The Minolta Freedom Action Zoom 60 is a 35mm camera. It belongs to the group of point-and-shoot cameras. It was introduced by the Japanese manufacturer in the early 2000s and sold in the American market. The 35mm camera was also sold under the name “Minolta Freedom Family Zoom II“.
The 35mm photo camera is equipped with a zoom lens. The zoom range, controlled by a toggle switch, is from 35mm to 60mm. The maximum aperture is f/5.3 (35mm) and f/8.4 (60mm). The 35mm camera features autofocus. The closest focusing distance of this lens is 130 cm. At 60mm, you need to maintain a distance of at least 160cm from the subject.
Taking pictures is made easier by the built-in light meter. The light meter is built for film with a sensitivity of ISO 100, ISO 200 or ISO 400. The Minolta Freedom Action Zoom 60 determines the correct film speed using the DX code. Exposure is automatically set 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 built in for low-light shots. According to the manual, the flash’s output reaches up to 3 meters at ISO 100. The flash has an automatic to reduce the red-eye effect. 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 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 also a model with quartz date. This model can additionally imprint the recording time in one corner of the pictures if desired. The function can also be disabled if desired.
Films for the Minolta Freedom Action Zoom 60
The Minolta Freedom Action Zoom 60 requires 35mm film. These films are still manufactured and can be specified from almost any developing vendor. 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.
A recommendation for color photos is the Fujifilm Superia 400* and for B&W shots the Ilford XP2 Super*.
The color film is processed using the C-41 process. This development process is performed by all photo labs that offer development of 35mm film. Often very uncomplicated, is the delivery of the films at one of the large German drugstore chains.
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 |
FAQ about the Minolta Freedom Action Zoom 60
How far away do I need to be from my subject to take a picture?
That depends on the zoom setting. At the widest setting (35mm), you need to be at least 130cm away. At the telephoto setting (60mm), you'll need 160cm or more for sharp focus.
Does this camera have automatic exposure?
Yes, the Minolta Freedom Action Zoom 60 has an automatic exposure system. It automatically determines the correct exposure based on the film speed detected through the DX code. You can't manually adjust the aperture or shutter speed.
What type of film does the compact camera use?
It uses standard 35mm film. You can find this easily at most camera stores or online retailers, and many photo labs still process them.
What kind of battery does the camera need?
The camera uses a CR123A battery. These are readily available, even today, and a single battery is said to last for around 360 pictures.
Does the point-and-shoot have a built-in flash?
Yes, it has a built-in flash with a range of up to 3 meters at ISO 100. It also has red-eye reduction and a fill-flash mode, or you can turn it off completely.