Polaroid 203 Film Camera User Manual


 
Miniportrait 203/403 Camera User Guide
7
If the camera is hand-held, use the
rangefinder for each portrait, to ensure that
all subjects are at the correct distance.
Note: The rangefinder will not work while
the flash is recharging: it will work
only if the flash is off or ready. (See
also Appendix: Depth of Field.)
The Viewfinder
When the camera is 1.2m (47 in.) from the
subject, frame the subject within the full
frame (23-A). When at 1.92m, use the
partial frame (23-B).
The viewfinder of the Model 203 camera
also contains a bar and three dots. These
are used when the subject’s face must be a
specific size in the finished portrait.
The portrait selector and counter
The portrait selector (24) can be set for
different portraits, identical portraits or 2
pairs of identical portraits (Model 403). The
portrait counter (25) shows the next portrait
or pair of portraits (Model 403). If the
selector is set for identical portraits, the
counter always reads “1”.
Model 403: Slide the portrait selector to the
desired setting. Then set the counter and
electronic shutter as follows:
1. Turn off the flash.
2. Make a “blank” exposure: Push in the
dark slide (to avoid wasting film), then
press the shutter button all the way
down.
3. Turn the wheel (25-C) in the direction of
the arrow so “1” is visible in the window.
Important: Whenever the portrait selector
is changed to a different setting, the
camera must be reset as described above,
to prevent possible double-exposures.
Model 203: Slide the portrait selector to the
desired setting. It is not necessary to reset
the counter and shutter.
Taking the picture
1. Remove the dark slide from the film
holder (26).
2. Check that the flash ready light is on.
The camera’s rangefinder and shutter
will not work while the flash is charging.
3. Frame the subject in the viewfinder.
If the camera is hand-held, press the
shutter button (27) halfway to check
that the camera is at the correct
distance.
4. Press the shutter button all the way to
take the picture.
Processing the film
Model 403: Pull the film tabs straight down
(28). If necessary, brace the camera while
pulling.
Model 203: Hold the camera firmly by the
hand grip, while pulling the film tabs
straight out (29).
1. Pull the white tab straight, all the way
out of the camera. A large yellow tab
will appear. If not, see No yellow tab?
2. Pull the yellow tab: Grip the tab firmly,
and pull it straight, at moderate speed,
without hesitation, all the way out of the
camera (30).