10 Best Instant Cameras in India 2021 - Buying Guide Reviewed By Filmmaker
Today, most people use their smartphones to take pictures. But if you like to see your photographs in print, then this method can be long-winded. You have to find a store that will print your pictures, and you also have to find a way of managing the specifications for those prints. Recently, we have seen that instant film has made a comeback. A lot of people love the feel of a photo in their hands. Whether you are at a wedding or a friend’s house party, an instant camera helps you capture the moment.
In this article, we will explain how instant cameras work and what you should consider when picking out an instant camera. We will also give you our top 10 recommendations of the best instant cameras you can buy in India from brands like Fujifilm, Lomography, and more. This article was reviewed by professional filmmaker and photographer, Arun F Xaviour. Learn more about instant cameras from the knowledge he has shared below.
Quick List - Top Instant Camera
Arun is an Electronics and Media Technology graduate with more than five years of experience in photography. He spent two years working on various projects honing the art of direction and cinematography. As an enthusiast of movies and filmmaking, Arun enjoys his leisure time recreating popular movie scenes with a twist of his own.
mybest editing team consists of experienced members who have backgrounds in writing, editing, translation, and more. We are dedicated to researching what makes a product or service the best to users in India in order to create top-quality articles. From skincare, to kitchen appliances, and to DIY supplies, our mission is to find the best ones for you.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Table of Contents
- How to Choose an Instant Camera in India – Buying Guide
- Know the Types - Analog and Digital1
- Choose Between Disposable Batteries and Rechargeable Ones2
- Think About What Size of Camera You Would Prefer3
- Optical Zoom Is Helpful For Good Closeup Shots4
- Consider Which Additional Features Are Most Attractive For You5
- Shoot Better Instant Photos Using These Tips - From Our Expert
- Check Out Few Creative Ideas to Begin With
- More Content to Check Out
- Summary
How to Choose an Instant Camera in India – Buying Guide
When selecting an instant camera, there are certain things like the types: analog and digital, batteries used, size of the camera, and more that you must go through to find that one that will fit your needs.
Know the Types - Analog and Digital
Whenever we start to dive in knowing more about certain products, small differences start making quite a difference. One of the basic differences is the type of instant camera- analog camera and digital camera. Analog cameras are fun and easy to use. You get certain basic modes with predefined settings, and you get a manual mode to try your creativity with light settings like aperture and shutter speed, depending on the camera model.
Every picture you click is directly printed on the sheet. Plus side is, every photo is unique and can't be reproduced. The downside is since every photo is printed, you have to get precise with usage since erroneousness shall lead to wastage, and the sheets are expensive. So it can be an expensive affair using this camera.
Digital instant cameras enter as a step different and better than analog ones; They are also referred to as hybrid cameras. The difference that sets it aside is, the picture you click, you can view it on the screen and select and print the one that seems more apt. This saves on paper expenses and wastage. So, this type is recommended for beginners.
Instant camera film packs are expensive. So it's best to go for digital or hybrid cameras since you can decide whether to print a picture or not, even if you are a pro. Some features you can look for in instant cameras (regardless of whether it is analog or digital) are flash unit, timer, selfie mirror, etc.
Choose Between Disposable Batteries and Rechargeable Ones
Some instant cameras come with an inbuilt battery and are rechargeable, and some still function on disposable batteries. AA batteries are commonly used for disposable batteries. Both types have their pros and cons; with disposable ones, you can replace them anytime the battery dies; with rechargeable, you get the option to save on battery costs in the long run.
In our recommendation, rechargeable batteries are a good option in the long run; it is economical and environment-friendly as well. Varying on the models, you can compare and select as per your requirement.
If the instant camera that you have your eyes on is not a rechargeable model, just buy rechargeable batteries. But what matters the most is the number of pictures you can click on a single charge. Canon IVY CLIQ is an instant camera that can give you 25 shots per charge, while the Instax Mini 9 can give you 100 shots per charge.
Here is a fun fact: the original Polaroid cameras have their power source in the film pack itself. When you buy a film pack for a Polaroid camera, you are buying a power source that can power both the camera and the flash. But this type is rare nowadays and can be really expensive.
Think About What Size of Camera You Would Prefer
Is the instant camera small enough for you to be able to carry it around with ease? Instant cameras come in different sizes, so this is worth considering when choosing a camera. The size of the camera also determines the size of the photo it will take. Instant film is typically available in sizes starting from 24 mm × 36 mm.
For example, the Instax mini 9 uses a film size of 46 x 62 mm, and 62 mm x 62 mm for its square prints. Think about where you are most likely to be using your instant camera. If you plan to use it in social settings with friends and family, mini prints may be sufficient.
If you want to use your camera on your travels, you may prefer larger prints to capture landscapes and sights of interest. Choose an instant camera based on where you would like to use it.
Instant cameras nowadays commonly use two types of photo papers. The most popular one is the one with white borders (you can find instant films with black borders as well). The second type has an adhesive back, enabling you to print pictures and use them as stickers on your diary, laptops, etc. This type normally doesn't have borders.
Optical Zoom Is Helpful For Good Closeup Shots
When selecting an instant camera, do look out for optical zoom capability. It is useful in getting close-up shots while maintaining high resolution and sharpness. Since instant cameras are mainly used for clicking portraits.
Having an option of optical zoom is a good choice. Many cameras come with fixed focus, so do evaluate the specifications before buying. There are models with X1 zoom, and some can go higher up to X6 zoom as well.
Instant cameras don't allow you to change the lens, but some products support add-on lenses. For example, you can find a closeup lens for Fujifilm Instax. Have you heard of Lomography Lomo'Instant Automat? It is an instant camera that comes with three add-on lenses.
You get a wide-angle lens with an FOV of 90°, a fisheye lens with an FOV of 170°, and a closeup lens that can focus on subjects as near as 4 inches. There are colored lens filters available, too, widening your possibilities of producing creative shots.
Consider Which Additional Features Are Most Attractive For You
Based on what kind of user you are, the types of additional features that the cameras come with will also be useful. A lot of instant cameras now come with several additional features like the auto-brightness/focus feature. This can be useful if you are a first-time user as the camera will do some of your work for you in order to take a great photo.
Advanced cameras have more manual versions making them suitable for enthusiasts or advanced users. Bluetooth functionality and smartphone compatibility are great features if you want to edit pictures on your smartphone or even print directly from your phone. Some instant cameras come with a selfie mode which is a sweet option considering the trend to take polaroids and make memories.
A feature I look for in instant cameras is an SD card slot, so I will have a backup in case I lose the film. Sometimes shooting modes can also become an additional feature. For example, Lomography's Lomo'Instant allows you to shoot unlimited multiple exposure instants, meaning you can combine as many shots you want into a single frame.
10 Best Instant Cameras in India
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Fujifilm Instax Mini 11 Instant Camera | | Easy to Use Camera and Great for Kids | |
2 | Fujifilm Instax Square SQ6 | | Feature Filled Instant Camera for the Starting Enthusiast | |
3 | Polaroid POP 2.0-20MP Instant Print Digital Camera | | Great Hybrid Camera With Touchscreen Display | |
4 | Polaroid Originals OneStep 2 | | Instant Camera With a Retro Design | |
5 | Fujifilm Instax Mini LiPlay | | Good Hybrid Instant Camera That Can Print Phone Pictures Too | |
6 | Fujifilm Instax Mini 90 Neo Classic | | Stylish, Feature-Laden Camera for the Design Lover | |
7 | Polaroid Snap Instant Digital Camera | | Compact Instant Camera for Beginners and for Fun | |
8 | Lomography Lomo Instant Automat Glass Camera & Lenses | | Great Camera for Landscapes and Architecture | |
9 | Fujifilm Instax Mini 9 | | Best For First Time Instant Camera Buyers | |
10 | Impossible Project I-1 | | The Instant Camera for Enthusiast and Advanced Users |
Easy to Use Camera and Great for Kids
This camera is a refined version of the Mini 9. There is an improved selfie mode and auto-exposure in this model than the Mini 9. The camera is very easy to use, with no multiple function buttons to operate with. If you're looking to gift your child a camera, this one is a great choice to go for.
There is a small downside with the new selfie mode mechanism, It is a bit tricky to engage as you need to pull the camera lens forward to engage the mode and later retract after using it. The image quality is good and for beginners, this camera is a desirable option.
Feature Filled Instant Camera for the Starting Enthusiast
Another great one for those starting with instant cameras. This camera by Fujifilm is a unique offering apart from their other instant cameras in the lineup. Even if you're a beginner, the quality of shots shall help you gain confidence in clicking more shots with this camera.
When shooting in bright conditions, the pictures from the camera are great. The camera is fairly compact though it is bulkier than other Instax mini cameras offered by Fujifilm. But, it is comfortable to hold and operate.
Polaroid POP 2.0-20MP Instant Print Digital Camera
Great Hybrid Camera With Touchscreen Display
This camera by Polaroid is a great hybrid instant camera option. The camera has a simple and minimalistic design with compact dimensions of 15cmX10cm. Moreover, the touchscreen function really makes ease of function simple and user-friendly.
The 20-megapixel camera is a good snapper and can record video in Full HD quality as well. Unlike other instant cameras, you get editing tools inbuilt to add elements like stickers and emojis. We would recommend this camera to users looking for a sleek and pocket-friendly instant cam.
Instant Camera With a Retro Design
Whenever we talk about instant cameras, a picture of the old big-sized camera comes to mind. Re-visiting the design of this polaroid originals model is bringing back the retro design with new advancements. It is a successor to the Onestep 1 model. There are new additions like self-timer to take selfie shots with a click of a button.
Unlike other cameras, you get a USB charge option on the camera's back to charge it up. The company promises a battery life of up to 60 days on a single full charge. It's effortless to use as per official reviews; even a 6-year-old can operate it. The image quality is good as per instant camera imperfect picture style.
Good Hybrid Instant Camera That Can Print Phone Pictures Too
This camera is super compact and has a built-in printer. It allows you to pick what you want to print, which is a good advantage over other instant cameras. Although the ‘instant’ nature of cameras is fascinating, it can also feel wasteful to print out photos that are not too high in quality.
It can pair up with your smartphone as well, giving it some hybrid digital/instant camera features. You can print any different image from your smartphone camera as well. The camera has fixed focus, and you don't have any manual controls; it is purely pointed and shoots. The camera quality is fair and good for small prints only.
Stylish, Feature-Laden Camera for the Design Lover
This is an advanced version of some of the Instax models like Mini9, Mini 11. It is more expensive but with a rechargeable battery and tons of advanced features. It will be suitable for an enthusiast who wants to get serious about taking instant photographs on film.
The design of the camera is retro-styled and appealing. The image quality is crisp and has a vibrant color tone. However, the camera does respond poorly with image stabilization, which can produce blurry shots. Overall, we would recommend this to enthusiasts looking for good polaroids.
Compact Instant Camera for Beginners and for Fun
The Snap is another hybrid instant-digital camera that is great for kids. It is easy, and fun to use and comes with a built-in rechargeable battery which is a plus. However, it does not have a flash which makes it a bit limited. It is a good choice for beginners and users looking to have fun with instant pictures.
The camera has a 10mp sensor and produces decent quality images. Moreover, the size is very compact and easy to store in the pocket and carry around. You can take out the print sheet and still take pictures that can be saved on the micro sd card. The pictures are more suitable for polaroid prints than digital prints.
Great Camera for Landscapes and Architecture
This instant camera by Lomography is oriented towards photography enthusiasts. The camera gets manual focus with three-set positions to lock on subjects when taking pictures. You get 10 shots per pack, and It takes around 30 seconds for one image to be printed after being clicked.
The glass lens is strong compared to other instant cameras available and helps in producing crisp quality images. Users looking to take wide-angle shots are oriented towards the landscape and architecture; this camera is a great choice to opt for.
Best For First Time Instant Camera Buyers
If you are starting with instant cameras, then this is perfect for you. It is easy to use and also one of the cheapest on our lists. The mini-film packs are quite cost-effective. It has an auto-exposure feature, so you do not have to fiddle about with the buttons. It is compact and fits in your travel bag.
This camera is targeted towards beginner users, especially kids. So if you're looking for professional use, it is better to consider other options. However, if you are looking to capture that fun moment with your loved ones, then it does its job.
The Instant Camera for Enthusiast and Advanced Users
For hard-core film lovers, this camera combines basic as well as highly advanced features. The company launched its product lineup in 2008 to revive the polaroid cameras. This camera is amongst the lineup aimed at professionals and enthusiasts. The camera body is large, and you cannot store it in the pocket.
It's easy to use as point and shoot, but if you want more control, using Bluetooth, you can pair it with your phone and set the exposure and other settings manually. The LED's are multifunctional that can show charging status, battery left, and other functions. The image quality is good in daylight and mixed type in poor light conditions.
Shoot Better Instant Photos Using These Tips - From Our Expert
- Check the minimum focusing distance of your instant camera. Keeping yourself further away will help you avoid blurry selfies and take sharp pictures.
- Instant cameras are not known for their low light performance or for capturing pictures with good dynamic range. Shoot in well-lit conditions to avoid grainy pictures. On the other hand, there is no harm in getting creative with some grainy shots.
- Check the average developing time of the instant camera you are planning to buy. It varies across products.
- Find out the temperature range in which your instant film works best. Developing time is usually longer in low temperatures. You may put the film inside your pocket after clicking to provide body heat, so it develops faster.
- Instant films can fade over time. Keep them away from direct sunlight, heat, and humidity.
Check Out Few Creative Ideas to Begin With
Check out this cool video to get a few creative ideas to play with polaroids around. These are a few ideas to begin with; later, you can be creative to add something from your own side. They have talked about:
- Equipment used
- Editing software
- Panorama
- Pano sequence
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For the tech enthusiasts and users looking to buy a new tablet, gaming monitor, or an external hard drive, we have assembled a PC and cameras section with extensive buying guides to help you select wisely and the one that suits you best,
Summary
An instant camera is a fantastic way to capture all the fun moments when attending any social gathering. It can be a unique way to be creative, and it even makes for a good gift! Whether you are a beginner, an enthusiast, or an advanced user, instant cameras are great fun and are a sure way to enjoy time with your loved ones.
Top 5 Instant Camera
No. 1: Fujifilm ｜Instax Mini 11 Instant Camera
No. 2: ｜Fujifilm Instax Square SQ6
No. 3: Polaroid ｜POP 2.0-20MP Instant Print Digital Camera
No. 4: Polaroid ｜Originals OneStep 2
No. 5: ｜Fujifilm Instax Mini LiPlay
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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