Polaroid OneStep Closeup (1980s)
An instant camera from the 1980s using Polaroid 600 type film, built for simple, rugged use with a built-in flash and close-up lens.
Overview
The Polaroid OneStep Closeup is an instant film camera made by Polaroid during the 1980s. It's a box-type 600 camera built for ease of use, with a built-in flash and a dedicated close-up lens. The viewfinder is considered inferior to the ones on more advanced models like the Polaroid Impulse AF. The front of the camera closes to protect the lens. One description calls it "competent, if uninspiring," and it's recommended as an affordable way into vintage instant photography. The author uses it as a backup camera in rough conditions and notes that it holds up well despite cosmetic wear like light scuffing.
Specifications
| Film type | Polaroid 600 type film |
| Lens feature | Close-up lens |
| Flash | Built-in flash |
Design
The front cover closes to shield the lens when the camera isn't in use.
Market
Used Polaroid OneStep Closeup cameras are often cheap, sometimes cheaper than the film they use. They turn up on eBay, and refurbished ones can be bought directly from Polaroid. Common problems are color shifts in the photos and suspected shutter trouble. Some users report high-contrast images with muted tones, where vibrant colors come out pastel, which gives a distinctly 1980s look. Cleaning the film rollers is a noted maintenance task. One listing included the camera, original box, instructions, and an installed 600 film pack.
eBay Listings
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