The Minolta Freedom Family Zoom II is a 35 mm camera. It belongs to the group of point-and-shoot cameras. It was introduced by the Japanese manufacturer in the early 2000s and sold on the American market. The 35mm camera was also sold under the name “Minolta Freedom Action Zoom 60“.
The 35mm photo camera comes with a zoom lens. The zoom range, controlled by a toggle switch, goes from 35mm to 60mm. The maximum aperture is f/5.3 (35mm) and f/8.4 (60mm). The 35 mm camera has autofocus. The closest focusing distance of this lens is 130 cm. At 60 mm, you have to keep at least 160 cm away from the subject.
Taking pictures is made easier by the built-in light meter. The light meter was built for films with a sensitivity of ISO 100, ISO 200 or ISO 400. The Minolta Freedom Family Zoom II determines the correct film speed via the DX code. Exposure is set automatically by the camera. Shutter speed or aperture cannot be selected by the photographer. There are also no exposure modes for the user to choose from.
A flash is installed for pictures in low light. According to the manual, the power of the flash reaches up to 3 meters at ISO 100. The flash comes with an automatic for red-eye reduction. Additionally, there is a fill-in flash and the option to turn the flash off completely.
The 35mm camera has a built-in self-timer and a thread for a tripod. A camera strap can also be attached to the side of the camera.
The dimensions of the model are 12.8 x 7.3 x 4.9 cm. At the same time, it weighs 235 grams with its plastic housing. The camera requires a CR123A battery (eBay / Amazon*). This type of battery is still easy to get today. The batteries last for about 360 pictures.
In addition to the normal version, there was a Quartz Date model. This model can additionally imprint the recording time in a corner of the pictures if desired. The function can also be disabled if desired.
Films for the Minolta Freedom Family Zoom II
The Minolta Freedom Family Zoom II requires 35mm film. These films are still manufactured and can be specified at almost any provider of development work. The film is transported by a motor. The film is rewound either automatically at the end or by pressing the small button on the top of the camera.
One possibility for B&W images is the Ilford XP2 Super*. A possible film for color images is the Kodak Ultramax 400*. The two can convince in test reports and are well suited for everyday use.
The color film is a color negative film and is developed in the C-41 process. This is offered by almost every photo lab.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Snapshot camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Automatic |
| Film transport mechanism | Motor |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Focal length | 35 mm - 60 mm |
| Widest aperture | f/5.3 |
| Minimum focus distance | 130 cm / 4.264 ft |
| Zoom function | Yes |
| Focus | Autofocus |
| Exposure times | 1/200 second to 1/15 second |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 100 to 400 |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | Yes |
| Exposure modes | Program automatic |
| Manual exposure settings | No |
| Date imprinting | Model variant |
| Flash | Integrated flash |
| Flash range | 1,3 to 3 Meter / 4.27 to 9.84 Feet |
| Flash modes | Fill-in flash, Red-eye reduction |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Power supply | 1x CR123A battery |
| Size | 12,8 x 7,3 x 4,9 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 5.04 x 2.87 x 1.93 inches |
| Weight | 235 Grams |
| Estimated value / Used price | 69,63 Euro 12010867548581123576676 Estimate based on used prices of 3 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of March 21, 2025 |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 69,00 Euro (74.69 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Minolta Freedom Family Zoom II
Is this camera easy to use, even for a beginner?
Yes, it's a point-and-shoot camera, meaning it's designed for simplicity. It automatically sets the exposure, so you don't need to worry about adjusting settings. Just point and shoot!
What kind of zoom does the Minolta Freedom Family Zoom II have?
It has a 35mm to 60mm zoom lens, controlled by a rocker switch. This allows you to get closer to or further from your subject without changing lenses.
Does the camera have a flash, and how powerful is it?
Yes, it has a built-in flash with red-eye reduction. The flash has a range of up to 3 meters at ISO 100, sufficient for most indoor shots.
What type of film does this point-and-shoot camera use, and is it still available?
It uses standard 35mm film, which is readily available from most film photography suppliers. Both color and black and white films are compatible.
What battery does the Minolta Freedom Family Zoom II need?
It uses a CR123A battery, a type that's still easily obtainable today. One battery should provide enough power for approximately 360 shots.