Polaroid SX-70 Sonar/Autofocus, Lighten/Darken control, Cleaning the rollers, Image manipulation

Models: SX-70

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Sonar/Autofocus

SX-70 Sonar/Autofocus models focus auto- matically using sound wave technology. Simply aim the camera at your subject,

press the shutter button and hold the camera steady until the picture ejects.

These Sonar/Autofocus models let you preview your picture. Lightly press the shutter button part way down to see what your picture will look like. Then either press the button all the way down to take the picture, or release it and change your position or the camera angle and preview again.

CAUTION: If there’s a window pane, glass display case, wall hang- ing, etc. in front of your subject, the sonar may be fooled and reflect an incorrect focus distance. Preview your picture in the viewfinder to be sure the sonar provides proper focus. If it doesn’t, disconnect the sonar by pressing on the switch above the focus wheel until the red line shows. Then use the focus wheel to set your camera manually to the correct lens-to-subject distance until the image is clear. Don’t forget to turn the automatic sonar focusing feature back on for later pictures; just press the top of the switch or close the camera.

Lighten/Darken control

If subject is too light or too dark in daylight pictures, compensate by turning the Lighten/Darken control one mark and shoot again in the same place with the same lighting. White area lightens picture, dark area darkens.

Cleaning the rollers

Open film door, depress light shield (A),

A

and rotate the rollers. Wipe rollers with a

 

moist cloth—never scrape them. Use only

 

water to clean rollers.

 

Image manipulation

Image manipulation is a creative technique using Time-Zero SX-70 film. Artists apply pressure to the images after the pictures eject from the camera. They use a variety of tools, including pen caps, popsicle sticks, clay modeling tools and dental instruments to achieve different results.

For more information about image or emulsion transfer and other creative uses for Time-Zero SX-70 film, call Americas Business Center, 1-800-343-5000, or visit www.polaroid.com.

Using FlashBars

Note that FlashBars are no longer manu- factured. For information about third- party vendors, call Americas Business Center, 1-800-343-5000, or visit www.polaroid.com.

Flash must be used for indoor pictures.

Effective FlashBar ranges are 10.4 inches to 20 feet.

Insert a FlashBar into the socket in the camera and push in firmly. (On SX-70 Model 3 with socket on the top of the viewfinder, depress viewfinder cap all

the way as FlashBar is inserted, then release it slowly.) On other models, the FlashBar socket is on the top front of the camera body above the lens or sonar.

When all five bulbs on one side are used, remove the FlashBar and turn it around for the remaining five bulbs.

IMPORTANT FLASH REMINDERS

Set the focus distance carefully—setting affects exposure.

Place subject close to a colorful background, if possible.

In group pictures, have everyone about the same distance from the flash for even lighting.

Avoid hot spots and reflections from mirrors, windows, artwork, eyeglasses, etc. reflecting the flash. Shoot at an angle rather than head-on.

Minimum lens-subject distance

To produce clear pictures, do not place your subject closer than 10.4 inches to the camera.

Additional information

We have a staff of Polaroid photography experts whose job is to help you take good pictures. Direct your camera, film and picture questions to Americas Business Center.

Call toll-free, 1-800-343-5000, 8am to 8 pm EST, Mon - Fri (USA and Canada only) or visit www.polaroid.com.

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Polaroid SX-70 manual Sonar/Autofocus, Lighten/Darken control, Cleaning the rollers, Image manipulation, Using FlashBars

SX-70 specifications

The Polaroid SX-70, introduced in 1972, is a groundbreaking instant camera that revolutionized the way we capture and print photographs. Combining innovative technology with a sleek design, the SX-70 became an icon of photography and remains a collectible favorite among enthusiasts and artists.

One of the standout features of the SX-70 is its foldable design, which allows for easy portability. When not in use, the camera collapses to a compact size that can easily fit into a bag or purse. This feature was particularly appealing to users who wanted a camera that was both functional and stylish.

The SX-70 was the first instant camera to use a single lens reflex (SLR) system, which enables the user to see exactly what the lens sees through a mirror and prism system. This technology allows for precise framing and focusing, which was a significant advancement over traditional instant cameras. The camera features a fixed 116mm f/8 lens, providing a sharp focus and a shallow depth of field, ideal for portrait photography.

Another revolutionary aspect of the SX-70 is its use of Polaroid's integral film. Unlike earlier models that required separate development processes, the SX-70 uses a special type of film that develops automatically within the camera. This integral film allows images to be printed instantly, with a characteristic glossy finish that quickly fades into the final photograph over the next several minutes.

The camera's exposure system caters to varied lighting conditions, featuring a light meter that assesses the scene and adjusts the aperture and shutter speed accordingly. This feature gives users greater control over their photographs, allowing for capturing images in both bright sunlight and lower light conditions.

Artistic potential is another hallmark of the SX-70. Many photographers have embraced the unique aesthetics of its imaging process. The ability to manipulate the photos during the developing phase, such as folding or pressing the image, opened up new avenues for creativity and altered the characteristics of the final photograph.

In summary, the Polaroid SX-70 stands out for its innovative design, SLR functionality, automatic film development, and artistic potential. Its charm and unique capabilities have solidified its legacy in the world of photography, making it a cherished piece of technology for both collectors and modern users alike.