The Polaroid Spirit is an instant camera made by Polaroid. It was introduced to the general public in the 1980s and is part of the first generation of 600 cameras. The range of features of the model coincides with the Polaroid OneStep 600. Of course, the camera is no longer produced today.
The body of the camera is black. It was made of plastic. Above the film output is emblazoned the imprint “Spirit”. Above it is the Polaroid rainbow. There was an additional variant in beige. This model has the Polaroid rainbow on the front when the camera is closed.
The Polaroid Spirit is extremely user-friendly. Many setting options common to other types of cameras have been eliminated. Its simplicity allows it to be used on many occasions. For example, it is a good choice for parties and weddings. The camera also cuts a good figure on vacation.
No changes to the exposure settings are possible. Free choice of shutter speed and aperture is not possible. The lens is fixed and not interchangeable. The model does not have a zoom function. In order to zoom, you have to get closer to the subject. A minimum distance of 120 cm is required for a sharp image impression.
There is a connection for a flash bar on the camera. The search for a tripod socket on the camera is unsuccessful. One must do without a self-timer with the camera.
Films for the Polaroid Spirit
If you want to take pictures, you can’t get around the right instant films for your camera. The American company Polaroid has abandoned film production for many years. However, films are being produced again under the same brand name.
Both a color film and a black and white film for the camera are available. The Polaroid Color Film for 600* is the film for color photos. 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.
One box is enough for eight photos. Since the material is very sensitive to light, it must not come into contact with light under any circumstances. The unused film material should be stored in a dark, cool and dry place.
According to the standard, a picture measures 10.8 x 8.8 cm. In this case, the captured image occupies an area of 7.7 by 7.7 cm. The remaining surface of the picture is white. However, there are also Polaroid films with colorful frames.
Important. The instant films from the house of Fujifilm do not fit with the instant camera.
Batteries
What batteries do you need for the Polaroid Spirit? With this type of camera, you can find the battery in the film cassette. So when you change the film, you also replace the camera’s battery. This is the only battery needed for the Polaroid 600 Land Camera.
If the camera with film has been stored for a long time, the battery may have discharged. Consequently, the camera will no longer work. The solution is to replace the inserted film with new material with a fresh battery.
Manual for the Polaroid Spirit
How to take instant pictures with instant camera? A guide to taking pictures with the instant camera.
First of all, you need to load the film. To do this, slide the slider on the side forward so that the film door opens. Now the cassette with the film material can be inserted. The flap can then be locked again. The camera now removes the protective film from the film.
Now the camera is ready for taking pictures. Hold the camera on the subject and press the shutter button. The camera technology transports the image from the film cassette out of the camera and the development of the image starts. After a short waiting period, the development process is complete. Then you can take a closer look at the final result.
Alternatives
If you can’t find the camera, it is advisable to resort to other options. The Polaroid Spirit 600 CL* and Polaroid Family* would be other options. These models offer comparable features. They use the identical film format.
However, you might want to try something new. Two models are the Instax Mini 9* and LomoInstant*. Suitable film stock will continue to be 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 | - |
Biggest 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 |
Estimated value / Used price | 58,90 Euro 96,0086,9157,55457,6950,729873,14688,8263,52 Estimate based on used prices of 6 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of 13.5.2024 |
Average used price in the year 2023 | 73,13 Euro (79.02 US-Dollar) |