Outkast's hit song HEY YA! has prompted camera-maker POLAROID to warn fans that following the rap outfit's snapshot advice too literally will lead to ruined photographs.

In the chart-topping track, ANDRE 3000 urges female fans to "shake it like a Polaroid picture" and the company has now included a special section on its website saying that shaking photos, which once helped them to dry, is not necessary since the modern version of its film dries behind a clear plastic window.

The site notes, "You don't have to (and shouldn't) 'shake it like a Polaroid picture'.

"Shaking or waving can actually damage the image. Rapid movement during development can cause portions of the film to separate prematurely, or can cause 'blobs' in the picture."

The company, which recommends laying the self-developing film on a flat surface, notes that "lay it on a flat surface like a Polaroid picture" doesn't sound nearly as cool.

22/02/2004 20:57