The Polaroid PEP Portfolio Edition is an instant camera and was part of the Polaroid Education Program (PEP). It has the same functionality as the Polaroid One Step Flash Closeup. Of course, the camera is no longer produced today.
The Polaroid PEP Portfolio Edition is characterized by its uncomplicated handling. Most of the settings that you are used to from other types of cameras are not available on this model. Thanks to its ease of use, it can be used for many different occasions. It is very suitable for parties and is also a lot of fun at weddings. However, it can also be a lot of fun on vacation.
Changing the shooting settings is not possible. Free selection of shutter speed and aperture is not possible. The Polaroid instant camera comes with a fixed lens. The model does not have a zoom function. The shortest focusing distance is 60 cm with the close-up lens. This minimum distance must be maintained for sharp pictures. Without the close-up lens, it is 1.2 meters.
The photo camera is provided with a built-in flash. The flash fires automatically. Especially in low light conditions, one is often grateful for the flash.
Films for the Polaroid PEP Portfolio Edition
For the camera use, of course, the correct films are needed. The device manufacturer, Polaroid from the USA, has ended the production of instant films. But there is a new edition under the same name from a new company.
Both a color film and a black and white film are available for the camera. For color photos, you have to buy the Polaroid Color Film for 600*. The appropriate choice for monochrome pictures is the Polaroid B&W Film for 600*. Both films can deliver good results in tests.
There are a whole eight pictures in one pack. The instant films are very sensitive to light. Contact with light before shooting should therefore be avoided. The optimal conditions for storage are found in a dry and dark place.
According to the standard, an image measures 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 frame. Various editions of Polaroid films also have colorful frames.
Are the Instax films compatible? No, Fuji’s films will not fit the Polaroid PEP Portfolio Edition.
Batteries
Do I need batteries for the instant camera? The power source of the camera is a battery located in the film cassette. The disposable battery contains the necessary energy for the camera technology including the built-in flash. The film exchange therefore also represents a change of the power source. There is no need to purchase another battery for the camera.
If the camera with film has been stored for a long time, the battery may have discharged. As a result, in many cases, the camera will no longer function. The fix consists of removing the old film and inserting a new one with a full battery.
Polaroid PEP Portfolio Edition Manual
How to use the instant camera? A little guide on how to use the camera.
The first thing to do is to load the film. To do this, open the film door by pushing the slider on the side of the housing forward. Now the cassette with the film material can be inserted. Afterwards, the flap can be locked again. The camera now ejects the protective cover of the film.
The camera is now ready for operation. The photo motif is captured on the instant image by pressing the shutter release button. You can get a foretaste through the viewfinder on the back. The camera transports the image from the film cassette and the development of the image begins. After the development process of the instant picture is completed after a few minutes, the photo can be inspected closely.
Alternative Cameras
If you can not find the camera, you can resort to alternatives. The Polaroid OneStep Close Up* and Polaroid Spirit 600* would be other options. These instant cameras come with comparable functional features. They are also both for the 600 format and require the same films.
However, you might want to try something new. Exciting models include the Diana Instant Square* and Instax Mini 9*. The films for these models can be conveniently purchased online.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Instant camera |
| Film format | Typ 600 |
| Film transport | Automatic |
| Film transport mechanism | Motor |
| Picture format | 77 mm x 77 mm |
| Focal length | - |
| Widest aperture | - |
| Minimum focus distance | 60 cm / 1.968 ft |
| Focus | Fixed |
| Type of focus | Zone focus |
| Focus zones | 0,6 m to 1,2 m, 1,2 m to Infinite |
| 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 |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | No |
| Power supply | 1x battery in filmpack |
FAQ about the Polaroid PEP Portfolio Edition
What type of film does the Polaroid PEP Portfolio Edition use, and where can I find it?
It uses Polaroid 600 film, both color and black and white are available. While Polaroid stopped production, newer versions of the film are available from other manufacturers.
How is the flash handled on this instant camera model?
The Polaroid PEP Portfolio Edition has a built-in flash that automatically fires, especially useful in low-light conditions. There are no manual flash settings.
Does the Polaroid PEP Portfolio Edition offer adjustable settings like aperture or shutter speed?
No, this camera is designed for simplicity. It features a fixed lens and doesn't allow adjustments to aperture or shutter speed.
What's the minimum focusing distance for sharp images with and without the close-up lens?
With the close-up lens, the minimum focusing distance is 60 cm. Without it, you need to be at least 1.2 meters away from your subject for sharp photos.
What is the power source of the Polaroid PEP Portfolio Edition instant camera?
The camera is powered by a battery included within the film cassette. You don't need to purchase a separate battery; changing the film also changes the battery.