The Polaroid Spirit Lord Calvert is a photo camera. It belongs to the group of instant cameras. It was introduced in the 80s. The range of functions offered by the camera model can be found in the Polaroid OneStep 600. Of course, the camera is no longer manufactured today.
The instant camera is the final result of a joint collaboration with Lord Calvert. Lord Calvert is a Canadian whiskey brand. The brand is now owned by the Beam Suntory corporation. The logo of the whiskey brand can be found on the top of the beige case.
The Polaroid Spirit Lord Calvert impresses with its light and easy usability. Many of the setting options found on other types of cameras are not present. The ease of use results in a low barrier to entry and thus numerous possibilities for areas of application. A suitable event for camera use is, for example, a wedding or other celebration. Even on vacation, the camera cuts a very good figure.
The most important settings are already set. The free choice of shutter speed and aperture is not possible. The Polaroid instant camera is equipped with a pre-installed lens. There is no zoom function. To zoom, you have to get closer to the subject. The closest focusing distance is 120 cm. This minimum distance must be maintained for sharp pictures.
Indoors, you can connect a flash bar to the camera. It is not possible to attach the camera to a normal tripod through a thread. A so-called self-timer was not built in.
Films for the Polaroid Spirit Lord Calvert
Indispensable for taking pictures with the camera are the associated instant films. The camera manufacturer, the US company Polaroid, no longer produces film material. Fresh films have been produced again since 2010 and are now sold under the old brand name.
Material is available for color photos and monochrome images. The right option for color pictures with the instant camera is the Polaroid Color Film for 600*. Classic black and white images are possible with the Polaroid B&W Film for 600*. The films are popular with a wide range of photographers.
One pack is sufficient for eight pictures. Since the film material is sensitive to light, it must not come into contact with it outside the camera. For storage of unused film stock, one should look for a cool and dry place.
Each of the eight images measures 10.8 x 8.8 cm. The recorded scene can be found on an area of 7.7 by 7.7 cm. The remaining areas are completed by the familiar frame around the Polaroid picture. Are white frames too boring? Then there are also editions with colorful frames.
A use of the cheap Instax films from Fujifilm is not possible with the Polaroid Spirit Lord Calvert.
Batteries
What type of battery is needed for the instant camera? With this type of camera, the power source is found in the film cassette. So, replacing the film also serves as changing the power source. Another battery is not needed for the camera.
If the camera with film inside has not been used for a long time, the battery may have discharged. Consequently, the camera will stop working. In this case, it is enough to remove the photo film and replace it with new film material.
Tutorial for the Polaroid Spirit Lord Calvert
How to take instant pictures with the instant camera? A clear instruction manual on how to operate the instant camera.
First, the film is inserted. For this, the small slider on the side is pushed forward. This opens the film door. Then the film cassette is inserted. Then the flap can be closed again. The protective film that has protected the film material from light until now is now automatically removed by the camera technology.
Now you can start taking pictures. To capture the desired subject on film, the shutter release button located on the side of the housing must be pressed. The camera technology transports the image from the film cassette out of the camera and the development of the image starts. After a few minutes, the development is complete and you can view the image.
Similar models
If one cannot find the camera, one can move on to other options. As a first alternative, one can choose the Polaroid OneStep 600. It offers the same capability and needs the same film stock.
One may also want to reach for other instant cameras as an alternative. Here there are for example the Instax Mini 9* and Instax Wide 300*. Suitable film material is also 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 | 77 mm x 77 mm |
| Focal length | - |
| Widest aperture | - |
| 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 |
| Power supply | 1x battery in filmpack |
FAQ about the Polaroid Spirit Lord Calvert
How easy is the Polaroid Spirit Lord Calvert to use, and who might it be suitable for?
The camera is designed for ease of use, with minimal settings. This makes it ideal for beginners or anyone wanting a straightforward instant photography experience, perfect for events like weddings or vacations.
What kind of film does this instant camera use, and is it still available?
It uses Polaroid 600 film, available in color and black and white. While Polaroid initially stopped production, new film is now manufactured and sold under the Polaroid name.
Does the Polaroid Spirit Lord Calvert offer any advanced features like zoom or adjustable aperture?
No, it doesn't have a zoom function; you need to move closer to your subject. Aperture and shutter speed are pre-set, providing a simplified shooting experience.
How is the power source managed in this instant camera?
The power comes directly from the film cartridge itself; no separate batteries are needed. Replacing the film also replaces the power source.
What are the dimensions of the photos produced by the Polaroid Spirit Lord Calvert?
Each photo is 10.8 x 8.8 cm overall, with the image itself measuring 7.7 x 7.7 cm. The remaining area is taken up by the characteristic Polaroid border, available in various colors.