The Polaroid OneStep is an instant camera. Unlike the classic Polaroid SX-70, this camera and its variations cannot be folded, which of course made them more affordable. It is made largely of plastic, which makes it appropriately lightweight.
The camera is black and white, though the white is honestly a shade of cream. The round shutter button is red and the front is also adorned with a rainbow stripe, which is why you often find yourself calling it the Polaroid One Step SX-70 Rainbow.
The Polaroid OneStep has a fixed focal length, so zooming is not possible. The lens cannot be exchanged and the focus is also fixed. Aperture and exposure time cannot be set by the photographer and are not visible. The Polaroid OneStep selects the exposure automatically. It can only be influenced somewhat with the slider on the front. You can get up to 1.2 m (4 ft) close to your subject. A simple viewfinder can be used to arrange the later image.
Power for the camera comes from a battery in the film cassette. So with each new film, you also get a new power source.
On the back is the film counter, which shows the remaining frames. If you use the Impossible films, you should make sure that you already change the film when you see a two in the small film. The Polaroid OneStep comes with a strap to hang the camera around your neck.
The instant camera is loaded with SX-70 films. These are no longer made by Polaroid, but are made by The Impossible Project / Polaroid Originals. For color pictures, the Polaroid Color Film for SX-70* would be an option and for monochrome photos, you can take the Polaroid B&W Film for SX-70*.
The OneStep also has a port for a flash. So you can use flashbars (disposable flashes) or the Q Light Flash in a matching design, but also the Impossible Flashbar by Mint.
The Polaroid 1000 is practically identical to the OneStep but was produced for the market outside the USA.
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 |
| Connection for camera strap | Yes |
| Power supply | 1x battery in filmpack |
| Estimated value / Used price | 99,16 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 23 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of May 18, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 80,94 Euro (86.59 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 79,81 Euro (85.51 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 94,15 Euro (101.75 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Polaroid OneStep
Is the Polaroid OneStep camera easy to use?
Yes, the Polaroid OneStep is quite user-friendly. It's mostly automatic, handling exposure settings for you. There's a simple viewfinder to compose your shots, and the controls are straightforward.
What kind of film does this instant camera use?
The Polaroid OneStep uses SX-70 film. While Polaroid no longer produces it, Impossible Project/Polaroid Originals makes compatible film in both color and black and white options.
Can I zoom in with this Polaroid camera?
No, the Polaroid OneStep has a fixed lens, so zooming isn't possible. It also has a fixed focus, meaning you can't manually adjust the focus distance.
How does the instant camera get its power?
The Polaroid OneStep gets its power from a battery built into the film pack. Each new film pack also provides a fresh power source for the camera.
Does the Polaroid OneStep have a flash?
Yes, the OneStep has a flash connection. You can use various flash bars, including the Impossible Flashbar by Mint, for additional lighting options in low light situations.