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SX70 Time Zero manipulation is a very interesting modification of the common SX70 Instant photographic.  This type of Polaroid Instant imaging is unique in that the picture is encased in a mylar envelope, and during the development process is very susceptible to physical contact.  In the short time that the emulsion is developing, and the image is hardening, abrasion to the chemicals (not surface) can be controlled for very interesting results.  Below is a brief description of this process.

Materials needed:  Burnishing tools (art supplies), sharpened wooden dowels, or even dental tools. Do not use sharp tools because they might puncture or scratch the films mylar surface.  An SX70 Time Zero camera (600 cameras will work but must be adapted to use Time Zero film).  If you want to work from 35 mm slides, the Daylab TZ base is an excellent choice of system.

Step one: Expose the film in a camera or in a Daylab system.

Step Two: Apply light pressure with blunt tools before you see the image. (see figure A)  This will slightly blur and soften the image. The effect you get changes as the development process continues.

Step Three: Use a more pointed tool to outline areas & objects in the image. (see figure B) The image is now beginning to become visible.  Different pressure will create white or black lines, and also create different color as the color layers of the film are being blended.

Step four: During the next five minutes or so you can stretch and blend the image. Use a blunt or fine tip tool & slightly rub over image areas you want to distort. (see figure C)  Be patient & try different pressures. Try circular motions & short strokes.  During the next 5 to 10 minutes the image is beginning to set.  This is the time to blend the images areas.

Tip: You can freeze the print immediately after it has fully developed.  Then later, warm with a hair dryer and manipulate

Thanks to Polaroid for the above process description..