The Minolta Riva Zoom 140EX is a 35mm camera. It belongs to the group of snapshot cameras and is easy to use. It was built by the Japanese company in the mid-1990s. The 35mm photo camera was also available on the market under the names “Minolta Freedom Zoom 140EX” and “Minolta Capios 140“.
The photo camera comes with a fixed lens. The zoom range goes from 38 mm to 140 mm. The maximum aperture is f/3.5 (38 mm) and f/9.4 (140 mm). Focusing is facilitated by a built-in autofocus. The closest focusing distance of this lens is 80 cm at wide angle.
The 35mm camera has a light meter. It is designed for films from ISO 25 to ISO 3200. The camera technology determines the correct film speed via the DX code on the film cartridge. The 35 mm camera has automatic exposure control and sets aperture and exposure time automatically. Each time the shutter button is pressed, the film automatically winds to the next frame.
The Minolta is equipped with different modes. So there is a normal automatic mode, a macro mode (50 cm), a portrait mode and a mode with spot exposure metering. In the double exposure mode, you can live out your creative streak. The “Thank you / Take Me” mode is designed for handing the camera over to someone who doesn’t know anything about photography, and can do little wrong when taking a picture. A possible situation would be taking a picture in front of a landmark. A continuous shooting mode is also not missing from this model. There is also a exposure compensation mode (+1,5 EV).
A flash is installed for pictures in low light. According to the manual, the power of the flash reaches up to 5.5 meters at ISO 100 filming. There is an automatic flash with a red-eye prevention mode. A mode for portraits at night and a fill-in flash are also not to be missed. However, the flash can also be turned off completely if desired.
The camera has a self-timer and a tripod socket. With a size of 13.2 x 7 x 5.9 cm, the Minolta Riva Zoom 140EX weighs 315 grams according to the manual. A CR123A battery (eBay / Amazon*) is responsible for the power supply. The batteries last for about 550 pictures with the compact camera. The charge level is shown on the display on the top.
With an additional infrared remote control, it is also possible to take pictures from a distance. The RC-3 remote control has a range of up to five meters.
If the camera carries the imprint “Date” it is the additional quartz Date model. This model has a built-in clock and can record the shooting time and date in one of the corners of the photo. Additionally, a CR1220 battery is needed for this. However, the built-in calendar only extends to 2019.
Films for the Minolta Riva Zoom 140EX
Nothing works for the Minolta Riva Zoom 140EX without 35mm film. 35mm film is still produced today and can be developed in most photo labs. One possible film for color images is Kodak Ultramax 400*. A possibility for B&W images is the Ilford HP5*. Both films deliver solid results with the compact camera. Of course, there are a variety of other suitable films for this camera.
The color film is developed using the C-41 process. This development process is offered by most labs. For example, you can take your films to many drugstores in Germany for development. The black and white film must be processed in a real black and white developer.
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 - 140 mm |
| Widest aperture | f/3.5 |
| Minimum focus distance | 80 cm / 2.624 ft |
| Zoom function | Yes |
| Focus | Autofocus |
| Lens design | 8 elements in 7 groups |
| Exposure times | 1/500 second to 4 seconds |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 25 to 3200 |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | Yes |
| Exposure modes | Program automatic |
| Exposure compensation | + 1,5EV |
| Manual exposure settings | No |
| Date imprinting | Model variant |
| Double and/or multiple exposure function | Yes |
| Flash | Integrated flash |
| Flash range | 0,8 to 5,5 Meter / 2.62 to 18.04 Feet |
| Flash modes | Fill-in flash, Red-eye reduction |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Wireless remote control | Yes |
| Power supply | 1x CR123A battery |
| Size | 13,2 x 7 x 5,9 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 5.20 x 2.76 x 2.32 inches |
| Weight | 315 Grams |
| Country of production | Japan |
| Estimated value / Used price | 54,89 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 44 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 56,00 Euro (60.61 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 54,29 Euro (58.45 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 56,17 Euro (60.61 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Minolta Riva Zoom 140EX
How easy is this Minolta camera to use for a beginner?
The Minolta Riva Zoom 140EX is designed for simplicity. It's a point-and-shoot camera with automatic settings for exposure and focus, making it very user-friendly, even for those new to photography. It also has various shooting modes to help you experiment.
What kind of lens does the camera have?
It has a built-in zoom lens. The zoom range is quite versatile, going from 38mm wide-angle to 140mm telephoto. This allows you to capture both close-up shots and distant subjects without changing lenses.
Does the camera have a flash, and what are its capabilities?
Yes, it features a built-in flash with several modes. You can use it automatically, or select settings for red-eye reduction, night portraits, or fill-flash. The flash range is approximately 5.5 meters with ISO 100 film.
Can I take pictures in low light conditions with this device?
The built-in flash helps with low-light photography up to a certain range. Also, the camera's meter is designed to work with films ranging from ISO 25 to ISO 3200, making it adaptable to various lighting situations.
What type of film does this compact camera use?
The Minolta Riva Zoom 140EX uses standard 35mm film. You can find it easily at most photo supply stores. Both color and black and white films are compatible.