Best polaroid camera 2023 • 7 polaroid cameras Reviews

What is a polaroid camera and how does it work?

Polaroid cameras, also commonly known as instant cameras, are photo devices that enable you to take pictures and create a hardcopy almost instantly.  In this process, they use photographic film to produce a single positive image.

For analog polaroid cameras, light enters the camera through the lens and is captured on film. The camera then prints and ejects the photo using its internal production system.

What are the types of polaroid cameras?

Polaroid cameras can basically be classified into two main groups: digital and analog.  Digital polaroid cameras allow you to edit your photos prior to printing. Meanwhile the traditional analog polaroid cameras give you a more un-edited and classic experience.

Digital

Give you the ability to take pictures and decide when you want to print them. They allow you to edit or crop your photos. You can take many of photos and only print the ones you want.

Analog

Photos are developed immediately after they are taken. Photos cannot be edited. The traditional art of photography is retained.

Advantages and disadvantages of polaroid cameras

One of the main advantages of polaroid cameras is that they provide you with basically instant access to the physical photo just after it has been taken. This form of photo is special as you it makes the photo more tangible and tactile.

Advantages 

Disadvantages 

Shopping Criteria for polaroid cameras

It is important that you consider a number of criteria before making your decision. We’ve selected the criteria that we consider most important to help with your purchase. We hope that this will serve as a useful guide for buying the polaroid camera that best suits you.

Use

The type of polaroid camera you will want will vary depending on if it to be used for traveling or for events.  It might be better to aim for a more economical and easy-to-use model for traveling. If you prefer a camera that offers a high level of performance, the Fujifilm Instax Mini 90 or the Polaroid Snap Touch may be right choice for you.

The Instax Mini 90 is also a great option if you want to take creative shots at events.  For kids – we recommend the Kodak PRINTOMATIC or even the Polaroid Snap Touch.

Design

Polaroid cameras can also be differentiated through their design. There are those with a vintage look like the Lomo’Instant Wide, or others with more classic designs like the Leica Sofort or Instax Mini 90.

If you prefer a polaroid camera with modern design, the Instax Mini 70 is a great choice, meanwhile a camera specially designed for children is the Hello Kitty camera by Fujifilm. Most manufacturers offer different color models so there is variety.

Size of Photos and Photographic Paper

When buying a polaroid camera, an important question to ask is what size photos you want. Each camera uses a specific size which will determines the photo paper you’ll need.

Fuji sells paper in three different formats: Instax Mini (54 mm x 86 mm), Instax Square (86 mm x 72 mm) and Instax Wide (108 mm x 86 mm). The latter is also used by some Lomography models. Another size you can find is the 50 x 76 mm Polaroid.  The most famous photo size is from Polaroid – its iconic square format.

Battery

Instant camera batteries can be rechargeable or consist of AA batteries. Rechargeable batteries are more economical and better for the environment.

Additional Functionalities

Another question to consider is what other features it has. There are cameras that offer the possibility of multiple exposures, different filters and interchangeable lenses. The Lomo’Instant Wide is an excellent choice for the array of extra features it offers.

Brand

When choosing any type of camera, opt for a recognized brand that has extensive experience in the field of photography. When thinking about polaroid cameras, the  most famous brand is Polaroid.

That said, Polaroid is not the only top option on the market. Fujifilm is an excellent brand with the and the largest variety of models. Manufacturers such as Leica or Lomography also have high brand recognition.

Related links and sources

• https://www.uniquephoto.com/polaroid-cameras-buying-guide
• https://contrastly.com/polaroid-photography-guide/
• https://edition.cnn.com/style/article/how-polaroid-changed-photography/index.html

FAQ

What are the most common uses for a polaroid camera?

Polaroid cameras can be used to take photos of your travels. You can also use them at parties or events, such as weddings, in situations where it would be fun to offer your guests an immediate souvenir. Another possible use of this type of camera is for educating your kids. Children are usually in awe when they take a photo on a polaroid camera and then right after hold the physical photo in their hand. There are some polaroid camera models made especially for children.

Who should buy a polaroid camera?

Polaroid cameras are best suited for people who want to capture special moments as well as for photography enthusiasts. They are great for children, to introduce them to photography, as well as photographers working on special events such as weddings and birthdays.

What are the most common errors when using polaroid cameras?

A popular error is not removing the lens protector (black protective screen) before using the camera. Another common error is shaking the physical photo after taking it. Contrary to what most people think, shaking the photo doesn’t reveal the image faster. It is better to wait for it to dry itself. It is also common that people don’t take advantage of the camera settings to optimize the picture and as a result they don’t get the most out of their camera. Finally, it is also common to ignore the operating manual and immediately start taking pictures.

Where can I buy photographic paper for polaroid cameras?

Getting photographic paper might be one of the concerns you have when considering a polaroid camera. However, rest assured, finding photographic paper is easy. It is always easily accessible on Amazon. You can find it in photography stores and large supermarkets. The extensive distribution network of brands like Fujifilm ensures that you can buy sheets of photographic paper for your polaroid camera all over the world.