Taking Photos

1Grasp the camera in your left hand, making sure to keep your fingers behind the film door.

Place your right thumb on the thumb rest with your index finger on the shutter button. Curl your other fingers into your palm.

To preview your shot, look through the viewfinder. The scene will appear out of focus.

Lightly press the shutter button and hold it there. If the flash bursts and a photo is ejected, the shutter button was pressed too firmly.

While keeping the shutter button lightly pressed down, the lens will spin and set, bringing your scene

into sharp focus. If the camera pauses briefly before focusing the lens, the flash is momentarily charging. After the lens is brought into focus an accurate preview of the scene is visible.

You may preview as often as you choose without depleting the camera’s battery. The battery that powers the camera is located inside the film pack and is sufficient to take many previews per each pack of film.

2Use the electronic flash for every photo, both outdoors and indoors. The flash automatically corrects common lighting problems encountered in both environments. For best results, position your subject(s) anywhere from 10 inches to 14 feet away from the camera.

Maintain a clear path between the camera and your subject. The camera uses sound waves to determine the distance between the camera and the photo subject, and any obstructions will cause your photo to be incorrectly exposed.

Make sure to keep the sun or other source of light behind you, or at your side.

Holding the camera steady, press the shutter button firmly. Continue to hold the camera steady until the photo has ejected from the camera. Release the shutter button to recharge the flash unit.

Do not shake or expose developing photos to direct sunlight. Make sure to hold the developing photo by its white border edges. If the temperature is below 55° F, place the photo immediately in a warm pocket or other warm location to develop.

Flash Override

In certain circumstances, such as taking a photograph through a window or photographing a metallic surface, it may be necessary to override the automatic flash.

To do this, slide the flash control switch to the right. The automatic flash is disabled. You can now take a photo without the flash by pressing the shutter button.

Manual Focus

To override the camera’s automatic focus, push the manual focus switch down so that the red portion of the switch is visible.

Turn the manual focus control dial until your scene is in clear focus.

To take a photo, press and release the shutter button.

Press the manual focus switch up to return the camera to automatic focus.

Lighten/Darken Control

The lighten/darken control feature is located on the front of your camera.

Only use this feature when retaking a photo to make it lighter or darker than the original.

To lighten a photo, move the control dial so that the white/black area of the dial is directly beneath the white line. This is the standard lighten setting.

Begin with this standard lighten setting. To lighten a photo even more, move the white/black area of the dial to the right of the white line.

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Polaroid 690 manual Taking Photos, Flash Override, Manual Focus, Lighten/Darken Control
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690 specifications

The Polaroid 690 is an iconic instant camera that emerged as a favorite among photography enthusiasts and casual users alike. Launched in 1973, this model marked an evolution in the Polaroid brand, focusing on convenience without sacrificing image quality. It encapsulates the spirit of instant photography, allowing users to capture and develop images on the spot.

One of the main features of the Polaroid 690 is its compact design, making it easy to carry and use. The camera's automatic exposure system simplifies the photographic process, removing the need for complicated settings. This innovation encourages users, regardless of skill level, to engage with photography. The camera is equipped with an electronic flash, allowing for better results in low-light conditions. This was a game-changer, especially for social events or gatherings where lighting may vary.

The 690 uses Polaroid's distinctive 600-type film, known for its vibrant colors and unique white border. This film is integral to the Polaroid experience, as it develops in just a few minutes after exposure. The tactile interaction of waiting for the image to appear added a sense of excitement and anticipation that digital photography cannot replicate. Furthermore, the camera features a standard 100mm lens with a close-up option, allowing users to capture sharp images at varying distances.

The autofocus mechanism of the Polaroid 690 is another notable characteristic. It uses a simple yet effective rangefinder system, ensuring that subjects are well-focused every time. Additionally, the camera boasts a viewfinder that provides a clear frame of reference for composition, enhancing the overall shooting experience.

The Polaroid 690 embodies the essence of spontaneity that defines instant photography. Its easy-to-use interface and appealing design make it ideal for capturing memories, whether on a family vacation or at a party with friends.

Polaroid's legacy is built on innovation and creativity, and the 690 serves as a testament to the joy of instant photography. The combination of its functionalities, user-friendly features, and the thrill of watching an instant photo develop continues to endear this model to a new generation of photographers, ensuring that the magic of Polaroid lives on.
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