The Polaroid PEP Portfolio Edition is an instant camera and was part of the Polaroid Education Program (PEP). It has the same functionality as the Polaroid One Step Flash Closeup. Of course, the camera is no longer produced today.
The Polaroid PEP Portfolio Edition is characterized by its uncomplicated handling. Most of the settings that you are used to from other types of cameras are not available on this model. Thanks to its ease of use, it can be used for many different occasions. It is very suitable for parties and is also a lot of fun at weddings. However, it can also be a lot of fun on vacation.
Changing the shooting settings is not possible. Free selection of shutter speed and aperture is not possible. The Polaroid instant camera comes with a fixed lens. The model does not have a zoom function. The shortest focusing distance is 60 cm with the close-up lens. This minimum distance must be maintained for sharp pictures. Without the close-up lens, it is 1.2 meters.
The photo camera is provided with a built-in flash. The flash fires automatically. Especially in low light conditions, one is often grateful for the flash.
Films for the Polaroid PEP Portfolio Edition
For the camera use, of course, the correct films are needed. The device manufacturer, Polaroid from the USA, has ended the production of instant films. But there is a new edition under the same name from a new company.
Both a color film and a black and white film are available for the camera. For color photos, you have to buy the Polaroid Color Film for 600*. The appropriate choice for monochrome pictures is the Polaroid B&W Film for 600*. Both films can deliver good results in tests.
There are a whole eight pictures in one pack. The instant films are very sensitive to light. Contact with light before shooting should therefore be avoided. The optimal conditions for storage are found in a dry and dark place.
According to the standard, an image measures 10.8 x 8.8 cm. The captured image occupies an area of 7.7 by 7.7 cm. The rest is filled by a white frame. Various editions of Polaroid films also have colorful frames.
Are the Instax films compatible? No, Fuji's films will not fit the Polaroid PEP Portfolio Edition.
Batteries
Do I need batteries for the instant camera? The power source of the camera is a battery located in the film cassette. The disposable battery contains the necessary energy for the camera technology including the built-in flash. The film exchange therefore also represents a change of the power source. There is no need to purchase another battery for the camera.
If the camera with film has been stored for a long time, the battery may have discharged. As a result, in many cases, the camera will no longer function. The fix consists of removing the old film and inserting a new one with a full battery.
Polaroid PEP Portfolio Edition Manual
How to use the instant camera? A little guide on how to use the camera.
The first thing to do is to load the film. To do this, open the film door by pushing the slider on the side of the housing forward. Now the cassette with the film material can be inserted. Afterwards, the flap can be locked again. The camera now ejects the protective cover of the film.
The camera is now ready for operation. The photo motif is captured on the instant image by pressing the shutter release button. You can get a foretaste through the viewfinder on the back. The camera transports the image from the film cassette and the development of the image begins. After the development process of the instant picture is completed after a few minutes, the photo can be inspected closely.
Alternative Cameras
If you can not find the camera, you can resort to alternatives. The Polaroid OneStep Close Up* and Polaroid Spirit 600* would be other options. These instant cameras come with comparable functional features. They are also both for the 600 format and require the same films.
However, you might want to try something new. Exciting models include the Diana Instant Square* and Instax Mini 9*. The films for these models can be conveniently purchased online.
