POLAROID

• SX-70 film and 600 film are intended for different types of Polaroid cameras. SX-70 film has an ISO of 160, while 600 film has an ISO of 640, meaning images will only properly expose in cameras designed for their usage. SX-70 film has higher contrast, richer saturation, and finer grain than 600 film, but it is only compatible with select cameras like the Polaroid SX-70 folding camera line and SX-70 box cameras. 600 film is compatible with all other integral Polaroid cameras as well as the SLR 680.

What are some benefits to getting my SX-70 Camera modified to shoot 600 film?

• Better Low-light Performance: 600 film allows you to make well-exposed images in a greater variety of settings without needing to utilize flash.
• Easier to Find Film: 600 film is stocked by most camera shops and big retailers and is significantly easier to find than SX-70 film.
• Special Edition Films: Polaroid releases many special edition films for 600 but only produces core films (Color + B&W) for the SX-70.

What is the difference between Polaroid 600 cameras and SX-70 cameras?

• Aside from the SX-70’s sibling, the SLR 680, most Polaroid 600 cameras have plastic lenses with fixed focal zones. The SX-70, in contrast, is a significantly higher-caliber tool with beautiful glass optics and precise focusing.

What is exposure compensation in terms of Polaroid cameras?

• Exposure compensation is a tool on Polaroid cameras that helps you adjust for brighter or darker scenes. Adjust toward the white side to increase exposure and toward the black side for darker exposures. As an example, if there is a bright light source behind your subject, the camera may “think” your foreground subject is actually brighter than it is, which will result in underexposure. However, by adjusting exposure compensation toward the white side, you can properly adjust for the correct exposure.

Why do my images not look like they used to in 70s/80s/90s?

• The original Polaroid company that we associate with instant film from the past went bankrupt in 2008. As a result, massive supply chain disruptions and legal environmental standards prevented the same formulas from being used when the film was revived by The Impossible Project (now renamed Polaroid). The current iteration of Polaroid is constantly improving their modern film to provide this beloved film canvas to shooters for years to come. 

Why do I need to shield my film from light?

• Unlike the pre-2008 version of Polaroid film, current stocks are significantly more sensitive to light after they eject from the camera. Immediate exposure to strong light will result in color shifts, light burns, and fading to images. We recommend keeping images hidden from direct light for 5-minutes after ejection.

Can I shoot Fuji Instax film in a Polaroid camera?

• No, Instax film is specially designed for Instax-compatible cameras and will not work in a Polaroid camera.

Do you sell new Polaroid cameras?

• Yes, we sell all modern Polaroid cameras! Explore our selection here.
  

OTHER CAMERAS

What are the differences between the Yashica TLR models that we offer?

• The Yashica series of TLRs evolved over the years and we carry a variety of these models. 
• Yashica A - The earliest model we carry, with shutterspeeds limited from 1/25-1/300th. Its aperture ranges from f/3.5-f/22.
• Yashica C - The sequel to the Yashica A, with an expanded shutterspeed range of Bulb-1/300th. The aperture also ranges from f/3.5-f/22.
• Yashica D - One of the more popular cameras in this beautiful line, featuring a further expanded 1-1/500th of a second shutterspeed range with bulb mode. This model also features a shutter advance lock and upgraded ergonomic control.
• Yashica Mat-124 -  With an updated design to the prior models, the Mat-124 was intended to mirror the Rolleiflex TLR cameras. Its mechanisms and lens were enhanced and finally included an internal light meter. Unfortunately these meters have since deteriorated, so manual metering is still necessary.
• Yashica Mat-124G - The last twin-lens reflex camera ever produced by Yashica. Like its predecessor, the 124, this beautiful camera features a four-element Yashinon lens and copal shutter, firing from 1-1/500th of a second and bulb. Cosmetic differences from the 124 include different trim, leather, and electrical variations with the internal meter.

Do you sell SLR cameras?

• Yes indeed! We currently sell the Pentax K1000, the Nikon F3, and many varieties that we routinely stock. Always check back for more options.

FILM

Do you develop and scan film?

• Yes, we offer film drop-off services during all open hours. Film services are available for in-store customers only; we do not accept mail-in orders. Click here to learn more about our film services.

I shot a blank roll. What happened?

There are several potential causes for blank rolls:

• The film was improperly loaded and the take-up area did not transport the film through the camera, resulting in no exposures.
• Your camera's mirror or internal mechanisms are damaged, misaligned, or otherwise non-functional.
•  Your camera’s light seals have degraded and the film was exposed to light.