Polaroid 790

The Polaroid 790 is an instant camera from Polaroid. The model is based on the Polaroid 600 (round above) in terms of functionality. In the meantime, the camera is no longer manufactured.

The body of the model is made of plastic parts in the colors black and gray. The accents of the design have the color red. There were two design variants. A variant with a square next to the Polaroid logo and a variant without this square.

The Polaroid 790 impresses with its ease of use. The usual settings for standard functions are not available on this camera. The ease of use allows it to be used on many occasions. A good event for using the camera is, for example, a wedding or other celebrations. Even on vacation, the camera cuts a good figure.

The most important settings are preset. Free selection of shutter speed and aperture is not possible. The optics have a fixed focal length. Changing the lens is not possible. This model cannot offer a zoom, which is common for smartphones. To zoom, it is necessary to get closer to the subject. For clear pictures, a minimum distance of 60 cm should be kept if possible.

The Polaroid camera has an integrated photo flash. The flash fires automatically when you take a picture. Due to the small aperture, the use of the flash is especially useful indoors.

Films for the Polaroid 790

Indispensable for photographing with the Polaroid instant camera are the associated instant films. The production of the original consumable has since ended. Fresh films are now being sold again under the old brand name.

There is an instant film for black and white and color pictures. Instant photos in color are possible with the Polaroid Color Film for 600*. Those who prefer monochrome images can choose the Polaroid B&W Film for 600*. In test reports, the films usually get a good rating.

One box is enough for eight photos. The light-sensitive material must not come into contact with light under any circumstances. Optimal storage conditions are found in a dry and dark place.

An instant film has a size of 10.8 x 8.8 cm. The 600 cameras produce square images with a dimension of 7.7 by 7.7 cm. The remaining area of the Polaroid picture is white. Are white frames too boring? Then there are also editions with colorful frames.

Not compatible are the instant films from Fujifilm. The Instax films can not be used with the Polaroid 790.

Batteries

What batteries are necessary for the instant camera? With this type of camera, the battery is located in the film cassette. The disposable battery holds the necessary energy to power the camera technology, such as the motor, camera shutter and flash. So changing the film is also changing the battery. There is no need to purchase another battery for the camera.

If the camera with film inside has not been used for a long period of time, it may cause the battery to self-discharge. As a result, in many cases, the camera will no longer function. In this case, simply remove the photo film and replace it with new film material with fresh battery.

Instructions for the Polaroid 790

How to use the instant camera? A clear guide to taking photos with the instant camera.

The first step is to insert the film. To do this, slide the slider forward on the side to open the film door. The film cassette is inserted and the flap is closed again. The film protecting the film is now removed by the motor in the camera.

Now it’s time to take the picture. Hold the camera on the subject and press the shutter button. The motor in the camera ejects the image. Now the photochemistry starts to develop the image. After a few minutes, the development process is complete and you can view the image.

Alternative Cameras

If you can’t find this model, you can resort to alternatives. A first alternative is the Polaroid 600 (round above). It has the same set of features. Also, of course, it exposes the same film stock.

You may also want to reach for other instant cameras as an alternative. Two instant cameras are the Instax Mini 11* and Instax Mini 8*. Suitable film stock is also still being manufactured.