The Polaroid 1000 is an instant camera. It dates back to the 70s and was a cheap alternative to the Polaroid SX-70.
The Polaroid 1000 is mostly made of plastic. The design is black and beige-light gray. The red or green button and the three-color stripe on the front are distinctive.
It has a fixed focal length, so zooming is not possible, with a fixed aperture and focus. Only the exposure time is variable from about 1 second to 1150 seconds. This selects the depending on the light situation itself with the built-in light meter. The power for this comes from the inserted film pack.
The camera is loaded with Polaroid SX-70 instant film, which is also used in the Polaroid SX-70. The size of the image is the same as a Polaroid 600 film, but the sensitivity of the films is lower. With an ND filter that lowers the sensitivity, 600 film can also be used in the camera.
Depending on your preference, the wheel on the front can be used to adjust the exposure slightly. A counter on the back of the Polaroid 1000 shows the remaining frames. If you use the film from Polaroid Originals in the camera, you should make sure that the film is already empty after eight pictures and not after ten.
Impossible is the last manufacturer to produce film for the Polaroid 1000, for colorful pictures you can use the Polaroid Color Film for SX-70*. If you prefer to take monochrome pictures you can use the Polaroid B&W Film for SX-70*.
Taking pictures with the instant camera is easy. Aim at the subject through the viewfinder, press the red shutter button and out comes the picture.
A flash can be used with the Polaroid 1000, but the connection is a special socket designed for suitable flash bars (flash bulbs) or the electronic Polatronic 1 flash (Q Light Flash). There is no connection for a cable release or a tripod.
The Polaroid 1000 is identical in functionality to the Polaroid OneStep. However, the 1000 was not sold in the USA, but internationally.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Instant camera |
| Film format | SX-70 |
| Film transport | Automatic |
| Film transport mechanism | Motor |
| Picture format | 79 mm x 79 mm |
| Focal length | 103 mm |
| Widest aperture | f/14.6 |
| Minimum focus distance | 120 cm / 3.936 ft |
| Focus | Fixed |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Exposure modes | Program automatic |
| Manual exposure settings | No |
| Date imprinting | No |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | Flashbar connector |
| Tripod mount | No |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | No |
| Power supply | 1x battery in filmpack |
| Estimated value / Used price | 56,24 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 35 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of May 18, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 65,72 Euro (70.36 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 57,31 Euro (61.70 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 49,02 Euro (53.04 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Polaroid 1000
Is the Polaroid 1000 a zoom camera?
No, the Polaroid 1000 has a fixed focal length lens. Zooming is not possible. It has a fixed aperture and focus, making it simple to use.
What kind of film does this instant camera use?
It uses Polaroid SX-70 instant film. While it's designed for SX-70 film, with an ND filter, you can also use 600 film.
How many pictures can I take with one film pack?
A film pack typically allows for 8 or 10 shots, depending on the brand. Always check the film packaging for the exact number of exposures.
Does the Polaroid 1000 have a built-in light meter?
Yes, it has a built-in light meter that automatically adjusts the shutter speed based on the available light. You can also manually adjust the exposure.
Can I use a flash with my instant camera?
Yes, but it requires a special flash connector. It's compatible with certain flash bulbs or the electronic Polatronic 1 flash.