Polaroid now i type instant camera: Polaroid Now Generation 2 i-Type Instant Camera
Polaroid Now i-Type Review | Tested by GearLab
The old school fun and classic prints you know and love with a few modern perks
Credit: Polaroid
$100 at Amazon
Price: $120 List
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Manufacturer:
Polaroid
By Adam Yee ⋅ Review Editor ⋅ Feb 24, 2022
71
OVERALL
SCORE
RANKED
#7 of 14
-
Image Quality – 40%
6.5 -
User Friendliness – 30%
7.4 -
Features – 15%
7.2 -
Battery – 15%
8.0
RELATED: Best Instant Camera of 2023
Our Verdict
With its throwback look, feel, and simplicity, the Polaroid Now i-Type is geared toward the nostalgic crowd. The retro vibe extends beyond the design and onto the images, which have muted colors and aren’t as sharp as most modern instant cameras. This camera is very easy to operate and includes a double exposure mode and an adjustable flash for those who want to be more hands-on. However, this model’s size, shape, and weight feel bulky compared to other more current options. The Now shoots best in indoor settings, but it doesn’t adapt to extreme (i.e., bright/dark) conditions very well. But for those who simply crave the Polaroid experience of their childhood, look no further.
REASONS TO BUY
Classic instant film experience
Beautiful vintage-looking prints
REASONS TO AVOID
Expensive film
Awkward size
Compare to Similar Products
(change comparison)
|
This Product |
Fujifilm Instax Mini LiPlay |
Fujifilm Instax Square SQ1 |
Fujifilm Instax Mini 11 |
Polaroid Go Instant Mini |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Awards | |||||
| Price | $120 List $99.  99 at Amazon |
$160 List $149.96 at Amazon |
$140 List $119.95 at Amazon |
$79 List $84.94 at Amazon |
$100 List $79.99 at Amazon |
| Overall Score | |||||
| Star Rating |
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| Pros | Classic instant film experience, beautiful vintage-looking prints | Lots of creative options, convenient size, great image quality, can save photos and view before printing | Easy to use, stylish aesthetic, selfie mode | Easy to use, convenient size, reliable, budget friendly | Portable and lightweight, creative controls, vintage film vibes in a tiny package |
| Cons | Expensive film, awkward size | Mild learning curve to ensure prints come out well in different lighting situations | No timer button, inaccurate film counter | Limited creative controls, non adjustable flash | Glitchy system, film jams, occasionally wastes film |
| Bottom Line | The old school fun and classic prints you know and love with a few modern perks | A hybrid that utilizes the best parts of digital and film, all in one convenient little package | Easy to use and easy on the eyes, this point-and-shoot camera is the best choice for those looking for a simple and fun film experience | A reliable and simple to use option that’s great for all ages | Despite a few glitches, this pocket-sized point-and-shoot is an easy pick for those looking for tiny film prints |
| Rating Categories | Polaroid Now i-Type | Fujifilm Instax Min. .. |
Fujifilm Instax Squ… | Fujifilm Instax Min… | Polaroid Go Instant… |
| Image Quality (40%) | |||||
| User Friendliness (30%) | |||||
| Features (15%) | |||||
| Battery (15%) | |||||
| Specs | Polaroid Now i-Type | Fujifilm Instax Min… | Fujifilm Instax Squ… | Fujifilm Instax Min… | Polaroid Go Instant… |
| Film Cost Per Photo (approx) | $2.12 | $0.50 | $0.90 | $0.85 | $1.25 |
| Film Capacity | 8 shots | 10 shots | 10 shots | 10 shots | 8 shots |
| Battery Capacity | Claimed: 15 packs (or up to 60 days) Tested: Battery never died during our test period, but it started to lack power around 6 packs and self timer wouldn’t work without charging |
Claimed: 40 prints per charge Tested: About 5 packs or 50 prints; camera lasted a surpisingly long time when it read as “out of battery” |
Claimed: 30 film packs Tested: never had to change batteries |
Claimed: 100 prints per charge depending on conditions Tested: Accurate; camera was used in a wide variety of conditions (cold, indoor/outdoor, near a heater), and the charge was never drastically affected.  |
Claimed: 15 packs (or up to 60 days) Tested: 1 charge lasted throughout testing |
| Power Supply | Built-in rechargeable battery (micro USB) | Built-in rechargeable battery (Micro USB) | 2 CR2 batteries | Built-in rechargeable battery (micro USB) | Built-in rechargeable battery (micro USB) |
| Dimensions (as per manufacturer) | 94 mm x 112 mm x 150 mm | 122 mm x 79 mm x 23 mm | 130.7 mm × 118.6 mm × 57.5 mm | 82.5 mm x 122.9 mm x 36.7 mm (excluding protrusions) | 105mm × 83.9mm × 61.5mm |
| Weight (as per manufacturer) | 15.2 oz (without film pack) | 16 oz | 13.8 oz | 8 oz (without fiilm pack and memory card) | 8.5 oz |
| Picture Size (as per manufacturer) | 88.9 mm x 107mm | 54mm x 86mm | 64mm x 64mm | 62 mm x 46 mm | 66mm x 53.9 mm |
| Image Settings | Double exposure | In-camera filters (monochrome, vintage, aqua), an option for prints to be framed, photobooth option which prints 2 photos on the same sheet | Autofocus | Multiple filters (stylish, B/W, sepia, fish eye, vivid), 10 in-camera frames (antlers, color stripe, light bar, wings, speech bubble, photo inside a photo, comic strip, etc. ), 30 frame options through the app, ability to put a time stamp on prints |
Autofocus |
| Focus Distances | Autofocus system via 2 fixed focus zones 0.55 m-1.3 m, 0.6 m – infinity | Fixed focus | Zone focus | 3.94 in / 10 cm to infinity | Fixed focus |
| Focal Length | 103 mm standard, 89 mm portrait | 27 mm | 65.75 mm | 28 mm (35mm fiilm equivalent) | 34mm (35mm equivalent) |
| Aperture | f/11 – f/64 | Max f/2.2 | f/12.6 | f/2 | f/12- f/52 |
| Film or Digital | Film | Digital | Film | Film prints, digital camera | Film |
| Film Development Time | 10 to 15 minutes | Automatic digital print | 90 seconds (dependent on ambient temperature) | Around 90 seconds to develop, 12 seconds to print | 10 to 15 minutes |
Show full specification detailsHide full specification details
Our Analysis and Test Results
Relying heavily on its retro style and brand name, the Polaroid Now has a recognizable design with a few updates.
Similar to its predecessors, this camera has minimal buttons, making it simple to operate, but the body is bulky and slightly awkward to shoot with compared to current competitors. Like the camera itself, the photos have an old-school feel with muted colors, a soft focus, and vignetting, giving them a vintage vibe. The newer features like a double exposure setting, adjustable flash, and self-timer are definitely nice, but they don’t help the images from sometimes coming out blurry or out of focus. Scoring right around average in most of our tests, this camera didn’t really stand out in any particular area, but it does deliver that classic instant film experience.
Performance Comparison
The Polaroid Now has minimal controls making it very user friendly.
Credit: Laura Casner
Image Quality
The Polaroid Now came in at the lower end of average in our image quality tests due to the limited and inconsistent range of colors. This caused many of the color prints to look as though they were shot on black and white film.
However, when actually using black and white film, the image quality improved, showing more richness in details, a wider range of hues, and better clarity. This camera performed best in ambient indoor lighting and did better during golden hour than in any other outdoor setting, but the clarity was often distorted and details were frequently lost in all other conditions. As a brand that’s synonymous with the best instant cameras and that has been making them for well over half a century, it is surprising that Polaroid hasn’t done more to improve the quality of its prints.
These days, several brands make cameras with a vintage aesthetic to their design. However, most others have added updates to the functionality of their cameras, allowing them to produce a sharper and more current-looking image. As previously mentioned, the Polaroid Now does produce better quality photos when used with black and white film, but it’s a shame that this consistency doesn’t carry over to the color prints.
The Polaroid Now is simple to operate but also includes an adjustable flash and double exposure setting.
Credit: Laura Casner
User Friendliness
Having minimal controls and a straightforward interface, we expected the Polaroid Now to be quite user-friendly, and in the most basic sense, it is. But, due to its awkward size and the inconsistency of its prints, it didn’t score particularly high. Although the design is similar to a retro Polaroid, which may be appealing for nostalgia’s sake, it is rather bulky, making it harder to carry both from the neck strap and in a bag.
This camera is user-friendly in that there aren’t many settings to mess with, so it can be easily shared when socializing. However, despite the limited controls, getting a usable print is more difficult than you’d think, as close to half of the shots we took ended up getting thrown out due to blurriness or a lack of color contrast. The Now simply lacks the controls to help it adapt to different lighting and capture scenes realistically.
It also didn’t score very highly because changing the film packs can be troublesome and sometimes required forceful pulling. That said, for anyone who is more worried about capturing the moment than achieving clarity and accuracy, the Polaroid Now will do a decent job of accomplishing this.
The Polaroid Now is easy to use but the film can be finicky during development.
Credit: Laura Casner
Features
While it doesn’t have many features, the Polaroid Now does come equipped with some updated options that add to its fun. The most artistic addition is the double exposure setting, allowing for two frames to be captured in one photo, which is something our parent’s Polaroid cameras couldn’t do. This camera also has a two-lens autofocus system that adjusts the focal length automatically to help you get the best shot from any distance. The adjustable flash is another welcome addition that gives the user more control and helps the camera adapt to different lighting conditions.
Other upgrades include a self-timer, digital shot counter display, and rechargeable battery, which may not improve the photo quality or support creativity, but are nice to have nonetheless.
When compared to its competitors, the Polaroid Now has fewer features than most, placing it toward the bottom third of the pack in this metric. So, even though this camera does have a few updated features, the numerous creative controls provided by the more modern options overshadow it by far.
Some updated features add appeal to this nostalgic camera, but it still offers less than many of the more cutting edge options.
Credit: Laura Casner
Battery
Our battery test was the one area where the Polaroid Now did quite well, especially compared to the other rechargeable cameras in our review. We never fully killed the battery on this camera, but it did start to lose power after shooting around six packs of film, and the self-timer wouldn’t work until we gave it a brief charge.
Polaroid claims that this camera should last for up to 60 days or 15 packs of film, which we find to be a pretty generous statement, though we didn’t push to quite that limit. Either way, the rechargeable battery in this camera held up well through our tests and never died, so the manufacturer’s estimate likely isn’t too far off.
Battery life on this updated classic is quite good.
Credit: Laura Casner
Value
After our assessment, we found the cost of the Polaroid Now to be slightly expensive but still fair. Considering its average scores across the board, it’s fitting that its price tag is also right in the middle. It didn’t outshine the others in any area, but it also didn’t have any huge malfunctions or problems. The main drawbacks of this camera are that the images are often hazy, and the cost per photo of Polaroid film is more than twice as expensive as any other brand. The double exposure and other features definitely help to up the value from similarly priced models, but it still feels like you’re paying extra for the brand name.
Conclusion
Offering classic style and a few fun perks, the Polaroid Now i-Type is simple to use and instantly recognizable. Its old-school look is accompanied by vintage-looking photos that often have a pink tint and a slightly blurry and dreamy feel. This camera performs best when used with monochrome film, as many of the color prints ended up looking black and white due to a lack of color clarity. The minimal controls make it easy to share with friends or loved ones, and it shoots most consistently indoors, where the images often come out moody and artsy. Overall, the Polaroid Now is an enjoyable and reliable camera that produces the classic mementos the brand is known for.
With its familiar retro styling, the Polaroid Now offers simple point and shoot action.
Credit: Laura Casner
—
Adam Yee
Polaroid Now+ iType Instant Camera Review: Modern Camera, Vintage Pics
Instant Cameras embody a delightful blend of vintage processes and modern methods, and the Polaroid Now+ proves how good it can feel when nostalgia gets an update. Even with a bunch of other instant cameras on the market, nothing quite beats the grainy charm of a classic, instant Polaroid snap.
The Now+ is available in white, black, or blue-grey. All three options are gorgeous, and at $150, it’s competitively priced with other instant cameras on the market. If you’re a photography nut and love to hold and look at tangible proof of your work, I think the investment is worthwhile.
Blast From the Past
Photograph: Polaroid
Holding the Now+ in-hand is wonderful. It’s hefty and weighty, offering a sharp contrast to a smartphone or daintier counterparts like Instax cams. Once I attached the neck strap—an infuriating process that should, frankly, be abolished—the Now+ felt good resting against my torso.
It might not be much in comparison to a professional’s gear, but there’s something unapologetically analog about toting around a 1-pound piece of tech.
The body has Polaroid’s typical chunky square design, with a large viewfinder and a few physical buttons. Other bells and whistles include a rechargeable battery, which is nice, although I’m disappointed to see Micro-USB still holding on by its fingernails. The box includes a little zippered pouch of snap-on colored lens filters, as well as a delightful ’70s-themed quick-start booklet.
The Now+ uses Polaroid’s cheaper, battery-free i-Type film. It is purchased separately; there’s a bundle available with some film packs that adds about $50 to the starter price. Film usually costs around $16 per pack from the manufacturer, so the bundle doesn’t really save you any money.
Shoot to Thrill
The Now+ has all of the features one would expect to find in an instant camera. You load up your film, press the button, and then wait patiently while trying to remember that Outkast gave you bad advice and you shouldn’t shake a developing photo.
A few moments later, you ooh and ahh over the end result, holding a little slice of time in your palm.
What sets the Now+ apart from other instant cameras is how closely it hews to the world of manual photography. For example, instead of picking a filter in an app, you apply a real snap-on one. They added a neat experimental touch—I got some great results by combining different colored filters or using the starburst one to let light leak through. There are also on-camera buttons that allow you to set a custom shortcut or switch between intentional double exposures and a self-timer mode. Onboard digital indicators show you at a glance if you’re in one of these three modes.
The Now+ has a companion app; the brand says it’s optional, but it’s basically required. Alongside a bevy of others, there are two new-to-Polaroid modes inside the app—Tripod Mode, which makes use of the optional mount at the bottom of the camera body, and Aperture Priority, which lets you select an f-stop to control background focus and obtain moderate levels of bokeh.
On paper, the smartphone app looked amazing. Unfortunately, in execution, it was a blight in my otherwise rosy viewfinder.
Best of Both Worlds—Almost
Photograph: Polaroid
The Polaroid Originals smartphone app is bad. Theoretically, you can create neat photos without using the companion app, but if you avoid it, you miss out on some of its best features. I’m a mobile app expert. I love them, use them frequently, and am always downloading new ones. I think it’s fair to say that if someone like me can’t figure it out, the interface needs work.
TOP 12 Best Instant Cameras of 2023
Best Instant Cameras provide fast development and retro image, and look quite stylish.
The best instant cameras are incredibly popular even in today’s digital age. We’ll help you choose the best one so you can start shooting and printing your own retro photos.
03/21/2023 Update
New models have been added to the rating of the best instant cameras and it is divided into two parts.
It is the simplicity of the best instant cameras that makes them so appealing to people of all ages and experience levels. After all, they are so simple that they are one of the best cameras for kids, as well as the best cameras for beginners.
And the results are completely unique: the best instant cameras produce unique photos that people have been trying to recreate for ages with social media filters and Lightroom presets. But nothing compares to the real thing!
Polaroid, Instax and Lomography cameras use a traditional photochemical exposure process that produces striking lo-fi images with crushed contrast, rich colors and an ethereal exposure unique to instant film.
No settings to adjust, no focus points to fiddle with – you just point the camera at your subject(s), frame the shot and press the shutter button! For this reason, instant cameras are perfect for families, parties and weddings, and even allow kids to get creative.
There is also a new breed of digital camera that combines the thrill of instant photography with the convenience of modern technology.
Canon, Fujifilm and Kodak have discovered this world for themselves – and the result is a much smaller digital camera with an image sensor and a built-in digital printer.
We have divided our rating of the best instant cameras into sections for film and digital models. If you choose the first option, be sure to choose the right kind of instant film so you have plenty of ammo to shoot with! And get the best Instax photo albums to showcase your finished prints!
Timeless classics
Instant film cameras
1
Polaroid Now+
Best for big snapshots with vintage look
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90 002 Type: Instant camera
Film type: Polaroid 600 and Polaroid i-Type Image size: 108×88mm
Lens: 102.35mm (40mm full frame equivalent) / 94.96mm (35mm equivalent)
Focus modes: Auto
Flash: Built-in
Timer: Yes
Viewfinder: Optical
User Level: Beginner
Pros 9000 3
- Full size shots
- Excellent image quality
- Great app and creative features
Cons
- Printing is expensive
- No selfie mirror
- Some features are exclusive to the app
If you’re looking for great-quality full-size instant photos with a subtle vintage look, Polaroid Now+ is by far the best instant film camera.
It combines image quality and basic Polaroid Now shooting with state-of-the-art OneStep+ features to give the user the best of both worlds.
The camera has several creative modes such as light painting, aperture priority, double exposure, portrait mode and many more that are available through the app.
There are also several physical lens filters that create a starburst effect, red vignette, and blue, yellow, and orange colors for in-camera effects. The biggest downside to instant photography is the cost of film, but we can promise you will have more fun using this camera than any other. You may end up spending a hefty amount on film, but the memories you capture with it will be priceless.
2
Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo
Best Digital/Analog Hybrid
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Type: Instant Camera
Film type: Fujifilm instax
Image size: 61 x 46 mm
Lens: 28mm f/2
Flash: built-in
Self-timer: no
Viewfinder: Optical
User Level: Beginner
Pros
- Digital and analog combination
- Risk-free printing: reviewing pictures before printing
- 3-inch screen allows you to edit some settings
90 002 Cons
- Additional card required to expand internal memory microSD
- Battery lasts for a modest 100 shots
feel free to recommend.
Once you figure out what all those unmarked buttons do and get past the initial familiarization period, it becomes obvious that, oddly enough, this is not an instant camera that gets bored quickly. And this, in our opinion, makes it quite justified in terms of price. Fujifilm Instax Mini 120038 Film type: Fujifilm Instax Mini
Image size: 6.2×4.6 cm
Lens: 60mm f/12.7
Minimum shooting distance: 30 cm 9003 8 Flash: built-in (cannot be disabled)
Self-timer: none
Viewfinder: Optical
User level: Beginner
Pros
- Very affordable 90 065
- Easy to use
- Lots of fun
Cons
- Flash cannot be turned off
Fujifilm continues to improve its most popular instant camera. With new and improved power and lens controls, the camera is easier to use than ever before: just point and shoot and let the built-in auto exposure mode do the rest.
The camera has also undergone minor design changes, becoming smaller and sleeker in the shape of a bubble.
It’s a shame the flash still can’t be turned off, but the new auto exposure system allows for mostly stable results. The Instax Mini 12 provides a snapshot and slow development remains incredibly fun.
4
Polaroid Now
Best Universal Instant Camera Polaroid
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Type: Instant Camera
90 036 Film type: Polaroid 600 and Polaroid i-Type
Image size: 108×88 mm
Lens: 94.96 mm / 102.35 mm
Minimum shooting distance: 60 cm
Flash: Built-in
Self-powered : Yes
Viewfinder: Optical
User Level: Beginner
Pros
- Dual Lens AF
- Excellent e image quality
Cons
- Expensive per shot
Polaroid Now is a welcome addition to the Polaroid product line and a worthy addition to the increasingly crowded world of instant cameras.
The ease of shooting Polaroid Now is hard to beat – and while the Instax Mini 11 (below) beats it on price, we prefer the full-size square shots Polaroid takes.
And as much as we love the Instax line, if you’re shooting old-school instant film, nothing beats the tactile feel of holding a big, boxy Polaroid in your hands. If you don’t need the extra features of OneStep+, then Polaroid Now will definitely please you.
5
Fujifilm Instax Mini 11
The hardest part about this camera is choosing what color to buy it.
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Type: Instant camera
Film type: Fujifilm Instax Mini
Image size: 6.2×4.6 cm
9 0036 Lens: 60mm f/12.7
Minimum shooting distance: 30 cm
Flash: built-in (cannot be turned off)
Self-timer: no
Viewfinder: Optical
User Level: Beginner
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Selfie Mode 9006 5
- Good image quality
Cons
- Few settings
Fujifilm Instax The Mini 11 is a bulky plastic instant camera that comes in a variety of refreshing pastel colors.
It may not have that vintage vibe of Polaroid, but it has its own charm. Whether you’re going on vacation, a wedding, or a weekend in the countryside, the Instax Mini 11 is small enough to always be in your bag.
You can also purchase some pretty trendy cases. The camera runs on two AA batteries, which need to be changed quite often. Fujifilm has ditched the exposure control dial and opted for automatic exposure instead, so you have less to worry about and less chance of wasted shots.
The cost of the film is not small, although you can often save a little by buying in bulk in packs of five. This is a great gift for adults or kids if you want an easy to use camera.
6
Fujifilm Instax Mini 40
Stylish instant camera using Fujifilm Instax mini film
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Type: Instant camera 9003 8 Film type: Fujifilm Instax Mini
Image size: 6.2 ×4.6 cm
Lens: 60 mm f/12.
7
Minimum shooting distance: 30 cm
Exposure modes: Auto
Flash: Built-in (cannot be disabled)
Self-timer: No
Viewfinder: Optical
User level: Beginner
Pros
- Easy to use
900 63 Textured black finish
Cons
- Challenging selfie mode
- Flash cannot be turned off
Instax cameras are fun with a touch of cool, and none of them exemplify the beautiful Instax Mini 40. With a stylish black and silver finish, the Mini 40 looks its best and is incredibly easy to operate .
There are no exposure controls or any other controls; you just point the lens and shoot. It might be a little too easy for some users, but if you’re the type who just wants to take snap shots without worrying about anything, then this is a fantastic buy. The simplicity also makes it a good option for kids to learn the controls with ease.
Instax shots are smaller than Polaroids, but still look very nice and develop incredibly fast. Also, don’t forget that film costs less, and these costs will increase over time if you shoot frequently.
7
Polaroid Go
The cutest and smallest instant camera
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Type: Instant camera
Film type: 90 037 Polaroid Go instant film
Image size: 4.7x 4.6 cm
Lens: 34 mm
Shooting modes: Auto, double exposure
Flash: Built-in
Stopwatch: Yes
Viewfinder : Optical
User Level: Beginner
Pros
- Cool Design
- Pocket Size
Cons
- Cannot stand strong sunlight
- Film costs more than Instax Mini
Camera Polaroid Go is a small, instant photo printer that will win the heart of every user.
While larger instant cameras have better exposure, and competing Instax Mini cameras deliver high-quality indoor shots, none of them compare to the fun that Go brings… even when taking beautiful photos.
It’s worth noting that the Instax Mini film is more affordable, but you have to change the AA batteries in the Mini while the Go is powered by USB. The Polaroid Go boasts double exposure, something more expensive models like the Instax Mini 90 don’t provide. The Polaroid Go camera is a fun and fun accessory for any party, keeping precious moments in your pocket or wallet.
The camera is also ideal for small hands. Be sure to purchase Polaroid Go film for photography.
8
Fujifilm Instax Mini 90
Adult Instax Mini 11 LCD
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Type: Instant Camera 900 38 Film type: Fujifilm Instax Mini
Image size: 6, 2×4.6 cm
Lens: 60 mm f/12.
7
Minimum shooting distance: 30 cm
Shooting modes: Party, Kids, Landscape, Macro, Double exposure, Lamp
Flash: Built-in
Self-timer: Yes
Viewfinder: Optical
User Level: Beginner
Pros
- Reload removable battery
- LCD display
Cons
- No handle
- Tiny viewfinder
This Fujifilm Instax Mini 90 camera is available in two colors: brown and black. It is the only one in Fujifilm’s line of instant cameras to feature a rechargeable battery that, according to the manufacturer, is enough for 10 credit card-sized packs of film.
A retro-styled camera designed for photography lovers. It allows you to manually control the exposure and even turn off the built-in flash if the pictures seem too bright. In addition, the double exposure mode expands the creative possibilities, and the shutter button above the lens doubles as a selfie mirror (while the other shutter button is in the usual place on the top panel).
The advantage of this camera over cheaper instant print models is that it has an LCD display on the rear panel that displays user-selected settings. The viewfinder is small but adequate for the task at hand, and the faux-leather trim adds style.
9
Fujifilm Instax Wide 300
Allows for much larger shots, with Instax Wide film
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Type: Instant camera
Film type: Fujifilm instax WIDE film
Size images: 99×62mm
Lens: 95mm f/14
Minimum shooting distance: 40 cm
Exposure modes: Dark, Normal, Light
Flash: Built-in
Stopwatch: No
Viewfinder: Optical
User level: Beginner
Pros
- Easy to use
- Larger than expected
Cons
- Bulky design
- Tiny Viewfinder
The Fujifilm Instax Wide 300 is a large member of the Instax family.
Unlike other cameras, it runs on four AA batteries instead of two. Although this instant camera is large in size, it is capable of taking photos in Instax Wide film size, making it ideal for group shots.
However, due to its large design, the camera is not suitable for taking selfies, so it is better to choose a smaller model from this rating. The camera is relatively light due to the plastic construction, but still quite large. One of its main advantages is the lens, which can extend up to 95mm. Equipped with a built-in flash, which is much more powerful than other Instax cameras and perfect for fill lighting, but the viewfinder remains quite small.
The camera doesn’t have creative modes and can’t be used with the app, but if you’re looking for big photos with no extras, then this is a great choice for you.
10
Polaroid OneStep Plus
One Step 2 upgrade, now with Bluetooth controls 0038 Film type: Polaroid 600 and Polaroid i-Type
Image size: 108×88mm
Lens: 103mm/89mm
Minimum shooting distance: 60cm
Focus modes: Macro, Normal, and Landscape
Flash: Built-in
Timer: Yes
Viewfinder: Optical
User Level: Beginner
Pros
- Big, great shots
- Bluetooth shooting modes
Cons
- Expensive for one shot
- Built-in battery only
Without Project Impossible, Polaroid would not have released a modern retro camera called Polaroid OneStep+.
It is reminiscent of the golden era of instant film photography. The OneStep+ is the second camera in the Polaroid Originals series, followed by the OneStep 2.
Added 89mm long portrait lens and Bluetooth function to the camera for remote shutter control on a smartphone. Shooting modes include double exposure and light painting, and a noise-sensitive trigger is triggered by hand clapping. This instant camera is one of the most interesting and best in its class. Its design is attractive, it’s fun to use, and it’s the right choice for any fan of instant photography.
11
Fujifilm Instax Square SQ1
Square shots of this camera will appeal to all amateurs
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Type: Instant camera
Film type: Fujifilm Instax Square film
Image size: 6.2× 6.2 cm
Lens: 65.75 mm (28 mm equivalent) f/12.6
Minimum shooting distance: 30 cm
Shooting modes: Auto, Macro / Close-up
Flash: Built-in (continuous)
Self-timer: No
Viewfinder: Optical
User Level: Beginner
Pros
- Easy to use
- Square prints
Cons
- Tiny viewfinder
- No advanced features
The Instax Square SQ1 is powered by two small CR2 lithium batteries (included) which, according to the manufacturer, are enough for 300 shots (30 packs of film).
As you might expect, the camera uses Instax Square film, which is similar in size and shape to traditional Polaroid shots.
The camera is as simple as a camera, with automatic exposure and focusing (after selecting standard or close-up shots), so you simply point and shoot for perfect indoor or outdoor shots.
The only reason this camera didn’t rank higher is because it lacks a number of really useful features from the now discontinued Instax Square SQ6, such as the self-timer, tripod mount and dual exposure. So if you’re looking for more advanced features, Polaroid’s options are your best bet, but if you’re looking for simple shooting with gorgeous square shots, check out this model.
More options and settings
Instant digital cameras
12
Fujifilm instax Mini LiPlay
This 2-in-1 camera and printer can be used to print photos from your phone
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Type : Digital Instant Camera + Instant Printer
Sensor Size: 4.
9 MP
Film Type: instax Mini
Image Size: 1.8″ x 2.4″
Lens: 28 mm f/2
Minimum shooting distance: 10 cm
Flash: built-in
Self-timer: yes
Viewfinder: 9 0037 LCD screen
Pros
- Recording and playback sound clips using QR
- Remote shooting
- Internal memory for 45 images
Cons
- Inconvenient application
With Instax Hybrid Mini LiPlay, you can not only take photos, but also print photos from your phone. It’s small enough to fit in your pocket so you can always carry it with you. It has a place for a Micro SD memory card, so pictures can not only be stored, but also printed.
A stunning design that sets it apart from other instant digital cameras and comes in a variety of colors including Gold (our favourite), Stone White and Elegant Black.
The camera itself is equipped with an LCD screen, a selfie mirror, a 4.9 matrixMP (which, although small, is large enough for Instax Mini prints of 1.8 x 2.8 inches) and built-in memory for storing 45 images.
The camera measures 82.5 x 122.9 x 36.7 mm and weighs 255 grams. Photos can be edited in the LiPlay app, adding filters, frames and other effects before printing, and the built-in memory allows you to take multiple shots before choosing the best one to print.
13
Kodak Mini Shot 3 Retro
Instant printer/digital camera with retro charm
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Type: Instant camera
Film type: 4PASS All-in-One Cartridge
Image size: 7.6 x 7.6 cm 9003 8 Lens: Not specified
Shooting modes: Filters, exposure control, framed, frameless
Flash: Built-in
Self-timer: No
Viewfinder: 1.
7-inch LCD
User level: Beginner
Pros
- Cheap and fun
- Very portable
Cons
- No internal memory
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- Best compact cameras and photo cameras
- Best 35 mm film
- Best budget cameras and photo cameras
- 1 Fujifilm Instax Mini 11
- 2 Fujifilm Instax Mini 70
- 3 Polaroid Now
- 4 Fujifilm Instax SQ1
- 5 Polaroid Go
- 6 Canon Ivy Cliq+ / Zoemini S
- 7 Fujifilm Instax Mini 40
- 8 Fujifil m Instax Wide 300
- 9 Fujifilm Instax Square SQ6
- 10 Fujifilm Instax Mini LiPlay
- 11 Which instant film should you choose?
- Lens: 60mm
- Focus: Macro, Normal and Landscape
- Flash: Built-in
- Self-timer: Yes
- Very easy to use
- Selfie Mode
- Can hide flash
- Limited control
- Lens: 35-40mm approx.
- Focus: Autofocus
- Flash: Built-in
- Self-timer: Yes
- Classic Polaroid film used
- Constant auto focus
- Long battery life
- Bulky shape
- Sometimes inconsistent
- Expensive film
- Lens: 60 mm
- Focus: Fixed focus, normal and macro
- Flash: Built-in (cannot be turned off)
- Autos Start: No
- Easy to aim and Shooting
- Effective Auto Exposure
- No extra modes
- Non-rechargeable batteries
- Lens: 34 mm
- Focus: Normal (fixed)
- Flash: Built-in
- Self-timer: Yes
- Pocket size
- Easy to aim and shoot
- Custom made film small and expensive
- Lacks autofocus
- Lens: 25.4 mm
- Focus: Normal and landscape
- Flash: Built-in ring flash
- Self-timer: Via smartphone app 90 065
- Flexibility to create digital and printed photos
- Useful application
- Compact design
- Photo printing speed may be slightly slower than competitors
- Lens: 60 mm
- Focus: Normal and macro (fixed)
- Flash: Built-in
- Self-timer: None
- As easy as an instant photo
- Charming retro design
- Price compared to Instax 11
- Auto exposure struggles in bright light
- Lens: 95 mm
- Focus: Normal and landscape
- Flash: Built-in
- Self-timer: No
- Easy to hold and use
- Print large photos
- Bulky design
- Tiny viewfinder
- Lens: 65.75mm f/12.6
- Focus: Macro, normal and landscape
- Flash: Built-in (can be turned off)
- Built-in selfie mirror
- Relatively compact camera
- The film is a little expensive
- the price of the camera is higher than that of competitors .
Shaped like the Instagram logo and very targeted at younger users who share their creations on the platform, the camera runs on a pair of CR2 batteries and prints 6.2 x 6.2cm photos. light shots.
Square Instax prints feel like more serious photos, as their larger size gives your subject more room to be creative. This Fujifilm camera uses orange, purple and green flash filters to provide an instant infusion of color into images, and since the body is nowhere near as bulky as some of the other options here, it ends up being as convenient to carry as it is fun to use. .
This is another great gift option.
Fujifilm Instax Mini LiPlay
An interesting combination of digital and analog technologies for printing your photos with sound recording.
Specifications:
- Lens: 28mm f/2.0
- Focus: 10 cm – infinity
- Flash: Built-in
- Self-timer: 10 sec / 2 sec
Combining retro analog charm with modern digital technologies. It’s basically a basic low-resolution digital camera with a built-in snapshot printer. You have the opportunity to frame your photo well and check if you really want to print it before wasting expensive film (she uses Instax mini).
One of LiPlay’s tricks is the ability to record sound along with capturing an image and “embed” it into the print as a QR code. Then gift it to a friend and ask them to scan the code to play the sound – today’s digital methods are much easier, although how much you worry about this is questionable.
You might find that buying an Instax mini printer is the best option for higher quality printing, but LiPlay is a fun option for kids and parties.
youtube.com/embed/rEgSdpRSV8M?feature=oembed” frameborder=”0″ allow=”accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture” allowfullscreen=””> Which instant film should you choose?
- Instax Mini
The most common instant film format, printing images as small as 62 x 46 mm.
- Instax Square
Fuji’s take on square film popularized by Polaroid. Camera support for these 62x62mm photos is more limited.
- Instax Wide
Twice the size of instax mini and twice the price, but photos are tighter in size 99 x 62 mm.
- Polaroid I-Type
I-type films designed for use in the Impossible I-1 and OneStep 2 do not have built-in batteries and therefore cannot be used with vintage Polaroids.
- Polaroid 600
The film is designed for vintage cameras like Polaroid 600. It can also be used in Impossible I-1 and OneStep 2.
9007 2
Mini Shot 3 from Kodak is a neat little instant camera that’s great for those who don’t wants nothing too complicated. She has a small printer that uses Kodak 4PASS all-in-one cartridges to spit out small 7.6cm x 7.6cm square prints. Colors come out much better and are also said to be durable.
Overall, the camera is fairly cheap and not too expensive to own either, making it a good option if you want to capture snapshots on a budget. It also produces 10MP digital photos that can be saved via Bluetooth in the app (and you’ll have to do it that way; there’s no internal storage). A cheap option that will suit anyone, especially those who are not too confident in using the camera.
How instant cameras work
Big question. When you press the shutter button on the instant camera, the film frame is exposed.
The difference between this frame and the 35mm film frame is that instant film has all the chemicals needed for image development built into it itself.
Some cameras create a finished image directly from the rollers; others, such as Polaroid models, produce an image that is initially black but develops within 15 minutes. To answer the inevitable question, you don’t have to shake your Polaroid camera to help it emerge. In fact, shaking a Polaroid photo can damage the image, as shaking causes the film to peel off.
What film do you need for an instant camera
Good question. There are two major players in the instant camera market: Polaroid and Fujifilm, both of which produce a range of cameras along with their respective compatible instant films; you cannot mix and match them. Fujifilm Instax film comes in three formats: Instax Mini, Instax Square (and the less common) Instax Wide. Polaroid makes i-type film for the current generation of its instant cameras, as well as film for its long line of older cameras.
Film size comparison: Fuji Instax Mini, Fuji Instax Square and Polaroid i-Type
Fuji Instax mini takes the smallest pictures, but they are the cheapest and most common. The overall dimensions of this film are 86 x 54 mm and the actual image size is 62 x 46 mm. The advantage of Instax Mini film is that it is available in a variety of styles. Artists can opt for black-framed film, while Candy Pop’s children’s frames add a little spice. Instax Mini film is also available in black and white.
Fujifilm also produces Instax Square films for its Instax Square format cameras. Here, the total dimensions are 86 x 72 mm, and the actual image size is 62 x 62 mm. This format has proved extremely popular and, thanks to its square shape, provides the classic look of instant photography. You can find Instax Square film in a variety of border options as well as black and white.
Polaroid makes a variety of films for modern and vintage cameras. Polaroid’s i-Type film is designed for the current line of Polaroid cameras and is available in both color and black and white.
Compared to the Instax mini, these shots are huge: their total area is more than twice as large, and the image size is 79x 77 mm. This makes Polaroid photography a far more essential product than Instax. However, this is reflected in its price.
What other features should I look out for?
Today’s instant cameras range from inexpensive, chemical-only models to digital hybrid models that print images from built-in memory.
The main thing to pay attention to is the lens and the range of supported shutter speeds. Not all instant cameras have variable shutter speeds, which means that when there’s not enough light, you’ll need a flash to get a decent image. If you’re feeling creative and want to do things like painting with light, you’ll need a camera with a wide range of shutter speeds, or better yet, a lamp mode that exposes a frame of film for a set amount of time.
Some cameras have other creative features such as double exposure. This similar return means exposing a frame of film and then re-exposing before printing, allowing for whimsical abstract compositions.
You should also pay attention to the battery life. Cameras with rechargeable lithium-ion batteries have the advantage that they can be charged from the mains, often without having to remove the battery, but they can take a long time to charge. Cameras that allow you to use AA batteries are a little more expensive to use (if you don’t bring your batteries and charger), but you can almost always buy more AA batteries, which is a real benefit if you run out of power.
Instant camera rating 2022 ? TOP best models and which one to choose
Everyone wants to touch the magic of instant cameras at least once. Moments captured in instant photos are perceived somehow in a special way.
The value of captured events becomes more significant. This is why good instant cameras are still on sale in 2021. We have prepared for you an updated rating of the top models, indicating their pros and cons.
Contents
Fujifilm Instax Mini 11
Improves on a classic while keeping the price right.
If you’re looking for an affordable, easy-to-use camera that’s great for the beginner in instant photography, Fujifilm’s Instax Mini 11 is our current favorite.
It may lack the more advanced modes and controls you’ll find on more expensive models, but that’s part of its charm.
The auto-exposure system takes a lot of the guesswork out of it, which means you just have to aim and shoot to print credit card-sized instant photos. They are convenient to store in your wallet. A wonderful gift!
A tiny mirror built into the front of the camera and a retractable close-up lens make it easy to take an instant selfie, while the available Instax mini film packs make it a great addition to any party. It’s available in a variety of fun colors so you can find one that suits your style.
This camera is very good as a gift. Available at a reasonable price, it makes a great gift for photography lovers, especially young ones who want to experiment with the medium. However, don’t forget to factor in the extra money for the film.
Fujifilm Instax Mini 70
Another affordable mini instant camera.
Specifications:
Pros:
Cons: 9 0003
Slightly more advanced camera than Instax Mini 11, Instax Mini 70 comes with five shooting modes (including the all-important selfie mode). Despite having a few more features, it doesn’t cost too much, but again you need to factor in the cost of the film.
In terms of camera usability, with the Instax Mini 70 you have to be careful if you cover the flash with your finger when taking pictures vertically, but you’ll get used to how it works with enough practice.
Photo printing is pretty fast.
All modes in the camera are automatic, so everything is taken care of – autofocus, exposure and flash are nothing, but it would be nice if you could control the flash manually.
Polaroid Now
Good instant camera with 35mm lens.
Specifications:
Pros:
Flaws:
Upgrading a retro camera may seem like a contradiction in terms, but Polaroid now uses Onestep 2, simplifies the shell and adds auto capabilities focus to create an even better instant tool shooting.
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It is physically very similar to its predecessor, retaining that iconic if unwieldy shape but removing a few buttons, improving the viewfinder and replacing the LEDs with a much clearer digital shot counter.
It’s still a model designed for quick and easy shots, and the new autofocus makes it easier than ever, proving pretty much consistent in “spitting out” (printing) sharp, distinctive shots. It also removes much of the guesswork associated with a fixed focus system, a welcome development given the high price of I-type film.
This isn’t entirely reliable – exposure can be inconsistent with auto flash sometimes firing unnecessarily outdoors or doing the opposite indoors – but it’s a flaw common to many similar cameras. If you make an allowance for the curvature of the hands, then in general Polaroid prints good pictures.
Now it seems like a definite step forward, delivering great instant photos with a unique lo-fi look – and a solid shooting experience.
Fujifilm Instax SQ1
The larger Instax format is now more accessible to beginners.
Specifications:
Advantages:
Drawbacks:
The value-oriented SQ1 makes Fujifilm Instax square format film much more accessible to those unfamiliar with instant photography. It has the same easy-to-understand features and useful Instax Mini 11 auto-exposure system, only the photos it spits out are almost twice as big.
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The adjustable lens and built-in mirror are useful for close-ups and selfies, and the auto flash is usually smart enough to make indoor and low-light shots look good. There are no other shooting modes to think of, or even luxuries like a tripod thread, and the plastic construction feels noticeably less expensive than the more expensive Instax SQ6, so this camera is better suited for beginners rather than creatives. wishing to experiment with the medium.
Still, it’s a welcome step up from the entry-level Instax camera for those who want bigger photos without adding a few extra features they might not want to use.
Polaroid Go
The smallest instant camera at the time of writing is a lot of fun.
Specifications:
Pros:
Disadvantages:
C Polaroid overtook Fujifilm in instant innovation—something that hadn’t really happened since the late 1980s.
It’s officially the world’s smallest analog instant camera that fits right in the palm of your hand.
This is now a smaller version of the Polaroid described in the camera rating above, with most of the same features, including self-timer and double exposure mode, which should appeal to more advanced photographers as well as beginners. However, autofocus unfortunately didn’t hit its mark, so you’re more likely to get blurry photos if you’re too close to your subject.
This camera costs about the same as the current full-size Polaroid, making it much more expensive than the entry-level Fujifilm Instax Mini 11, but worth paying if you want an instant camera that you can use almost anywhere.
Canon Ivy Cliq+ / Zoemini S
The camera combines digital and analog functions in a pocket-friendly design.
Specifications:
Advantage:
Drawbacks:
Canon’s model is actually more like a hybrid that combines analog “film” with digital technology.
The Zink (zero ink) paper it uses doesn’t need to be lit like regular instant film, so the camera can be much smaller. The Ivy Cliq+ / Zoemini S is truly pocket-sized, surpassing even Fujifilm’s Instax Mini LiPlay in portability.
The built-in LED ring flash helps you capture pleasing portraits, the reflex lens is specially designed for selfies, and auto-focusing makes this camera a great party camera. However, the snapshot process can be slow, and it takes about 10 seconds to print the image – much slower than our current favourite, the Fujifilm Instax Mini 9. The credit card-sized photos it produces are much more detailed, though the colors are more similar. on traditional 35mm film than on the lomographic dream-like effects seen on other instant films.
The battery life of the camera is usually good enough to print two packs of 10 images, but even with an SD card installed, it will no longer take pictures once you run out of film.
The 8-megapixel sensor is in line with today’s entry-level smartphones, and without a built-in screen, you’ll need a computer to view your digital shots.
This camera looks much simpler than other hybrid cameras, but built-in Bluetooth support allows it to do double duty as a portable printer. The ability to turn your smartphone’s shots into printed photos gives it an advantage over bulkier instant cameras, as well as a reasonable price.
Fujifilm Instax Mini 40
Delightfully simple and reasonably priced, with a touch of retro design flair.
Specifications:
Pros:
Drawbacks:
If the Instax Mini 11 above may seem too toy, the Mini 40 is a more design-oriented alternative.
It has the same retro styling as Fujifilm’s more expensive instant cameras, only it’s technically identical to the Mini 11.
Featuring variable shutter speed, auto flash, and an auto exposure system that work together to make sure you get more of your photos , as well as an adjustable lens specially designed for selfies, it is easy to recommend for both beginners in instant shooting and those who already have experience. It uses Instax mini film pouches, which are still some of the most affordable on the market.
There are no additional features, shooting modes, or accessories to think about that could turn off anyone who wants to get creative with their photography, and it also entails a price premium at launch.
This makes it less likely to recommend than the Mini 11.
Fujifilm Instax Wide 300
Large camera that prints good large photos.
Specifications:
Pros:
Drawbacks:
The large one barely covers it. The Instax Wide 300 is about the size of an old fashioned medium format rangefinder camera, even a small folding field camera. This is because it uses wide Instax film packs rather than the regular Instax mini. This camera may look big and clunky, but it’s lightweight and the comfortable grip makes it easy to use. You turn on the power with a spring-loaded switch around the shutter release that expands the lens by 95 mm.
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The Instax wide format is much larger than the digital sensor, so it equates to a moderate wide angle lens. However, for a large camera, the Fujifilm Instax Wide 300 has a tiny viewfinder. It takes practice to get used to it.
In any case, it is easy to use and provides very good results. Where Instax’s regular mini-format produces small-sized photos, these are more like the actual photos we’d like to see. Instax has a printer in this format, as has been done with its mini and square formats.
Fujifilm Instax Square SQ6
Printing photos in square format will be the favorite of the Instagram generation.
Specifications:
900 63 Self-timer: Yes
Features:
Disadvantages:
Shaped like the Instagram logo and very targeted at younger users who share their creations on the platform, the camera runs on a pair of CR2 batteries and prints 6.2 x 6.2cm photos. light shots.
