The Polaroid SX-70 is an instant camera. It was presented to the world public in 1972 and is considered one of the milestones in photography. Not only was it able to expose the new SX-70 format, it was also a single-lens reflex camera in a compact foldable housing.
The body of the camera is made of chrome and covered with leather.
The Polaroid SX-70 Land Camera comes with a built-in fixed focal length. The focal length is unchangeable and is 116 mm. The largest available aperture is f/8, and the Polaroid SX-70 has no autofocus. The lens is focused manually, as with the 35mm camera, you look directly through the lens. The minimum distance to the subject must be 26.4 cm.
The camera comes with an exposure meter. The exposure is set automatically by the camera and can be influenced with a light/dark control.
The instant camera can be used with a flash bar. The power source of the camera is battery in the film pack.
Films for the Polaroid SX-70
The SX-70 is designed for the film format of the same name. However, Polaroid has stopped production. In the meantime, the film for the instant camera is available again under the “Polaroid Originals” brand. The Polaroid Color Film for SX-70* is for color images and the Polaroid B&W Film for SX-70* for black and white images.
The captured image has a size of 7.9 by 7.9 cm and is surrounded by a frame. There are eight images in one of the new packs. In former times there were ten pictures, so you have to change the film already at the “2”.
In the film cassette there is also the battery for the camera. After inserting the film, ejects the darkslide (protects against light outside the camera) and you can start taking pictures.
The Polaroid SX-70 is only available on the used market. The value of the Polaroid SX-70 depends on the condition of the camera. It is a popular collector’s item.
Other models
The SX-70 was also sold in an “SE” (Special Edition) and “BC” (for K-Mart) version.
Accessories for the SX-70
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Instant camera |
| Film format | SX-70 |
| Film transport | Automatic |
| Film transport mechanism | Motor |
| Picture format | 79 mm x 79 mm |
| Focal length | 116 mm |
| Widest aperture | f/8 |
| Focus | Manual |
| Exposure times | 1/175 second to 10 seconds |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Exposure modes | Program automatic |
| Exposure compensation | ± 1EV |
| Manual exposure settings | 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 | 199,98 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 73 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of May 18, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 181,46 Euro (195.91 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 147,60 Euro (159.11 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 204,25 Euro (220.81 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Polaroid SX-70
How do I focus the Polaroid SX-70?
The Polaroid SX-70 uses manual focus. You look through the lens and adjust the focus ring until your subject is sharp. The minimum focusing distance is 26.4 cm.
What kind of film does this instant camera use?
It uses SX-70 film. While Polaroid stopped production, Polaroid Originals now makes color and black and white film for this camera. Each pack contains eight exposures.
Does the camera have a built-in flash?
No, it doesn't have a built-in flash. However, you can use a flash bar accessory with it.
How does the Polaroid camera meter light?
The Polaroid SX-70 has a built-in light meter that automatically sets the exposure. You can adjust it slightly using a brightness/darkness control.
Where can I buy a new Polaroid SX-70 Land Camera?
The Polaroid SX-70 is no longer produced new. You'll need to find one on the used market; it's a popular collector's item and its value depends on its condition.