Instant film cameras are the go-to pick for house parties, weddings receptions, or road trip stops at the gas station (just me?). They're fun, tabgible, and nolstagic. There's a ton of them made new these days, so here's our 5 favories we've hand-tested and love.
5 Instant Film Cameras For Your Next Party
No patience? Instant film cameras are what you need. Check out these 5 instant film cameras from Kodak, Fujifilm, and Lomography for your next party or road trip.
1. Fujifilm’s Instax Square SQ1
Best For: People who want a fun, simple way to share instant photos at parties, gatherings, etc.
Fujifilm’s Instax brand might be the most popular instant film camera. It's become THE camera for parties, wedding receptions, and small gatherings as an immediate, personable gift to give your beloved company. On the SQ1, Fujifilm has removed multiple manual controls found on the previous model, the SQ6, and created a point-and-shoot instant camera that's incredibly simple to use. Although the controls are more limited, the improved auto-exposure system in the new Instax Square SQ1 delivers better-looking instant photos than the previous model.
The Simplicity
This camera is the perfect testament to new film users; it allows you to shoot and share with the touch of a button.
Better Exposure
Optimized for better exposure, the SQ1 is now made for darker scenarios with improved flash capabilities.
2. Polaroid Now+ Instant Film Camera
Best For: Creators who love Polaroid’s classic name and even more classic products.
This isn't just any camera; it's a creative Phoenix that fits in your hand. It's a newly built camera that genuinely rivals its vintage predecessors.
One feature that genuinely stands out is the authentic double exposure: the layering of two moments, allowing for one result. You can combine perspectives, overlay images, and even blend inspiration, all within a single, handheld Polaroid photo. It feels like a nod to the classic film techniques but with a modern flare.
But what got me hooked was the manual mode on the Now+. It's a game-changer. The level of precision and control it offers is something I hadn't expected to find in an instant camera. Dialing in the exact exposure, I wanted to feel liberated and grounded, giving me a sense of creative freedom and technical control usually reserved for my mirrorless digital camera.
Autofocus 2‑Lens system
Sharper photos effortlessly. The Polaroid Now+ decides which lens is suitable, so you get beautiful portraits in more places, more often — even without the flash.
Self‑Timer
Get yourself in the shot with the self-timer. In just one tap, you’ve got 9 seconds to gather your friends and smile.
3. Lomography Instant Wide
Best For: Those who admire the artistic, experimental side of instant photography with additional lenses, accessories, and exposures.
Whether you’re lounging in the sun at a pool party in the Hollywood Hills, cycling through Chilean vineyards, or reconnecting over Sunday brunch with friends, this is a great option. The 21mm equivalent Ultra Wide-Angle Lens attachment lets you capture the whole scene without feeling too wide. Take wide, bright landscapes to post on Instagram, or take the ultimate selfie with all your friends included in the frame. For long exposures, switch to Bulb Mode, and capture the stars (literally!)
Close Up Addition
When you just can’t get close enough, simply slip on the Close-Up Lens and focus up to 0.1m!
Unlimited Multiple Exposures
With the MX switch's flick, you can instantly create multiple-exposure classics.
Color Gels
Add artistic style to your shots and experiment with cool and crazy results —four brightly colored flash gels let you paint your shots with a smack of color.
4. Fujifilm Instax Mini
Best For: People who want a fun, simple way to share instant photos at parties, gatherings, etc.
The Instax Mini from Fujifilm is a classic camera that can be seen on nearly every wedding reception table, adding a touch of fun and color to the event. With its automated settings, colorful shell, and built-in selfie mirror, this mini guy makes it easier to keep your memories alive and pass on to friends. It even calculates the best brightness for taking a picture, letting you know which setting to use with an illuminated lamp. All you have to do is turn the brightness adjustment dial to the position (mark) of the lamp, and you're ready to go.
Selfie Mirror
You can check your framing with the mirror next to the lens.
Close-Up Lens Attachment
Close-up shooting up to 35 cm away is possible.
High-Key Mode
Setting the brightness adjustment dial to the high-key mode mark allows you to take pictures with a softer impression.
5. Polaroid I-2
Best For: Creators wanting to take their instant film to another level with FULL manual control.
First, the clarity of each shot needs to be noted. The I-2 features a three-element autofocusing lens that blew me away with its sharpness. It's equipped with a LiDAR sensor, which allows it to adjust focus based on the subject's distance, which is incredibly handy in those low-light living rooms.
Don't be fooled by its nod to retro charm; the I-2 is brimming with updated features. It's compatible with popular films, including i-Type, 600, and the ever-so-nostalgic SX-70. With a touch of modern-day magic, it boasts Bluetooth connectivity and pairs seamlessly with an app, so you can edit and share immediately.
Regarding performance, the I-2 is nothing short of a superstar in Polaroid's roster. It's armed with a nifty 98mm f/8 lens, akin to a 50mm f/2.8 lens in the 35mm camera world. This feature is particularly noteworthy as it bestows the I-2 with a wider aperture relative to many of its siblings; some peak at f/11 or even f/16. Regarding aperture agility, you'd be hard-pressed to find a Polaroid camera with similar capabilities without time-traveling back to the 80s.
Stunning Bokeh
There's a distinctive bokeh effect that I hadn't seen in my other instant film cameras.
Manual Control
Truly the most manual you can get with an instant film camera.
