Shooting Polaroids with a Medium Format Camera | Knowledge #13

From the perspective that "changing your tools changes your work," we've previously shared two features on the unique world of medium format film cameras. This time, as a culmination, we present a secret photographic technique: shooting Polaroids with a medium format camera.

The RB67 is the predecessor to the RZ67, featuring a classic exterior. The camera body is large, with a relatively simple, fully mechanical design. The RZ67, compared to the RB67, is more compact and equipped with features such as a motor drive and electronic controls.

Both the Mamiya RB67 and RZ67 are 6x7 format cameras, but by rotating the film back 90 degrees, you can shoot both vertically and horizontally.
In essence, they are sometimes referred to as "7x7 format" cameras. When you attach a Polaroid back to the RB67 or RZ67, you can shoot in this "7x7 format." The Polaroid Type 100 has an image size of 7.3×9.5cm. Only the characteristic Polaroid borders of 1.3cm on each side remain, but the film allows you to capture nearly the entire image area.

tatsuki's YouTube channel, which shares the appeal of Tokyo life and cameras from a unique perspective, offers an accessible introduction to shooting Polaroids with a medium format camera. The sound of the shutter in the video is particularly satisfying, and you can sense tatsuki's enjoyment of the process. We highly recommend watching it.

Polaroid photographs develop instantly, allowing you to see the results on the spot and experience the moment of capture more viscerally. The Polaroids you shoot can be framed and displayed on your wall, or given as gifts to loved ones. Above all, shooting Polaroids with a medium format camera creates a unique photographic experience and original artistic expression through the very act of making the image.

After Fujifilm discontinued production of their instant film FP-100C, haan.chen began developing Polaroid backs for the RB/RZ67. Most YouTube videos featuring Polaroid photography with the Mamiya RB/RZ67 use his invention, the Zinstax. The price is 350 euros. Considering it as the cost to launch a mobile portrait studio, it might not seem expensive at all.

It may seem like a high barrier to entry, but this challenge could be your first step into the world of photography geeks. In fact, it might feel less like a first step and more like a leap into the next level of your photographic journey.