Minolta Riva Panorama

The Minolta Riva Panorama is a camera from Minolta. It was introduced by the Japanese company in the early 90’s. The camera model was also sold on the market under the name “Minolta Freedom Vista” and “Minolta P’s“. In addition, there was a variation with a data back that could imprint the shooting time into the images.

The 35mm photo camera comes with a fixed focal length lens. The focal length of the lens is 24mm. The maximum aperture is f/4.5. There is no need to focus manually with the 35mm camera, as it is equipped with an autofocus system.

Taking pictures is made easier by the built-in light meter. The exposure meter is designed for 35 mm films from ISO 100 to ISO 400. The film speed is determined via the DX code on the film cartridge. If this code is not present, a value of ISO 100 is always selected. The exposure settings are automatically controlled and adjusted by the electronics.

The camera model is also equipped with a built-in flash. At ISO 100, the range is up to 2.7 meters. The camera has a self-timer with a lead time of ten seconds. There is also a thread for a tripod on the bottom and an eyelet for a camera strap on the side.

According to the manual, the camera with its plastic housing weighs 170 grams. The dimensions are 11.4 x 6.1 x 3.3 cm. A CR123A battery (eBay / Amazon*) is responsible for the power supply. One battery charge is enough for about 600 pictures. For the QD variant, a CR2025 battery (eBay / Amazon*) is still needed for the built-in clock. However, the battery can also do without, especially since the calendar only lasts until 2019 anyway.

Films for the Minolta Riva Panorama

The Minolta Riva Panorama is designed for 35mm film. This special feature of the model is the area of the negatives. These do not have an aspect ratio of 3:2, but of 3:1, so the image occupies an area of 12.2 by 36 mm on the film. This creates the look of a panorama.

The film is automatically transported to the next frame by a motor. The number of frames taken is displayed on the top. The film is also rewound automatically. This process can also be triggered manually if you want to remove the film beforehand.

35mm films are still produced today and can be developed in most laboratories. Possible films for the Minolta Riva Panorama are the Kodak Ultramax 400* for color photos and the Kodak T-Max 400* for B&W photos. Both films are well suited for everyday use and can convince test reports. It is important that the film is in the range between ISO 100 and ISO 400 and that the DX encoding is present on the cartridge.

The color film is a color negative film and is developed in the C-41 process. This process is offered by most professional photo labs. You can drop off your films at most drugstore chains in Germany, for example. The black and white film has to be put into a developer, like Rodinal.