The Polaroid 600 USPS is a classic instant camera. The edition was designed by the American company Retrospekt and presented in collaboration with United States Postal Service.
The edition is a version of the original Polaroid One Step Flash. The models were redesigned and tested for functionality. Then they were given a special exterior.
As the keyword USPS suggests, it is a camera in the typical blue of the American company. The front is also decorated with the logo and name of the shipping company. Parts of the front are reflective.
The camera is equipped with a fixed lens. It has no zoom, and the focal length cannot be changed. There is also no way to adjust the focus. The built-in light meter takes care of the exposure settings. The brightness/darkness slider on the front can be used to change the exposure somewhat.
These limitations in the setting options naturally make for easy operation. This means that you can take photos with the camera yourself after a short introduction. Therefore, it is ideal for taking pictures at weddings, birthday parties or parties. It also cuts a fine figure on vacation.
The built-in flash provides sufficient light when photographing with the instant camera. It triggers automatically. However, it can also be turned off if you only press the back of the shutter button when taking pictures. Indoors, you should be a little careful about not using the flash, as it needs a lot of light to take good pictures.
The camera and flash are powered by a battery in the film cassette. So the battery is replaced every time you change the film. You don’t need an extra battery to take pictures.
Films for the Polaroid 600 USPS
The appropriate films for the Polaroid 600 USPS are offered again and freshly produced. So there is even a small selection to choose from. There are films for black and white and color images that you can easily buy online. The film for color pictures is the Polaroid Color Film for 600*. For monochrome pictures with the instant camera you need the Polaroid B&W Film for 600*.
There are eight photos in one pack of the film. After the pictures are used up, a new film must be inserted. There is no film material included in the package. The development time after the photo is taken is between five and fifteen minutes, depending on the film. Shaking the images does not speed up the development time.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Instant camera |
| Film format | Typ 600 |
| Film transport | Automatic |
| Film transport mechanism | Motor |
| Picture format | 79 mm x 79 mm |
| Focal length | 116 mm (?) |
| Widest aperture | f/11 (?) |
| Focus | Fixed |
| Exposure times | 1/200 second to 1/4 second |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Exposure modes | Program automatic |
| Manual exposure settings | No |
| Date imprinting | No |
| Flash | Integrated flash |
| Tripod mount | No |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | No |
| Power supply | 1x battery in filmpack |
FAQ about the Polaroid 600 USPS
What is the design inspiration behind the Polaroid 600 USPS instant camera?
The camera's design is inspired by the United States Postal Service, featuring its signature blue color and logo. This collaboration resulted in a special edition of the classic Polaroid One Step Flash.
Does this instant camera offer any manual focus or zoom adjustments?
No, the Polaroid 600 USPS has a fixed-focus lens with no zoom capabilities. The built-in light meter automatically handles exposure settings.
How does the camera's flash system work, and can it be disabled?
The Polaroid 600 USPS features an automatic flash, but it can be switched off by only pressing the rear portion of the shutter button. Using the flash indoors is advisable due to the camera's light requirements.
What kind of power source does the device use to operate both the camera and the flash?
The camera and flash are powered by a battery contained within the film pack, which is replaced with each new film cartridge. No extra battery is required.
Where can I purchase films compatible with the Polaroid 600 USPS instant camera and what are the available types?
Compatible films are readily available online. Choices include color film for vibrant images and black and white film for a classic monochrome look. Each pack contains eight exposures.