Porst Magic 500

The Porst Magic 500 is an instant camera from the Porst brand. It was sold in Germany by the photo dealer Photo Porst. It was produced by the American company Berkey. The model is technically based on the Berkey Keystone Wizard XF 1000.

The Porst Magic 500 impresses with its user-friendliness. If you are used to many settings on your camera, you will not find them on this model. The simple operation allows it to be used on numerous occasions. For example, it is an excellent choice for parties and weddings. The camera also cuts a decent figure when travelling.

The most important settings are fixed. For example, the aperture and shutter speed cannot be changed by the user. The lens has a fixed focal length. It is not possible to change the lens. A zoom, which is common with smartphones, is not available with this model. A distance of 100 cm to the subject is necessary for sharp pictures.

There is a connection for a flash bar on the camera. Another connection is found on the underside of the housing, the tripod thread. Is there an automatic shutter release function? No, there is no self-timer.

Films for the Porst Magic 500

The correct photo films are very important for the instant camera. The manufacturer of the camera, the American company Berkey, has chosen the Polaroid SX-70 format. Production of the original Polaroid films has been discontinued. In the meantime, however, you can find suitable films again on the shelves of shops, both online and offline.

In the shops there is both black and white and colour film. For colour photos with the camera, there is the Polaroid Color Film for SX-70*. Creative monochrome pictures are possible with the Polaroid B&W Film for SX-70*. How do the films perform in tests? Both films are convincing in many test situations.

There are eight photos in a box. Because the film material is light-sensitive, it should not come into contact with light before taking the photo. A dark and dry place is perfect for storage over a longer period of time.

As prescribed in the standard, a picture measures 10.8 x 8.8 cm. An area of 7.7 by 7.7 cm is provided for the actual picture. The remaining space is filled by a white area. Are white frames too boring? Then you can buy editions with colourful frames.

Can you use the Japanese manufacturer’s Instax films? No, the films do not fit the Instant camera.

Batteries

What type of battery is needed for the Porst Magic 500? The power source of the camera is a battery in the film cassette. So changing the film also represents changing the power source. It is the only power source the camera needs.

The disposable battery does not belong in the household waste together with the film cassette. It is best to take the plastic cassette or the battery to a suitable local drop-off point.