In recent years, the popularity of instant cameras has once again begun to rise and low-price options have hit the market. They play up the nostalgia of days long past, where Kodak film cameras were used for an easy point-and-click photo format to make beautiful, faded photos filled with memories. Nowadays, Fujifilm is at the forefront of this movement, but many other manufacturers from Canon to Leica have joined the bandwagon and started producing their own cameras.
While digital cameras are reliable and easy, few things beat having an instant print of your photos. Here are our tops picks for instant cameras and how to choose the perfect one for you. Our favorite camera for most users is Fujifilm's Instax Mini 11 Instant Film Camera, with its various modes, easy-to-use design, automatic flash, and other features. Read on for nine other great picks, and read until the end for a buying guide that's been reviewed by a professional photographer.
Quick List - Top Instant Cameras
Kodak
Best Digital Instant Camera for Frequent Travelers
Melissa is a concert photographer who enjoys traveling for the music, and taking photographs of the sights along the way. There are so many places to see, and she's trying to share a little of what she sees with the world.
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Besides being small, handy, and perfect for people on the go, what else should you be looking for in a camera? Here four major points to keep in mind as you shop.
Taking a good photo often requires a lot of thought in the placement of the object you want to capture. The photo format, which defines the overall end result of your image, is also a huge consideration when buying a camera. Wide and square are the most common formats. Here's how to choose between the two.
The two most popular formats of polaroid photos are rectangular or square. The rectangular format is quite small - usually measuring two by three inches - and can fit nicely inside your pocket or your purse.
There are also many instant cameras that produce square prints. It can be difficult to perfectly center and balance the images in a square frame. You might need to practice a few times before getting the hang of it.
However, square formatting offers a nostalgic effect. It looks like a classic Polaroid image - a nice all-round photo frame that is perfect to use for amateur photographers and professionals alike.
Consider what you want to do with your photo once it's printed. Are you going it in your wallet to look at often? Scrapbook it? Frame it and hang it on a wall? There are many possibilities and that will help determine what format frame you will want to use.
At a party or any other occasion where you have a lot of friends and family gathered, it's always a good idea to capture moments with photos. However, oftentimes, it can be a struggle for everyone to fit into the picture frame, especially if you're attempting a selfie!
An instant camera with a wide format allows you to fit more people into the picture without having to squeeze everyone into the frame. However, accommodating this format type means the camera has to be designed a bit bulkier and heavier. Wide formats are also perfect for landscape and panoramic-type shots.
Wide formats will allow you to fit more in the frame, but you will lose some of the details you would get with a closer-up photo. These cameras also tend to be heavier, so keep in mind the weight of the camera if you'll be traveling with it.
Focal length and aperture are the two basic indicators of lens performance. In this section, we'll show you why they are important!
Focal length is represented in millimeters (mm) and determines the field of view or how much of a scene is captured by your camera. A short focal length would be around 14mm, and 35mm could be considered as a wide field of view.
A camera with a short focal length will allow you to capture more of the scene in front of you. Meanwhile, a longer focal length like 85mm and 105mm means a smaller angle of view. It's useful when you want to take a photo of an object that's far away from you since the distant object will be magnified to fit in the frame.
When taking selfies, you want an average focal length, since wide-view, shorter lengths can distort the face. In fact, portraiture photographers usually choose lenses that are 80mm or more!
However, instant cameras give you much less choice in terms of focal length adjustments, so if you like a camera that doesn't have 80mm or more and your main focus is on taking selfies, then choosing a camera with a selfie mirror and dedicated selfie mode will ensure that you have an instant camera that can still take great selfies.
If you have a shorter focal length, take the picture from further away to get the best angles for your face!
Picture in your mind's eye what you want the picture to look like before you snap the shutter! Are you going for a close up, or do you want an entire landscape? What will you typically be shooting with an instant camera?
If you'll only be shooting friends and family close up, that will require a different type of focal length compared to photographing a wide landscape scene.
Aperture is defined as the opening in a lens where light enters the camera. It's expressed in f-numbers such as f/2, f/8, f/14.
A low aperture allows more light to enter the camera. So if you tend to take photos in a low-light situation, go for a camera with a smaller f-number such as f/1.4 and f/2.8. A low aperture can create the shallow depth of field that makes your subject stand out while blurring your background. So it's great for portraits as well.
On the other hand, a high aperture number like f/16 means that less light can enter the camera. So, make sure your surrounding is well lit so that the photo doesn't turn out dark. Also, a high aperture can show everything in focus and is great for group shots or landscapes.
You can't always control the light in which you'll want to take a photo, and that's okay. That's why cameras have aperture to allow for more or less light. The bigger the f-stop, the less light will come in. The smaller the f-stop, the more light will come in. It's opposite of what you would expect!
Maybe film photography is a long-time hobby of yours, or maybe you just want a camera to help you capture brief moments at social events. Whatever you're shooting and no matter what skill level you are, there are certain camera features that can help you get the picture you want.
One of the unfortunate problems of taking a large group photo is that one person is nearly always missing - the photographer! This goes doubly so for instant cameras, which tend to be point-and-click.
Make sure to look for an instant camera with a self-timer if you plan on taking these types of pictures. You can just set the time on the camera, prop it up on something, and then join the group for the photo!
There isn't always a friendly stranger around willing to take a photo for you, and that's where the beauty of self-timers come in. Self-timers allow you to be in the shot with friends or to take photos of yourself when you're alone! It's a great feature to have on any camera, especially an instant camera.
You may want to purchase an instant camera with a flash setting, especially if you enjoy taking photos with your friends at night parties or dinner events. Some instant cameras are equipped with basic flash and brightness settings, which will help you compensate for low-light environments.
Some instant cameras do have a built-in flash, but they are usually more simple than other types of cameras. For instance, the Instax's flash only offers a limited range of about 60 centimeters to 2.7 meters, so anything beyond will not be illuminated by the flash and will stay dark.
Depending on the product, you'll be able to adjust the flash's intensity yourself, or you may have to depend on the camera's auto-flash adjustments. Either way, it can also be helpful to consider the basic rules of lighting and flash utilization. For starters, make sure to take keep any natural or additional light behind your camera.
Using your flash from a greater distance will create harsher-looking light on your subject. If you want that soft, warm glow that's generally ideal for portraits. If you're able to adjust your camera's flash intensity, a brighter flash will also create harsh light at close distances. Try using your flash at a distance of 10 feet or less.
Selfies are an important feature to consider when buying a camera. The selfie mirror is an extremely convenient tool that can help make sure that your selfies come out perfectly!
Though a selfie mirror isn't always included with instant cameras, you can often find attachment mirrors sold separately. They help you to center the image and understand where you're pointing the camera in relation to yourself, so it's a feature you should definitely consider if you plan on taking lots of selfies.
There's nothing worse than taking a selfie and having your friend's head get cut off. Selfie mirrors help solve that problem! They aren't perfectly clear like camera phones, but they do allow you to see yourself. Some cameras have a little mirror built in, but if not, you can buy an attachment that will simply clip onto your camera lens.
Many instant cameras have automatic features such as automatic exposure control or automatic flash. With them, you won't have to think too much about all the settings and can take your photo right away.
However, for those who want to take control of the photo, look for an instant camera with a manual mode. It will allow you to manually change the settings yourself and be creative!
You don't need to be a professional photographer to enjoy using an instant camera, but sometimes it is nice to have more control over your settings. Automatic isn't always the best option depending on your lighting situation, and manual mode gives the control you want to switch features around.
Whether you want to amp up your simple point-and-shoot photos or you want to evolve your instant film hobby into a lifestyle, there are plenty of add-ons that can enhance your photography experience.
Do you love instant cameras and their features but still want the convenience of newer technology? Nowadays, many instant cameras have new digital features along with their classic analog charm. Specifically, some products are rechargeable via USB, so there's no need for batteries!
And with an instant camera with an option for Bluetooth connectivity, you can easily share your best photos to a smartphone or other device. You can enjoy your printed photo and save a digital copy for your Instagram feed! This function allows you to print photos directly from your devices as well.
Some of these cameras may require you to download an app for these results, so be sure to read up on the requirements for each one. Instant cameras with SD card slots are also becoming more popular. You can purchase one of these if you want to save copies of your photos digitally and upload them to social media later on.
Why not add a color close-up lens to your instant camera to enhance your photos? With lenses coming in colors such as blue, red, or yellow, you can play with your photos to get different filter effects depending on your target object and surroundings.
They're often simple to attach to your camera and are a fun and easy way to get creative with your pictures.
You never know when you will get the best opportunity for a great shot. With a camera strapped around your neck, you'll always be ready. You won't have to dig around your backpack to find your camera, meaning you won't miss your chance for the perfect shot!
Being able to carry your instant camera on your neck also means an extra layer of security. Even if it slips out of your hand, it'll still be safe with the strap attached and won't fall to the ground, where it could crack and break. Some instant camera bundles include a strap, so read product descriptions carefully.
Straps are available to wear around your neck or on your wrist. Both are convenient ways to keep your camera handy without worrying if you may drop it.
I highly recommend having a strap on your camera to keep it safe at all times, and a lot of cameras often come with a strap in the box when you purchase it.
Make sure you keep your camera protected with a camera bag. While traveling, your camera is often one of your most important items, so treat it as one.
There are many different designs for camera bags, ranging from extremely simple ones to many-pocketed ones. You can choose from harder or softer fabrics, depending on your preferences - though hard cases are a bit safer if you're afraid of dropping the camera too much.
There are water-resistant options for cases and bags if you want more protection, too. You can even take fashion into account when choosing a bag, by color coordinating it with your outfit.
A camera bag is a great addition to your gear. When you're traveling, you don't want people to know what you're carrying, and a camera bag helps keep your gear both private and secure. It will also keep your camera snug as camera bags are more padded to protect gear in contrast to a standard purse or backpack.
Unsatisfied with only simple, white-bordered printed photos? There are so many more options for frames that instant cameras can offer. You can choose to change the type of film you use and purchase ones with fun colors or character borders.
This is a fun way to be creative while taking pictures and adds more charm to a photo album or gift. Certain cameras are only compatible with certain kinds of film, though, so double-check the product description for both the camera and film before purchasing!
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Fujifilm Instax Mini 90 Neo Classic Instant Film Camera|16654798 | ![]() | Best Analog Camera for Selfies | |
2 | Kodak Now I-Type Instant Camera|C300RY | ![]() | Best Portable Wireless Instant Camera for Scrapbooking | |
3 | Kodak Smile Instant Print Digital Camera|AMZRODSMCAMK11BL | ![]() | Best Digital Camera for Beginners | |
4 | Kodak Printomatic Digital Instant Print Camera|RODOMATICYL | ![]() | Best Digital Instant Camera for Frequent Travelers | |
5 | Fujifilm Snap Instant Digital Camera|B01GHUA222 | ![]() | Best Analog Camera for Portraits | |
6 | Fujifilm Instax Square SQ6 | ![]() | Best Analog Camera for Square Format Photos | |
7 | Fujifilm Instax Mini 9 Instant Camera|B00FR85IRK | ![]() | Best Analog Camera for Advanced Light Techniques | |
8 | Fujifilm Instax Wide 300 Instant Film Camera|B00TGOWK3Q | ![]() | Best Instant Camera for Landscape Photography | |
9 | Polaroid Instax Mini LiPlay Hybrid Instant Camera|9028 | ![]() | Best Analog Camera for Vintage Photos | |
10 | Polaroid OneStep+ |9010 | ![]() | Best Analog Camera for Photography Buffs |
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This lightweight camera is perfect for people who love taking selfies with friends and family. The selfie mode is activated by simply pulling the lens forward until you reach the section marked "selfie mode." A selfie mirror is included on the front of the camera to ensure that your photo is perfect. The aperture is on the higher side, which also gives it the ideal focus for group selfies with friends and family.
Some users remarked that the automatic flash needs time to adjust when moving between areas of different light levels and found the two jewel accessories for the shutter button were hard to keep on. However, many reviewers love how easy this camera is to use and often give this product as gifts to loved ones.
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This two-in-one camera-and-printer is the best option for avid scrapbookers. The multitude of filters and editing options available add creativity to your photo album. This camera has Bluetooth connectivity with iOS and Android which means you can print and add photos from your smartphone to your scrapbooks. The photos are waterproof and smudge-proof and will last a lifetime.
Some reviewers note that the photo quality differs depending on whether it is shot from the camera or printed from the smartphone. Photos taken from the camera have the softer, vintage quality that other instant cameras have, while the photos printed from a smart device are sharper. Most, however, were happy with the quality of the photos and the small, portable design.
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KODAK Smile Instant Print Digital Camera is the best option for beginners. This camera shares a few features with standard digital cameras, making the transition a little easier for new users. The LCD screen houses the viewfinder, editing functions, and settings, much like a smartphone. The unique sliding protective case protects the lens from damage, which is ideal for young users.
It uses zero-ink technology to deliver vibrant full color without requiring ink or film. Some say that the camera works best in sunny or well-lit conditions, and photos taken on cloudy or foggy days come out darker. However, most feel that this was a great product for first-timers and love the small and lightweight design for frequent use on the go.
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This camera is the perfect device for frequent travelers. This camera is lightweight and pocket-sized, perfect for carry-ons or purses. The water-resistant and tear-resistant prints will keep well for those on long trips or traveling to multiple destinations. The prints are on two-by-three-inch adhesive paper, ideal for sticking your memories in wallets, scrapbooks, and photo albums.
Some buyers notice that their purchase didn’t come with a charger and wish to have more control over the automatic flash. However, reviewers also like the light sensor, which adjusts the flash for the lighting of the environment. The micro USB for storing photos is another well-loved feature of this camera.
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This is a wonderful product for those that love taking portraits. The vertical orientation of the viewfinder is great for portrait photos and the auto exposure does an excellent job of balancing ambient light and flash for portraits. While the aperture is on the higher side, it still captures the subject in beautiful detail while bringing the background into better focus.
Not being able to adjust the flash in different lighting levels can be a bit of an issue when shooting, but many reviewers appreciate the adjustments that the automatic flash makes in response to different levels of lighting. Note that this model has been discontinued by the manufacturer, but many retailers carry new and refurbished oness and the film and batteries are still accessible.
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The Fujifilm Instax Square SQ6 is the best analog instant camera for users that love nostalgic square-format photos. Square-format photos are smaller than wide-format photos but larger than mini-format photos, so they can capture more in a scene. It also includes three different color filters that can be attached to the flash for beautiful customization options.
Some reviewers remark that taking square-format photos takes some getting used to in order to properly center their shots and that it is best to acquire extra batteries since the CR2 batteries are not common. But most say that this camera is relatively easy to use with the automatic flash and various modes for lighting and love the selfie mode as well.
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This is a wonderful camera for those interested in more advanced lighting techniques. It's equipped with several brightness controls and different settings to create amazing lighting effects in your photos. Bulb exposure mode leaves the shutter open while the shutter button is being pressed, creating light trails and other vibrant light effects in your photographs.
While there is no selfie mode, it has a built-in tripod socket and timer so you can capture selfies manually. Some reviewers say that it can take a while to get used to lighting, the different modes, and exposures, so this camera might be better for more advanced users. Overall, most users love the classic design and that it comes with a neck strap.
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Fujifilm Instax Wide 300 Instant Film Camera is the best choice for landscape photography lovers. The high aperture and built-in landscape mode make this camera ideal for taking shots of wonderful, scenic views. The included close-up lens is a great bonus for capturing extra details. The tripod socket adds stability when taking pictures!
Because this camera is wider than other models, some reviewers find the camera a little bit bulky and heavy. Be mindful of that when traveling. There is no self-timer, so you would not be able to take photos of yourself. Despite this, users love the large photo format, long battery life, and amazing image quality.
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This is the perfect retro camera for recapturing that soft, vintage photo that was so well-loved in the '70s and '80s. The adjustable aperture starts at f/11, which gives photos a dreamy, old-school quality because less light enters the lens. The included tripod socket and self-timer function allow you to capture lovely, nostalgic photos of yourself with family and friends.
Some reviewers lament that the film needs to be in a dark place and takes about ten to fifteen minutes to develop properly, which is not as quick as other cameras. Despite this, most reviewers find the photo quality to be worth the wait and love some extra features like the double exposure.
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This is an analog instant camera that combines the classic polaroid look with modern features; it is ideal for photography buffs that like to get creative for amazing shots. Users can access manual mode with the Polaroid app to adjust the shutter speed, aperture, and flash intensity to their liking.
Some reviewers find that using this camera has a learning curve that might deter casual users that prefer a simpler device. However, most find that teaching themselves about the camera's functions is more than worth it to capture those beautiful moments. Many reviewers also like that there is a built-in tripod socket for taking selfies and group photos.
Looking to get creative with your shots? Not every instant film camera can do this, but a couple can be used to take beautiful double exposure shots. In double exposure, you allow the camera to take two shots layered on top of each other in unexpected and oftentimes aesthetic ways. To learn how to do it, take a look at this video by Photography Concentrate.
Here are a few common questions some users have about instant cameras to help you with your own purchasing decisions.
You may see people shaking their Polaroid shot on TV to help it develop faster, but according to experts, this is actually an ineffective gesture. As mentioned at the beginning of this article, instant photos are developed through a series of chemical reactions. While some of these are light-sensitive, the amount of air that touches your photo has no effect on its development.
In fact, a few instant camera companies have even issues warnings against shaking printed photos, saying that the sudden and intense movement could actually cause damage. It's better to be patient, set your photo on a clean surface until it develops, and enjoy the results.
The film for your instant camera does have an expiration date, so please ensure that you use it in a timely manner. If your film expires, not only will the quality of your photos dramatically decrease, but the film's chemicals may even leak inside of the camera.
Most types of instant film should last up to a year if you keep them in a cool, dry place. However, this can vary depending on the brand and the type of development chemicals applied to the film, so please check the box when you purchase your film.
Nothing is more frustrating than taking a carefully planned shot with your instant camera and getting a whited-out photo. There are a couple of reasons this might happen, but the most common is usually overexposure. This happens when you take a photo in a bright area with your camera's aperture set for a low-light shot. This will allow too much light in and white your photo out.
Another common mistake users make is using expired film can lead to faded or white photos. As we mentioned earlier, it's always best to keep the expiration date of your instant film in mind as you use it.
Finally, your photos will print out white if you leave unused film in a bright area for too long. This will activate the light-sensitive chemicals ahead of time, once again leading to an overexposed photo. When you store your extra film, it's best to leave it in its box and keep the box in a cool, shadowy spot.
Now that you have your instant camera picked out, you might be looking for some accessories or additional memory storage devices to go with them. Check out the links below for more!
This expert reviewed the contents of the buying guide for accuracy and provided factual corrections when necessary. They did not participate in the product selection process, nor are they affiliated with any of our choices unless explicitly stated so.
No. 1: Fujifilm|Instax Mini 90 Neo Classic Instant Film Camera|16654798
No. 2: Kodak|Now I-Type Instant Camera|C300RY
No. 3: Kodak|Smile Instant Print Digital Camera|AMZRODSMCAMK11BL
No. 4: Kodak|Printomatic Digital Instant Print Camera|RODOMATICYL
No. 5: Fujifilm|Snap Instant Digital Camera|B01GHUA222
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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