The Polaroid Spice Cam is an instant camera. It was presented in 1997 and was created together with the Spice Girls. Who also shot several commercials for the camera.
The Spice Girls were a British girl group. They achieved fame in the 90s.
The design was aimed more at female users. The Polaroid Spice Cam is pink, purple, orange and black. It could also be decorated with “Spice Girls” stickers.
At that time, the camera was probably aimed at fans of the group, but today this edition is very popular with collectors.
In terms of functionality, it is identical to the Polaroid 600 (round top).
Films for the Polaroid Spice Cam, like the Polaroid 600 Extreme, are no longer produced by Polaroid. However, there are alternatives from The Impossible Project, who are producing instant films again in an old factory of the former instant pioneer. Since 2020, they have also been sold again under the original brand name.
Suitable for the Polaroid Spice Cam for black and white and color shots of Impossible are the Polaroid B&W Film for 600* and the Polaroid Color Film for 600*. The built-in flash and camera are powered by a battery in the film pack. An additional battery is not needed.
Instructions for Polaroid Spice Cam
How to take pictures with the instant camera? A quick guide on how to use the camera. The first step is to load the film. To do this, push the small slider on the side forward. This opens the film door. Then insert the film cassette and close the flap again. The camera now ejects the protective cover of the film. Now it is possible to start taking pictures. View the subject through the viewfinder and press the shutter release button. The camera motor ejects the image. Now the photochemistry starts developing the image. After a few minutes, the development process is complete and you can view the image.
Similar models
If you can’t find the camera, you can use other options. Two great options would be the Polaroid Spirit 600 CL* and Polaroid Sun 600 LMS*. These models offer comparable features. They are also both for the 600 format and need the same films. A new angle is brought by other camera manufacturers. For example, you can reach for the Diana Instant Square* and Instax Mini 8*. Suitable film material is also still being produced for both cameras.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Instant camera |
| Film format | Typ 600 |
| Film transport | Automatic |
| Film transport mechanism | Motor |
| Picture format | 79 mm x 79 mm |
| Focal length | 116 mm |
| Widest aperture | f/11 |
| Minimum focus distance | 60 cm / 1.968 ft |
| Focus | Fixed |
| 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 |
| Tripod mount | No |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | No |
| Power supply | 1x battery in filmpack |
FAQ about the Polaroid Spice Cam
Is the Polaroid Spice Cam easy to use?
Yes, it's quite straightforward. You load the film, aim through the viewfinder, and press the shutter button. The camera ejects the developed photo after a few minutes.
What kind of film does this instant camera use?
It uses Polaroid 600 film. While Polaroid no longer produces it, Impossible Project offers compatible alternatives, including black and white and color options.
Does the Spice Girls camera need extra batteries?
No, the Polaroid Spice Cam doesn't require extra batteries. The film pack itself powers both the flash and the camera's mechanisms.
What makes the Polaroid Spice Cam special?
Its unique design, featuring pink, purple, orange, and black colors, was targeted at female users. It also came with Spice Girls stickers, making it a collectible item for fans.
Are there similar cameras available if I can't find a Spice Cam?
Yes, the Polaroid 600 series offers similar functionality and uses the same film type. Other instant cameras from different manufacturers, like the Instax Mini 8, are also available.