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.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Snapshot camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Automatic |
| Film transport mechanism | Motor |
| Picture format | 12,2 mm x 36 mm |
| Focal length | 24 mm |
| Widest aperture | f/4.5 |
| Minimum focus distance | 90 cm / 2.952 ft |
| Focus | Autofocus |
| Lens design | 5 elements in 5 groups |
| Exposure times | 1/200 second to 1/4 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 |
| Panorama function | Yes |
| Flash | Integrated flash |
| Flash range | 0,9 to 2,7 Meter / 2.95 to 8.86 Feet |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | Yes, Self-timer function with 10 seconds lead time |
| Power supply | 1x CR123A battery |
| Size | 11,4 x 6,1 x 3,3 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 4.49 x 2.40 x 1.30 inches |
| Weight | 170 Grams |
| Country of production | Japan |
| Estimated value / Used price | 128,59 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 4 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 104,67 Euro (112.57 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 141,00 Euro (152.62 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 135,37 Euro (146.12 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Minolta Riva Panorama
I'm new to cameras, is the Minolta Riva Panorama hard to use?
No, this Minolta camera is designed for ease of use. It features automatic focus and exposure, meaning you don't need to manually adjust settings. Just point, shoot, and the camera takes care of the rest, making it perfect for beginners.
What kind of film do I need for this camera, and what does '3:1' mean in relation to the negatives?
This compact camera uses standard 35mm film, which is widely available. The '3:1' refers to the aspect ratio of the negatives, creating a panoramic effect. This means your photos will be wider than they are tall.
Does it have a flash, and how far can the flash reach?
Yes, the camera does have a built-in flash. According to the manual, its flash range is about 2.7 meters (around 8.8 feet) when using ISO 100 film. Keep in mind that the actual effective range can vary depending on the surrounding conditions.
How heavy is this device, and what are its dimensions?
According to the manual, this model is quite lightweight, weighing approximately 170 grams (around 6 ounces). Its dimensions are relatively compact, measuring about 11.4 x 6.1 x 3.3 centimeters, making it easy to carry around.
What kind of battery does this use, and how many photos can I take on a single charge?
This little camera is powered by a CR123A battery. With a fresh battery, you should be able to take around 600 pictures. If you have the version with the date imprint, it requires an additional CR2025 battery, but the date only goes up to 2019.