The Minolta Riva AF 35 EX is a camera from Minolta. It was introduced in the 90s. The model relies on many automatics and offers few setting options, so it can easily be used without a manual. The 35mm photo camera was marketed under the name “Minolta Freedom AF 10R” in America.
Unlike many models in the Riva line, this model comes with a fixed focal length rather than a zoom. 30 mm is the focal length of the lens. The maximum aperture is f/4.5, and focusing is made easier by a built-in autofocus. The closest focusing distance of this lens is 110 cm.
A light meter is built into the 35 mm camera. The light meter was built for films with a sensitivity of ISO 100 or ISO 400. The camera technology reads the ISO value via the DX code on the cartridge. If the value is below ISO 100 or if there is no code, the camera exposes the film to ISO 100. If the value is above ISO 400, the film is treated as an ISO 400. Exposure settings are automatically controlled and set by the camera. The shutter speed or aperture cannot be selected by the user.
In low light conditions, the built-in flash can be used. The range of the flash is up to 3.5 meters at ISO 100. The flash cannot be turned off. There is an automatic red-eye prevention feature for this.
The dimensions of the Minolta Riva AF 35 EX are 12.6 x 7 x 4.6 cm. It weighs 195 grams with its black plastic housing. There is a thread for a tripod on the bottom. Two AA batteries (eBay / Amazon*) are responsible for the power supply. Of course, you can also resort to rechargeable batteries here.
Films for the Minolta Riva AF 35 EX
Required for the Minolta Riva AF 35 EX are 35mm films. They are transported by the motor after each press of the shutter button to the next free image. You can also use the self-timer to take pictures. The number of photos taken is displayed on the top of the camera. The film is also rewound by the motor. This process starts when the end of the film is reached or when you manually force the process with a button. Until the film is back in the cartridge, do not open the back of the camera or the images may be lost.
35mm films are still offered by various manufacturers. Two great films for the 35mm camera are the Kodak Ultramax 400* and the Kodak T-Max 100*. Both can be used to take beautiful color and black and white pictures, respectively. They are good for taking pictures at weddings, on vacation or everyday life.
The color film is processed using the C-41 process. The C-41 process is offered by almost every photo lab. The black and white film is processed in a true black and white developer. This type of development is offered by most professional photo labs. However, it is also possible to order the chemistry and accessories and develop the film yourself.
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 | 30 mm |
| Widest aperture | f/4.5 |
| Minimum focus distance | 110 cm / 3.608 ft |
| Focus | Autofocus |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 100 to 400 |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | Yes |
| Exposure modes | Program automatic |
| Manual exposure settings | No |
| Flash | Integrated flash |
| Flash range | 1,1 to 3,5 Meter / 3.61 to 11.48 Feet |
| Flash modes | Red-eye reduction |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Power supply | 2x AA batteries |
| Size | 12,6 x 7 x 4,6 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 4.96 x 2.76 x 1.81 inches |
| Weight | 195 Grams |
| Estimated value / Used price | 46,55 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 24 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 46,14 Euro (49.79 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 52,65 Euro (56.28 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 49,23 Euro (53.04 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Minolta Riva AF 35 EX
How easy is this Minolta camera to use for a beginner?
It's very user-friendly. It's mostly automatic, so you don't need a manual. Most settings are handled automatically, making it perfect for beginners.
Does the camera have a zoom lens, or is it fixed?
It has a fixed-focus lens with a 30mm focal length. This means you can't zoom in or out. However, this type of lens is typically sharp and well suited to snapshots.
What kind of film does this Minolta Riva AF 35 EX use?
It uses standard 35mm film. The camera automatically advances the film after each shot and rewinds it when finished. You'll need to choose either color or black and white 35mm film.
How does the camera handle different film speeds (ISO)?
The camera reads the ISO speed from the film cartridge. If it can't read it, it defaults to ISO 100. ISO speeds above 400 are treated as 400. The exposure is automatically set by the camera.
Does the camera have a flash, and can I turn it off?
Yes, it has a built-in flash with a range up to 3.5 meters at ISO 100. However, the flash cannot be turned off; it's automatic. There is a red-eye reduction feature.