I noticed Melissa being photographed by someone else, standing in front of a seamless paper backdrop lit by a single “softbox” studio light. She seemed friendly, comfortable in front of a lens, and had a certain style. When the other photographer was done, I asked if I could take a couple of photographs. She said yes and posed twice, sitting and standing, in front of the pink-red backdrop. After two shots, I promised to show her the Polaroids after they fully developed (25-30 minutes). She told me to look for her and/or a “tall thin guy with a mustache.”

When I saw Oliver shortly after that, he fit the description so perfectly I knew it was him. I introduced myself, told him about my photos of Melissa, and proposed they pose for me together with their unique style. He agreed, she agreed, and both posed inside, under the softbox light, shot on SX-70 Sonar with flashbar. Worried the combo would be too dark (I was right!) I asked them to pose on the rooftop outside. They agreed and posed again. Which one do you like best?

Subjects: Melissa (mel.k.oz) & Oliver (oliver.shoots.film)
Location: PolaCon NYC 2025 in Bushwick, Brooklyn, NYC
Camera: Polaroid SX-70 Sonar (vintage)
Film: Polaroid SX-70 Color / Paul Giambarba Special Edition
Photographer: Russ Murray

The 2025 (third) PolaCon NYC event, sponsored by Polaroid and Brooklyn Film Camera (aka “BFC”), was held from May 30th — June 1st. Friday and Saturday were held mostly at 53 Scott Ave in the Bushwick neighborhood of Brooklyn, with a few sessions/events at BFC. As usual, I went on the Saturday (May 31st) and had a great time learning, playing with gear, meeting old friends, making new ones, and shooting 50+ instant photos!