Polaroid President 600

The Polaroid President 600 is a camera from Polaroid. It is an instant camera and was introduced in the 1980s. The functionality of the model is the same as the Polaroid OneStep 600. Today, of course, this camera is no longer built.

The body of this model is black. Above the film edition you can find the imprint “President” and “600”. The well-known Polaroid rainbow adds a little color accent.

The Polaroid President 600 is simple to use. The most common adjustment options that one is used to from other types of cameras are not found on this model. The ease of use allows for a low barrier of entry and thus many possibilities for areas of application.

For example, it is suitable for parties and also cuts a good figure at weddings. Especially on vacation, it is of course great fun to take pictures with the camera.

The most important settings are preset. The aperture and shutter speed cannot be changed by the user. The lens has a fixed focal length. It is not possible to change the lens. Many of today’s cameras have a zoom function. This function is not present on this model. Instead, you simply have to move the camera closer to the object you want to photograph. The minimum distance for focusing is 120 cm. This minimum distance must be ensured for the clearest possible pictures.

For example, for indoor shots, a flash bar can be connected to the camera. The search for a tripod thread on the camera is unsuccessful. A so-called self-timer was not integrated.

Films for the Polaroid President 600

If you want to use the instant camera, you need the accompanying instant films. The original camera manufacturer no longer makes film stock. Not to worry, you can buy film for the old cameras again.

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*. If you prefer black and white images, it is recommended to choose the Polaroid B&W Film for 600*. Both films can give good results in tests.

Eight photos can be taken with the contents of one box. The light-sensitive material must not come into contact with light under any circumstances. Unexposed film material should be stored in a dark and dry place.

Following the standard, a picture measures 10.8 x 8.8 cm. The captured scene is found on an area of 7.7 by 7.7 cm. The remaining area of the Polaroid picture is white. Editions with multicolored frames are also available.

Caution. The cheaper Instax films can not be exposed in the instant camera.

Batteries

Are certain batteries required for the Polaroid President 600? With this type of camera, the battery is found in the film cassette. So when you replace the film, you also replace the power source of the camera. This is the only battery needed for the camera.

If the camera with film inside has not been used for a long period of time, this can cause the battery to self-discharge. As a result, the camera often stops working. As a solution, you need to replace the inserted film with fresh material.

Manual for the Polaroid President 600

How to use the instant camera? A small guide on how the photo camera works.

The first step is to insert the instant film. To do this, open the film door by pushing the slider on the side of the housing forward. Then insert the film cassette and close the flap again. The film protecting the film is now removed by the motor in the camera.

Now it’s time to take the picture. To do this, aim the camera at the subject and press the shutter release button. Immediately after the picture is taken, it is ejected. Here it passes through two metal rollers that distribute the developing chemistry evenly over the image. After a short waiting period, the development process is complete. Then you can take a closer look at the final result.

Alternative Cameras

If you can’t find this model, you can turn to alternatives. A first alternative is the Polaroid OneStep 600. The same films are needed for this model. The functions are identical.

Alternatives to Polaroid cameras also exist. Two non-Polaroid instant cameras are the Instax Mini 40* and LomoInstant Wide*. Again, you can still easily purchase the film stock.