10 Best Instant Cameras in India 2021 - Buying Guide Reviewed By Filmmaker

Here are our top 10 recommendations for instant cameras in India. When choosing an instant camera, think about the size of the camera, what kind of batteries it has, which type of user you are, and any additional features that may seem attractive to you.

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. You can also reach out to him on Instagram.

When film cameras were still in use, you had to go to the photo studio to get your prints developed and printed. However, as the name says, you get your photos; you click instantly in print on a polaroid and then straight out of the camera. So think of these cameras as an in-built developing studio.

An instant camera creates a chemically developed print by using a film that it develops by itself. When you take a picture, light enters the shutter, reflecting a mirror and onto the film. The film sheet passes through rollers in the camera and gets developed. So these are the best for those who love getting hard copies of the memories they have created/experienced.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

1. Check the minimum focusing distance of your instant camera. Keeping yourself further away will help you avoid blurry selfies and take sharp pictures.
2. 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.
3. Check the average developing time of the instant camera you are planning to buy. It varies across products.
4. 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.
5. Instant films can fade over time. Keep them away from direct sunlight, heat, and humidity.

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:

1. Equipment used
2. Editing software
3. Panorama
4. Pano sequence

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,

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.