The Minolta Capios 125S is a 35mm camera. The model was built by Minolta in China and marketed in the early 2000s. It was sold on the domestic market in Japan. The 35mm camera was also available on the market under the name “Minolta Freedom Zoom 125” and “Minolta Riva Zoom 125“.
The camera is easy to use and was therefore aimed at beginners and amateur photographers. Therefore, you rarely need the manual to take pictures. The value of a model today is not particularly high. You can find a used one or a comparable model quite easily for a reasonable amount.
The lens of the camera cannot be changed. The zoom goes from 37.5 mm to 125 mm, hence the name of the camera. The maximum aperture is f/5.4 at wide angle and f/10.3 at 125 mm. The lens is focused by autofocus. The minimum distance to the subject is 60 cm.
Taking pictures is made easier by the built-in light meter. It is designed for an ISO range of 25 to 3200. The film speed is read out via the DX code. Exposure settings are automatically determined by the camera. There is no option for setting aperture and shutter speed on this model.
There is a built-in flash for shooting in low light conditions. The flash has an automatic mode to prevent red-eye in the photos. Additionally, there is a mode for night shots and a fill-in flash, e.g. for backlit shots. The flash range is up to 4.6 meters when using ISO 100 film.
The camera has a self-timer with a lead time of ten seconds. Additionally, there is the option to shoot with a remote shutter release. The RC-3 infrared remote control, which is sold separately, has a range of five meters. The remote control requires a CR2032 battery (eBay / Amazon*).
The dimensions of the Minolta Capios 125S are 11.2 x 6 x 4.4 cm. At the same time, it weighs 190 grams. There is a thread for a tripod on the bottom. A hand strap can be attached to the side of the camera body.
The camera requires a CR123A battery (eBay / Amazon*). This type of battery is still easy to get and is not particularly expensive either. One battery charge is enough for about 300 pictures. The charge level is shown on the display on the top.
Films for the Minolta Capios 125S
The Minolta Capios 125S is designed for 35mm format. The camera automatically transports the film to the next frame after shooting. The current number of captured frames is shown in the display. If it shows “0”, the film has not been loaded correctly. Under no circumstances should the back cover be opened when there is still film in the camera. A button can also be used to rewind the film into the cartridge if you want to remove the film prematurely.
One possibility for black and white images is Ilford Delta 100*. A possible film for color images is the Kodak Ultramax 200. According to reviews, the films provide good results in most everyday situations. Both films are good for everyday, wedding or vacation photos.
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 | 37.5 mm - 125 mm |
| Widest aperture | f/5.4 |
| Minimum focus distance | 60 cm / 1.968 ft |
| Zoom function | Yes |
| Focus | Autofocus |
| Lens design | 6 elements in 6 groups |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 25 to 3200 |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | Yes |
| Exposure modes | Program automatic |
| Manual exposure settings | No |
| Flash | Integrated flash |
| Flash range | 0,6 to 4,6 Meter / 1.97 to 15.09 Feet |
| Flash modes | Fill-in flash, Red-eye reduction |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | Yes, Self-timer function with 10 seconds lead time |
| Wireless remote control | Yes |
| Power supply | 1x CR123A battery |
| Size | 11,2 x 6 x 4,4 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 4.41 x 2.36 x 1.73 inches |
| Weight | 190 Grams |
| Country of production | China |
| Estimated value / Used price | 85,20 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 4 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 104,20 Euro (112.57 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 71,16 Euro (76.85 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Minolta Capios 125S
Is the Minolta Capios 125S easy to use, even for beginners?
Yes, the camera is designed for beginners and hobbyists. Its simple operation often means you won't need the instruction manual. The automatic settings make taking pictures straightforward.
Can I change the lens on this camera?
No, the Minolta Capios 125S has a fixed lens. The zoom range is 37.5mm to 125mm, which is reflected in its various names. This makes it a compact and convenient point-and-shoot.
Does the camera have a built-in flash, and what are its features?
Yes, it has a built-in flash with auto mode to avoid red-eye. It also offers night and fill-flash modes for various lighting conditions. The flash range extends up to 4.6 meters with ISO 100 film.
How does the camera measure the light for proper exposure?
The Minolta Capios 125S uses a built-in light meter for exposure. It automatically determines the settings based on the film speed (ISO), which is read via the DX code. Manual adjustment isn't possible.
What kind of battery does the camera use, and how long does it last?
The camera uses a CR123A battery. These are readily available and inexpensive. A single charge will allow you to take approximately 300 pictures, and the remaining battery power is displayed on the camera.