The Kodak Cameo Motordrive is a 35mm camera. It belongs to the group of snapshot cameras. The model was introduced in the mid-1990s, but only sold for a short time. The Motordrive has the same features as the Cameo sfm. Both cameras were built for Kodak in Mexico. Later the model was replaced by the Kodak Cameo Motor EX.
The camera comes with a fixed lens. Manual focusing is not necessary with the 35mm camera. The Kodak Cameo Motordrive comes with an autofocus.
The 35mm camera has a light meter. It was designed for films with a sensitivity of ISO 100 to ISO 1000. The film speed is read out via the DX code on the film cartridge. The Kodak Cameo Motordrive has an automatic exposure control and sets aperture and exposure time automatically.
The camera has a built-in flash. The flash is flipped open before taking the picture and otherwise serves to protect the camera lens. Power is supplied by two AAA batteries (eBay / Amazon*). In the best case, use rechargeable AAA batteries. The power is also used for the small display for viewing the captured images.
Films for the Kodak Cameo Motordrive
Exposure is done in the Kodak Cameo Motordrive cartridges with 35mm film. 35mm film is still easy to get and is developed in most photo labs. For black and white images you can use Ilford FP4 Plus*. For color images, the Kodak Portra 400* is a possibility. It is important that the cartridge of the film has a DX coding, otherwise the sensitivity cannot be set correctly.
The color film is processed in the C-41 development process. This development process is offered by most laboratories. The black and white film, on the other hand, must be processed in a true black and white developer.
The negatives of the compact camera are 24 mm x 36 mm in size. With a normal film (135-36) usually 36 photos are possible. The film is automatically transported by the Kodak Cameo Motordrive. Through a small window on the back, you can see if and which film is currently in the camera.
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 | - |
| Widest aperture | - |
| Focus | Autofocus |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 100 to 1000 |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | Yes |
| Exposure modes | Program automatic |
| Manual exposure settings | No |
| Flash | Integrated flash |
| Tripod mount | No |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | No |
| Power supply | 2x AAA batteries |
| Country of production | Mexico |
FAQ about the Kodak Cameo Motordrive
Is the Kodak Cameo Motordrive a manual focus camera or does it have autofocus?
The Kodak Cameo Motordrive has autofocus, so you don't need to manually adjust the focus. This makes it easy to use, even for beginners. It simplifies the process of taking pictures.
What kind of film does this snapshot camera use?
It uses standard 35mm film cartridges. These are readily available even today, making it convenient to find film for this camera. Many photo labs still develop 35mm film.
Does the camera have a built-in flash?
Yes, it has a built-in flash that pops up before each shot. When not in use, the flash acts as a lens cover, protecting the camera lens. It's powered by two AAA batteries.
How does the camera know the film speed (ISO)?
The camera reads the film speed from the DX code on the film canister. This automatic film speed detection ensures correct exposure settings. You don't have to manually set the ISO.
What's the size of the pictures taken with this 35mm camera?
The negatives are 24mm x 36mm, the standard size for 35mm film. A typical 36-exposure roll will give you 36 photos. The film is automatically advanced by a built-in motor.