When I was writing my Spectra Summer post earlier this winter, I realised that Polaroid is a seasonal phenomenon for me. It’s outside in the sun or in the city or the countryside when Polaroid’s magic has truly been working for me. To compare, I have few images shot during the winter months or shot inside, and of those, there are only a few I consider successful.

There is this one, which I adore for the mystery created by its imperfections, shot on wonky Impossible Project Silver Shade film inside the Oslo Central Station: winterpola-xmas

There are these two, shot on Christmas Eve last year, which are dull from the flash and don’t in the least capture the colour, festivity, and light I wanted to show: winterpola-xmasdiptych

And there is this one, which is… nice, I suppose, but not at all magical: winterpola-bench

While I’m not big on New Year’s Resolutions, I’m all for change and trying new things. So for the next couple of months I’m going to carry my Polaroid cameras outside – remembering Debra’s tips on shooting Polaroid in the cold – and learn more about the effects of flash on Impossible Project film.

Don’t forget that we’re in the middle of this year’s Festive Musing with our Annual Holiday Giveaways. I am thrilled to be giving away one copy of Instant: the story of Polaroid by Christopher Bonanos. I mentioned this book in my ‘Roid Week post in the summer, and it’s a brilliant recounting of how Polaroid magic came to life through the hands of Edwin Land and his company. Leave a comment below for a chance to win! The winner will be selected at random and announced on Sunday, December 29th. Over the next two weeks, each Muse will have a unique giveaway, so be sure to check back for additional chances to win. (One comment per giveaway per person.)

~ Happy Holidays from Jenny.