Oh Polaroid SX-70 Land Camera, how I miss you! I originally came across this post on Cool Hunting!
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The above film from Charles and Ray Eames
IF, and only if you have the attention-span 
take note at about 8.00 or 9.00 minutes in:
“…the device helps make the universal need to do things well…
…more than that, thoughtfully used can help reveal meaning in the flood of images that makes up so much of human life…
We hope that you will fully complete the chain gaining as much fun, as much sense of self, and as clear participation in the stream of human creativity as did Edwin Land and the Team who first made SX70.”
When did we stop talking about “sense of self” and “participating in the stream of human creativity”? When did this kind of language fall away from mainstream society or was it never there, and only ever referenced by wiser, more evolved folks like Charles and Ray Eames? I wish someone older & wiser would weigh in on this. Tip of the iceberg here.
“no single thread wove this invention…
…it reflects a civilized concern…
In the end it links the inventors, the engineers, the workers, the distributors into one chain of craftsmanship. The user is the final link…”
I miss the SX-70 and everything it represents!
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Well, I’m not older, and it could be argued that I’m not wiser… but I too dream of days of “clear participation in the stream of human creativity.”
I’ve worked with people, and in places, where this mindframe was present – and it was such a motivating, enlightening place to be. I think you’ve started a movement here, Jono, and I’ll happily get on board!
Hey Jono,
I think it’s awesome that we both blogged about this video. I really like this sentiment: “thoughtfully used can help reveal meaning in the flood of images that makes up so much of human life…”
It’s still very true today. If we use any image capture device thoughtfully, we can give meaning and create depth. I wonder how many images we see today vs 1972?
Ryan,
I am sure its a LOT more images since 1972!
Hey Jono,
Thanks for posting this. I seen this video several times.
You do know you can use your SX-70 again, don’t you?
http://www.the-impossible-project.com
New films for a vintage camera. It’s all still experimental, but so promising.
Paul
Thanks Paul. I don’t have an SX-70 anymore. But now I really want to own one again!
I’ll send you one. I have many. It won’t be my best but it will work.
Paul, that is awesome! I will call you this week!