The Minolta Silver Streak Zoom is a 35mm camera. It belongs to the group of point-and-shoot cameras. This particular model was also available on the market under the names “Minolta Riva Zoom 70” and “Minolta Freedom Sightseer Zoom“.
The camera comes with a lens that cannot be changed. The manufacturer’s name for the lens is “Minolta Aspherical Lens Zoom 35-70mm.” The lens has a zoom range of 38mm to 70mm. The maximum aperture varies depending on the focal length and ranges from f/5.3 to f/9.8. The lens is autofocused. The closest focusing distance is specified as 130 cm for this lens at the wide end.
The 35mm photo camera has a built-in light meter. The light meter is designed for films with a sensitivity of ISO 100, ISO 200 and ISO 400. The film speed is read out via the DX code on the film cartridge. If there is no code on the cartridge, ISO 100 is set. The aperture and exposure time are set automatically by the Minolta Silver Streak Zoom. It is not possible to change the exposure settings.
There is a built-in flash for shooting in low light conditions. The flash range is up to 3 meters at ISO 100 in the wide-angle range. The flash can be turned off if desired.
The 35mm camera has a thread for a tripod and a self-timer. Of course, there is also an eyelet for a wrist strap. The camera weighs 245 grams. The dimensions are 12.8 x 7.3 x 5.2 cm. The camera requires one CR123A battery (eBay / Amazon*). One battery lasts for about 360 photos, half of them with the use of the flash.
Films for the Minolta Silver Streak Zoom
What kind of films does the Minolta Silver Streak Zoom need? 35mm format films are used. Film transport is automatic. A display on the top shows the number of frames taken. Rewinding into the cartridge is also done by the built-in motor.
35mm films are still manufactured today. They can be developed in most laboratories. A good choice for color and black and white shooting is the Kodak Gold 200* and the Ilford Delta 100*. Both films deliver decent shots and are good for everyday use according to reviews.
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 |
| Lens name | Minolta Aspherical Lens Zoom 35-70mm |
| Focal length | 38 mm - 70 mm |
| Widest aperture | f/5.3 |
| Minimum focus distance | 130 cm / 4.264 ft |
| Zoom function | Yes |
| Focus | Autofocus |
| Exposure times | 1/200 second, 1/70 second, 1/40 second, 1/15 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 |
| Flash | Integrated flash |
| Flash range | 1,3 to 3 Meter / 4.27 to 9.84 Feet |
| Flash modes | Fill-in flash, Red-eye reduction |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Power supply | 1x CR123A battery |
| Size | 12,8 x 7,3 x 5,2 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 5.04 x 2.87 x 2.05 inches |
| Weight | 245 Grams |
| Country of production | China |
FAQ about the Minolta Silver Streak Zoom
What kind of film does this compact camera use?
It uses standard 35mm film. The camera automatically advances and rewinds the film, making it easy to use. The film counter on top of the camera shows you how many pictures you've taken.
How does the camera focus?
The Minolta Silver Streak Zoom has autofocus. You don't need to manually adjust anything; the camera does it automatically. The minimum focusing distance is 130 cm.
Does the camera have a flash?
Yes, it has a built-in flash with a range of up to 3 meters at ISO 100 in wide-angle mode. You can also turn the flash off if you prefer.
Can I change the settings on the camera, like the aperture or shutter speed?
No, the Minolta Silver Streak Zoom automatically adjusts the aperture and shutter speed. It's a fully automatic point-and-shoot camera.
What type of battery does this point-and-shoot camera need?
The camera uses a CR123A battery. One battery provides power for about 360 photos; about half of that if you frequently use the flash.