The Minolta Freedom Sightseer Zoom is a photo camera. The model was built in China and was introduced in the late 90s. It belongs to the group of point-and-shoot cameras and was also available on the market under the names “Minolta Riva Zoom 70” and “Minolta Silver Streak Zoom“.
The camera comes with a lens that cannot be changed. The manufacturer’s name for the lens is “Minolta Aspherical Lens Zoom 35-70mm.” The lens has a zoom range of 38mm to 70mm. The maximum aperture varies depending on the focal length and ranges from f/5.3 to f/9.8. The lens is autofocused. The closest focusing distance is specified as 130cm for this lens.
The 35mm photo camera has a built-in light meter. The light meter is designed for films with a sensitivity of ISO 100, ISO 200 and ISO 400. The film speed is read out via the DX code on the film cartridge. If there is no code on the cartridge, ISO 100 is set. The aperture and exposure time are set automatically by the Minolta Freedom Sightseer Zoom. It is not possible to change the exposure settings.
There is a built-in flash for shooting in low light conditions. The flash range is up to 3 meters at ISO 100 in the wide-angle range. The flash can be turned off if desired.
The 35mm camera has a thread for a tripod and a self-timer. Of course, there is also an eyelet for a wrist strap. The camera weighs 245 grams. The dimensions are 12.8 x 7.3 x 5.2 cm. The camera requires one CR123A battery (eBay / Amazon*). One battery lasts for about 360 photos, half of them with the use of the flash.
Films for the Minolta Freedom Sightseer Zoom
What kind of films does the Minolta Freedom Sightseer Zoom need? 35mm format films are used. Film transport is automatic. A display on the top shows the number of frames taken. Winding into the cassette is also done by the built-in motor.
35mm films are still manufactured today. They can be developed in most laboratories. Good choices for color and black and white are the Kodak Gold 200* and the Ilford Delta 400*. Both films produce decent shots and are good for everyday use, according to reviews.
Quartz Date Model
In addition to the regular point-and-shoot camera model, there was a date back variant. This date variant offered the option of imprinting the date the picture was taken. This feature was very popular with casual photographers because it allowed them to quickly determine, even years later, when the picture was taken. The additional technology makes the model 10 grams heavier.
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 |
| Lens name | Minolta Aspherical Lens Zoom 35-70mm |
| Focal length | 38 mm - 70 mm |
| Widest aperture | f/5.3 |
| Minimum focus distance | 130 cm / 4.264 ft |
| Zoom function | Yes |
| Focus | Autofocus |
| Exposure times | 1/200 second, 1/70 second, 1/40 second, 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 5,2 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 5.04 x 2.87 x 2.05 inches |
| Weight | 245 Grams |
| Country of production | China |
FAQ about the Minolta Freedom Sightseer Zoom
What kind of film does this Minolta camera use?
It uses standard 35mm film. The camera automatically advances the film and rewinds it into the cassette after shooting. You can use both color and black and white films.
How does the focusing work on this point-and-shoot camera?
The Minolta Freedom Sightseer Zoom has an autofocus lens. You don't need to manually adjust the focus; the camera does it automatically. The minimum focusing distance is 130cm.
Can I change the settings on the camera, like the aperture or shutter speed?
No, this camera is fully automatic. The aperture and shutter speed are adjusted automatically by the camera's built-in light meter. There are no manual controls.
Does the camera have a flash, and how far does it reach?
Yes, it has a built-in flash that you can turn on or off. The flash range is up to 3 meters at ISO 100 with a wide-angle setting.
What type of battery does the camera need, and how long does it last?
The Minolta Freedom Sightseer Zoom uses a CR123A battery. One battery should provide enough power for approximately 360 shots; however, using the flash will reduce the battery life by roughly half.