POLAROID M203
User Guide

Miniportrait 203/403 Camera

User Guide

Seating the subject (19)
A seat should be provided for the subject. Avoid chairs with high backs, which may appear in the picture. Adjust the height of the camera so that the lenses are about level with the eyes of the seated subject. Seat the subject close to the background, to ensure a light background and also the smallest possible shadow behind him.

The electronic flash
The flash unit is designed to provide even illumination and proper exposure. To turn on the flash, simply raise the flash head all the way (22). The flash turns off when the head is tilted down. The flash reflector should be pointed directly toward the subject. Note: The camera�s shutter and rangefinder will not work while the flash is recharging; they will work only if the flash is of for ready. The camera also can be used with other types of lighting (see also Appendix: Alternative lighting techniques).

The operating distance
The distance from the front of the camera to the eyes of the subject should be 1.2m (47 in.). When using the Supplementary Lenses 78, the correct camera-to-subject distance is 1.92m (76 in.) (See also Appendix: Depth of field.)

The sonar rangefinder
The sonar transducer on the front of the camera emits sound waves, which bounce off the subject and return as echos. The transducer measures the time it takes for the echo to return, and calculates the distance from the camera to the subject. Important: Be sure the sound waves from the transducer have a clear path to the subject. To use the rangefinder, look through the viewfinder and press the shutter button halfway. If the camera is at the correct distance, both lights will be on (23). If the camera is too close, the left-hand light will be on; if too far, the right-hand light will be on. If the camera is mounted on a tripod, use the rangefinder only when setting up for the day�s photography. It is not necessary to check the distance for every portrait, although you may want to check occasionally while shooting.
6

Turn on the camera
Push the switch to �1� to turn on the power for the camera�s shutter, rangefinder and flash unit (20).

Set the camera controls
Distance: Set the switch to 1.2 or 1.92m (20); this sets the rangefinder for the desired distance. Film speed: Set the switch to 80 or 3000 (21); this sets the flash for the correct amount of light. Lens aperture and shutter speed (20): Use the guidelines on the back of the flash unit (21), and set as indicated.