PROGRAM MODE

Program (P) mode is ideal when you just want to compose and shoot. This mode features automatic multi-program selection which instantly matches the exposure program to the focal length in use. In this mode, both aperture and shutter speed are set automatically and displayed in the viewfinder and data panel.

To set mode: Rotate exposure mode selector to align "PROGRAM" with index on data panel

Auto multi-program selection (AMPS)
In program mode, one of three programs is automatically selected to match the lens focal length actually in use.

Shorter than 35mm:
Wide program sets the smallest practical aperture for maximum depth of field.

35mm to 105mm:
Standard program is Minolta's faster-speed type that sets optimum shutter speeds and apertures.

Longer than 105mm:
Tele program sets faster shutter speeds to protect against blur from camera shake.

NOTE

Program selection is automatic; it is not possible to manually select a specific program.
With zoom lenses, the program automatically changes as you zoom from one range to the next. With the AF 28-135mm zoom, for example, as you zoom from 28mm to 135mm, the program changes from Wide through Standard to Tele.
If light level is outside metering range, metering indicator in viewfinder blinks as a warning that exposure may not be correct.
If both shutter speed and aperture displays blink, required aperture-shutter speed combination is not available.

Program shift
While remaining in Program mode, program shift can be used to temporarily select alternative aperture-shutter speed settings. Shifting the program does not change total exposure; it only changes the combination of settings used for achieving the same exposure. For example, if the program is shifted to use a faster shutter speed, the camera will automatically set a larger aperture to balance it and maintain the same relative exposure.

Using program shift
To shift the program, move the shutter or aperture up/down control until the desired shutter or aperture setting appears in the viewfinder and data panel. Settings change in half-stops increments, and "P" in the viewfinder blinks to indicate when program shift is in use. Before exposure, shifted settings are held for ten seconds after lifting finger from operating button. After exposure, program shift is cancelled as soon as finger is lifted from operating button.

NOTE

To make several exposures using program shift, keep finger on operating button between exposures.
When using zoom lenses, it is best to shift program after zooming. When zooming from 70mm to 210mm, for example, program changes from Standard to Tele, and the shifted settings will also change.