Digital photography has made high-quality photography available to the masses, and that’s great! But, it’s too easy to take tons of pictures and let them clutter up your hard drive. Face it: you’re never going to remember to get them printed out. Don’t forget about the once-in-a-lifetime memories you’ve captured! One way to make sure you always print your pics is to use an instant camera.
Polaroid is the innovative leader in instant photography. The Polaroid camera is not as readily available as some other instant film cameras – but we’ve got your options lined up for you, boo. There are plenty of Polaroid-style cameras available on the market. Not only are instant film cameras fun to use, but they’ll also print out your photos as instant keepsakes.
The original instant camera: Polaroid!
Polaroid still makes an instant film camera! It’s an updated version of their timeless classic, which is now considered vintage. The new Polaroid GO Camera in White is available from Superbalist for R2,699. This classic, pocket-sized instant camera has a shutter speed of 1/124-1sec and an aperture of f/12 and f/52. It also comes with a high-performance lithium-ion battery rechargeable via USB. So, there’s no limit on how much time you spend making and capturing memories!
But, if you’re looking for something with a little more spunk than the Polaroid GO, we’ve got what you need. Outdoor Photo also stocks the slightly snazzier Polaroid NOW Instant Film Camera in Yellow instant camera for R2,995. The design of the Polaroid Now incorporates a bright optical viewfinder, built-in flash, self-timer, a neck strap, and double exposure functions. It’s also equipped with auto-focus so that you never miss a beat on the move! It’s an intuitive point-and-shoot. Pure, simple fun.
Once you’ve got the Polaroid instant camera of your choice, you need the right film to shoot it with! Superbalist also stocks Polaroid Colour GO Film Double Pack for R549. There are 16 photos per double pack. They come with the classic Polaroid white frame (image area is 47mm x 46 mm) and develop within 10-15 minutes.
If, however, you want an all-inclusive, no-fuss Polaroid camera kit, check out the Polaroid GO (White) Everything Box for R1,750. Here’s what’s in the box:
- 1 x Polaroid GO camera in white
- Polaroid GO colour film double pack
- wrist strap
- USB charging cable
- start guide
- 1-year warranty
Point, shoot, print: Fujifilm instant camera
However, if you’re in the market for an instant camera kit at a slightly lower price point than the Polaroid NOW, you should check out Fujifilm’s series of Instax Minis. Like this Fujifilm Instax Mini 11 Instant Film Camera (Ice White) + Two Instax Mini Instant Film White (10 Pack) from Outdoorphoto for R1,490.
The new Fujifilm Instax Mini prioritises style and comfort. It’s also optimised for taking selfies! The automatic exposure function and built-in flash make it easy to photograph in a range of lighting conditions. Taking instant selfie-style memories with your besties has never been more simple! The uber-cute Instax Mini also comes in the colourways Sky Blue, Lilac Purple, Charcoal Grey, and best-selling Blush Pink.
On the other hand, if you’re looking to capture memories with an instant camera that uses a slightly larger format, you can’t go wrong with the Fujifilm Instax Wide 300 Instant Film Camera (Toffee) for R2,195. This guy uses large-format Instax instant film to capture your memories on 86mm x 108mm sized film. Furthermore, the camera features a retractable lens with a focal length of 95mm and an aperture of f/14.
Now, don’t be square! Or, actually, do. The Fujifilm Instax Square SQ1 Instant Film Camera (Terracotta Orange) for R1,985 prints snapshots of your finest memories out in perfectly square, 6x6cm images. The funky, boxy little camera comes in three fresh colours: Terracotta Orange, Glacier Blue, and Chalk White. Plus, the built-in selfie mirror and selfie mode are optimised to help you capture beautifully posed and exposed self-portraits.
Hybrid film/digital cameras
We know we’ve strayed pretty far outside of old-school Polaroid territory, but it’s time to get with the times! Check out the full package by shopping the Fujifilm Instax Mini LiPlay Hybrid Instant Camera (Elegant Black) + Instant Film (10 Pack) + Camera Case from Outdoorphoto for R2,995.
Unlike the traditional Instax Mini and Polaroid camera, the Instax mini LiPlay lets you choose which photos you would like to print. Also, you convert recorded sounds into a QR phone which you can then play on your phone to relive the moment. Finally, you can easily capture group photos by using your smartphone as a long-distance shutter button.
The accompanying film packs are designed to leave a little space at the bottom to write a personalised note. The photos produced by the Instax LiPlay are credit-card-sized, making them the perfect memento to carry around in your pocket.
Conclusion
Who doesn’t want to capture happy memories on take-home snapshots? But don’t let the cost of your snap-happy habits stop you from seeing the bigger picture. Payflex makes it easy to make new memories without stressing about your bank balance. Picture this: check out with Payflex and pay for your purchases in four, interest-free instalments over six weeks!
