Minolta's Maxxum XTsi has a unique eye-start feature that lets you respond instantly to any situation you encounter. A touch sensor activates an infrared emitter/detector located under the viewfinder eyepiece when you take hold of the camera's grip. By the time you bring the camera to your eye, the autofocus and autoexposure systems have already started automatically. You don't have to touch the shutter-release button or any other control. This feature gives you several extra seconds to capture those shots that you might otherwise miss while you wait for the camera to focus on the subject. This feature, along with the 2 fps continuous shooting mode and the three-point AF sensor configuration, combine to give you the ability to catch and track a subject faster and more precisely than ever before.
The basic functions of this camera are separated from the more advanced ones in an easy-to-understand, logical manner. The basic functions, located on the top right side of the camera body, help you learn about your camera and what it can do. Once you've mastered those, you can experiment with the more advanced features, found on the top left of the camera body, at your own pace. Your shots can become more creative as you learn and try all the features available to you. This camera lets you switch from one mode to another and back again instantly, as you see fit. In addition, the subject program selections--portrait, landscape, close-up, sports/action, and night portrait--are quite easy to use and let you get the shot right the first time.
With the optional Maxxum Flash 5400HS flash unit, you can achieve a high-speed sync of up to 1/4,000 second. This function allows for the use of large apertures, which lets you shoot in bright ambient light, for beautiful outdoor portraits with fill-flash. This camera also has 10 autoexposure modes that you can customize to fit your needs. They give you optimal flexibility in different photographic situations.