Polaroid is launching a new Polaroid film, and they're calling it Reclaimed Blue Edition. This isn't about a new color--it's about a new combo of chemistry, which creates an old-school look. (Although it was just Brian's accident.)
Brian, from R&D, was experimenting with different chemicals in the paste recipe to improve our color film. But something unexpected happened and it turned into something completely different.
It's the product of the factory experimenting with one particular chemical and reusing waste material. As the Enschede team experiments to improve film, they happened to focus on this one chemical TBHQ. Then they wanted to see what it would be like to also reuse 'out of spec color negatives', which normally get destroyed because they're not meeting high-quality standards. They approached this project without knowing what they were going to get.
Despite a lack of dynamic range in sunny areas, the darker parts of this film stock create a captivating look. It's a bold, daring, and beautiful invention — a product of an accidental genius. The blue color was not added, it's the result of a chemical reactions!
Reclaimed blue is not Duochrome and it's also not Monochrome. The result is a mix of white and blue colors. It's not just solid black, and not just a solid blue; it's completely new and unique. And that's because it's made from particular chemicals that could’ve been thrown out but Brian found a way to make them useful. (Yay for sustainability!)
Shot on Reclaimed Blue 600 Film by @miaxmoran
Shot on Reclaimed Blue 600 Film by @miaxmoran
Shot on Reclaimed Blue 600 Film by @miaxmoran
Shot on Reclaimed Blue 600 Film by @miaxmoran
Shot on Reclaimed Blue 600 Film by @miaxmoran
Shot on Reclaimed Blue 600 Film by @miaxmoran
We absolutely love shooting with Reclaimed Blue! It gives photos a rich, beautiful, and authentic blue look; it almost feels like you're doing underwater photography.
The process of instant film is an art form that can't be achieved otherwise. You see what you’ve made manifest right before your eyes which means now you can hold it, write on it, burn it, you can do anything! And it's all because of the multiple layers of chemicals that go into making the film. It’s just more meaningful that way because you really feel that THAT photo is yours.
Over the years, Polaroid has continued to push the envelope of instant camera technology. Even as digital photography has become more prevalent, Polaroid has remained a beloved brand that even the younger generation gravitates towards. Its instant film products offer a unique and tangible experience that's near impossible to replicate digitally. We're hoping that Polaroid will continue to push forward with their crazy experiments. Cheers for art & sustainability!
Learn more about Mia's firsthand experience how Polaroid made this film in Amsterdam here.
Updated on May 1, 2023
When accidents turn into chemical masterpieces. Watch as I galavant the Polaroid factory Amsterdam learning the processes behind everyone's favorite film brand.
Updated on Apr 25, 2023
Film photography doesn't have to be intimidating. Let's discuss which cameras are suitable for beginners, the various film stocks, where to scan film, & more.
Updated on May 5, 2023
No patience? Instant film cameras are what you need. Learn what the best ones are on the list of our favorites in the Moment shop.
Updated on May 2, 2023
Whether it's Fujifilm or Polaroid, instant film has become all the rage. But how do you determine the perfect instant film for you and your specific camera?
