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Polaroid Photo by Rezi & Hide

Created by: Rezi & Hide

The Phantom Mini by Rezi & Hide is a groundbreaking close-up magic trick that animates a Polaroid-style photo in two distinct ways, creating a powerful and memorable experience for the audience. Initially, the photo shows a wrong prediction (like a portrait of Houdini) that appears to come alive, revealing the incorrect prediction. Then, in a second phase, the image transforms to display the correct prediction. The card can then be handed to a spectator for examination, solidifying the illusion. This trick is perfect for magicians looking to add a visually stunning and interactive element to their close-up shows. Custom versions with personalized photos are available, allowing for tailored performances.

Key features

  • Animates a Polaroid-style photo in two distinct ways

  • Allows for examination of the card after the transformation

  • Includes a gimmick card, examination card, and two replacement hands

  • Three routines available: playing card, celebrity portrait, and Rezi’s favorite

  • Custom versions with personalized photos can be ordered

  • Designed to deliver a similar impact to the 'Phantom Stage' effect in a close-up setting

Pros

  • Visually stunning and interactive

  • Customizable with personalized photos

  • Includes multiple routines for versatility

  • Allows for spectator examination, enhancing the illusion

Cons

  • May require practice to master the animation techniques

  • Custom versions may take additional time to produce

Effect

The Polaroid Photo trick (also known as Phantom Mini) makes a static image on a Polaroid-style card appear to animate. The magician first shows a photo, such as a portrait of Houdini, which then seems to come alive, revealing a wrong prediction. In a second phase, the image transforms again to display the correct prediction. The card can be handed to a spectator for examination, reinforcing the illusion.

Full Details

The trick includes:

  • A gimmick card that enables the animation effect.
  • A normal examination card for clean handling.
  • Two replacement hands to maintain the gimmick’s longevity.
  • Three pre-designed routines: one with a playing card, one with a celebrity portrait, and a third (Rezi’s favorite) demonstrated with a fuse.
  • An option for customization—magicians can request a version with their own photo.

The creators, Rezi and Hide, developed the mechanism to replicate the impact of their larger Phantom Stage effect in a close-up setting.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick suits magicians who:

  • Perform close-up or parlor magic.
  • Want a visual, self-working effect with strong audience reactions.
  • Appreciate customizable props for personal branding.
  • Enjoy prediction-based magic with a modern twist.

Difficulty

The Polaroid Photo trick is designed to be easy to perform. The gimmick handles most of the work, requiring minimal sleight of hand. Beginners can achieve the effect with basic handling, while experienced magicians can enhance it with scripting and pacing.

What Magicians Say

Rezi, one of the creators, describes it as a "revolutionary technology" that upgrades close-up shows. The promotional video emphasizes the visual impact, with the animation happening in two distinct phases. SaturnMagicShop highlights the ability to hand the card out for examination, calling it "brilliant packaging" that keeps the gimmick secure.

The option for custom photos is a standout feature, allowing performers to tailor the trick to their style. As Rezi puts it: "It's time to upgrade your close-up show."

What people are saying about Polaroid Photo

SaturnMagicShop says...

Meet a new revolutionary technology that allows you to animate a Polaroid photo in not one but two different ways [...] It's time to upgrade your close-up show, say hello to the Phantom Mini.

Promotional videos