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The classic Polaroid SX-70 instant camera came out nearly 50 years ago. Aiming to create a modern take on the SX-70, MiNT Camera has launched a Kickstarter campaign for the InstantKon SF70 camera. MiNT Camera hopes the SF70 captures the spirit of the SX-70 while improving upon Polaroid’s old instant camera in meaningful ways.
Making an instant camera better than the Polaroid SX-70 (manufactured from 1972-1981) is a high bar to clear, says MiNT Camera, and to do so, it would need to have the best features of the SX-70 while bringing to the table new, modern features that improve upon the classic design and functionality.
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| The InstantKon SF70 takes Fujifilm Instax square format film |
Like the SX-70, the InstantKon SF70 is foldable and portable, includes focus control, and utilizes a square film format. The InstantKon uses the very popular Fujifilm Instax Square film, whereas the SX-70 used Polaroid’s proprietary SX-70 type film. The SF70 is a split-image rangefinder, whereas the SX-70 is a split-circle SLR camera. The SX-70 lacked a built-in flash, shutter speed control, and aperture control. The new InstantKon SF70 includes all three of these features.
While the InstantKon SF70 incorporates modern features, MiNT has been careful to ensure the camera looks and feels like a classic design. It includes authentic bellows, which allows the camera to be foldable. MiNT states that the ‘longer back focus also means a shallower depth-of-field at the same [aperture].’
The camera includes full manual control over shutter speed and aperture and includes a fully automatic mode as well. With respect to aperture, you can select from F5.6, F6.7, F8, F11, F16 and F22. You can select from an assortment of shutter speeds ranging from 1/500s to 1s, although a bulb mode allows shutter speeds up to 10 minutes.
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The built-in lens incorporates a trio of elements, including aspherical lenses, and has a 35mm equivalent focal length of 50mm. The lens can close focus to 29.5″ (0.75m) and can focus to infinity.
In terms of connections, the InstantKon SF70 includes a cable release socket, tripod mount socket, neck strap eyelets and a 2.5mm audio jack. The camera is powered using a pair of AA batteries (included). The camera also comes with a five-year warranty.
Instax square format film is readily available but can be costly, especially for active photographers. MiNT has a program, called the Unlimited Free Films Movement (UFF). It is a lifelong program for MiNT camera owners. To take advantage of this offer, you share your SF70 photos on Instagram and Facebook with appropriate hashtags. You can learn more about the program and its requirements here.
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The InstantKon SF70 Kickstarter campaign has already been funded with 25 days left to go. The campaign’s pledges have surpassed the original goal by more than $100,000 USD. As of writing, the least expensive pledge option is the Super Early Bird – Bonus Bundle. This includes the InstantKon SF70, a neutral density filter and Fujifilm Instax Square Film – Color. This requires a pledge of HK$6,390, which is about $825 USD. Shipping is expected to begin in May 2021. For more information on the InstantKon SF70 and the various pledge options, visit Kickstarter.
Disclaimer: Remember to do your research with any crowdfunding project. DPReview does its best to share only the projects that look legitimate and come from reliable creators, but as with any crowdfunded campaign, there’s always the risk of the product or service never coming to fruition.
Author:
Jeremy Gray
Source: Dpreview
