Polaroid 640 SE

The Polaroid 640 SE is an instant camera from Polaroid. The model is technically based on the Polaroid One Step Flash. At the present time, of course, no more cameras are produced. The shutter button of this version is kept in blue

The Polaroid 640 SE is characterized by its uncomplicated handling. If you are used to a lot of settings on your camera, you probably won’t find them on this model. The easy handling results in a low barrier to entry and thus a wide range of possibilities for areas of application. Weddings or parties, for example, would be good areas of use for the camera. Even on vacation, the camera cuts a good figure.

Changes to the exposure settings are not possible. The exposure time cannot be changed. You can’t choose the aperture value yourself either. The lens has a fixed focal length. It is not possible to change the lens. There is no zoom function, as with modern lenses. To zoom, it is necessary to get closer to the subject. The distance to the subject should not be less than 120 cm for sharp pictures.

The camera does not have to do without a built-in flash. It is used automatically. Especially when shooting indoors, this is also important, because the camera needs a lot of light for optimal photos.

Films for the Polaroid 640 SE

Of course, instant film is also needed for the instant camera. The device manufacturer, Polaroid from the USA, has ended the production of instant films. However, films are offered again under the Polaroid brand.

There are black and white and color films for the 600 format. The matching color film is the Polaroid Color Film for 600*. Black and white photography is possible with the Polaroid B&W Film for 600*. Both films get a good rating in test reports.

Eight pictures can be taken with the contents of one pack. Because of the film material’s sensitivity to light, it must not come into contact with it outside the camera. A cool and dry place for storing the unused film material is optimal.

As prescribed in the standard, an image is 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 area. Also available are editions of Polaroid films with colorful frames.

Important to note, Fujifilm’s Instax films do not fit the Polaroid 640 SE.

Batteries

What type of batteries are needed for the camera? The camera’s power source is a battery inside the film cassette. It provides the camera with enough power to take photos. So changing the film is also changing the battery. There is no need for an additional battery.

If the camera with film inside has not been used for a long time, the battery may have discharged. Consequently, the camera may no longer function as it should. The solution is to replace the old film inserted with new film stock, thus renewing the battery.

Instructions for the Polaroid 640 SE

How to take pictures with the instant camera? An introductory guide to how the Polaroid instant camera works.

The first step is to insert the film. To do this, slide the slider forward on the side to open the film door. In the next step, the film material is inserted and the camera is closed again. The camera now ejects the film’s protective plastic film.

Now it’s time to take the picture. Aim at the subject through the viewfinder and press the shutter button. The motor in the camera now ejects the image and development begins. After a few minutes, the development is complete and you can view the image.

Alternative models

If you can’t find the camera, you could turn to alternatives. Possibilities would include the Polaroid 636 Closeup* and Polaroid OneStep Autofocus*. These are models with a comparable feature set. They also use the 600 Polaroid format.

You might want to reach for other instant cameras as an alternative. Two non-Polaroid instant cameras are the Instax Mini EVO* and LomoInstant*. Again, you can still easily purchase the film stock.