Mr Polaroid – Edwin Land in a matrix of SX-70 prints
Toronto. Today’s photographers and snap-shooters know any photos they take are displayed ‘instantly’, ready to be edited or sent world-wide as is. It wasn’t always the case. In late 1948, Dr Edwin Land first offered his famous B&W Polaroid 95 camera and system in NYC.
My friend, Bill Belier, was a sales rep at the time for the company importing Polaroid cameras in Canada. He told me the news was so electrifying and the camera sold well – beyond the modest stock on hand – that he had to limit products to his clients.
While the digital set today may sneer at the idea of ‘pictures in a minute’, the time interval was revolutionary to film photographers used to anything from hours to days (or longer) before their efforts could be seen.
My friend and fellow PHSC member, president Clint Hryhorijiw, sent me an email recently saying, “A number of members have approached me, especially at the recent fair, about this PBS program . It would be great to let everyone know about it. ”
And with his note was a link to “Mr Polaroid” on PBS. A few videos on the revolutionary process are offered. Chapter 1 begins with the impact of the SX-70 when first introduced in Miami (fast, portable, SLR, and colour prints). Other Polaroid cameras are also shown (both B&W and colour) – then follows a bio of Edwin Land and a history of his company (Polaroid). Have a look and enjoy!
