The Polaroid Studio Express is an instant camera. The model 403 is designed for taking passport photos and is aimed at photo studios and professional photographers. It was built in the 80s by Mamiya in Japan for Polaroid.
The camera comes with four fixed lenses. Each lens has a fixed focal length of 125 mm and a maximum aperture of f/8. The smallest available aperture is f/32. The aperture is set with a slider on the side. Below it is also the setting possibility for the two exposure times (1/125 s and 1/60 s). Focusing is facilitated by the built-in sonar autofocus.
At the top there is another slider with three setting options. Here you can choose if you want to take four identical, two identical or four different pictures. On the upper side is also the built-in flash. It is also possible to connect the camera to an external flash system.
The Polaroid Studio Express requires instant film to take pictures. More precisely, instant films of the format “Type 100” are needed. These are inserted into the removable thermal back on the back of the instant camera. This offers the possibility to generate a processing temperature of 24 degrees Celsius to ensure an optimal reproduction of the colours. Films with a sensitivity of ISO 3000 and ISO 80 are supported.
The matching films were produced by Polaroid in the past, unfortunately Polaroid had to stop producing film material. Also the replacement from Fujifilm in Japan is no longer produced.
If the film supply would be guaranteed, the Polaroid Studio Express would be wonderfully suitable for weddings or parties as a Photo Booth.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Instant camera |
| Film format | Typ 100 |
| Focus | Autofocus |
| Exposure times | 1/125 second, 1/60 second |
| Flash | Integrated flash |
| Flash Connection | PC-Flash |
| Manufacturer | Mamiya |
| Country of production | Japan |
| Estimated value / Used price | 170,46 Euro 282,41249,81165,531313,38145,9128055,121990,76181,47 Estimate based on used prices of 3 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of April 1, 2024 |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 170,67 Euro (184.01 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Polaroid Studio Express
How many lenses does the Polaroid Studio Express have?
The Polaroid Studio Express has four fixed lenses. Each lens has a focal length of 125mm and a maximum aperture of f/8. The minimum aperture is f/32.
What kind of film does this instant camera use?
It uses Polaroid Type 100 instant film. Unfortunately, production of this film has ceased, making it difficult to find.
Can I change the exposure settings on the camera?
Yes, you can adjust the aperture (f/8 to f/32) and choose between two shutter speeds: 1/125s and 1/60s. These settings are controlled by sliders on the side.
Does the Polaroid Studio Express have autofocus?
Yes, it features built-in sonar autofocus to help with focusing your photos. This makes capturing sharp images easier.
What is the purpose of the top slider on the camera?
The slider on top lets you choose the photo layout: four identical pictures, two pairs of identical pictures, or four different pictures. It's useful for making multiple copies.