Buying guide for best Polaroid camera
Instant print cameras can be great fun, opening up new avenues for spontaneity and creativity. If you're searching for the best instant camera, Polaroid is the original and still produces great options. So, which is the best Polaroid camera, and what should you look for when shopping for one?
Polaroid is still making new instant cameras, bringing a nostalgic vibe to the 21st century. The technology works much the same as ever. But different film types are available, such as I-type film, so it's a good idea to see what type your chosen model uses. You should also consider factors such as print size, Bluetooth capabilities and manual controls.
We looked at all of Polaroid's current models to find the best Polaroid camera. The BestReviews Testing Lab loved how the Polaroid Now+ Instant Camera performed. In particular, we appreciated its image quality and Bluetooth options that give you more control over every picture and plenty of ways to be creative.
Which Polaroid camera is best?
Best Bluetooth Polaroid camera
Product Specifications
Dimensions: 5.9” L x 4.4” W x 3.8” H | Weight: 17 oz | Type: I-Type | Viewfinder Type: Optical | Memory Card Format: None | Viewfinder Magnification: 1x
We tested this instant-print camera and loved the degree of control it afforded us. Thanks to its Bluetooth capabilities, it can connect to an app that lets you control a range of settings manually. In addition to full manual control, you can use the app for remote shutter release, long exposure, aperture priority, double exposure and a "light painting" mode. We found the settings easy to use and appreciated how creative you can get with this camera beyond taking basic point-and-shoot snaps.
What's more, we liked the physical lens filters that came with it. Orange, yellow, blue, red vignette and starburst lens filters are included so that you can experiment with analog effects.
Overall, we loved the blend of modern features and old-school charm. It's a versatile model for a reasonable price point that gives you manual control and lets you have fun with analog and digital effects. What more could you want from a Polaroid camera?
Best small Polaroid camera
Product Specifications
Dimensions: 4.13” L x 3.3” W x 2.42” H | Weight: 9.5 oz | Type: I-Type | Viewfinder Type: Optical | Memory Card Format: None | Viewfinder Magnification: 1x
Anyone looking for a compact camera or one that produces small-format photos should consider the Polaroid Go. It's a light, compact camera that produces prints measuring 2.6 inches by 2.1 inches.
Thanks to the mirror, it's selfie-ready. Plus, the self-timer makes the perfect selfie easier to capture. You can also use the camera to take double-exposure photos, which create some interesting effects.
It's worth noting that this instant-print camera only takes Polaroid Go film. So, if you have other types of film left over from old Polaroid cameras, it won't be compatible. However, the bundle comes with enough film for 16 prints, giving you everything you need to get started.
Best I-type Polaroid camera
Product Specifications
Dimensions: 5.9” L x 4.4” W x 3.7” H | Weight: 16 oz | Type: I-Type | Viewfinder Type: Optical | Memory Card Format: None | Viewfinder Magnification: 1x
This simple Polaroid camera is made for people who want an updated version of the original Polaroid experience. There aren't any fancy features, such as manual control or Bluetooth. But sometimes, all you want is to press a button and have a photo come out. This camera delivers on that front.
It's compatible with Polaroid's newer I-type film, which is much the same as 600 film but has richer tones and hues with more contrast. However, if you want the original Polaroid look, it's also compatible with 600 film.
We like that it has a flash for when lighting conditions aren't good enough. There's also a double-exposure function that’s fun to play with. Overall, if you’re in search of a classic instant-film camera that prints photos in seconds, you won’t be disappointed.
Best retro Polaroid camera
Product Specifications
Dimensions: Approximately 5” L x 4” W x 3” H | Weight: 12 oz | Type: 600 | Viewfinder Type: Optical | Memory Card Format: None | Viewfinder Magnification: 1x
If you'd love a retro Polaroid camera but worry it wouldn't be reliable, here’s a great compromise. The Polaroid Originals 600 is an old model from the '90s refurbished by Polaroid to bring it up to scratch for modern-day use. Plus, there's a one-year warranty to give you peace of mind.
It's extremely rugged, so you don't need to worry about knocks and scrapes. While it's bulkier than contemporary Polaroids, it's lighter than some, so it isn't too much of a hassle to carry around.
Not only do we appreciate this model's vintage charm, but it also has some nice features, such as a pop-up flash and protective film shield. It works with 600 film, which is easy to find.
Best Polaroid camera with manual controls
Product Specifications
Dimensions: 5.9” L x 4.7” W x 3.6” H | Weight: 20 oz | Type: I-Type | Viewfinder Type: Optical with LCD info display | Memory Card Format: None | Viewfinder Magnification: Variable
The Polaroid I-2 is the most advanced updated Polaroid camera around. Sure, it costs significantly more than others, but you get full manual control. If you've always dreamed of controlling the aperture, shutter speed and other fine details, this model is for you. It's the first newer Polaroid instant film camera to have built-in manual controls instead of manual controls you change via an app.
The advanced lens system creates sharper results than any Polaroid camera before it. The focal distance is adjustable, giving you great shots at a range of distances.
We're huge fans of this camera for its image quality, advanced lens and range of manual controls. Without a doubt,it's the best Polaroid camera for serious photographers.
Instant-print camera design
Modern instant-print cameras come in two basic designs. One type builds on the original Polaroid design, using film that turns into print. The other relies on Zink technology.
Film
Film for instant-print cameras is sold in packs. The packs vary in size, containing enough sheets for anywhere between 8 and 40 prints. All chemicals and materials required to develop a finished photo print are included in these packs.
Polaroid cameras use either the newer I-type film or the original Polaroid 600 film. I-type film works similarly to 600 film but doesn't require a battery and offers richer colors and tones.
After you insert the pack into the camera, it loads one of the film sheets. When you press the shutter button, the camera exposes the sheet, which becomes the final print. The sheet then ejects from the camera. The chemicals work on the sheet, causing the photo to appear after a few minutes.
This type of instant photo print process is similar to that of the first Polaroid cameras from several decades ago.
Zink
If your instant-print camera uses something other than film, it almost certainly uses Zink technology. Zink, short for zero ink, employs a special kind of paper with crystals that respond to light.
A Zink sheet consists of three imaging layers. Each layer responds to a different color of light, representing yellow, magenta and cyan. As the right type of color in the light strikes the layer, it changes the crystals in the layer, creating the appropriate color.
When all three layers are stacked together in the final print, your eyes blend the different colors in the layers, and you see the color photo. If the cyan, yellow and magenta combo sounds familiar, it may be because inkjet printers also use those colors. The three colors can create any other color when blended in different intensities.
Why choose a Polaroid camera?
- The nostalgia factor: Polaroid cameras have a nostalgic appeal. If you grew up with instant-print cameras, you might enjoy revisiting the fun.
- Instant gratification of physical photos: It's nice to have physical photos you can look at and display without having to send away for prints.
- Creative opportunities: Polaroid cameras are great if you want to get into film photography without the hassle of having your films professionally developed. They're also great for scrapbooking and a range of other arts and crafts.
- Social aspects: It's refreshing to be able to take a snap while you're out with friends or family and give it to someone to take home. Sharing photos you took on your phone isn't quite the same.
How to make the most of your Polaroid camera
Some people buy instant-print cameras, play with them for a few weeks and then leave them to gather dust. But it doesn't have to be that way. With the right outlook, you can make the most of your Polaroid camera.
Tips and tricks for better photos
Lighting is important in Polaroid photography. Polaroids perform best in natural light, so try to use soft, diffused natural light for your shots. Avoid harsh shadows and bright sunlight, which can lead to overexposure and loss of detail.
Polaroid film tends to saturate colors and increase contrast. Keep this in mind while composing your shots. Look for vibrant subjects and contrasting elements for visually appealing photos.
It’s a good idea to learn the focus range of your Polaroid camera. Most have a fixed focus, so you will want your subject to be within the optimal distance range.
Creative ideas for using your Polaroid photos
- A photo collage is a simple and fun way to use Polaroid photos. Create collages by arranging Polaroid photos on a board or in a frame. You could arrange them thematically or chronologically, or you could even create a mosaic of different images.
- When traveling, take Polaroid photos of the places you visit. Create a travel journal by adding notes and mementos alongside the pictures. Or, make a scrapbook out of your Polaroid shots. This is a fun project even if you're not traveling.
- Take Polaroid shots at an event like a wedding or party. Then, incorporate them into a memorable guestbook. If you assemble the book during the party, guests can write messages next to photos, creating an even more memorable keepsake.
- Use shadow boxes to display your Polaroids. You might include other mementos in the display such as rockets, postcards or other small objects.
- Create a photo wall of Polaroids. Or, string a clothesline across a wall with small pegs, clipping photos to the line with small clothespins.
Cost of instant-print cameras
Just like digital cameras, Polaroid-style instant-print cameras are available at many price points. Generally, the more you pay, the more features you get.
That said, the fun factor of using these cameras often means a lot more to consumers than the image quality or feature set. Instant cameras are meant to be fun, and since fun is the primary goal, an inexpensive Polaroid camera may easily meet your needs.
Under $100
The most basic instant-print cameras use film. For less than $100, you won’t get many advanced features or larger-than-average print sizes. Some of the most popular types of instant-print cameras fit this price range.
$100 to $300
A Polaroid-style camera in this price range might use film or Zink technology. You may be able to make prints larger than the standard credit card-size print with a camera in this price range.
More than $300
The most expensive Polaroid cameras have high-end lenses and manual controls. If you want more than your average Polaroid-style shot, you'll get the best results from this kind of camera.
Ongoing costs for Polaroid cameras
Instant-film cameras also have some ongoing costs. You will have to buy film packs or Zink paper regularly to refill the camera. The cost will run from about $20 to $30 for a pack of 16 sheets. This adds up quickly if you give a child a Polaroid camera and they run through the entire pack in half an hour.
Most instant-print cameras run on the power of throwaway alkaline batteries rather than rechargeable batteries, so you would likely also have to purchase batteries on occasion.
Use cases for instant-print cameras
As we mentioned, most people who buy a Polaroid use it for fun. It’s not necessarily their primary camera. So, what are the best uses for an instant-print camera?
- Kids’ camera: Some people like to give a child a Polaroid camera to play with as an introduction to photography. Small kids are thrilled to hold the finished product in their hands. That said, kids will almost certainly burn through a pack of film quickly, which can get expensive over time. You may want to limit the number of shots the child can take until they learn to be responsible with the film.
- Relaxed photos: People tend to be more relaxed when they’re photographed with instant-print cameras. Why? They know the photos won’t immediately be shared on social media.
- Parties: Giving party guests an instant-print photo of the night’s activities can be a nice party favor. Using a Polaroid-style camera can also be a fun party activity.
- Weddings: If you want some unique wedding reception photos, place instant-print cameras on guest tables. The guests will likely create photos that give the bride and groom a different perspective of their wedding.
- Nights out: Polaroid cameras are great for recording nights out with friends. You have instant physical mementos of the fun you had, and at the end of the night, friends can choose which photos they want to take home.
- Delayed gratification: These cameras are great if you want to practice delayed gratification (compared to digital photography). You need to wait for a few minutes for the photo to fully develop; it's not the same as simply taking a snap with your phone.
How we analyzed
We considered Polaroid's entire current range of instant cameras when searching for the best Polaroids. This covers the I-2, the Go, the Now and the Now+ cameras. We also looked at some older models that are still available. To compare them, we considered factors such as film type, image quality, portability and lens type. Additionally, we tested the Polaroid Now+ to see how well it performed and whether its modern features were worth it.
FAQ
Q. Why do my instant prints look poor?
A. With Polaroid cameras, you don’t have a lot of control over the exposure of the instant-print film. These are automatic cameras that don’t offer manual control options. This makes it almost impossible to adjust the camera's settings to compensate for poor lighting.
Try to shoot photos with your instant camera in areas with adequate light. Avoid scenes that are dark and lit only by light bulbs. And avoid scenes with harsh overhead sunlight, which can create dark shadows.
Q. Why does the paper jam inside my instant-print camera?
A. The issue of photo paper jamming as it tries to exit the camera is one of the biggest problems with these types of cameras. A dying camera battery could be the culprit, as could incorrectly loaded paper or film. To remove a jammed sheet, you will likely need to open the film compartment and gently pull the paper free.
Q. Can I make changes manually to the Polaroid camera’s shooting settings?
A. Some instant-print cameras are completely automatic, but some offer minor manual control options. For example, you may be able to slightly adjust the camera’s brightness setting, allowing you to compensate for really bright or dark shooting conditions.
Occasionally, an instant-print camera will allow you to zoom into scenes or save photos to a memory card.
Q. Why are instant cameras so bulky?
A. Most instant cameras are larger than point-and-shoot digital cameras and smartphone cameras. Instant-print cameras must be larger and thicker than simple digital cameras in order to provide interior room for the film or Zink paper.
