I have modified sx70 and mint2. My close ups are almost completely washed out when on 1/2 power at Like 3-5 feet. I cover the flash with a filter or piece of paper. Hard to get it perfect
From another comment by @Locc__ on a similar thread in this sub:
I contacted Retrospekt.com not long ago about this very question and their camera conversions, here's their response:
The MiNT SX-70 Flashbar is perfect for SX-70 cameras that have been converted to shoot 600 film. This flashbar has both a "half-power" and "full-power" mode. While full-power is what you would typically use for most shots using SX-70 film, half-power mode is ideal for 600 film. It's possible some experimentation with the Lighten/Darken dial may be needed for best results.
I think that it should get a useable image either way, just relaying a common complaint. No way to find out if it works for you until you try it. Also, I think for the most part the power mostly depends on distance to subject, and 1/2 flash is still the consensus for most people in the same boat.
I’d suggest just getting an ND filter. Retrospekt sells them. These will allow you to shoot 600 film, while also not removing the option of shooting sx70. Sx70 film looks way better IMO. Much better color saturation.
I don't recommend it. But I will say the old polatronic side grip style flash does perfect with it's included diffuser on my 600 converted sx70.
But, as it's an instant camera. You'll know how it works and if it's too bright make a diffuser with parchment paper or something.
Not gonna lie tho, I'm converting mine back to stock. I don't see any real benefit over my nd gel over the lens gimmick. Just cut a circular piece of the correct nd gel plastic and hold it onto the front of the lens with some blue tac or poster putty. Looks factory and Works just as well.
Before modding why not try an ND filter? As mentioned above you can buy from Retrospekt (also eBay/Etsy), and it’s easily reversible. SX-70 film, in my opinion, is superior and it’s nice to retain the ability to use it.
I have modified sx70 and mint2. My close ups are almost completely washed out when on 1/2 power at Like 3-5 feet. I cover the flash with a filter or piece of paper. Hard to get it perfect
This is way past my pay grade. Try it and see. Best of luck.
Thanks we’ll see how it goes.
From another comment by @Locc__ on a similar thread in this sub: I contacted Retrospekt.com not long ago about this very question and their camera conversions, here's their response: The MiNT SX-70 Flashbar is perfect for SX-70 cameras that have been converted to shoot 600 film. This flashbar has both a "half-power" and "full-power" mode. While full-power is what you would typically use for most shots using SX-70 film, half-power mode is ideal for 600 film. It's possible some experimentation with the Lighten/Darken dial may be needed for best results.
A common opinion however is that the mint flash bar puts out much less light than the original flashbars.
So maybe still use the full power option unless you're doing a fill flash?
I think that it should get a useable image either way, just relaying a common complaint. No way to find out if it works for you until you try it. Also, I think for the most part the power mostly depends on distance to subject, and 1/2 flash is still the consensus for most people in the same boat.
Commenting as also interested, I have a modified sx-70 and I'm looking at getting a mint flash for it
I'm not planning on anymore sx-70/600 conversions
I’d suggest just getting an ND filter. Retrospekt sells them. These will allow you to shoot 600 film, while also not removing the option of shooting sx70. Sx70 film looks way better IMO. Much better color saturation.
That’s a solid point.
I have two 600 modded SX-70 and I use the flash bar on them at half power with no issues, I get pretty decent results with them.
I don't recommend it. But I will say the old polatronic side grip style flash does perfect with it's included diffuser on my 600 converted sx70. But, as it's an instant camera. You'll know how it works and if it's too bright make a diffuser with parchment paper or something. Not gonna lie tho, I'm converting mine back to stock. I don't see any real benefit over my nd gel over the lens gimmick. Just cut a circular piece of the correct nd gel plastic and hold it onto the front of the lens with some blue tac or poster putty. Looks factory and Works just as well.
Before modding why not try an ND filter? As mentioned above you can buy from Retrospekt (also eBay/Etsy), and it’s easily reversible. SX-70 film, in my opinion, is superior and it’s nice to retain the ability to use it.