Even though technology has advanced so far, there has been a rise in different mediums of physical media; photo prints, records, video tapes, and more. Instant photo cameras – like Polaroid and Fujifilm Instax – have seen a huge surge in popularity in recent years. Why? Especially when we carry our phones everywhere and can capture photos at any time?
Photo credit: Myles Katherine Photography
Having a physical copy of a memory, especially a once-off print like an instant photo, almost makes the moment more special. It’s a moment that can be held, rather than forgotten about in a phone media library.
Photo credit: The Phoblographer
Fujifilm has boosted the physical media resurgence with their brand Instax, with their range of different instant cameras that appeal to a wide range of audiences. The Instax Mini 12 range (12 being the most current model) appeal to the younger generations, with being able to take them to parties and make photo albums, and to let party attendees take the instant photos home. The film is more affordable than traditional Polaroid film, adding to the popularity.
The Instax Mini EVO is a hybrid instant camera and digital camera, where it can keep digital copies of the images and print chosen ones as well. This appeals to a different audience entirely, as it can be used as a digital camera with its many film simulations and ability to upload online.
But then having the “print” function as well (which is activated by using a winder like a film camera), being more cost efficient with being able to take more shots and choosing the best one to print. It does lose the novelty effect of an instant camera, as you can have more than one go at taking the shot, but it can also print more than one copy of a photo so that more than one person can have the same.
Polaroid brand cameras still remain more appealing to those more into photography as a whole, as the film is more expensive than the Instax range. Polaroid images are bigger and often have more complex lenses, more being for art and testing creativity than something to take home from a party.
Instant photos, regardless of brand, remain incredibly popular with many audiences. There’s one for every budget and occasion.
