Expired Polaroid Film Tips: Get Best Results

Written by Daisie Team

Published on 11 July 2023 5 min read

There's something inherently magical about the nostalgic charm of Polaroid photos. But did you know that expired Polaroid film can add an unexpected twist to your shots, giving them a unique vintage look? This guide will navigate you through the ins-and-outs of using expired Polaroid film, starting from where to find it to how to get the best results.

Where to Find Expired Polaroid Film

Uncovering expired Polaroid film can be a bit like a treasure hunt. However, there are a few likely places where you might strike gold. Let's explore these.

Local Thrift Stores

Thrift stores can be a goldmine for expired Polaroid film. These hidden gems often have a variety of retro items, and it's not uncommon to find old film packs tucked away on their shelves. Next time you're visiting your local thrift store, don't forget to scour through the camera section—you might just find a pack of expired Polaroid film waiting for you.

Online Marketplaces

Online platforms like eBay, Craigslist, or even Facebook Marketplace can turn up some promising results for expired Polaroid film. Sellers often list vintage cameras along with old film packs, so it's worth taking a look. Keep in mind, though, that you'll have to ask the right questions about the film's storage condition and expiration date before buying.

Vintage Camera Stores

Last but not least, vintage camera stores are another excellent source for expired Polaroid film. These stores specialize in old camera models and often have a stash of expired film. Don't be shy—ask the shopkeeper for expired Polaroid film. They might just have a box stored away, forgotten in some corner!

How to Check the Expiration Date

Once you've found your expired Polaroid film, it's important to check the expiration date and understand what it means for the quality of the film. Let's dive into how to do this.

Expiration Date Location

First things first, where can you find this all-important date? On Polaroid film packs, the expiration date is typically located on the outer packaging. You'll usually find it printed along one of the side flaps. Remember, this date is not an absolute expiry but rather a "best before" date. Film can still be used after this date, but the results may be unpredictable—which is part of the fun!

Intersection of Date and Storage Condition

Here's where things get interesting: the intersection of the expiration date and storage condition. Expired Polaroid film that has been properly stored—cool, dark, and dry—can yield better results than film that's only slightly out of date but poorly stored. So, when you're checking the expiration date, also ask about or consider the film's storage conditions. Was it kept in a hot car? Or carefully preserved in a cool, dry place? The answers to these questions can greatly influence the outcome of your photos.

Storage Tips for Expired Film

So, you've got your hands on some expired Polaroid film. To ensure you get the best results, proper storage is key. Let's go through some top tips to keep in mind.

Proper Temperature

Temperature plays a huge role in the life of expired Polaroid film. Ideally, film should be stored at a temperature below 70°F. Excessive heat can cause changes in the chemical composition of the film, leading to uneven development and color shifts. If possible, store your film in a fridge—but don't forget to let it warm up to room temperature before you use it!

Light Exposure

Light is a friend to photographers, but a foe to film. To protect your expired Polaroid film, store it in a dark place. The original packaging is designed to protect against light exposure, so it's best to keep the film in there until you're ready to load it into your camera.

Humidity Control

Finally, let's talk about humidity. Moisture can wreak havoc on film, causing it to stick together or encouraging the growth of mould. Therefore, it's important to keep your film in a dry place. If you're storing your film in the fridge, consider placing it in an airtight container to protect it from moisture.

Shooting with Expired Polaroid Film

So, you've stored your expired Polaroid film properly—now comes the fun part: shooting. There are a few things to keep in mind to get the best results.

Adjusting Camera Settings

Firstly, your camera settings can make a big difference. Expired film tends to lose its sensitivity to light, so you might need to adjust the light settings on your camera. If your camera has a light/dark control, try setting it to lighter. This can compensate for the film's decreased sensitivity and help you capture a clear image.

Choosing the Right Scene

Next, consider the scene you're capturing. Expired Polaroid film often produces unexpected color shifts and interesting effects, which can add a unique touch to your photos. However, these effects might not be suitable for every scene. For example, a landscape might look great with a vintage feel, but a portrait might not. So, experiment with different scenes to see what works best.

Developing Expired Polaroid Film

After you've captured your images, it's time to develop the expired Polaroid film. This process can be a bit trickier than with fresh film, but with a few adjustments, you can still get great results.

Time and Temperature

The developing process for expired Polaroid film is sensitive to both time and temperature. You might need to leave the film to develop longer than the instructions suggest. Try waiting for 15 to 20 minutes instead of the usual 10. Warmer temperatures can also speed up the developing process. So, if it's a chilly day, consider keeping the film in a warm place like your pocket after you've taken the photo.

Handling Developed Prints

Expired Polaroid film can be a bit more fragile than fresh film, so handle your prints with care. Once the print is fully developed, avoid touching the image surface, as it can easily be damaged. Also, remember to store your developed prints properly to maintain their quality. A cool, dry, dark place is best to prevent further aging of the photo.

Do remember these tips are not set in stone; expired Polaroid film can be unpredictable. But that's part of the charm, isn't it? Each photo is a unique piece of art, thanks to the quirks of the film. Now, why don't you grab that old Polaroid camera and start shooting?

If you enjoyed our blog post on "Expired Polaroid Film Tips: Get Best Results" and want to take your photography skills even further, don't miss the workshop 'How To Take The Perfect Portrait!' by louisbever. In this workshop, you will learn valuable tips and techniques on capturing stunning portraits, whether you're using expired Polaroid film or any other medium. Start mastering the art of portrait photography today!