Best Instant Cameras

“Why can’t I see it now?” Thanks to this question, the first commercialized instant camera was born. Edwin Land, the co-founder of Polaroid Corporation, was inspired by his daughter’s question (but, more of a demand as it sound to me) to create the world’s first instant camera made for the public in 1943.

More than 75 years later, we are still enjoying this great invention. Embracing new technology and meeting different needs of consumers, the world of instant photography has been constantly progressing, especially instant cameras.

With several major brands creating some of their own, it really is a dilemma to choose the best instant camera. After garnering reviews about different models, I’ve narrowed the top 10 picks for you.

Since we’re all about the easy and light things now, this instant camera is surprisingly lightweight. You won’t even notice it’s slung over your shoulders, and it pretty much just hangs there.

The Mini 90 also has several photo mode features. If you’re into capturing moving objects, or simply subjects that don’t always stay still, the Mini 90 has a quick-shot setting for that. It also has a double exposure mode which prints two images in one sheet. Both amateur and experienced photographers have amazing things to say about this camera. The fact that it gives high quality prints and owns tough construction made this one the best instant camera on this list.

More than an excellent camera, it’s also an outstanding printer as it produces smudge-proof, and water-resistant printouts not more than a minute. Thanks to its Zero-Ink technology, you’ll have long-lasting prints.

The Polaroid Z2300 isn’t your ordinary instant camera as it has an SD card which allows you to store pictures for later use—a feature many instant cameras don’t have. Technically, instant cameras Instantly prints out photos right after you capture them. However, isn’t a nice feeling to have an option to store or transfer it digitally on other devices, too?

What makes the Instax 210 stand out is its LCD panel which basically just makes taking pictures a lot easier. In this display, you can adjust the focal distance, shutter speed, and ISO settings. This way, you have control on the settings of your print out.

The Polaroid PIC-300 gives its users an easy interface. This, I think, is the most important feature an instant camera should own. I mean, that’s the essence of having an instant camera, right? The least you need is for it to give you a headache from not figuring out how to use it smoothly.

More than the Instax Mini 50S’s ease of usage, it also boasts a few handy features. It has a self-timer mode which lets you create two photos with a single shutter press. If you wish to capture a moment but has insufficient lighting, the Instax Mini 50S has an excellent flash mode which automatically adjusts its brightness and shutter speed.

The Instax Mini 8 is perfect in taking portraits and will give you clear photos with a soft tone with its visibility viewfinder, and high-key mode. It also automatically determines the perfect brightness setting for your image. This can be done by turning the brightness adjustment dial to the position of the lit lamp.

Featuring Polaroid’s classic ZINK technology, you’ll have smudge-free and clear prints on your hands.

Much like the Polaroid Z2300, the Snap also has storage. This serves as an instant camera and a digital one at the same time. This gives you the option to store your captured photos to your laptop, otherwise, you could print them out right away. It’s really a perfect device to spend your money on.

As the name suggests, the Polaroid Socialmatic can incorporate your photos to your social media networks. This feature can’t be found in most of instant cameras, which makes the Socialmatic a possibility to be your next best instant camera. Embracing new technology, the Socialmatic contains built-in WiFi and has an Android interface. This makes it perfect for the ones who can’t resist social media and loves to share photos online all the time.

Have a phone with an outstanding camera resolution and can’t afford to replace it with an instant camera? Opting for the Fujifilm Instax Smartphone is your best choice. The Smartphone Printer is perfect in its printing capabilities, it might even enhance your photos more upon printing. This solid device prints photos of your choice instantly and easily since your control is on your smartphone.

Although it may give you a childish vibe, the Hello Kitty Instant Camera possess the classic Instax function—to deliver high quality prints with clean and vibrant texture. It’s also pretty lightweight so you can carry it around you and flaunt your inner Hello Kitty fanatic self.

With several models and brands to choose from, picking just one isn’t an easy task, (especially for those who are meticulous, like myself) not to mention buying the best one.  You can’t simply rush to the nearest gadget store and buy one immediately. To have the best instant camera, there are things to be considered first.

Majority of instant cameras have a plastic exterior. Some of it might look cheaply built, while others might surprise you. It’s important to inspect the camera carefully so you’re sure to land the one that has a fairly durable construction. Generally, the pricier cameras have better construction and are made with better materials. They also give out a professional look and is guaranteed to last long.

The first thing that will catch your attention is the camera’s design. Sometimes, an instant camera looks attractive because it brings you nostalgia. Whether it carries a vintage vibe or a modern aura, the camera’s design will always have a major appeal to the consumers.

Sometimes, the outcome of your print depends on how good the flash is. A lot of modern instant camera models have adjustable flashes that can vary with different light settings.

Despite an instant camera being vintage and, well, instant, a good camera should also have good features. Some of the notable ones are its printout quality, image resolution, adjustable shutter speed, ISO settings, and shooting modes. This will give your photos better exposure, and great white balance. Others even have SD card capability which lets you store your photos for later use.

Do not forget to take a look at the camera’s film prices as it varies from model to model. You wouldn’t want your instant camera be on standby mode just because you think the film’s too expensive, would you? When you think of buying an instant camera, consider looking at its films also.

The best instant camera on this list is the Fujifilm Instax Mini 90 with its undeniably great exterior. It has a vintage look that will certainly give you nostalgia. It has great features and flexibility that are perfect for an amateur photographer or even a professional.

Its reliable quality and great build put it on the top of our list. Also, you can’t complain with its price tag as it is affordable compared to other instant cameras that has relatively the same features.

The price you pay for an instant camera is undeniably much cheaper compared to the expensive prices of a digital one. Plus, entering the world of photography through instant cameras isn’t a bad first move.

It’s always good to have the photos you recently captured instantly printed. This way, you get to literally hold the moment minutes after taking them. This sure gives “Living in the moment” a whole new meaning.