The Minolta Explorer Freedom Zoom is a camera from Minolta. It was released in the 90’s and was aimed at the ottonormal consumer in North America. The model was produced in a factory in China. Comparable variants were also offered under the names “Minolta Riva Zoom 70W” and “Minolta Capios 25“.
The zoom lens of the 35 mm photo camera is fixed. With a switch, you can choose between 28 mm to 70 mm. The maximum aperture is f/3.5 at 28 mm and f/8.4 at 70 mm. There is no need to focus manually with the 35 mm camera, as there is an automatic focusing system. The lens’ closest focusing distance, i.e. the distance to the subject, can be 40 cm in macro mode. The lens is composed of four lenses in four groups, two of which are aspherically coated.
An exposure meter is built into the camera. It is designed for films in a range from ISO 25 to ISO 3200. The technology determines the correct sensitivity of the film via the DX code on the cartridge. Exposure settings are automatically controlled by the camera electronics. Therefore, shutter speed and aperture cannot be selected by the user.
The camera has various exposure modes. Thus, there is a full auto mode, a macro mode, a mode for landscape photography and a mode for portrait photography at night. In this mode, the built-in flash is used to freeze the subject in motion.
The flash, located in the upper corner, has a range of up to 6 meters. This value refers to a film speed of ISO 100 at wide-angle zoom. The flash can be fired automatically, forced, or turned off completely as needed. Additionally, there is an automatic red-eye prevention.
The camera with its plastic housing weighs 240 grams and measures 12.1 x 6.6 x 4.4 cm. There is a connection for a tripod on the bottom. A camera strap can also be used with the camera. The Minolta requires a CR123A battery (eBay / Amazon*). One battery charge lasts for an average of 300 pictures.
Films for the Minolta Explorer Freedom Zoom
The Minolta Explorer Freedom Zoom captures its images on 35mm film. The negatives are 24 mm x 36 mm in size. So at least 36 shots will fit on a normal film. The film in the still camera automatically advances to the next frame. You can take about 1.2 pictures per second with the camera. If the display shows a blinking “0”, the film is not loaded properly. Otherwise, the display shows the number of photos taken. There is a self-timer for group pictures or selfies. The self-timer gives ten seconds to get into position.
For color pictures, there is about the Kodak Ultramax 400*. An option for black and white images is the Ilford HP5*. According to various reviews, they are good for everyday shooting and deliver solid results. Other notable manufacturers include Rollei, Adox and Foma.
Minolta Explorer Freedom Zoom Date Panorama
In addition to the regular version, the camera also comes in a version with two additional features. It can expose the shooting time in a corner of the images. Among other things, a clock is built in for this purpose. The calendar lasts until the year 2029. It does not need an additional battery.
In addition, the model mentioned can create a fake panorama effect. To do this, a part of the negative is covered inside the camera. This then creates the look of a panorama. Of course, the image can also be spaded accordingly later in post-processing.
The additional functions make the camera about five grams heavier.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Snapshot camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Automatic |
| Film transport mechanism | Motor |
| Pictures per second | 1,2 |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Focal length | 28 mm - 70 mm |
| Widest aperture | f/3.5 |
| Minimum focus distance | 40 cm / 1.312 ft |
| Zoom function | Yes |
| Focus | Autofocus |
| Lens design | 4 elements in 4 groups |
| Exposure times | 1/500 second to 8 seconds |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 25 to 3200 |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | Yes |
| Exposure modes | Program automatic |
| Manual exposure settings | No |
| Date imprinting | Model variant |
| Panorama function | Yes |
| Flash | Integrated flash |
| Flash range | 0,5 to 6 Meter / 1.64 to 19.69 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 |
| Power supply | 1x CR123A battery |
| Size | 12,1 x 6,6 x 4,4 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 4.76 x 2.60 x 1.73 inches |
| Weight | 240 Grams |
| Country of production | China |
FAQ about the Minolta Explorer Freedom Zoom
What kind of film does this Minolta camera use?
The Minolta Explorer Freedom Zoom uses standard 35mm film. Each roll typically holds 36 exposures, and the camera automatically advances the film after each shot. The film size is 24mm x 36mm.
How is the focus controlled on the camera?
This Minolta camera has automatic focusing, so you don't need to adjust it manually. It's designed for ease of use, even for beginners. It features a macro mode for close-up shots.
Does the camera have a built-in flash?
Yes, it has a built-in flash with a range of up to 6 meters (at ISO 100 and wide-angle zoom). You can choose to have it automatically trigger, force it, or turn it off completely. Red-eye reduction is also included.
What is the lens like on the Explorer Freedom Zoom?
It has a fixed zoom lens offering focal lengths from 28mm to 70mm. The maximum aperture is f/3.5 at 28mm and f/8.4 at 70mm. It's a relatively simple lens, ideal for everyday photography.
What are the battery life and weight of the camera?
The Minolta Explorer Freedom Zoom uses a CR123A battery, which should last for about 300 shots. The camera is lightweight, weighing only 240 grams and featuring a compact design.
hi! have this camera and shot 1/3 of the roll, when it stopped taking photos and all the settings started to blink at once. the only way to stop it was to physically remove the battery. I have been unable to take photos since. any suggestions what could be wrong? thank you