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The end of SX-70 manipulations?
A lot of rumours are circulating about the SX-70 or Time Zero film, the film used to do Polaroid SX-70 manipulations. First Polaroid put out a faulty batch and then announced that they're going to stop making the film altogether... unfortunately this seems to be true. More information below.
(Please prove us wrong! If you found a way to keep manipulating Time Zero or any other solution, or more tips on how to solve the problems, please email:
).
Problem: You've bought Time Zero film that doesn't seem to manipulate properly
Solution: You can apparently manipulate the faulty film by using a heatpad. Use a hot plate, heatpad, electric blanket, mug warmer or heating pad (those used for applying heat to aching body parts) for about a quarter of a minute and you can get some good results. Manipulate as usual. You may find that the colors aren't as vibrant as the older film.
Warning: Don't try to heat the film in the microwave, it will explode!
Problem: I want to keep using my SX-70 camera!
Solution: You can. You just have to switch to 600 or 779 film and do a few modifications to your camera.
This is from the Polaroid website:
Please follow these steps to adjust the film and camera:
600 / 779 Film
The 600 and 779 films have four little plastic nubs at the bottom, which prevent them from being loaded in a camera designed for SX-70 film. You have 2 options:
- You can remove the two nubs in the middle in order to load the film.
- You can use the dark slide of a previously loaded instant film to load the film without removing the nubs. Hold the dark slide (also known as black tab or cover sheet) under and slightly beyond the pack while loading it. The idea is to have something smooth that covers the nubs as the pack is inserted.
SX-70 Camera
Now that you have loaded either 600 or 779 film into your SX-70 camera, you have to overcome the fact that this film is four times faster than SX-70 / Time-Zero film. This cannot be achieved by adjusting the exposure control settings. Even if you alter your settings to reflect the dark, your pictures will still be overexposed.
If you only plan to take photographs in broad daylight:
- Reduce the amount of incoming light by affixing a 2-stop neutral density (ND) filter in front of the lens. Please note that this will also darken the view in your finder.
- Alternatively, you can try a 1-stop ND filter and set the exposure control 1.5 stops to darken. Use a coated filter to get the best results.
If you take photographs in any light:
- Remove the filter retaining ring (the little chrome ring which surrounds the photocell) by gently pushing the tip of a small knife under the edge and popping out the ring. Remove the small round neutral density filter.
- Replace with a similarly thin piece of clear plastic (e.g. from a CD box). Re-fit the housing, insert the film and affix a 1-stop ND filter in front of the lens. The exposure-control settings should now allow you to compensate for the film speed.
Remember the exposure-control returns to zero when you fold the camera.
Problem: Want to keep working with the Polaroid processes?
Solution: If you want to keep using Polaroid film to do your art... there is always Polaroid Transfers and Polaroid Emulsion lifts left, read: Polaroid Transfers and Polaroid Emulsion Lifts. 
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