Electrochemical deposition and characterization of zinc selenide (ZnSe) thin films deposited onto tin oxide (SnO2) coated conducting glass plates from an aqueous bath containing ZnSO4 and SCO2 is discussed in this paper. The effect of electrolyte composition, deposition potential, pH and temperature on the properties of ZnSe films has been studied. The deposited ZnSe films have been characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy dispersive X-ray (EDX), scanning electron microscope (SEM) and optical absorption studies for their structural, compositional and optical properties. Raman spectroscopic and photoluminescence studies were also carried out and the results are discussed. The electrolyte composition plays a major role in the production of stoichiometric ZnSe films. Inclusion of excess elemental selenium in the film is unavoidable, however annealing improves the stoichiometry of the film. (C) 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.