best instant camera with lcd screen free sample

Instax cameras are very similar to the first Polaroid that debuted in 1947. Each print contains all the chemicals required to develop a picture. You expose the film to light, the camera spits out a print, and you watch as the picture develops in front of your eyes.

Zink cameras are more like digital cameras with a photo printer attached. They use Zink (short for “zero ink”) paper, which reacts to heat to produce the image. You don’t watch the photo develop. It simply emerges from the side of the camera fully printed. Because the image is recorded digitally, you can even apply color filters before it arrives in the world.

To get a better idea of how today’s instant cameras perform, we chose six models—three Instax and three Zink—and put them through an informal trial. The models range in price from $69 to $299. Our in-house photo expert Artur Pietruch snapped photos with each in the controlled environment of our camera lab, simulating the daylight and low light conditions one might encounter in real life.

As with the products we routinely test at Consumer Reports, we bought the cameras at retail, the same way you would. We didn’t fully evaluate the image quality, though, in the manner we do for the models in our ratings. We simply compared the photos captured by each under varied lighting conditions.

We also noted significant drawbacks. The auto focus on the cameras was often spotty, for example. Some models didn’t have the option to turn off the flash. And digital image stabilization is non-existent, so be prepared for motion blur.

But there’s no disputing that shooting with these cameras is fun. The ability to see and hold a snapshot just seconds after you shoot it is still a nifty crowd pleaser.

If you’re like most people, then you’ve heard of Polaroid cameras. But what is a Polaroid camera really? What makes it different from every other camera out there?

The Fujifilm Instax Mini 11 Instant Camera isn’t the smallest instant camera around, but it’s not too big for kids to hold and operate. It fits in the palm of your hand and is the perfect size for taking on a family vacation.

The camera comes with two film packs to get you started and a close-up lens so you can get up close and personal with your subjects. The credit card-size prints have a distinct look that’s all their own, which is what makes them so popular with people of all ages.

This camera is a great choice for anyone who wants to capture those special moments that happen every day. Kids will love being able to take pictures of their parents and siblings, or of themselves playing sports or doing other activities.

Adults will appreciate being able to record cherished memories without having to think about setting up a digital camera and figuring out how to use all its features.

This Kodak Smile instant print digital camera has a 2.0″ LCD display so that you can easily see the pictures that you’ve taken. With its SD card slot (optional), you can store up to 16GB worth of pictures.

The Smile Instant Print Digital Camera produces high-quality pictures with a resolution of up to 640 x 480 pixels. It also has a 3x optical zoom and an integrated USB port for easy image transfer from the camera to your computer or printer. This Kodak Smile camera uses rechargeable lithium ion batteries (batteries are included).

The Fujifilm Instax Square SQ1 is a compact, powerful instant camera. It’s the first instant camera that can print 2.4 x 2.4-inch square format images and comes with a 10-sheet pack of instant film.

The design of this camera is really nice — it’s made from durable plastic with a thick metal chassis. The metal also wraps around the corners and feels very premium in your hand.

The SQ1 is super easy to use — just pick it up, turn it on and start snapping pictures with the automatic exposure setting or adjust the brightness using the +/- button on the top of the camera if you’re taking pictures in low light environments like museums or concerts. You can also take selfies with a self timer thanks to a dedicated selfie mirror on the back of the camera.

Polaroid announced that it’s back in the instant photography game with a new line of instant cameras and film. The Polaroid Originals OneStep 2 Instant Camera and Polaroid Originals I-Type Film are the first products from the reborn Polaroid brand.

Tethered by technology, we’ve lost much of our ability to create. Tether-free instant photography is about capturing the moment, and about celebrating your creative expression.

Polaroid is currently selling a “new” instant camera that uses existing instant film, while also letting users print wirelessly to a variety of social media platforms.

They have been around since the 1940s, but today they are mostly used by photographers and artists who want to experiment with alternative methods of developing photographs.

In the past, Polaroid cameras were the only way to get instant photos. Today, there are many other options for printing photos such as digital cameras or cell phones with built-in printers.

Taking pictures is easier than ever with the Polaroid Go Instant Digital Camera. It’s a great way to share your favorite moments without missing a beat.

The Polaroid Go camera lets you take photos and videos on the spot, so you won’t miss a thing! Whether you’re capturing the perfect selfie or snapping pictures of some friends, this camera has it covered.

The Polaroid Go Instant Digital Camera has 10 megapixels and comes with two different lenses to meet your picture-taking needs. You can use the 2x zoom lens for close-ups and portraits, or you can use the wide-angle lens for landscapes and group shots.

The Polaroid Go Instant Digital Camera comes with a 3″ LCD screen that displays your photos before they’re taken, so you can make sure they look great before you shoot. You’ll never have to wait to get your pictures developed thanks to the built-in printer.

Print out photos instantly, just like using an old-fashioned instant camera! The Polaroid Go camera even allows you to print directly from social media sites like Facebook and Instagram without needing to download them first.

Thankfully, you can make use of Instax Square SQ1 where the camera has a built-in flash feature that automatically adjusts the brightness of the subject from 3 feet away.

Instax Square SQ1 comes with an integrated film pack for easy usage. You only need to press the shutter button and it will automatically adjust its settings to ensure that you will get an instant print.

It is an analog camera that uses real film to capture images. This type of camera is great for taking pictures on the go, while traveling or at events like weddings and parties.

To give you some ideas about how to use a Polaroid camera, we’ve included 10 fun ways to use a Polaroid camera. Some of these ideas will work with any Polaroid camera while others are specific to the One Step 2 or other recent models.

You can use the camera to make portraits, landscapes, or even abstract art. You can also use it as a creative tool for self-expression and experimentation.

The first thing you need to know about using your Polaroid camera is that you need to buy film for it in advance. The film works with the camera, and if there is no film inside, the pictures will not come out on the paper.

It is also important to know that Polaroid cameras use only one kind of film — Polaroid Originals film. This type of film has been around since the beginning of Polaroid cameras, so it’s easy to find in stores.

Once you have purchased the film, all you have to do is take a picture! The camera has a manual focus feature which makes it easy to get the right focus on an object.

To make best use of your polaroid camera, you must learn how to use flash in low light situations. This requires some practice, but it will give you much better results than not using flash at all.

It’s a little hard to believe, but Polaroid is still making instant film. And it’s not just for Polaroid cameras anymore; the company has announced its first foray into smartphones with the Now Instant, a $130 Android phone that captures photos and videos using Polaroid’s Zink technology.

In case you missed the big Polaroid revival of a few years ago, Zink paper is basically instant film for your smartphone. Each photo comes out as a 2×3” sticker that adheres to something as easily as a wall or window.

Zink paper is already used in many point-and-shoot cameras and instant camera printers, but this is the first device we’re aware of that uses it for capturing photos on a smartphone.

Now Instant users can snap up to 10 “postcards in your pocket” on each sheet of Zink film. The device includes 12GB of storage space, which is actually quite impressive for an entry-level phone from 2015.

Tucked away inside the Impossible Project, a New York City-based startup dedicated to rescuing the Polaroid brand from obsolescence, is a tiny room with a big mission: manufacturing film for Polaroid cameras.

Now that film is back in production, and along with it come two new instant cameras: the OneStep 2 and Color 600. The former uses Polaroid-branded film in color or black-and-white; the latter is a modern interpretation of an old favorite.

Polaroid cameras have been around for over a century, and they’ve always maintained a devoted fanbase. Whether you’re new to the Polaroid world or you’re just looking for a better way to capture your memories, it’s important to find the right camera for your needs.

Trying to make a choice between two polaroid cameras can be difficult because there are two major types of instant film: 600 and SX-70. While they’re both made by the same company, they’re actually quite different.

For one thing, SX-70 film is color while 600 film is black and white. The SX-70 line also has a much larger variety of cameras available; there are even digital versions!

In this article we’ll take a look at five popular models from the SX-70 line: the original OneStep 2, the OneStep+, the Swinger, the Time Zero and the Square Shooter. We’ll go over each camera’s key features and what makes it unique so that you can decide which one is right for you!

The Polaroid cameras that have the best image quality are the Z2300, the Z340 and the Z2300-10MP. The Z2300 has a 10-megapixel sensor which is incredibly powerful for such a small camera. The Z340 is also a 10-megapixel camera, but it costs less than the Z2300 as it comes with fewer features.

The Polaroid Z2300-10MP is a higher end camera and has several features that make it stand out from other Polaroid cameras including a self-timer and a folding screen. All three of these cameras have excellent image quality and are perfect for those looking for an easy to use camera with high quality images.

There are a lot of polaroid cameras available today, from the big brands like The Impossible Project and Lomography to newer players like Instax. So, when you are looking for a polaroid camera for your needs – which one should you choose? The short answer is: any one of them.

Thing is, there’s no such thing as “the best” instant camera. All cameras have different features and functions that make them better suited for certain uses than others.

Of course, you can always grab yourself a Polaroid OneStep+, but if you’re looking to get something a little bit more advanced or unique, read on to find the perfect camera for your needs!

But with this comeback, you have to ask yourself: Are Polaroid cameras worth it? You may be thinking “Of course they are!” but let us tell you why we feel otherwise.

Test Shots: Polaroid cameras take 2 minutes to fully develop after you snap your photo. That’s 2 full minutes of waiting and wondering if your shot will turn out.

And with Polaroid cameras, you’re only allotted 10 shots – so that adds up to 20 minutes wasted (or more if your friends want to test their luck too).

Lack of Zoom: With most Polaroids, you can’t zoom in on the image. In this day and age, where cell phones and digital cameras have HD lenses and auto focus, there’s no reason to settle for something less.

Trying to explain to someone what is so special about them is pretty difficult. It’s not just that they are instant cameras, it’s that they are also pretty cool looking.

I would definitely recommend getting a Polaroid camera for anyone who wants to have fun with pictures, has some spare cash, and isn’t too serious about their photography.

Polaroid cameras are considered vintage now, but with the rise of digital technology, many people are using them less and less. That said, some diehards still like to use them for special occasions or just for fun.

Polaroid cameras were extremely popular in the 1960s and 1970s for their ease of use and fun factor. The technology was pretty new back then so there weren’t a lot of options available.

Although Polaroid cameras haven’t been made in quite some time, some people still enjoy using them at parties or as a fun project to do with children. You can still buy film for them on Amazon, although it’s not cheap — around $15 per pack of 10!

Many photographers are familiar with the Polaroid camera company, and many of them enjoy using the instant film that is used in Polaroid cameras. But how long do Polaroid cameras last?

This question might seem strange since the cameras aren’t so popular anymore, but people still use them, and they are still being made. There are even some new models available today.

However, if you use your Polaroid camera every single day or several times a week, then there is a chance that it won’t last as long as it might otherwise have lasted.

If you have a Polaroid camera that uses film, be sure to change out your film when you know that all of the pictures on your roll have been taken. If you leave old film in your camera and try to take more pictures with it, this can cause problems within the camera itself.

There are some great instant cameras out there, especially those we"ve listed below. However, we shouldn"t discount compact instant printers, which make for a good alternative, and one we"ve seen some big new launches in during 2022. Models like the Fujifilm Instax Link Wide or the new Instax Mini Link are essentially instant cameras that leverage your phone camera, which will likely feel more natural for digital natives, anyway.

While they lack the charm of an all-in-one instant camera, these printers are also a lot smaller and let you print photos that you or your friends have on your phones. Because smartphones are now so advanced, the photo quality also tends to be superior to standalone instant cameras. We remain fans of Instax prints over the Zink ones favored by manufacturers like Canon, but make sure you"re judicious with your printing – as the film costs can quickly add up.

They might be retro, but the best instant cameras are still very on-trend, capturing your best moments and then developing and printing the results in minutes. Reliving your memories on Instagram is one thing, but there"s something to be said about how that same instant gratification is achieved in physical, nostalgic printouts from instant cameras.

There"s nothing that quite captures the charm, candor, and authenticity of shots taken with an instant camera, but that"s not to say there"s only one way to go when choosing yours. Instant cameras (and instant film, for that matter) come in many shapes and sizes. So, you not only have a variety of options to choose from, but you can also get a collection going if you"re into that sort of thing.

Whether you"re looking for a basic toy model or a smarter connected option, we"ve put together this guide to the finest instant snappers. Based on hundreds of hours spent hands-on with the latest and best instant cameras, some of which are among the best cameras for photography, every entry on our list has been extensively tested to see how it measures up – so you can be confident in our recommendations.

Whatever type of instant camera you’re in the market for, you should find an option to fit your needs and budget in our list below. And if you"re not sure where to start, above is a size comparison (which you can expand using the icon in the top-right) of all the major instant camera film types. Pick the right size for you and use our "specifications" section below each camera in the list to find which film type it uses.

If you"re looking for an affordable, easy-to-use camera that won"t overwhelm anyone that"s new to instant photography, Fujifilm"s Instax Mini 11 is our current favorite.

It may lack the more advanced modes and controls that you"ll find on more expensive models, but that"s a big part of its charm. We found in our tests that the auto exposure system takes out a lot of the guesswork, meaning you just have to point and shoot to get decent credit card-sized instant prints.

A tiny mirror built into the front of the camera and a pop-out lens barrel for close-ups means it"s easy to get an instant selfie, while the affordable packs of Instax Mini film make it a great addition to any party. It"s available in a range of fun colors, so you should be able to find one that suits your style.

Combining the boxy form factor, dual-lens autofocus and detailed image quality of the Polaroid Now with the Bluetooth connectivity of the OneStep+, the revamped Now+ is Polaroid’s most complete instant camera yet. Connecting to the updated smartphone app opens up a realm of creative shooting modes: in addition to self-timer, double exposure, light painting and manual exposure options, there’s now an aperture propriety mode for experimenting with depth of field, as well as a tripod mode for use with the new screw mount beneath.

If you"re looking for a camera that mixes the charms of instant photos with the convenience of digital shooting, the Instax Mini Evo is a fine choice. Its digital photo quality won"t beat your smartphone, but that isn"t the point – the main benefit is being able to decide which shots you print out, to avoid wasting precious film. The Mini Evo itself is also one of the best-looking instant cameras around and more compact than Fuji"s other models.

If the Instax Mini 11 (see number one) looks just a little too toy-like for your tastes, the Mini 40 is a more design-centric alternative. It has the same retro styling as Fuji"s more expensive instant cameras, only underneath the skin it"s mechanically identical to the Mini 11.

With variable shutter speed, an automatic flash and auto exposure system that work together to ensure more of your photos produce usable results, and an adjustable lens barrel that"s purpose-built for selfies, it"s easy to recommend for both newcomers to instant film, and those that already appreciate the medium. Our tests showed that it produced pleasing results reliably. It uses Instax Mini film packs, which is still among the most affordable kinds on the market.

Slightly more advanced than the Instax Mini 11, the Instax Mini 70 comes with five shooting modes (including that all-important selfie mode). Despite having a few more features, it doesn"t cost too much - but again you need to factor in some budget to pay for some Instax Mini Film.

In terms of usability, one thing to be careful of with the Instax Mini 70 is obscuring the flash with your finger when you"re taking shots vertically, but you get used to how it works with enough practice.

With the Go, Polaroid has edged ahead of Fuji on instant innovation – something that hasn"t really happened since the late 1980s. It"s officially the world"s smallest analogue instant camera, fitting squarely in the palm of your hand.

It"s true that some hybrid instant cameras are even more pocketable, but they tend to "cheat" by printing images on Zero Ink paper, rather than with a chemical development process. You get the real deal here, in square format just like the larger I-Type film, only significantly smaller.

It"s a shrunken-down version of the Polaroid Now (see above), with most of the same features, including self-timer and double-exposure mode, which should please more advanced photographers as well as instant beginners. Autofocus sadly hasn"t made the cut, however, so there"s a higher chance of ending up with blurry results if you don"t keep a good distance from your subject.

Physically, the Now bears a strong resemblance to its OneStep 2 predecessor, retaining that iconic – if bulky – throwback form but removing a few buttons, refining the viewfinder and replacing the LED lights with a much clearer digital shot counter.

It"s designed for quick and easy snaps, and the new autofocus makes that simpler than ever, proving largely consistent in spitting out sharp, distinctive shots. It also eliminates much of the guesswork associated with a fixed-focus system – a welcome development, given the high price of I-Type film.

The value-minded SQ1 makes Fuji"s Instax Square format film that much more approachable for anyone unfamiliar with instant photography. It has the same easy- to-understand features and useful auto exposure system of the Instax Mini 11, only the photos it spits out are almost twice as large.

An adjustable lens barrel and built-in mirror are useful for close-ups and selfie shots, and the automatic flash is usually smart enough to keep indoor and low-light snaps looking good once they develop. There aren"t any other shooting modes to think about, or even luxuries like a tripod thread, and the plastic construction feels noticeably less premium than the more expensive Instax SQ6, so this is a camera better suited to instant newcomers rather than creatives looking to experiment with the medium.

Canon"s first instant effort is actually more of a hybrid, blending analogue "film" with digital smarts. The Zink (zero ink) paper it uses doesn"t need exposing to light like regular instant film, so the camera can be much smaller. The Ivy Cliq+ / Zoemini S is truly pocket-sized, beating even Fuji"s Instax Mini LiPlay for portability.

A built-in LED ring flash helps you take pleasing portraits, the mirrored lens barrel is purpose-built for selfies, and focusing is automatic, making this a great party camera. Still, it can be sluggish to start up and printing a picture takes around 10 seconds – much slower than our current favorite, the Fuji Instax Mini 9. The credit card-sized prints it produces are much more detailed, though, with colors more like a traditional 35mm photo than the dream-like lomographic effects seen with other instant film.

Battery life typically stretches to two packs of 10 images, but even with an SD card installed, it won"t take any more pictures once you"re out of film. The 8MP sensor is merely on par with today"s entry-level smartphones, and with no built-in screen, you"ll need a computer to review your digital snaps.

Big hardly covers it. The Instax Wide 300 is the size of an old-fashioned medium-format rangefinder camera, even a small folding field camera. It’s because it uses Instax wide film packs rather than the regular Instax mini. The Instax 300 wide might look big and clumsy but it’s light, and the generous grip makes it easy to hold and use. You power up with a spring-loaded switch around the shutter release, which extends the 95mm lens.

The Instax wide format is much larger than a digital sensor, so this equates to a moderate wide-angle lens. For a big camera, though, the Instax Wide 300 has a tiny viewfinder. It takes practice even to get your eye lined up with the eyepiece.

Unlike the original instax SQUARE model, namely the analog/digital hybrid SQUARE SQ10, the SQ6 has a different idea in mind. Shaped like the Instagram logo and very much targeted at the kind of younger user who shares their creations on the platform, the camera runs on a pair of CR2 batteries and spits out 6.2x6.2cm prints, with the selfie mirror integrated into the front of the camera allowing for more effortless self captures.

Instax square prints feel like more serious photographs, with their larger size giving your subject more room to breathe. Fujifilm throws in orange, purple and green flash filters to allow for an instant injection of colour into images, and as the body is nowhere near as cumbersome as some of the other options here, it ends up being as convenient to carry as it is fun to use.

Combining retro-analogue charm with modern-day digital credentials, this is essentially a basic, low-resolution digital camera with a printer built-in for making instant snapshots. This gives you the opportunity to properly frame up your subject, and check it"s something you actually want to print, before wasting expensive film (it uses Instax mini).

One of the gimmicks of the LiPlay is the function to record a sound along with your image capture and "embed" it on to your print in the shape of a QR code. You can then gift that to a friend and ask them to scan the code to playback the sound - modern digital ways are much easier though so how much you bother with that remains questionable.

The downside to most instant cameras is their size: if you want large photos, you"ll need a large camera, which can be a pain to lug around. An instant photo printer takes up a lot less room, and lets you print directly from your smartphone. That almost certainly means better image quality than what you"ll get from the cameras on this list.

Because it develops photos, rather than printing them like an inkjet, each one has the signature contrast-heavy and colorful style we expect from instant film. You"ll have to wait a minute or two between pressing print on your phone and the final image appearing in your hands, but that"s all part of the charm of instant film.

We think it"s a better buy than the Instax Wide 300 camera, which hasn"t seen an update in eight years and is rather cumbersome to use. If you want the biggest instant photos possible, this is arguably the best way to go about it.

While most instant cameras are simple and relatively affordable, there are still a few key things to think about when picking the best instant camera for your needs and budget.

The cheapest models will usually amount to little more than toy cameras with basic point-and-shoot settings. These are fine if you just want a straightforward camera for fun party snaps. But you’ll need to spend a little more for modes like macro-focusing, while the higher-end is where you’ll find hybrid digital functionality. This allows you to hook up your camera to a smartphone for further creative controls – or to produce physical prints from your smartphone’s camera roll.

Print quality and size are also worth considering. Although no instant brand delivers super-accurate results (that’s part of the vintage charm), Instax arguably produces the most natural images. Polaroid prints tend to have a dreamier look, which can be just as appealing, depending on your preferences. Films also come in different sizes to suit specific cameras, so it’s worth considering whether you’ll want pocket-sized prints or something bigger.

While instant cameras are generally affordable, you’ll need to factor in the cost of film. It can add up pretty quickly, so pay attention to the price per pack – and think about how many pictures you’re likely to shoot on a regular basis. Polaroid film tends to be pricier than Instax – for the price of a single pack of eight color Polaroid I-Type shots, you can get two packs of ten Instax Mini film.

Polaroid cameras take one or two types of film: the larger I-Type, which produces square format photos, and the newer "Go" film, used by its tiny Polaroid Go camera. You can choose between color and black-and-white film, along with a range of different border colors.

Instax cameras offer a wider variety of film types: there"s Instax Mini, Square and Wide film. Like Polaroid"s film, these can"t be mixed and matched between cameras, so choosing your preferred film type is an important part of picking the right instant camera for you.

Which is the best type of film? Polaroid"s I-Type has the edge for size, but Instax film tends to work out as a little more affordable. For example, for the price of a single pack of eight color Polaroid I-Type shots, you can get two packs of ten Instax Mini film.

4. Polaroid I-TypeDesigned for use in the Impossible I-1and OneStep 2, I-Type film packs don’t have batteries built in, so can"t be used with vintage Polaroids.

5. Polaroid GoPolaroid"s answer to Instax Mini, the Polaroid Go film measures 66.6mm x 53.9 mm and is designed to work with the camera of the same name.

7. Polaroid Zink 2x3Credit-card sized instant film that uses heat-sensitive ink to produce images. Colors are more traditional than Instax. Compatible with many Zink-based cameras and printers.Are new instant cameras still being made?Instant cameras might seem a little old-school in 2022, but they"re definitely still being made. In fact, they’re an increasingly popular photography format. Inspired by retro cameras from the days when analogue film was the norm, these modern remakes are designed to recapture the accessible fun of point-and-shoot photography.

There are plenty of reasons why you might want to buy an instant camera in 2022. Unlike smartphone photography, instant cameras give you a physical print to hold in your hands straight away, stick on the fridge or share with your friends. It’s a novel, tactile way to reconnect with photography’s fun factor.

Another bonus is how easy it is to shoot with an instant camera. The best options are really simple to use, making it straightforward to capture warm vintage prints. Most feature just a handful of buttons and limited shooting modes, leaving you free to focus on framing. What’s more, instant cameras tend to be available at much more affordable prices than compact cameras. That means they can be a great way for kids to get into photography, too.

There"s only one way to test instant cameras, and it isn"t by pixel-peeping resolution charts – for these analogue snappers, it"s all about real-world use. After analyzing each camera"s design, build quality and features, we load it up with film and take it out for a day of instant photography. We take a range of shots of different subjects: people, high-contrast scenes and objects like flowers, to give us a good sense of how well the autofocus works (if the cameras has autofocus) and the kind of colors you can expect in different situations.

We have had fun taking photos with an instant camera, printing them out immediately, and being able to enjoy our memories by putting them into albums or making them into collages. My kids love taking instant photos with their friends at parties, school events, and just playing around. It’s fun that my kids can enjoy the fun of using a Polaroid camera just like I did when I was a kid.

Don’t get me wrong; an instant camera isn’t a replacement for a regular camera or a smartphone camera. You will discover photos from an instant camera aren’t as good quality as those taken from a phone or digital camera, but it is still a good option for a quick, fun photo. Some people love giving their bridal guests instant cameras to take candid photos at a wedding reception.

Looking for the right children’s polaroid camera or even one for yourself? Here’s a look at 17 options starting around $50 which I feel give you the best overall value.

The Instax Mini 11 is currently our most recommended instant camera for kids. This camera is absolutely a great value and is loaded with fun! It comes in five fun camera colors: blush pink, charcoal grey, ice white, lilac purple, and sky blue. Both preteens and teens alike are likely to find something they like with this simple photo making machine.

The Instax Mini 11 is a step up from our previous favorite, the Instax Mini 9. Because of the auto features, the Mini 11 will keep your teen from wasting film with bad photos, which ultimately saves money.

With a built-in selfie mirror and macro mode, the Mini 11 is much better for selfies and perfect for kids. The best part of this camera is the fact that everything important happens automatically. Just press the button and the camera will auto focus, adjust shutter speed, and flash when necessary.

I’d highly recommend buying a Fujifilm Instax Mini 11 kit including instant film and a carrying case. Even though it is a little more expensive, it is critical that you have film and a case to use with the camera.

The Fujifilm Instax Mini 9 is a great choice for an instant camera. It’s relatively inexpensive and comes in five fun camera colors: flamingo pink, cobalt blue, ice blue, lime green, and smokey white. With all of these colors options, this Fujifilm instant camera is perfect for boys or girls.

The Instax Mini 9 is very user-friendly. What you see in the viewfinder is what will print after you push the shutter button. New upgrades include a selfie mirror to get your best looking photos and a macro lens adapter for close-ups. The camera uses an LED to tell you which aperture setting to use to get each picture to turn out best. A high-key mode softens the look of bright photos.

Photos print instantly and measure 2”x3”. This camera uses Fujifilm Instax Mini Instant Film, but be aware that the camera does not come with any film. You can purchase this film in either black and white or in color. Fujifilm Instax also offers a variety of colors and patterns on the film to border your photos. The Instax Mini 9 requires 2 AA batteries (which come with the camera). This camera comes with a one year warranty on parts.

At approximately 1/3 the price of the Polaroid Snap Touch and with better instant photos, the Fujifilm Instax Mini 9 is a great option. I’d highly recommend buying a Fujifilm Instax Mini 9 kit including instant film and a carrying case.

If you are looking for an inexpensive polaroid camera, the Fujifilm Instax Mini 70 is one I would recommend. It’s got some great features for the price, including an LCD screen, delay timer, and tripod mount. The selfie mode ensures you will get the perfect selfie. With 10 different colors to choose from, there is sure to be a fun option for your beginner.

This camera includes 2 CR2 batteries. These batteries last quite a bit longer than AA batteries, but they do cost more to replace. The Fujifilm Instax Mini 70 comes in black, blue, gold, green, orange, purple, red, white, yellow, and mint colors.

Instax Mini Film (photo paper) is required for the Instax Mini 70. The photos print out at 2″ x 3″ including the border (roughly 1.8″ x 2.4″ of actual photo). The camera doesn’t come with photo paper. Your best bang for the buck is to buy a bundle for the Fujifilm Instax Mini 70, which includes photo paper for 60 prints. A definite step up from the Mini 9, the Mini 70 is definitely my favorite polaroid camera for kids.

The Instax Mini 40 is one of the most retro looking cameras on the market.  You are sure to get comments wherever you take it or even if you leave it sitting out on a table.  Even though it looks like you might have found it in an attic, this little camera weighs 11 ounces and is 4″ X 2.55″ X 4.72″ and takes great pictures.

It is a super simple camera to use, easy to turn on and off and easy to load the film. Even the batteries are easy to install.  It has auto exposure, auto shutter speed, and auto brightness. The photos come out perfect every time . . . well, unless you get too close to your subject and even then the color is good you just can’t see your whole subject.

It has a selfie mode, which is, of course, easy to use: one touch is all it takes. This camera even has a selfie mirror so you can see yourself  and how you are framed in the photo.

The photos themselves are 2″ X 3″ which is perfect size to have fun with. You will need Fuji Instax Mini Instant film to use with this camera. It is very affordable and of course you can get it online.

This sleek, easy to transport camera is a good instant camera for a 12-year-old. It is easy to use and fun to have photos printed immediately to make into a collage or give to friends. The selfie mirror and auto flash features make it easier to get the right shot.

Photos from this camera measure 2″ x 3″, which is a good size for adolescents looking to save their memories. The photo paper is ZINK (zero ink) and is backed with a peel and stick backing, so you can use the photos as stickers if you want. This camera holds up to 10 sheets of photo paper at a time.

The Canon IVY CLIQ Instant Camera requires one rechargeable lithium polymer battery, which is included with the camera. It charges through the USB cord that comes with the camera. This battery charges quickly and lasts longer than most other similar batteries.

Like other basic instant print cameras, this one automatically prints every photo taken. You cannot choose which photos to print. However, if you have a favorite photo, you can print it multiple times.

The photo quality for this camera is ok, but it isn’t as good as the basic Fujifilm options. Also, this camera prints slower than most others, often taking up to a minute. Some kids might not mind that, but others could find it frustrating.

If you had a Polaroid camera as a kid, you’ll appreciate this option! While it definitely has a retro feel, it produces surprisingly clear pictures and comes in all sorts of fun color schemes including blue, black, pink, red, mint, pink and white. You could say it’s an upgrade from the iconic Polaroid we grew up with because it is much lighter and has a USB charger.

Additionally, Polaroid has implemented autofocus which ensures your pictures will be sharp and vivid. Another exciting, new feature is double exposure because it allows you to get in the picture with a self-timer. Best of all, it is compatible with i-Type and 600 film. Just keep in mind that film is not included and must be purchased separately. However, you can find some on Amazon for reasonable prices.

The Kodak Mini Shot 3 has a retro look to both the camera and the photos.  All you need to do with this camera is point, shoot, and print. It is super simple to use – making it fun for parties or just hanging out. The camera has a mirror on the front allowing for some great selfies. And it has a delayed timer function so you can get the whole group together for a selfie.

The best thing about this camera is the printer. It prints HD 3 X 3 inch photos directly from the camera. The photos are laminated making them not only waterproof but fingerprint proof. Kodak boasts that these photos will last 100 years. If you don’t like the picture you took, you can easily delete and retake.

You can not only print the photo from the camera but you can also save photos to a device (phone, tablet, or computer) through Bluetooth.  Choose to print the photo with a border or without one.

The other really nice thing about this camera is the free Kodak app. The app allows you to decorate the photo with stickers, frames, and filters. You can also edit the levels of brightness, contrast and saturation.

This camera even allows you to make a collage with several photos. They are saved right to your photos on whatever device you are using. Another cool thing about this app is that you can take photos with your phone and print them with the app. Some users say this feature is worth the price of the camera.

The camera does need to be charged completely before using it the first time. And you do need to make sure you have extra cartridges on hand, but they are very easy to change. The cartridges are not overly expensive and you get between 8 and 10 photos from each one.

The Lomography Bora Bora is a great automatic instant camera. It automatically focuses on the subject, the shutter speed is adjusted automatically, and the the flash is also automatic. You literally just need to point and shoot. Unless you want a little flair and then things get exciting. . .

The camera has 4 lenses. First, the built in lens has a focal point of the normal 35 mm. The fisheye lens gives fun, circular shots. A wide angle lens lets you take in a larger horizon, and the close up lens is for those shots you want sharp and close.

You can add a light streak to a shot by using the B setting, which holds the shutter open longer (this is a great effect for night time shots). Or you can add filters over the flash and play with the cool and warm tones of a photo. You can also put a few different shots into one frame for a very artistic photo. So many options to make photos fun and unique.

The photos are the size of a credit card – super unique and cute. This instant camera has a remote control that really helps with selfies. You can make some great memories with this little camera.

If you love square photos, this is a great camera for you! The photo image is a 1:1 ratio – a true square. The size of the printed photo is 3.5 x 2.5 – it looks just like the old Polaroids.  The Instax SQ1 takes great selfies – you just twist the lens and you are in selfie mode.  And I love that they are square!

The camera itself is cute. It comes in 3 fun colors–orange, blue, or white. The body of the camera is rounded, which just gives it a fun look and feel.

The Instax SQ1 comes with 2 CR2 batteries, which are not that expensive to replace and I like you don’t have to recharge every time you want to use the camera. But it does not come with any film, which is kind of a bummer. However, the film itself is not that pricey.

If you are looking for a camera that takes those cute square photos and will be doing most of your shooting outside or in brightly lighted places, this is a good camera. Photos taken inside or in a darker setting tend to be a little dark.

If the look of the camera itself is important to you, the Fujifilm Instax Mini 90 Neo Classic is what you are looking for. This option has the look of a classic vintage camera. Not only does it look great, but it produces nice photos as well. New features help ensure you get the best photo every time. The flash senses and adjusts to the brightness of the location. The party mode has a brightening function to improve the look of the photo. The kid mode allows you to photograph fast moving people and objects and still get a great quality end result. The macro mode allows you to take close up photos, which most instant cameras cannot do well.

To create an interesting effect, you can press down the shutter button twice. This will double expose that photo, laying one photo on top of the other. You also have the capability of leaving a light trail on your photo by holding down on the shutter button to keep the shutter open. The Mini 90 Neo Classic allows you to turn off the flash. Be aware that the Mini 90 Neo Classic takes the best pictures when it is light, but not too bright. This is a great choice when compared with others on this list.

Fuji advertises the Instax Mini EVO as “10 Lenses X 10 Films = 100 ways of expression” and they are not kidding. With a twist of a dial you can choose between 10 different lenses: double exposure, blur, fish eye, 1/2 frame, soft focus, light leak, normal, vignette, color shift, and mirror.

Scroll down to see different film options: canvas, retro, blue, yellow, red, pale, normal, vivid, monochrome, and sepia.  This camera allows you to be creative and produce some stunning photos.  You can also adjust the exposure, alter the white balance, use the macro mode for close ups, and turn on or off the flash – which is not something you see on a lot of instant cameras.

The Instax Mini prints 2″ x 3″ photos using the Fuji Instax Mini Instant film.  You will definitely want to download the app for the Fujifilm Instax Mini because it really enhances your experience with the camera. With the app, you can send pictures from your smartphone to the camera and print them as Instax photos. You can also use your phone as a remote control to take pictures and you can save photos taken with the camera to your smartphone. And you can share photos on social media. This little camera really has a lot to offer – well worth the price!

If you are willing to spend a bit more, consider the Fujifilm Instax Square SQ6. This square shaped camera prints square photos (2.4″ square with border totalling 3.4″ x 2.8″) and has some fun features. It comes with three flash color filters that can be attached to the flash. Kids love using these filters to add even more fun and personality to their photos.

The auto exposure control automatically adjusts the shutter speed depending on brightness, so the color comes out just right. That is a huge improvement over the less expensive cameras on this list.

Since adolescents love take selfies, this camera has a selfie mirror to help the photographer see the photo area before snapping a selfie. Whether your child is using his camera to document his latest Nerf war or just capture a cool bug on the sidewalk, this camera is a good choice.

No film is included with this camera. It uses Instax Mini film. Consider purchasing the Fujifilm Instax Square SQ6 camera with a film pack (containing film for 60 photos), as it is less expensive than buying them separately.

This fun shaped camera comes in 6 cool colors to fit your child’s taste. The Fujifilm Instax Square SQ6 is our favorite instant camera for kids in this price category.

Record some fantastic instant memories with this fun camera. The Fujifilm Instax 300 uses Instax Wide Film and prints pictures that are twice as wide as a standard Polaroid camera. This camera is definitely more advanced than some of the other instant cameras.

The Fujifilm Instax Wide 300 requires four AA 1.5V batteries. One of the most unique options on this instant camera that kids are going to love is the close up lens so you can take some great selfies. This camera requires Fujifilm Instax wide film. It produces pictures of 2.44 X 3.9 inches.

For more advanced children, the Fujifilm Instax Wide 300 can use light and dark control on shots. This top instant camera can be mounted to a tri-pod and has zoom control with two focus zones. This camera is definitely a bit too complicated for young kids, but your child would love it. The Instax 300 also has a great rear LCD screen to help make sure your child takes the best picture possible.

For the fun of an instant camera combined with the features of a digital camera, check out these combo cameras. Many of these offer the capability of saving or sharing photos.

The Kodak Step is worth your consideration if you’re in the market for a digital instant camera! Like the other options on our list, this instant camera appeals to kids because they can instantly print your pictures easily. While the quality might not be as crisp as other digital cameras, there is something so fun about this old-school camera. Plus Kodak has developed great film that is tear and water resistant – you can even remove the backs to transform the prints into stickers!

With a flash, timer, and viewfinder, your child will get a great introduction to basic photography with the Kodak Step. They can even play around with the different modes to express their own style. Choose from color, black and white, or sepia. You can put a white border on the prints or use selfie mode if they want to as well.

What I love about the Kodak Step is how easy it is to share photos. When I was a kid I had to connect a cable from my camera to the computer to transfer files – what a pain! But now you can save your pictures in under 60 seconds hassle-free.

Your child will find it easy to take this camera wherever they go because of how compact, lightweight, and portable it is built. It even has a rechargeable battery that allows you to take about 40 prints per charge. I appreciate the status light that tells you how much battery and paper is left.

The Printomatic camera allows you to print a 2″x3″ photo immediately and save the photo to your micro SD card (up to 32 GB). To be clear, you have to buy a micro SD card separately. This 10-megapixel point and shoot camera is easy to use and so compact it could fit in your pocket. It has dual-color modes, giving you the option of printing in color or in black and white. For printing, you will need Kodak Zink paper, which is sticky backed photo paper. The Printomatic comes in five different colors and has a rechargeable battery.

The instructions that come with this camera are very poorly written and there is no photo paper included with the purchase of the camera. Also, the camera itself is quite motion sensitive. If you are moving at all when you take the picture, your photo will come out blurry. The photos often come out darker than most other instant camera photos.

Although the Kodak Printomatic boasts the ability to take both digital and instant photos, it doesn’t do either one exceptionally well. If you want a good kids polaroid camera, one of the others on this list is probably a better option.

These cameras offer some of the best features of a digital camera with the convenience of an instant camera. You can edit photos, add filters, and then save, print, or share the photos. Printing photos directly from a smartphone is another feature of these cameras.

If you want a retro-looking camera with digital capabilities, the KODAK Smile is a good choice. Bluetooth allows you to pair this camera with either iOS or Android devices. You can also save images if you don’t want to print them immediately. With a micro SD slot that can accommodate a card up to 256 GB, you can save a lot of photos. Be aware that no SD card is included with this camera.

This is a very user-friendly camera. Simply point and shoot to get the photo you want. An optical viewfinder and a 10 second timer make taking the perfect photo even easier.

The Kodak Classic 2-in-1 app makes it easy to edit your photos as wells as adding filters, stickers, and fun effects. Then print the photos from the camera. You can print photos from your phone using the camera.

This camera takes and prints large photos (3.5” x 4.25”). Most of the other options on this list take photos that are considerably smaller. Although this camera is larger than most instant cameras, it is surprisingly lightweight.

You will need Kodak Smile ZINK photo paper to go with this camera. This sticky-backed paper is fun to use for journaling or making a collage. Or, if you don’t want to use the sticky back, leave it on and use it as a regular photo.

The Kodak Step Touch is an easy to use digital camera with a printer. It is a point and shoot camera that lets you print off photos on the spot. It has a 3.5″ LCD touchscreen. I really like this because it makes it easy to use. From this screen you can adjust the resolution, access the self timer, look at your storage, zoom in, and edit photos among other things.

You can take videos with this camera. The flash is easy to turn on and off – it will pop on when you turn the camera on, but you can just push it back down to turn it off.

One of the things that makes this Kodak different than an Instax or Polaroid camera is the printing. Where Instax and Polaroid print on film, Kodak prints on Zink sheets which is nice if you use the photos for albums or journaling because it has sticky back.

From the touch screen you can choose to print in color, sepia, or black and white. And I like that you can store the photos and videos taken with this camera on a SD card (not included) and move them to a permanent place.

Kodak has a free app that you will want to download to your smartphone. From the app you can edit, print and share photos to other devices or to social media.  You can customize photos with filters, borders, and stickers.  Be sure to check out the collage feature – it’s super cute!

Here are a few tips to keep instant cameras fun,and to maximize what they have to offer for kids. I’m sure some of these seem extreme for an instant camera, but you can get some good pictures if you buy a few extras and follow some simple photography strategy.

Cover your lens with a plastic back to add some soft effects to your pictures. This may take some trial and error but can be fun as your child takes more advanced pictures.

Make sure to buy film with an instant camera. You can have the best Polaroid camera in the world for kids, but if you haven’t bought film, your child will be disappointed if he can’t use the camera on his birthday.

Be careful when buying the instant film for these cameras. Don’t buy the wide film for the standard camera. An easy way to avoid this is to buy the film with the camera kit.

Polaroid and instant camera manufacturers continue taking these cameras to the next level. In 2022, instant cameras became more professional looking and had features to match. We expect this trend to continue in 2023 and into the future. Expect better photo modes, lighting, and enhanced feature options on instant cameras in 2023.

An instant camera puts the fun back into taking photos. With the photo printing immediately, you can enjoy the photos right away and turn them into a fun project. For the best quality and photo taking experience, I would recommend either of the Fujifilm options on this list.

Surprise someone in your life with the gift of an instant camera and watch the memories being made! For more tips on how to get started with instant photography visit Polaroid or get general digital photography tips from National Geographic.

Rather than requiring regular film or ink cartridges, an instant camera requires instant film (also called instant photo paper). This film, which comes in packs of 10, is loaded in the camera before use. When you click the shutter button to take your photo, the photo is projected onto the film.

The film (which contains chemicals) is drawn across rollers and comes out of the camera. The chemicals react to the light, and after a minute or two your photo is finished developing.

The Fujifilm Instax Mini 11 is the best instant camera for beginners. Ultimately, it is just the best value of all of the instant cameras. With all of the fun color options, it is bound to make a great first camera for boys and girls alike. For older kids I recommend going with the Fujifilm Instax Mini 90 or the Kodak Smile.

Your older child will appreciate the features that come with the camera, and it looks and feels like a higher quality camera. If your teen or tween is looking for a digital camera or a starter DSLR read our review on Cameras for Teens and Tweens or if they like action cameras we can help you there as well.

If you want the instant gratification of snapping a photo and sharing it on social media, use the cameras built into your smartphone. But if the idea of immediately sharing a physical print with other people intrigues you, one of the best Polaroid cameras or instant cameras is the way to go. Such cameras—including our pick for the best Polaroid camera overall, the Polaroid Now+—combine a film cartridge with paper to capture and develop an image in front of your eyes, just like the iconic Polaroid cameras of yesteryear.

Today’s best instant cameras, which still include Polaroid cameras, have a more diverse set of features than the vintage models from the 1970s. Some even have memory card slots, so you can capture a digital version of the image as well as print it instantly. Whether you’re with a group of friends and want to share candid photos, or you’re attending a special event and want to capture spontaneous memories, taking photos with an instant camera is both fun and rewarding. People of all ages still love the instant gratification of watching a color print come to life in their hands, which is why these cameras make great gifts for teens and adults alike.

After testing and research, we’ve rounded up the best Polaroid and instant cameras available right now, so keep reading to learn about all of your instant camera options. If you’re looking for something less retro and more digital, we’ve got you covered. Check out our coverage of the best action cameras, best point-and-shoot digital cameras, and best mirrorless cameras.

To make getting started with instant photography easier, Polaroid shifted to selling its popular Now+ camera as part of specialized sets. For example, there’s the Starter Set, Travel Set and Gift Set. Each comes with at least one box of instant film and includes at least one camera accessory. This Starter Kit bundles the Now+ camera, two boxes of color i-Type film, one box of black and white i-Type film and five camera lens filters.

This modern twist on a vintage Polaroid camera can wirelessly link with a smartphone, and you can remotely control the camera via your phone—making it easy to focus, adjust aperture priority and create cinematic photos using light paintings or double exposure techniques.

Polaroid Go offers the same instant gratification of being able to snap a photo and then have a print in your hand within minutes, but the camera is shrunk down to make it much more portable. Features include a self-timer and the ability to capture instant selfies. However, with the smaller camera size comes smaller size prints that are just 2.1 x 2.6-inches.

This camera works exclusively with Polaroid Go Film (sold separately). Amazon separately sells a discounted film bundle that includes five double film packs—enough to shoot 80 photos—for $110.

The Kodak Mini Shot 3 Retro has a different design than the Polaroid Go, but it’s as compact and portable. It serves as a 10-megapixel digital camera stores images on internal memory, as well as an instant camera that can create 3 x 3-inch prints.

The camera connects wirelessly with any smartphone, so you can transfer images from your phone’s camera to print on the Mini Shot 3. You can also snap photos on the Mini Shot 3, create instant prints and then transfer the digital images to your mobile device. It comes with two boxes of Kodak Instant Print 3 x 3-inch film cartridges—enough to create 60 instant prints.

The Fujifilm Instax Mini 11 is one of the simplest and most affordable of Fujifilm’s instant cameras. The camera features a curvy, ultra-simplistic design, and its casing comes in bright colors. It has automatic exposure so you don’t have to fuss with settings, and a built-in flash for shooting in low-light situations.

The Fujifilm Instax Mini 11 comes with a pair of shutter buttons, so you can choose among a jewel or glow-in-the-dark button. Want to take a selfie? Pop the lens out to configure the camera for a closeup and take aim. A tiny selfie mirror embedded beside the lens helps you frame your shot, perfect for a gaggle of friends on an afternoon out. Film comes in packages of 20, 50 and 120 sheets. A package of 20 Instax Mini film sheets sells for $14 on Amazon, while 50 Instax Mini film sheets costs about $41 and 120 sheets costs $80.

Back in the day, the popularity of Lomo’s simple point-and-shoot cameras gave birth to an entire style of photography, called Lomography. Today’s rendition of this camera, called the Lomography Lomo’Instant camera, is for the more adventurous instant photographer. Like most instant cameras, it’s fully automatic, however, it’s focus is not automatic. This camera is more advanced than the typical instant cameras: It comes with three interchangeable lenses—for far, moderate, and close focus distances. And it has other advanced features like multiple exposures and long exposures using a “bulb” setting that leaves the shutter open for as long as you hold the button down (up to 30 seconds). This is a popular technique for night photography and for creating artistic light trail photos. The removable lens cap for this camera has a wireless remote control built in for triggering the shutter from a distance. The camera uses Fujifilm Instax Mini film cartridges to produce its creative prints.

The Polaroid Now+ Gift Set is very much like the Starter Set, but it includes the camera, just one box of i-Type film and a camera strap which uses Polaroid’s iconic color scheme. This bundle also includes a set of five lens filters. Unlike the Polaroid cameras of yesteryear, this one has a built-in rechargeable battery. As its name suggests, this is a great gift for someone who would enjoy discovering the art of instant photography.

The biggest drawback to this camera is the cost of the film. A single box of i-Type film (enough for just eight shots) costs around $17, so you wind up paying slightly more than $2 per image.

The Canon Ivy Cliq+2 serves three purposes. It’s an instant camera, a digital camera and a photo printer for your smartphone or tablet. As an instant camera, it can take photos and instantly print them on low-cost Zink paper (which has a peel and stick adhesive backing). As a digital camera, it can take digital images, store them on a microSD card and print your favorites at will. Or you can transfer those images to a computer or mobile device and then share them online. The Ivy Click+2 can also receive images from your mobile device via Bluetooth wireless and quickly create prints of those images.

The camera has a two-inch selfie mirror and eight LED ring lights, making it perfect for selfies and group shots, too. With a compact, easy-to-carry design, this instant camera is great companion. Its biggest drawback is its comparatively low-resolution, 8-megapixel image sensor—which is enough for images printed at 2 x 3 inches, but less compelling if you ever want to print the image at a larger size.

If you care about the instant print aspect of instant cameras but prefer to use your own digital camera or smartphone camera, the Canon Selphy CP1500 standalone photo printer can get you started. This printer produces 4 x 6-inch prints from digital images sent to it via Bluetooth wireless or from an SD memory card. While compact, it weighs two pounds and is large enough you won’t necessarily carry it around with you all day, but it can be a great asset at a party or on your desk. It can work via a battery (sold separately).

The battery-powered HP Sprocket Studio Plus printer can generate a single 4 x 6-inch, glossy print in about a minute. The printer connects to Android and iOS devices via Wi-Fi, so you can output images from your smartphone or tablet with ease via HP’s app.

These days, most modern instant cameras—including Polaroid’s instant cameras and Fujifilm’s Instax cameras—take a similar approach. These cameras develop their own prints, ranging from nearly instant output to up to 15 minutes to fully develop after a sheet of film leaves the camera.An instant camera offers interesting ways to tap your creativity when taking photographs—and you can ... [+]see the results almost instantly.getty

While Polaroid and Instax cameras expose traditional, chemically treated film with light, a very different—and less costly option—is a Zink camera. Short for “Zero Ink,” these instant cameras are digital cameras with a built-in Zink printer. Instead of using ink cartridges, like normal inkjet computer printers, Zink embeds all the ink into the paper itself,