The Polaroid Image is an instant camera. It was built by Polaroid and is the international version of the Polaroid Spectra, which is identical in terms of functionality. It was one of the first models for the newly developed Spectra / Image film format. The pictures with these films have a size of 10.1 by 10.3 cm (actual image area: 9.1 by 7.2 cm) and are rectangular.
The Polaroid Image comes with the usual features of an instant camera. A fixed focal length (Quintic Lens) is built into it. Focusing is via autofocus and the closest focusing distance is 0.6 meters. The correct distance to the subject is determined via ultrasound with the Polaroid Sonar AF system. The distance is then displayed in the viewfinder. However, the autofocus can also be switched off.
The exposure is set automatically by the camera and can be easily influenced with a light/dark control. A built-in flash can be switched on if desired. There is also a self-timer and a port for electronic remote control.
On the back is the display for the remaining shots until the next film change. On the left side of the instant camera is an adjustable wrist strap. According to the manual, this is to be used for safety when taking pictures.
Films for the Polaroid Image
Production of Spectra/Image films was ended by Polaroid in the 2000s. Today, you can no longer find Polaroid films. However, films for the old Polaroid Image instant cameras are being produced again.
The company “Impossible” offers a selection of films for the film format, both color and black and white. It should be noted that there are no longer 10 pictures in a pack, but only 8. Impossible’s current film for color images is the Polaroid Originals Color Film for Image & Spectra* and for black and white images is the Polaroid Originals B&W Film for Image & Spectra*.
Batteries for the Polaroid Image
Power for the camera and built-in flash comes from a battery inside the film cassette. This cassette contains the images for taking pictures. After ten or eight shots, this must be changed and thus also the battery for the Polaroid Image.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Instant camera |
| Film format | Image/Spectra |
| Film transport | Automatic |
| Film transport mechanism | Motor |
| Picture format | 72 mm x 91 mm |
| Focal length | 125 mm |
| Widest aperture | f/10 |
| Minimum focus distance | 60 cm / 1.968 ft |
| Focus | Autofocus |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Exposure modes | Program automatic |
| Manual exposure settings | No |
| Date imprinting | No |
| Flash | Integrated flash |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Wireless remote control | Yes |
| Power supply | 1x battery in filmpack |
| Estimated value / Used price | 59,95 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 53 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 50,11 Euro (54.12 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 48,92 Euro (51.96 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 56,67 Euro (60.61 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Polaroid Image
What kind of film does this instant camera use?
The Polaroid Image uses Spectra/Image film. Production of this film by Polaroid ended, but Impossible Project offers compatible color and black and white options. Note that the new film contains 8 shots instead of 10.
How does the camera focus?
It uses an autofocus system called Polaroid Sonar AF, utilizing ultrasound to determine the distance to the subject. The distance is shown in the viewfinder. You can also switch off the autofocus.
Does the instant camera have a flash?
Yes, the Polaroid Image has a built-in flash that can be turned on or off as needed. It's powered by the battery in the film cassette.
Where can I find batteries for this model?
The Polaroid Image doesn't use separate batteries; the power for both the camera and the flash comes from a battery built into the film cassette. A new battery is provided with each new film pack.
What size are the pictures this camera produces?
The Polaroid Image produces rectangular pictures. The total print size is 10.1 cm x 10.3 cm, while the actual image area is 9.1 cm x 7.2 cm.