The Minolta Riva AF 35 is a compact camera. It was presented by Minolta in the 90s and built in Japan. Functionally identical variants were also sold under the names “Minolta Freedom AF 35” and “Minolta Mac-35“.
The 35mm camera comes with a fixed focal length. The focal length is unchangeable and is 35 mm. The widest available aperture is f/4.5 and the lens is focused by a built-in autofocus system. The closest focusing distance is 95 cm.
The camera has a built-in exposure meter. This is designed for ISO 100 and ISO 400 films. The camera technology reads the DX code of the film cartridge and sets the exposure meter accordingly. It covers a range from ISO 100 to ISO 1000 for color negative films. However, ISO 100 or ISO 400 is always set depending on the value.
The shutter speed and aperture are set automatically by the electronics. The 35mm photo camera has a built-in flash. The flash range is up to 3.2 meters at ISO 100.
The 35mm camera has a built-in self-timer and a thread for a tripod. In addition, a camera strap or hand strap can be attached to the side.
The dimensions of the Minolta Riva AF 35 are 13.6 x 7.2 x 4.7 cm. At the same time, it weighs 225 grams. The camera requires two AA batteries (eBay / Amazon*). This kind of batteries are easy to get, of course. Thus, with one charge you can get 550 pictures with the compact camera.
Films for the Minolta Riva AF 35
What film format is the Minolta Riva AF 35 designed for? The camera needs films for the 35mm format. The film is automatically rewound by the camera mechanism after each exposure. The transport of the film material back into the cartridge also happens automatically.
35mm films are still manufactured today. They can be developed in most laboratories. Nice films for black and white or color images are the Kodak T-Max 100* and the Fujifilm Superia 400*. Both films are well suited for everyday use and can convince test reports.
The color film is designed for development in the C-41 process. This is offered by almost every photo lab. Developing 35mm color film is possible at most drugstore chains in Germany, for example. Black and white film must be developed in a true black and white developer, such as Rodinal.
Minolta Riva AF 35 Quartz Date
In addition to the normal model, there was also a variant with a data back. This camera can additionally imprint the shooting time into the images. The watch needs a CR 2025 battery for this. However, the calendar only extends to the year 2019. With the additional technology, the Quartz Date weighs 240 grams and has a size of 13.6 x 7.2 x 5.1 cm.
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 |
| Widest aperture | f/4.5 |
| Minimum focus distance | 95 cm / 3.116 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 |
| Date imprinting | Model variant |
| Flash | Integrated flash |
| Flash range | 0,95 – 3,2 Meter / Invalid input Feet |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Power supply | 2x AA batteries |
| Size | 13,6 x 7,2 x 4,7 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 5.35 x 2.83 x 1.85 inches |
| Weight | 225 Grams |
| Country of production | Japan |
| Estimated value / Used price | 43,28 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 99 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 46,31 Euro (49.79 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 45,29 Euro (48.71 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 40,56 Euro (43.30 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Minolta Riva AF 35
What type of film does this Minolta camera use?
It uses standard 35mm film. The camera automatically advances the film after each shot and rewinds it at the end of the roll. You can use both color and black and white films.
How does the camera focus?
The Minolta Riva AF 35 has an autofocus system built into the lens. It automatically focuses on your subject, so you don't need to adjust anything manually.
Does the camera have a flash?
Yes, it has a built-in flash with a range of up to 3.2 meters at ISO 100. It's automatically activated in low-light conditions.
What kind of batteries does the compact camera need?
The camera runs on two standard AA batteries. These are easy to find and one set of batteries allows you to take around 550 pictures.
What's the lens like on this little camera?
It has a fixed 35mm lens, which means you can't zoom. The widest aperture is f/4.5. It's a good focal length for general photography.