Instant cameras were introduced to the mainstream market in 1948. Although this original camera was really more like a portable dark room, the idea quickly took off and companies like Polaroid and Kodak soon invented their own versions of the instant camera. But, when digital cameras exploded on the market in the 1990s, consumers abandoned the instant camera. Sales slowly dwindled until Polaroid announced they would stop producing film in 2008. Fujifilm tried to pick up the slack, offering their Instax film in North America.
When the online photo sharing program Instagram launched in 2010, the way people took pictures changed once again. Instagram produces square photos that are reminiscent to the old days of instant Polaroids. Square photos became the next big thing, and the market started to cater to the trend. Appropriately, sales for instant cameras have started to rise again too.
With the added benefit of today’s technology, these next generation cameras allow you to do everything from take an instant picture (with zoom) to film video. Herewith, some of our favourite instant cameras available today:
Polaroid Z2300 Instant Digital Camera
Price: $198
Available: Urban Outfitters, Walmart
Available in black or white, this instant digital camera has a 10-megapixel camera and built-in speaker and microphone so you can also record HD video.
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Polaroid Compact Instant Analog Camera PIC300P
Price: $69.99
Available: Best Buy
This modern version of the classic Polaroid comes in four fun colours including black, blue, purple and red. The prints are 1.8 inches by 2.4 inches.
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Fujifilm Instax Mini 8 Instant Camera
Price: $99.99
Available: Urban Outfitters, Walmart, Best Buy, Future Shop
Witheasy exposure adjustment and automatic flash, Fujifilm’s instant camera is an affordable option if you’re looking for a complement to your digital camera.
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Fujifilm Instax Mini 90 Neo Classic
Price: $179
Available: Amazon.ca, Henry’s, London Drugs
Fujifilm’s advanced camera, the Mini 90 has double exposure, built-in macro, a self timer and a recharcheable battery.