The Joys of Shooting MiNT
by Dan Wagner
MiNT TL70 2.0, SX-70, and InstantKon RF70 Cameras
Few photographic pleasures beat watching an image you just shot develop before your eyes. Thanks to MiNT, photographers can experience this joy with the Rollei-inspired TLR Instaflex TL70 2.0, the Polaroid-upgraded SX-70 / SLR670 cameras, and the newly designed InstantKon RF70. A wide variety of color and black and white instant films are available, and each camera may be purchased separately, or as a kit.
“Photography is an ever changing art form – but despite its ups and downs in the last few decades, instant film photography hasn’t changed much since the release of the SX-70 back in 1972. Our founder felt that there was still more to be done and chose to carry on that legacy. He decided to create his own line of products which would marry modern innovations in technology with the timeless, familiar design of the SX-70 to keep the magic of the Polaroid experience alive. ‘Mint’ – the term collector’s use to describe high quality items in perfect condition – became the standard to which we hold all our products. To make this ideal a reality, we assembled a team of dedicated artisans, designers and engineers. We hope all photographers enjoy shooting with the best instant cameras. At MiNT, we aim to bring our customers products that Dr. Edwin Land would be proud of!”
-MiNT
The MiNT TL70 2.0 specification list:
Uses INSTAX Mini 2.09 x 3.39" films
Apertures f/5.6, f/8, f/16, f/22, f/bokeh
3-element 61mm aspheric lenses
Manual 18.89” to infinity focusing
1/500 - 1 sec (A mode), maximum 10 sec (B mode - slow shutter)
Bright Fresnel viewfinder
Exposure control EV+/-1
Built-in automatic flash (under flip-up nameplate)
The MiNT Polaroid SX-70 and SLR670 models are created from select, high-quality original cameras that have been restored and upgraded with modern internal components and electronics to make them better than new. Before leaving the factory, each camera must pass rigorous inspection. In short, these are not your grandparents’ cameras! (Unless of course they took great care of them and sold them to MiNT.)
The MiNT Polaroid SX-70 Single-Lens Reflex specification list:
Uses Polaroid film—batteries not required
Originally manufactured from 1972-1977
Apertures f/8 - f/22, flash slot available
4-element 116mm lens
Manual 10” to infinity focusing
Shutter speeds 1/175 to 14 seconds
Catering to all tastes, MiNT has created numerous SLR670 model variations. There are bespoke special editions, noir versions, and more.
Similar to the SX-70, the SLR670-S offers A100 and A600 auto modes for shooting with both high and low ISO film. The A600 mode allows photographers to shoot in bright light without the need for an ND filter. These modes are possible thanks to an accurate electric eye installed during MINT’s upgrade process. There’s also a manual mode with 16 separate shutter speeds to choose from.
Upping their game to the next level, MiNT designed the spectacular InstantKon RF70 camera from the ground up. The RF70 is the only wide format instant camera to offer full manual control of shutter speeds, aperture and focusing.
The MINT InstantKon RF70 feature list:
Mechanical rangefinder
Built-in exposure meter
Built-in flash
LCD display with shooting tips
Multiple exposure capability
Bulb and T modes for up to 10 minute exposures
Neutral density filters
2.5mm audio jack for triggering external flash
Tripod socket
Threaded shutter button for a cable release
The RF70 specification list:
Uses INSTAX Wide 4.25 x 3.39" films
Apertures f/5.6, f/6.7, f/8, f/11, f/16, f/22
3-element 93mm aspheric lenses
Manual 29.5” to infinity focusing
1/500 - 1 sec (A mode), maximum 10 minutes (B mode)
Real image 0.44x viewfinder
Exposure control AUTO, A+1, A-1, B, R-flash, 1/500, 1/250, 1/125, 1/60, 1/30, 1/15, 1/8, 1/4, 1/2, 1, OFF
Not content to rest on their laurels, MiNT is constantly on the go with new designs, and special offers. Stay on top of these wonderful offerings by subscribing to their mailing list. One promotion of particular interest to photographers who shoot a lot of film is the Unlimited Free Films Movement for TL70 and RF70 users. Best of all, the requirements for the free film are fun and easy.
I hope this information will make your instant photography adventures easier and more successful. Thanks for visiting The Cranky Camera!