Not all Polaroid cameras are instant-film cameras.
Most of us think of instant film when we think of Polaroid, but the company also made high-quality, roll-film cameras. Sometimes called Land cameras after their inventor, Polaroid cameras, such as the 800, can be modified to use more modern film. Film for the Polaroid 800 camera hasn't been available for decades, but you can use 120 mm roll film instead. This film provides a larger negative than standard 35 mm film, which means you can make large prints in high quality.
Instructions
1. Open the back of your Polaroid 800. Use your drill and 1/4-inch bit to drill a hole in the bottom-right corner of the camera's film chamber.
2. Screw the bolt into the camera from the bottom. Connect the knob to the bolt outside the camera. You can find these round knobs at most hardware stores. This knob will help you turn the screw to use it as a film-winding shaft. Tape black cloth or paper around the bottom of the bolt inside the camera to prevent light from entering.
3. Position your 120 mm take-up spool into the film chamber on the left side. The spool is about an inch shorter than the Polaroid film chamber, so you must create shims to hold it in place. For those, cut two rounds of cork about 1/2 inch high and place them on top and bottom of the spool, or use folded construction paper instead.
4. Place 120 mm film into the take-up spool. Pull the lead out to the right and tape it to the bolt. This will hold the film in place when you turn the knob.
Tags: film chamber, about inch, Polaroid cameras, take-up spool
