was as lively and inspiring as always, with colorful installations, street performances, food stalls and local art filling the space. The Konica Big Mini A4's autofocus and simple controls made it easy to snap shots without fumbling, which was a blessing amidst the hustle and bustle. Plus, the Portra 400 film added an extra touch of nostalgia and warmth to each shot.

After developing the roll, I was thrilled with the results. The color saturation, the dynamic range, and that classic film grain, the Big Mini A4 did not disappoint. If you’re a fan of film photography looking for a solid and budget-friendly point and shoot, this camera is definitely worth considering.

A few things to note about this camera:

Full Auto System (only the date stamp and flash settings can be adjusted)
35mm F3.5 Fixed Lens (you’ll need to use your feet to zoom in some situations) super sharp lens
Takes 2 batteries (1 CR123A for the main system, 1 CR2025 for the data back)

Looking forward to using it more at the Kumbh Mela 2025 in India this coming weeks.

Here are some sample photos using the Konica Big Mini A4 with Kodak Porter 400 film stock.