Instant cameras have been around for decades. Differing from digital cameras or film cameras, instant cameras are cameras that print out a physical copy of the photo instantly, rather than having to transfer them to a laptop to access them, or drop the camera off at a shop to have the photos developed.
The first instant camera was invented less than 100 years ago in 1948, and the Digital Public Library of America dubs 1977 as "The Polaroid Era," or the year when they seemed to first reach peak popularity.
It’s no surprise that with the recent interest in trends and fads from decades prior having a resurgence that this item is among them. In fact, interest in instant cameras seemed to increase around 2014, according to Google Trends, and continue to see increases in search around the holiday season.
But it's hard to sort through the weeds of name brand items and more technical aspects of cameras to determine what one is best suited for you. So, we spoke to a handful of professional photographers on which cameras are best for both beginners and those looking to expand their collection.
From selfie mirrors to self-timers, exposure settings to editing the borders of a photo, these cameras start at $80 and are worth the splurge (at least according to our editors and experts) for capturing unforgettable moments you'll want to look back on.
What should consumers keep in mind when shopping for instant cameras? | Instant cameras to shop | More instant cameras to shop | How we chose | Meet the experts
What should consumers keep in mind when shopping for instant cameras?
"When shopping for an instant camera, it is important to note that even the most inexpensive instant cameras have the ability to provide really great physical photos," says professional photographer Kamron Korsmo. "For beginner photographers or just someone who wants to have memories captured in a physical copy, the market has really provided valuable products that can be accessible to anyone."
Event and portrait photographer Josh François agrees with this sentiment, further emphasizing the fact that more affordable options will produce similar results to their more expensive counterparts.
"Most instant cameras work almost the same, which means that from a price standpoint, you really don’t need to shell out [hundreds] for a good reliable Polaroid camera," he says. "That being said, it’s important to remember that you’ll need the film for the camera as well."
Professional photographer Ryan Clemens suggests taking the time to do your own research on what brand will fulfill the needs you want in an instant camera the most.
"Each brand will create a slightly different look to the image. I suggest looking into comparisons on YouTube or other sites to see which one catches your eye," he says. "At the end of the day, what’s special about instant cameras is that they’re instantaneous. It doesn’t matter so much which instant camera you use but finding what your personal preference is and leaning into your own unique perspective."
Wedding and elopement photographer Maya Baker says that more casual and novice photographers might opt for those earlier, more simple models. However, those wanting to “present themselves more professionally” might reach for the more technical-looking models with more settings.
"The instant cameras that were popular a few years ago had one button that did not allow you to control much of the outcome of your photo," she says. "For someone looking to capture fun moments hanging out with friends or everyday life, this may be okay. But more recent models include multiple focal lengths and adjustable settings which may be better for someone looking for a more professional use."
Baker also reminds users that instant cameras have a recurring cost — the film.
Expert- and editor-approved instant cameras to shop
Instant classic: Fujifilm Instax Mini 11 Instant Camera
- On the more affordable end
- Portable
- Bulky
- Will get damaged if dropped
Film format: Instax Mini-specific film | Batteries? Yes; two AA batteries required | Colors: 5
This instant camera is a classic — I remember receiving one of these in high school as a gift and have since upgraded it to a newer version, using it to capture friends' engagements, birthday celebrations and every moment in between.
It's very beginner-friendly, with the camera itself highlighting which light setting to prioritize upon powering it on. Plus, it's portable — small enough to stow in any carry-on or tote bag to have while traveling.
"It really gets people into the spirit when an instant camera comes out no matter what activity we’re doing and I know teenage me would’ve been just as obsessed with it as I am now in my (early) 30s," says editor Vivien Moon. "I love how portable and cute this instant camera is and how it has the feeling of nostalgia with a modern twist courtesy of the fun design."
Beginner-friendly: Polaroid Now Instant Film Camera
- Rechargeable
- Easy to use
- Film is expensive
- Photos are blurry at times
Film format: Instant | Batteries? Yes; one lithium ion battery included | Colors: 6
"Like most Polaroids, this camera is very easy to use: You simply point and shoot, which makes it great for beginners," says editor Evan Siegel. "It does also include some more advanced features, like a self-timer and the ability to shoot double exposures. Most importantly for me, however, is that it shoots full-sized, square Polaroid film. This is a bit of a double-edged sword, however, because the film packs can run expensive."
Besides that one con, Siegel adds that the camera itself is on the more affordable side of Polaroids offerings, making it a great entry into the world of photography for those wanting to pick up a new hobby.
For photos that pop: Polaroid One Step 600 Camera
- Develops high-quality film
- Will last many years
- Packs of film are expensive
Film format: Polaroid 600 Color Film | Batteries? Yes; four AA batteries required | Colors: 1
Photographer Victoria Bloomquist recommends this retro camera for high-quality photos whose colors simply pop. She admits that while the miniature photos are cute, these offer a wider, larger option for hanging on the fridge or framing.
It has a built-in flash, a close-up lens for those with a specific shot in mind and a strap for capturing photos on-the-go.
The best of both worlds: Instax Mini Hybrid Liplay
- Lightweight
- Battery is included
- None to note at this time
Film format: Instax Mini-specific film | Batteries? Yes; one lithium ion battery included | Colors: 3
A more modern take on the instant camera trend, this "hybrid" version includes a screen on the back to preview the photo before printing it out.
Plus, you can print photos already taken on your smartphone via the Instax Mini LIPLAY app. You truly get the best of both worlds with this 2-in-1 camera, that social media video producer Anita Chomenko calls a cross between a digital and instant camera.
For splurge-worthy snaps: Polaroid Sx-70
- Takes high-quality photos
- For advanced photographers
- On the pricier side
Film format: Sx-70 specific film | Batteries? Yes; built into film cartridge; unclear on if it's included or not | Colors: 2
François has owned this camera (and a Polaroid One Step) for a little over a year now, and loves to give away the fruits of his labor at parties for friends to also have a keepsake from the night.
"They’re my favorite party trick to pull out and snap photos and the Polaroids make great gifts to give out afterwards," he says. This specific model has exposure and focus settings, allowing you to fine tune the photos you take.
More instant cameras to shop
Kodak Printomatic Full-Color Instant Print Digital Camera
- Has a "vintage feel"
- Reviewers love the photo size
- Photo quality could be better
Film format: Kodak Zink film | Batteries? Yes; rechargeable battery | Colors: 5
While all of the cameras featured in this article automatically print out a photo, these ones feature an adhesive, sticky backing, which makes them easy to peel and stick to water bottles, folders, refrigerators and more.
Kodak Step Touch Digital Camera and Instant Printer
- Great for the whole family
- Good for weddings, parties
- Not the best photo quality
Photo Specs
Film format: Kodak Zink film | Batteries? Yes; rechargeable battery | Colors: 2
Similarly, this camera allows you to view the photo before printing it out, and it has the ability to connect to your smartphone to print already-taken photos.
The touchscreen lets you edit the photos with a number of filters, stickers and borders to add fun touches to memorable moments.
Fujifilm Instax 40 Mini Instant Camera
- Great for casual photography
- Experiment with kinds of film
- Reviewers had exposure issues
- Doesn't have longevity
Film format: Instax instant film | Batteries? Yes; two AA batteries included within certain bundles | Colors: 1
Each retailer above features a version of this instant camera that's available in a bundle complete with film, a carrying case or cleaning supplies.
Similar to their other instant camera model featured above, it's simple to take photos with this camera. However, it features an automatic adjustable light setting, where the camera itself adjusts to ensure the best exposure.
Fujifilm Instax Wide 400 Instant Camera
- Good photo quality
- Film malfunctions in camera
Photo Specs
Film format: Instax wide film | Batteries? Yes; 4 AA batteries included | Colors: 1
For photos in a wider frame, opt for this version that is sure to fit the whole friend group in the shot. Its features include a self-timer, so the photographer themselves can always be in the photo as well, an angle adjustment tool for capturing photos at just the right angle and three different focus modes for close-ups or getting the bigger picture.
Frequently Asked Questions
We're sad to report that the lyric "shake it like a Polaroid picture" has led you wrong.
"One of my biggest tips regarding the printing process of instant camera photos is that most people think you should shake the photo for a few minutes, when actually if you just immediately store it in your pocket or purse, in a dark space, it will develop really beautifully," says Korsmo.
François recommends scanning the photo with your smartphone's camera to have a digital copy. Otherwise, he keeps the physical copy in a photo album to have and look back on.
"The best way to preserve these photos is to keep them out of the direct sunlight and heat," says Baker. "Extensive exposure to sunlight will leave the photos with a washed out effect."
"They’re appealing to younger generations because they’re one of one, they have a unique look, and they can be physically held," says Clemens. "Another reason why they might be appealing to younger generations is depending on age, the majority of younger kids have had cellphones around them their whole lives. So to them, an instant camera is unique and new. If they have only ever taken photos on their phone, then an instant camera does something their phones can’t do — and that’s exciting."
How we chose
Shop TODAY relied on the expertise of professional photographers and our editors to curate a list of instant cameras that are affordable and reliable, to make the entire shopping process easier for our readers.
Meet the experts
- Maya Baker is a professional wedding and elopement photographer based in Iowa.
- Victoria Bloomquist is a Minnesota-based photographer, focused on film and digital photography. She's photographed a handful of weddings, engagement shoots, headshots and more.
- Ryan Clemens is a professional photographer, whose work includes Chappell Roan's album artwork, as well as work for Carhartt and Guess Originals.
- Josh François is an event and portrait photographer based in New York City.
- Kamron Korsmo is a photographer originally from Iowa, but now calls West Palm Beach home. Whether in the Midwest or at the beach, he can be seen photographing weddings, senior sessions or family photo shoots.
