Working with Polaroid’s Black and Yellow Duochrome 600 Instant Film

Polaroid, the company behind the classic Polaroid instant films and cameras, created a series of duochrome films for the 600-type cameras that we took to the Black Rock Desert — specifically the Polaroid Black and Yellow Duochrome 600 Instant Film, now retitled Yellow 600 Film from Polaroid.

This article includes affiliate links that we make a small commission if you purchase.  

 

This film gives photographers a distinct look and that’s unlike anything else out there on the market. 

 

 

We got our hands on some of this film, tested it out and were pretty impressed with the results.

This instant film has a unique two-tone look that makes for interesting photos, but also seems to be a bit difficult to shoot with and unpredictable. 

The Polaroid Black and Yellow Duochrome is a black-and-white-style instant film with a yellow tint. It produces prints that have a high contrast, with bright highlights and textured blacks.

We found that this film is great for taking pictures of objects with reflective surfaces or shiny textures. Normally photographers would avoid high-noon lighting outside, but that is where this film shines.

The Duochrome series of Polaroid films are renowned for their unique color shifts when exposed to different lighting conditions. This film is no exception. As you can see from our photos, the shift from yellow to black has a very pronounced effect on the appearance of your images. 

This film is only compatible with the Polaroid 600 cameras. It will not work in other cameras, including Fujifilm Instax cameras.

The film can be used to create dramatic, high-contrast images that have a dreamy feel to them. The colors have an almost metallic finish, so the photos will pop in any setting after they're developed. 

This film is great for those who want to create dramatic photos with strong colors that aren't possible on other types of film. If you like to experiment with your photography or love Polaroid cameras, this is the perfect choice for you.

The film has 8 sheets in the pack, which is 2 less than most other packs of instant film.

The last thing you want to do is keep reloading the camera. So, this might be a problem for some people who are used to 10-sheet packs of instant film. 

The film is 3.1″ x 3.1″ with a black border around the edges of the picture.

It’s important to note that it only prints one image per shot, so plan your frames ahead of time to minimize re-shoots.

Developing takes about 10 minutes and can take longer in extreme cool temperatures

The film should be developed in a dark room. If you don't have a dark room, you can use an old shoebox with the lid taped shut or keep the cardboard box the film came in to block out light.

Developing takes about 10 minutes and can take longer in extreme cool temperatures (less than 68°F). 

This is an interesting alternative to other colors of instant film

This is an interesting alternative to other colors of instant film. While it’s not quite as predictable as the full color films, it has a nice balance between black and yellow that gives your photos a unique look. It definitely won’t be your go-to film for every situation, but it can make for some great shots when you want something different than normal.

Polaroid film isn’t dead, and Polaroid Originals is doing everything it can to keep it alive.

Polaroid Originals never stops innovating and finding new ways to keep Polaroid alive. The company has launched the a new 600-type camera called the Polaroid Now camera. This time around, they've also released a suite of films that can work with their older cameras that have been discontinued.

 

Yes, it’s more expensive than standard 600 film (at $20 for an 8-image pack/ xx per frame), but there are some very good reasons to try shooting duo-chrome if you’re an instant film lover.

We made these images with a vintage Polaroid 600 SE

Polaroid cameras are becoming hard to find second hand, but there are some really neat cameras out there for curious gear hunters. Most vintage polaroid cameras will be compatible with this film, but if you can't find an old camera, or are looking for a modern Polaroid camera - check out the Polaroid Now camera, it's an affordable option with some great modern flourishes like being USB rechargeable and having a better built-in flash than any vintage polaroid could ever have.

 

If you’re looking for an alternative to Polaroid film that gives you more control over your images and allows you to use them in more places than just your camera phone, this may not be the best option. For documentary photographers, using duochrome film as your main stock is probably not ideal since you want to be able to show your scenes in accurate full color (unless you’re going for extreme nostalgia). However, if you do want some fun effects that aren’t possible with instant film but still have a vintage feel, then this might be right up your alley!

 

 

 

Instant film is still a great way to capture memories, and the Polaroid Black and Yellow Duochrome 600 Instant Film  is an excellent option for anyone who wants to try something new. Its unique two-tone look adds an interesting twist to your photographs, making them stand out from the crowd.

 

Thanks for reading! We're able to keep posting tutorials like this because of affiliate links like the ones above - if you have a product you'd like us to review - reach out via our contact form.

Leave a comment

Please note, comments must be approved before they are published