How to Alter Polaroid One600s

Transform a Polaroid photograph by drawing onto the surface.

The Polaroid One600 instant camera can be altered with a 2-stop neutral density filter that enables the camera to use Time-Zero SX-70 film. This emulsion film is preferred by those who wish to press and manipulate photographs to create original artwork. Working the picture surface results in a graphic or impressionist painting effect. Polaroid One600s and Time-Zero film are no longer manufactured, but they are found at flea markets, garage sales and online auctions.

Things You'll Need

• Polaroid One600 camera
• Polaroid Time-Zero SX-70 film
• 2-stop neutral density filter
• Rubber-tip hair pin
• Manicure orange stick
• Spoon
• Sandpaper
• Sculpting wire tool
• Sculpting burnishing tool

Instructions

1. Place 2-step neutral density filter over the electric eye of camera to compensate for the slower speed of the Time Zero film.

2. Insert dark side of a cardboard from a used pack of Time-Zero or 600 film into the camera film chamber. Position new pack of Time-Zero film on top of the used dark cardboard.

3. Remove used dark cardboard from under new film and close film chamber door.

4. Select a location and subject for you picture. This process works well outdoors in the sun, as heat allows the film emulsion to remain pliable longer. Indoor pictures are also suitable.

5. Shoot the picture while standing between 3 and 5 feet away and place the ejected photograph on a hard surface. Wait about 2 minutes for the image to develop.

6. Experiment with the tools to enhance the image by gently pressing and marking on the the emulsion side of the picture. The surface of the picture remains workable for 5 to 15 minutes.

7. Outline an area. Try shading and blending. Write a word or make patterns with small marks. Add texture by placing the sandpaper underneath the picture and use a tool to rub gently over the surface. Add more pressure to create black lines.

Tips & Warnings

• Explore online sites devoted to Time-Zero art to see what others have done using this technique. Try working with found objects, such as rocks and sticks. A picture may be worked on later by setting it on a warm surface to activate the emulsion.

• Wash hands thoroughly after handling emulsion film.

References

• Photography Podcast Blog and Forum: Maniulating Polaroid SX-70 Film
• YouTube: Polaroid SX-70 Manipulation Demo

Resources

• "Polaroid Manipulations: A Complete Visual Guide to Creating SX-70, Transfer, and Digital Prints"; Kathleen Carr; 2002