Polaroid Camera Film Backs & Holders for Medium Format

How to Choose the Right Camera Film Back

To avoid the film coming out of your Polaroid medium format camera when it shouldn't, you need a camera film back. Sometimes called a film holder, these small but essential pieces have an important function, and they require replacement from time to time. To ensure compatibility, verify that you're choosing the correct one for your specific camera.

What Are Some Types of Film Holders?

Since cameras are different, that means that their components are different, too. Film holders come in various types to fit each type of camera, so there are a few examples of types of film backs that you may find you need to purchase for a certain camera design.

• An instant film holder is a different size than a roll film back. They also come in different sizes, so based on your camera model and other features, you'll need the right instant film holder to hold this type of film cartridge.
• Roll film backs are meant to hold traditional rolls of film instead of instant cartridges of film. These have a very specific shape and are available in different sizes.
• Film holder adapters can adapt an old type of film to work with a modern component. When you want to use a vintage camera but you can't find the proper part for a medium-format back in that specific model, you can use an adapter to still be able to connect the components in order to use the camera as you desire.

Which Cameras Do Film Backs Work With?

Polaroid film holders are compatible with different brands and types of cameras, so you need to know which brand you're buying a film holder for to ensure compatibility.

• Naturally, a Polaroid Land film holder works with Polaroid-branded components; however, other brands are compatible, too, as long as they are the right type and size.
• Find a back for your Hasselblad medium-format design.
• Look for a holder that works with your Mamiya option. These can be holders or adapters, depending on what you need.

How Do You Ensure You Get the Right Film Back?

Purchasing parts for this type of equipment can be confusing, so take it one step at a time and ensure you get the right holder to feel comfortable that it works with your photography equipment to help you get the perfect shots.

• Check the type, whether it's instant, cut film, roll film, or an adapter.
• Look at size, which is very important, because if you get the wrong size, you can't use it to hold your film. Some common sizes include 4x5, 6x6, and 6x9.
• You can choose a color of holder, though many come in solid black. Some other colors you may find include gray or even shiny silver to match your equipment's exterior.