The Minolta Riva Zoom 105 is a snapshot camera for beginners and casual users. The 35mm camera was produced by Minolta. The 35mm photo camera was also available on the market under the name “Minolta Freedom Zoom Orion“. Additionally, there was a date variant. This camera can imprint the shooting date into the images.
The 35mm camera comes with a zoom lens. The zoom range of the lens goes from 38 mm to 105 mm. The maximum aperture is f/4.6 (38 mm) and f/11.8 (105 mm) respectively. Focusing is facilitated by a built-in autofocus. The closest focusing distance is specified at 100 cm for this lens.
An exposure meter is built into the camera. It is designed for an ISO range of 50 to 3200. The film speed is determined by the DX code. The camera technology has automatic exposure and sets aperture and shutter speed automatically.
However, there are some modes on this compact camera. So there is a double exposure mode, a portrait mode, a focus lock and a bulb mode for long exposures. It is also equipped with a continuous shooting mode and an interval mode.
Sufficient light is provided by the built-in flash. The flash range is specified as up to 5 meters at ISO 100 and 38 mm. The flash has an automatic mode for red-eye prevention. There is also the option to force the flash to fire, e.g. for backlit shots. However, the flash can also be turned off completely.
The 35mm camera has a self-timer. The lead time, time between pressing the shutter button and taking the picture, is ten seconds. There is also a thread for a tripod. The thread is especially useful when using the Bulb mode.
Power is supplied by a CR123A battery (eBay / Amazon*). One battery charge is enough for so 480 pictures. Depending on the use of the flash. The charge level is shown on a display on the top.
Films for the Minolta Riva Zoom 105
What kind of films does the Minolta Riva Zoom 105 need? Films of the 35mm format are used. The negatives of the photo camera are 24 mm x 36 mm. The film in the camera is automatically transported by a motor. Rewinding into the cartridge also works without any action on the part of the photographer.
35 mm films are still manufactured and can be specified at almost any supplier of development work. Nice 35mm films for color or black and white are the Kodak Portra 400* and the Ilford XP2 Super*. Foma, Adox and also Rollei are still other suppliers of 35mm film.
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 | 38 mm - 105 mm |
| Widest aperture | f/4.6 |
| Minimum focus distance | 100 cm / 3.28 ft |
| Zoom function | Yes |
| Focus | Autofocus |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 50 to 3200 |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | Yes |
| Exposure modes | Program automatic |
| Manual exposure settings | No |
| Date imprinting | Model variant |
| Double and/or multiple exposure function | Yes |
| Flash | Integrated flash |
| Flash range | 1 to 5 Meter / 3.28 to 16.4 Feet |
| Flash modes | Fill-in flash, Red-eye reduction |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | Yes, Self-timer function with 10 seconds lead time |
| Power supply | 1x CR123A battery |
| Estimated value / Used price | 47,97 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 26 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 48,47 Euro (51.96 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 49,81 Euro (53.04 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 49,73 Euro (53.04 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Minolta Riva Zoom 105
What kind of film does this Minolta camera use?
It uses standard 35mm film, also known as 135 film. The negatives are 24mm x 36mm. The camera automatically advances and rewinds the film.
How does the camera focus?
The Minolta Riva Zoom 105 has an autofocus system, making focusing easy. The closest focusing distance is 100cm.
Does the camera have a built-in flash?
Yes, it has a built-in flash with a range of up to 5 meters at ISO 100 and 38mm. It features red-eye reduction and a forced flash mode.
What's the zoom range of the lens?
The lens has a zoom range of 38mm to 105mm, offering versatility for different shooting situations. This makes it good for both wide shots and closer views.
How long does the battery last?
The camera uses a CR123A battery and provides power for approximately 480 shots per charge. The battery life may vary depending on flash usage.