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msommers
02-01-2014, 04:49 AM
When I was in Africa taking pictures of people, mainly children, I'd show them the LCD and they would absolutely erupt in excitement to see themselves. Something I wish I dearly had was a way to get photos to these kids but unless I know someone going back to that specific village, it's pretty difficult.

I know someone going to Africa and I'm really trying to encourage them to bring a polaroid as I think that's the only feasible way for these kids to get photographs. Problem is I don't know anything about polaroid and wondering if you guys could lend a hand about where to start my search.

Depending on how destroyed it is coming back, I may look at using it for fun and also when I go back to Africa at some point I'd like to make sure I have one with me.

Should I be looking at medium format cameras with a polaroid back, or do they make something smaller/newer that shoots polaroid? Is there a specific film for each back/camera or is this universal?

Thanks. -Matt

taemo
02-01-2014, 05:39 AM
is it for you or for someone else?

Shooting MF with polaroid back only is a waste of money and weight, you'd be lugging a giant camera that wouldn't be even fully utilizing a 4x5 polaroid sheet.
might as well bring a portable printer with you :rofl:
plus each shot will cost you $3

I saw this at TCS website, maybe they still have it
http://www.thecamerastore.com/3438-Polaroid-600-Close-Up-Camera-Kit-Refurbished-by-the-Impossible-Project.aspx
but like I said, $3 a shot.

There's the Fuji Instax 210, retails for around $100 and uses 107x86mm film (almost 4x5 size) and the film is fairly cheap. each shot will cost you only about 90c
This is what I'm considering and what I would suggest to you and maybe your friends.

There's the Mini Instax as well, the Mini 50S and Mini 7s which are smaller in camera size and film size. The film is about the size of a business card.

and some stores might still have the Polaroid 300 cameras on stock, it costs around $100 with 3 packs of film that are about the same size (if not the same, not sure) Mini Instax

anyway, if you are planning to buy an Instax 210 online, let me know as I might be interested too.

http://evonnz.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/P1050318-3-550x280.jpg
http://evonnz.com/2011/11/13/fujifilm-instax-210-wide-instax-50s-piano-black/

msommers
02-01-2014, 07:04 AM
That 210 looks like it should fit the bill and film is readily available. Any idea how the build quality is?

taemo
02-01-2014, 12:59 PM
it's fairly bulky, DSLR like size and from what I've read/seen all plastic.

you can check it out at any London Drugs though as I see it all the time.

anyway, I'm trying to add it on my B&H order so will hopefully have one in a week or two.

98type_r
02-01-2014, 11:11 PM
Have you considered something like the LG pocket photo printer as an alternative? They're fairly small and no any slower than a Polaroid. My sister in law has one and it may be a suitable option, take a photo from a smart phone then print it.

fayzed
02-02-2014, 12:38 AM
maybe something like this? not sure when available though....

http://polaroid.com/socialmatic

msommers
02-02-2014, 12:56 AM
That is very cool! Any idea on price-point?

Tezzating
02-04-2014, 10:47 AM
A Polaroid OneStep (any of them) is a fine unit. They're indestructable, they're plentiful and they're cheap. You'll find them in thrift shops & yard sales for a few dollars.. mine was $5.
You can get cartridges to suit from Impossible Project but its $30 for 8 exposures, and they're not quite so instant. Colour stuff takes about 35 minutes to fully develop, B&W will develop in 5.

I've seen those Polaroid Socialmatics @ Urban Outfitters for $250.

[edit] Damn, $175 for a OneStep & two packs? Hit the thrift shops..

taemo
02-05-2014, 08:50 AM
^yeah the high price for TIP polaroid is the main reason why I wouldn't recommend it unless you want to look like a genuine hipster.

i should have my instax 210 later this week or early next week and can't wait to play with it but looking at this youtube video.. wow it's huge
svaLlKxiric

taemo
02-05-2014, 04:52 PM
hey matt, here's what I was telling you about
http://www.flickr.com/photos/angex/2924031023/

bought some instax minis and will try load one sheet on the GSW690 for fun and see what I'll get :rofl:

taemo
05-27-2014, 08:38 AM
bump.. I was hoping Lomo was going to release a polaroid back for 4x5 cameras but alas it's just another polaroid camera taking the Fuji Instax Wide film

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/lomography/the-lomoinstant-camera

might be interested as it's smaller than the Instax 210

blitz
05-27-2014, 11:04 AM
The New55 Instand 4x5 film kickstarter met its minimum funding a while ago, you'll just need a 545 back and it'll work in a graflock back.

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/bobcrowley/new55-film

taemo
05-27-2014, 11:41 AM
Originally posted by blitz
The New55 Instand 4x5 film kickstarter met its minimum funding a while ago, you'll just need a 545 back and it'll work in a graflock back.

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/bobcrowley/new55-film

I'm keeping my eyes open for a cheap 545/i/pro holder on ebay, I dont want to spend over $100 for one right now.
Vintage Visual has one on stock right now for $95 too, no rush since I don't think they will start shipping them until early next year I bet.