Best film cameras & accessories according to redditors
We found 453 Reddit comments discussing the best film cameras & accessories. We ranked the 243 resulting products by number of redditors who mentioned them. Here are the top 20.
We found 453 Reddit comments discussing the best film cameras & accessories. We ranked the 243 resulting products by number of redditors who mentioned them. Here are the top 20.
Fuji Instax Mini
I pretty much only make a list because my In-laws and parents want to me too haha:
Don't really expect to get anything from there (usually end up with a gift card to REI lol) but it can fun to find little doo dads that I don't really want to buy myself haha.
Oooo, this is my favourite thing to do with my journal!
Here are examples of some of the things mentioned in case I didn’t explain clearly :) I hope this helps!
This looks a lot like the Polaroid Snap, and made by the same company, C+A Global.
The Snap has a few more features - it lets you print with or without border, and has 3 colour modes instead of 2 - but a 3.4mm f/2.8 lens as opposed to the Kodak's 8mm f/x lens. It implies a bigger sensor, but that seems strange given how similar everything else is, and that they're both 10mp. Maybe a different f.o.v.? Typo?
Z-ink isn't as good quality as instant film, but 'film' is a lot cheaper, and the microSD card is great for when you want to share the photo, or run out of paper. And kids love the stickers.
If you're after quality, then these are not the cameras for you. But as a second camera, or for parties, etc., they really are a lot of fun.
Close, it’s the Fuji Instax Mini 7s
I believe that camera will actually take 600 film which means it's actually 3.50$ a picture. amazon link
Fujifilm Superia X-TRA 400 35mm Film -4 Pack
http://www.amazon.com/Fujifilm-1014258-Superia-X-TRA-400/dp/B00004TWLZ/
Close to $2 a roll.
Translation: WAAAAAAAAAAAHHHH. WAAAAAAAAHH.
Let me guess: You have zero creative ability and you're throwing a tantrum. You need to learn to use a camera - and you need a lot more practice. It may take you 10,000 pictures to figure out what you're doing.
Anyway... for those situations with your G10:
And with the depth of field, even most consumer DSLR lenses aren't that fast. Zoom lenses are f/5.6 at 200mm, for example. The depth effect isn't as pronounced as you're expecting.
What you buy with a more expensive camera is more fidelity and control. It does not make a "better" picture. Period. Experienced photographers understand this. In the same way that pencils, pen, pastels, watercolor and oil-based paints are all different ways that an artist can create an image - the results of those different methods are not automatically greater than the other.
ie: If you knew shit, you'd understand that you can take spectacular photos with nothing more than an iPhone. In fact, the entire Holga movement is based on a $27 camera with a plastic lens.
If you're frustrated with your point and shoot not giving you the results you expect, you will do nothing but waste money on a DSLR, then throw a tantrum because it isn't a "push button, make art" box. DSLRs actually require more patience and skill to operate than the point-and-shoot that you failed horribly with - because they have more controls that introduce more variables to every shot.
600 packfilm is pretty expensive. The Impossible Project sells film for about $25 a pack (so, $2.50 a shot). From what I've heard and seen, the film isn't that good either, unless you're into the whole "lomo" or "artistically shitty" thing.
If you want to get into Polaroid cameras, I'd recommend picking up a Polaroid Land camera on eBay. Fuji makes two types of film for those, FP-100C, which is color, and FP-3000B, which is really fast black and white. I've used both, and am very happy with the results. I just bought a Polaroid Land 104 for my flatmate for $25, so they're not too expensive. You'd also need to attach a modern battery pack, which takes only a couple of minutes and $2 at Radio Shack. I could describe how to do that.
amazon has portra for effectively $8 per roll and free shipping
Here's one that uses actual instant film https://www.amazon.com/Fujifilm-Instax-Mini-Instant-Camera/dp/B06WW64YM6/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1549304170&sr=8-5&keywords=fuji+instax
Here's one that is digital and prints the photos as you take them- https://www.amazon.com/Polaroid-Instant-Digital-Printing-Technology/dp/B015JIAGE2/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?ie=UTF8&qid=1549304216&sr=8-1-spons&keywords=polaroid+digital&psc=1
And here's a portable printer so you can just print photos from your phone https://www.amazon.com/Canon-Wireless-Bluetooth-Portable-Printer/dp/B07C68MS2H
​
I've used both of the first 2. The Fuji instax photos look best but getting them to come out good with lighting can be tricky and the film is expensive. I wouldn't reccomend the instant print polaroid. The pictures rarely came out good in my experience.
I haven't had experience with the pocket printer but they seem really nifty.
I've developed around 200 rolls of film and have never set foot in a dark room. You only need darkrooms if you want to make prints. To go from undeveloped to developed negatives you only need a "daylight" tank (Paterson is a popular brand) and a Dark bag.
Here is everything you need to get started with black and white stand development:
1 reel tank
Dark bag
Church key bottle opener
Scissors with long-ish blades
Adox Rodinal
Fixer
10ml syringe - you will need this to measure rodinal and fixer accurately
generic measuring cups
Optional but nice:
Film clips - you can also substitute laundry clips or use the clips on pants hangers.
Film Squeegee - you can also just use your fingers coated in a bit of water with a drop of soap in it.
Negative Holders
The process is pretty easy.
1) shoot film and rewind entirely into cartridge
2) put tank, reel, lid, cartridge, bottle opener and scissors into bag. Shut off lights - it doesn't need to be perfectly dark, just no intense light.
3) open cartridge with bottle opener, remove film, cut off leader, spool onto reel, put reel into tank, close lid, remove everything from dark bag.
4) mix up a 1:100 solution of rodinal to water making ~300ml (3ml rodinal, 300ml of water)
5) add mixture to tank (do not remove the inner lid), agitate a few times and set a timer for 1 hour
6) during that 1 hour you should mix up a 1:9 solution of fixer (30ml fixer, 270ml water)
7) after an hour, pour out developer, fill and empty the tank with water a few times. Then fill and agitate 5 times, empty, fill and agitate 10 times, empty, fill and agitate 20 times, empty
8) add fixer solution. Agitate for 30 seconds. Then for 6 minutes agitate for 5 seconds every 30 seconds. While you do this, run your shower on its hottest setting until done (this will eliminate most airborn dust in your bathroom)
9) pour the fixer in a air tight container and store it in a dark place (you can use the same mix of fixer about 3 times, adding 2 minutes each time) and repeat the rinsing procedure from step 7
10) open the tank, hang the film somewhere in your bathroom (I usually hang mind from the shower curtain rod using coat hangers), squeegee the film off in 2-3 passes and leave it to dry
11) after 1 hour you should cut the film into strips of 6 exposures each and store in your negative holders
And there you have it, you have developed black and white film! The process is very easy and gets easier every time you do it. Stand development is also VERY economically efficient as you barely use any rodinal per roll and you can reuse the fixer. It massively raises your films apparent sharpness and contrast and can correct for missed exposures to a ridiculous degree. Also, if you want to develop multiple film speeds in one tank, it can do that!
I am happy to answer any questions ANYONE has about home film developing.
This manual should work for you if you don't have one. This uses 600 type film and can be found at Polaroid Originals or places like Amazon and such. The battery is in the film pack so the camera will not function until you insert the film pack. The current film is not exactly like the original stuff that was discontinued around 2006. It's a bit faster (more sensitive to light) than the original so you'll likely need to adjust the lighten/darken control a bit to darker. The new film is also a bit sensitive to light when it is first ejected unlike the original stuff. They sell an extended light shield to help cover the film for a bit when first ejected. Otherwise quickly shield a new print in a pocket or something for a few minutes at first.
Fujifilm Instax
100 facts about pandas
M.A.C cosmetics, Tartan tale collection
Animal mug + spoon
Kid Robot toys
Taschen books
Eboy poster
Normal watch
Again, failing to actually address the point of longevity - this is their competition mass produced, half the price per shot and affordable. 8 shots per pack for a price point on par with when they used to have 10 shots in a pack is not a successful transition or rebrand. It's not making good on their promise to lower prices and the fool hardy suggestion that it's art and people who care will pay more will not help them win. They have the most recognizable name but that name will not help them where they need it to. I know people who like the idea of polaroids, love them when they see me taking them but cannot afford to spend the money on getting into it as a serious hobby and that is the problem - if art is for everybody, how can we claim that they're even close to fulfilling that idea? I can support my purchases as I'm lucky enough to be able to afford it - but I'm not going to sit here and pretend this is a revolution or a success beyond corporate branding and an effort to make more money without actually bringing something beyond a new formulation to the table. They promised more shots per pack and price drops for years - we've seen nothing from them. So why pretend? I want them to succeed but they will never be able to in the long run if they don't seriously gear up for a way to lower the prices and increase access.
I was using Wein cells but I got tired of replacing them, so I invested in a voltage-dropping adapter like this one, which takes 386 alkalines. It's been about a year now, and I'm still on the first battery. :)
A Fuji Instax 210, it’s old, big and ugly. The battery compartment broke so I have a bunch of electrical tape on it 🙈 Here’s the Amazon US link.
Another fun, way cheaper DIY toy camera:
All sorts of corner softening and vignettes and oversaturated colors to be found: https://www.flickr.com/groups/gakkenflex/
When I read "cheap camera with a built-in lens", I immediately thought he was describing one of these: https://www.amazon.com/Disposable-Kodak-Camera-3Pack/dp/B000OFW65I
You don't actually need a dark room, it's a common misconception. You only need that if you plan to use an enlarger and make your own prints. I don't, but only due to lack of space in my apartment - I scan them in and order prints at Costco or Bartells like any normal digital scan.
If you get one of the Paterson Reel tanks like I have in that photo, you just need a changing bag. Put your 1-2 rolls of film, a bottle opener, a pair of scissors, and all the tank pieces in the bag. Seal it up, pop open the film canister with the bottle opener, then spool the film onto the reels. Put both reels back in the tank and seal it up. Everything else can be done in daylight. (you can skip the bag and do this in a pitch black room like your bathroom or a closet if you want. I prefer the bag- I can sit on the couch and watch TV while I spool rolls).
Then you're just dumping in chemicals on a timed schedule and then unspooling and hanging them to dry when complete. B&W is roughly 13 minutes a batch at diluted 1+1, or 6 minutes at stock (full strength) solution. Stock just uses it up twice as fast, but saves time.
B&W = developer (12-15 minutes for most films at 1+1 - check the massive dev chart -> stop bath (1 minute) -> fixer (1 minute) -> rinse (2-3 minutes) -> hang to dry (2ish hours or until totally dry).
Color = developer (6ish minutes) -> blix (2-3 minutes) -> rinse (2-3 minutes) -> stabilizer (1 minute) -> hang to dry (2ish hours).
I'm pulling those numbers from memory, but the unicolor kit has a good guide with it.
Stuff you need
For B&W film - you use the 1+1 developer one time (150ml per roll of film) and dump it when you finish. Which means that 1L D-76 pouch gives you 6 rolls of film. I buy mine in the 1G bags to mix up as they're cheaper, but you need a 1G plastic bottle to store it. For color film that kit does 8-9 rolls of film. The bigger 1G kits are more expensive and you can also buy the chemicals separately. Color is picky because you need to keep it at a constant 103F the whole time or risk ruining them, hence the bucket (or a bathtub). Color developer and all other chemicals you dump back into bottles and re-use until it's used up.
The color film process is actually really well documented in the booklet that comes with the unicolor kit.
If you ever want a hands on trial, I can do a video of the process or a demo at my apartment (my fiance thinks it looks like I'm doing crazy mad science stuff every time)
Check out /r/analog for weekly advice threads or some of these helpful links:
Damn this guy knows way more than me, listen to him!
Do you think a city sling would hold this camera? I need a sling that can hold it.
Fujifilm Instax Mini 90 Neo Classic Instant Film Camera https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FR85IRK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_16IuDb4R5PQ1R
https://www.fujifilm.com/products/instant_photo/cameras/instax_mini_90/
I'm looking to get an instant camera this upcoming Black Friday!
Right now I'm looking at the Fujifilm Instax Mini 9, the Instax Wide 300, the Intax Mini 90 Neo Classic, and the Polaroid Onestep 2.
Right now I think the one I'm most interested in is the Mini 90; It has the most features, looks nice, and seems to take great pictures. But I'm unsure if I really think it's worth being 3x the price of the Mini 9. And I've heard of possible issues with the longevity of the proprietary battery.
I also really like the larger prints of the Instax Wide, and the Onestep 2, and the Onestep 2 has that real nostalgic look, but they're both very simple cameras, and I've heard very conflicting things about the quality of the pictures they produce.
And the Mini 9 has by far the most attractive price; I can get a bundle with 2 packs of film for $80 CAD at Costco, but I really hate that it cant really take landscape pictures (at least, not without holding it in an awkward way it wasn't meant to be held)
Any thoughts on the cameras? would you recommend any to me specifically? And are there any good deals going on?
What about one of the Fujifilm cameras?
Fujifilm Instax Mini 9 - Ice Blue Instant Camera https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06WW64YM6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_hKCbAbFT3418Q
I was given cash for my birthday and bought one for myself. I'm 20 and use it all the time. I love having a tangible photo. This would allow your boyfriend and his kids to do something together and give them something to hold onto.
Get a Polaroid 440! Or any camera that uses Polaroid Type-100 film. Fuji still makes type-100 instant film!
They've got ISO 100 color film or ISO 3000 black and white film available. Both look great and work really well.
I use it on my Polaroid 440 and Polaroid back for my Mamiya RB67. It makes really great prints.
the second one is really a rebranded [fuji instax]
(http://www.amazon.com/Fujifilm-MINI-7s-White-Camera/dp/B001AK1DOG/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&qid=1372616832&sr=8-7&keywords=fujifilm+instax) the fuji is also a little less in price.
I bought a bunch of these DIY 35mm TLR's for friends. I built one the other night, it was fun because that's the kind of nerd I am. It was pretty educational as well; it's not often you get to see the actual guts of what makes a camera work and just how absolutely simple they can be.
> For people and family photos, I love ISO 400 color print film. It's fast enough to let me shoot without flash in any light, and good enough to look good even if I have plenty of light.
>
>Any ISO 400 film will work, and you can get it anywhere that sells film. Fuji Superia 400 is my favorite low-cost ISO 400 film. It sells for about $3 a roll.
>
>Fuji 400H Professional is my favorite — but costs about $8 a roll. I order it online as I always have; good film always has to be ordered.
>
>If you're expecting to be shooting in very dim light, ISO 800 print film doesn't have much more gain than ISO 400, and you'll be much better able to stop motion. It has slightly less vivid colors and a little more grain, but that's much better then a blurry picture if the light is very dim.
>
>
>
> ISO 100 print film is even better if you're outdoors and don't expect to be indoors during the same roll of film, except that ISO 100 print film is usually optimized for nature and landscape photos more than for people photos.
​
https://www.kenrockwell.com/tech/how-to-shoot-film.htm#recommendedfilms
The Impossible Project stuff is nice, but the film is extremely expensive. I would recommend going with a Fujifilm Instax Wide. The camera itself is pretty cheap...roughly $50.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002NUP0D2/ref=pd_lpo_sbs_dp_ss_2?pf_rd_p=1944687782&pf_rd_s=lpo-top-stripe-1&pf_rd_t=201&pf_rd_i=B00005NPPQ&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_r=0Z1VMXWCCHSZYNH8HEN2
If you buy the film, you can get 40 sheets for roughly $30.
http://www.amazon.com/Fuji-Instant-Color-Instax-Cameras/dp/B007I6FCIO/ref=sr_1_3?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1416854415&sr=1-3&keywords=fujifilm+instax+wide
If you want the film to be a little cheaper, you can buy an Instax mini, but I think the bigger prints are worth the little bit of extra money they cost.
Polaroid One 600
https://www.amazon.com/Polaroid-One600-Classic-Instant-Camera/dp/B0001MB7RW
Film... color
https://www.amazon.com/Polaroid-Originals-4670-Color-White/dp/B075H4WWP1/ref=pd_aw_fbt_421_img_2/133-0773012-6077521?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B075H4WWP1&pd_rd_r=34eee1e8-280c-11e9-a720-93fce9026ffb&pd_rd_w=mWBZ7&pd_rd_wg=LjTs5&pf_rd_p=b98fa1a4-6e6e-4981-835c-7fb29e0f4dd2&pf_rd_r=D156MDD0A4VWYQ6C0324&psc=1&refRID=D156MDD0A4VWYQ6C0324
B&w
https://www.amazon.com/Polaroid-Originals-Film-600-Frames/dp/B075H4WWP2/ref=pd_aw_fbt_421_img_3/133-0773012-6077521?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B075H4WWP2&pd_rd_r=34eee1e8-280c-11e9-a720-93fce9026ffb&pd_rd_w=mWBZ7&pd_rd_wg=LjTs5&pf_rd_p=b98fa1a4-6e6e-4981-835c-7fb29e0f4dd2&pf_rd_r=D156MDD0A4VWYQ6C0324&psc=1&refRID=D156MDD0A4VWYQ6C0324
You buy reusable cartridges that allow you to reload them. Then, in a darkroom, or a dark room, or a dark bag, you unspool the length you want from the main roll, and load it onto the spool in the cartridge, and then seal it up and take it out, and then you use it just like a normal roll of film.
That's pretty much the best price you will find for a twin pack. You can buy a 60 pack for around $39 HERE if you are willing to buy that much film at a time. If you don't want to wait for the film to arrive in the mail, Best Buy usually sells twin packs for $14 plus tax, but they tend to run out quick at the Best Buy near me. All in all, it will usually be around $0.60 - $1 per picture with this type of film.
I got the Fujifilm Mini Instax camera on amazon! It’s cheaper than a standard Polaroid with more access to film but it’s not cheap either. Here’s the amazon link for the one I got:
Fujifilm Instax Mini 9 - Ice Blue Instant Camera https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06WW64YM6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_lY0BCbAGEH8GZ
I’m genuinely having so much fun with it. I got it for our wedding reception in May and I’m excited to have guests use it and take pictures for our guest book!
If you're price conscious on film I would shy away from any of the 600 series cameras. $25-30 for 8 shots? Not worth it if you want to actively shoot with it.
If you don't like the mini form factor, you could also consider an instax wide. the pros are the film is cheap, it's wider than the OG square polaroid film which some people like too. (cheaper than the instax mini film even) but the cons are the camera itself is HUGE.
I personally have the mini 25, and have been enjoying using it more as an out with friends, or throw it in my bag camera. For more artistic stuff I use a Polaroid Land and FP100c film (8.99 for 10 shots) If you can go that route I would do that for cost. The cons of pack film is you can't just throw it in your pocket after you peel it, you have to wait for it to dry first.
> POLAROID 600
Nope, you need 600-type film. Fresh stuff is being made still, it's pretty expensive but them's the breaks with instant cameras.
That is like how much the Instax Wide 300 is, I would not pay for it. Especially used, you can pay 2 dollars more for the same camera with film on amazon brand new.
Mini 70 - https://www.amazon.com/Fujifilm-Instax-Mini-70-Instant/dp/B015R3WUNO
Mini 8 - https://www.amazon.com/Fujifilm-INSTAX-Mini-Instant-Blue/dp/B00AWKJPOA/ref=pd_lpo_421_bs_t_2?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=GZT3ZKZCJPGPE9R9HJM3
Wide 300 - https://www.amazon.com/Fujifilm-Instax-Wide-300-Instant/dp/B00TGOWK3Q/ref=sr_1_2?s=photo&ie=UTF8&qid=1480377151&sr=1-2&keywords=instax+300
Wide 210 - https://www.amazon.com/Fujifilm-INSTAX-Instant-Photo-Camera/dp/B002NUP0D2/ref=sr_1_1?s=photo&ie=UTF8&qid=1480377198&sr=1-1&keywords=instax+210
I'm under $6 a roll doing this:
Right on, my pleasure. The pack film cameras really aren't that large compared to your garden variety SLR or DSLR. Especially compared to the Instax 210, they are about the same size. The Fuji 210 is actually quite large.
Of course, there are other Fuji instant cameras, like this or this. The print they produce is about half the size of the print of the 210, however. More business card-sized, I'd say.
If you're after consistency and ease of use for wedding guests, I'd probably go with the Instax cameras. They are dead simple (put the pack in the camera, point and shoot), the quality is consistent (Fuji), and you don't have to do any of the peeling that comes with the 100 series films. What you will have to decide is if you can live with the smaller formats that come along with a smaller camera, though. Here is a comparison of the formats I've managed to find. Scroll down to see the size difference.
I can't say that I know of any 35mm camera that shoots anything instant at all. You mentioned the Holga with the 100 series back, but that is ordinarily a 120 film camera that people adapt to shoot 35mm or 100 series Polaroid film. Other than the vast line of Polaroid brand cameras, Fuji Instax cameras, medium format cameras (Mamiya, Hasselblad, Bronica, etc.) and large format (4x5" and above), I've never heard of a camera that shoots with an instant back that also shoots 35mm.
I have this Fuiji Instax camera. It works awesome. And you can buy film for it via amazon. Its not as awesome as the good old Polaroid 600 type, but it is a great equivalent, although a bit big. But has a nice set of features.
Yes you can!
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B075H4WWP1/ref=mp_s_a_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1527030676&sr=8-5&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=polaroid+film&dpPl=1&dpID=41oXmjfLnEL&ref=plSrch
Right now I'm really diggin' this camerea I think it could be a lot of fun.
No specific suggestions for providers, but just an idea we liked. We bought an Instax cameras (basically Polaroid cameras) and a bunch of film and left them on the front table with the gifts. We asked people to use them all night and take polaroid-like photos, then deposit them in a box.
We got a ton of amazingly goofy photos with them. Loved the retro feel of the film, and the permanence of film over a digital camera seemed to bring out the best in people. It's been 3 years and I still take a few shots with that camera at birthdays, parties, etc. Compliments our DSLR and cell phones nicely. It's a modern take on the "leaving disposable cameras around" idea, better because people can immediately see the photos they took.
We had the Instax 210, no longer made; they replaced it with the Instax wide 300. We both like the wide format onces better, but the square-film Instax mini 9 cameras and film are more widely available.
If you're feeling a bit like going against the grain, try this
Why use Instax? You can get an older Polaroid Land Camera and use Fuji 100 and 3000 pack film, available on Amazon. If you're looking to spend a bit more, you could also get yourself a medium format kit with a polaroid back.
Gear required for this shot can be found Here
I don't know if your kid is into photography, but I got one of these Polaroid cameras that I plan to take with me to Disney. It's really cute and easy to use. You could maybe even get a Disney themed scrapbook for her/him to put the photos in?
They also have Disney themed film for the camera so when it prints out, the borders have Disney characters depending on which film you buy.
​
The only downside is any super bright outdoor areas and the photos don't show up that great. Shady areas, night photos, and indoor photos are best.
I shoot a Canonet and a Canon F-1, which are both designed for PX625 lead-acid batteries. I use an MR-9 battery adapter with a silver-oxide battery to power those meters.
https://www.amazon.com/Battery-Adapter-Camera-Exposure-Mercury/dp/B00CTNZ9H0
I've talked to my camera tech(I've used the same tech for 15 years or so), and according to him a modern 1.5v silver oxide battery will work fine in most situations. Modern films (like Tri-X, TMAx, Ilford HP5, Ektar, Portra, etc) have a ton of latitude. The extra .15v from the modern battery will cause you to overexpose, but not enough to mess with the exposure of modern films in a significant way. If you shoot older emulsions (Ferrania P30, Eastman Double-X, etc) the difference will be much more noticeable.
But really, pick up a battery adapter and a pack of silver oxide batteries. The adapter is expensive, but you can transfer it between a ton of film camera bodies that used that common PX625 battery when new.
Worth noting- a handful of vintage cameras are internally regulated. Several Pentax Spotmatic variants have voltage regulating diodes in their circuitry that allow them to use batteries with a wider array of voltages.
Happy shooting!
Having done clubs for cash, I can tell you the standard setup is dSLR with a big Speedlight. Speedlight alone is going to set you back more than your budget.
You might have luck with a few of these...
http://www.amazon.com/Disposable-Kodak-Camera-3Pack/dp/B000OFW65I/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1331019806&sr=8-2
I was excited when the impossible project was announced a couple years ago, but as I've said before, the price and quality of the film isn't for me.
A realistic alternative is buying an instax camera and using instax film.
Like this? https://www.amazon.com/Fujifilm-Instax-Mini-Instant-Camera/dp/B06WW64YM6/ref=ice_ac_b_dpb?s=photo&ie=UTF8&qid=1549304261&sr=1-4&keywords=polaroid+camera
Actually a cellphone is not the worst idea. Fuji has the SP-1 Instax Printer which you can send images from your phone to the printer.
I'm planning on doing both an Instax and selfie stick(s). We actually got a Mini 8 for Christmas, but we're exchanging it for the Mini 90 because it has a timer and a tripod slot. It's double the price and not as cute, but seems much more practical!
I've found a changing bag like this to be really helpful when diagnosing problems. You can't see but you can feel around to see if the takeup reel has film or not.
I bought this one
I have the instax mini.
Over time it's the cost of film that really matters, the cost of the camera will be negligible once you've taken 100 shots. Fujifilm Instax are the cheapest for film. It doesn't matter how much nicer the camera looks if you can't afford the film to use it! If you want the bigger film size you can always get the instax wide though that means the camera is bigger and less convenient to carry around (though so is the polaroid).
Do take into consideration the size of the camera itself. If you have to carry an extra bag around for it you're less likely to have it on you when you see something you want to shoot. The instax mini fits in my handbag, the other two would not. Google for pictures of people using them to get an idea of the size.
As for the smaller film, I considered that too but the truth is I'm never looking at my pictures from across the room anyway - they're in my hand when I look at them. Credit card size is plenty for that.
In conclusion i think the instax wide is a good compromise if the film size is important to you. The films for it are about US$16 for 20 (as opposed to US$50 for 16 for the polaroid) and they're comparable in size. Here's a comparison of the polaroid, instax mini and instax wide films.
BTW you could always get a groovy case to make it prettier.
http://www.amazon.com/Holga-144120-120N-Plastic-Camera/dp/B000AL8JKW/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1292126185&sr=1-1
Get her a holga. Film/ processing may be a limitation though.
I just fixed my land camera 100 a few weeks ago! I used fujifilm that I bought off of amazon. (http://www.amazon.com/FUJIFILM-FP-3000B-Inches-Professional-Instant/dp/B001G70M6S and http://www.amazon.com/FUJIFILM-FP-100C-Inches-Professional-Instant/dp/B0000ALLYO) It can be kind of expensive, but I thought it was definitely worth it.
Got one of those cameras a few months ago. I see Polaroids at Goodwill all the time but this particular OneStep definitely screams gaudy and it had to be bought. The camera is powered by the battery in the film so it most likely won't work (though it's possible). This should be compatible with the camera though: http://www.amazon.com/FUJIFILM-FP-100C-Inches-Professional-Instant/dp/B0000ALLYO/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1377539181&sr=8-1&keywords=fujifilm+sx+70
https://www.amazon.com/FUJIFILM-FP-100C-Inches-Professional-Instant/dp/B0000ALLYO
They just released a smaller one too http://www.amazon.com/Polaroid-Digital-Instant-Print-Camera/dp/B008GVXL1A/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1346702617&sr=8-1&keywords=Z2300
Remember this is for the pull-apart film. This is not for the 600 series instant cameras.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0000ALLYO?pc_redir=1412913679&robot_redir=1
Sure, here.
fujifilm made a polaroid style printer for iPhone.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00HYAL84Q/ref=pd_lpo_sbs_dp_ss_1?pf_rd_p=1944687702&pf_rd_s=lpo-top-stripe-1&pf_rd_t=201&pf_rd_i=B00JKTG6FA&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_r=1Q3T762SR3B8JQTK0TVT
If you apply a 20% off coupon on google express it comes out cheaper. The lowest it has been on amazon is $31.49.
https://camelcamelcamel.com/Fujifilm-Instax-Mini-Instant-Value/product/B01E3QM34W
Do you have a link to the six pack?
There are adapters. And if you don't like buying extra stuff, you could just compare it to a known good camera and compensate with the ISO dial.
Fujifilm 1068620 Superia X-TRA 400 35mm Film - 4x24 exp, (Discontinued by Manufacturer) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00004TWLZ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_tuK4Ab6K0BXR7
https://www.amazon.com/Polaroid-Originals-4670-Color-White/dp/B075H4WWP1
It looks like a basic 80s Canon camera (Canon AE-1). You get one similar to it at Goodwill/Savers/etc pretty cheap. I don't think anyone is going to call you out from not having the exact camera. The lens may be more difficult to find.
thank you! I actually got a camera from my father, a Cannon ae-1 but its not in working condition.
Is this film worth checking out?
https://www.amazon.com/Fujifilm-1068620-Superia-X-TRA-400/dp/B00004TWLZ/ref=sr_1_1?s=photo&ie=UTF8&qid=1469489165&sr=1-1&refinements=p_n_feature_browse-bin%3A172451
I'm a polaroid fan but to be objective, if you are on a budget, fujifilm is a better bet for a new camera. Cameras are ~ $100 and film is much cheaper - more than 2x cheaper per shot than Polaroid and produce better quality that current polaroid originals film.
These are both great Instax cameras to give as gifts I think.
https://www.amazon.com/Fujifilm-Instax-Classic-Instant-Camera/dp/B00FR85IRK/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1511380666&sr=8-5&keywords=instax+mini
https://www.amazon.com/Fujifilm-Instax-Wide-300-Instant/dp/B00TGOWK3Q/ref=sr_1_3?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1511380688&sr=1-3&keywords=instax+wide
I'd personally recommend the WIDE camera (second link) as the "mini" photos are just too small to be useful (to me at least). Mini camera (1st link) does have more options however. But both are better cameras than current iType OneStep 2 PO sells.
If you are going polaroid route, I'd say avoid plastic consumer cameras of the 90s. And even the new onestep2. They are just too basic and too cheap (i know I'll get flamed for this). In my opinion, there are 3 cameras that are really worth having from polaroid:
SX-70 (Model 1 and 2) •
680 SLR <-overall best pick but pricy •
Spectra SE/PRO (Or Minolta variant of the same).
If you don't mind gifting a used Polaroid camera and on a budget, Spectra SE sells on ebay for 20-50$ based on condition and it's all inclusive (no need for any add-ons), higher end camera that shoots larger format film. If you snag one for 40$ like I did, you will still have enough for 3 packs of film to go with it!
my 2 cents.
Oh man, I have that exact model! I got mine from Costco so it came with a bag and 2 lenses.
Oooh, no, I have one of those cameras, but I'm pretty sure there's some light leak going on with it :/ I'm taking about this bad boy.
You're a human that moves into this small town where your neighbors are cute animals that act and talk like humans. In the original one, you have to pay off your mortgage and what not, and you can do tons of stuff around town like help out your neighbors, catch fish & bugs, visit your friend's town, and decorate your house. In this new one, you're the mayor of the town and you can actually purchase things for the town like benches and other decorations. The trailer might help :)
I can understand what you're saying, but I don't agree with you. I am in the same boat as you with film cameras, I have been shooting on film for years, and while I shoot digital now, I still have a ton of film cameras that I love the connected feeling I have with them when I shoot. I don't see what's wrong with the lomo brand. I mean, their film is pretty shitty, I'll give you that, but I shoot with a few of their cameras and I love it.
There seems to be this hatred towards the hipstamatic-styled images, which never bothered me because it means more people are taking pictures. I'm not a part of any mindset that says people don't know how to take pictures and shouldn't. I mean, the quality might not be good, but how many of us when we started out (damn, around 10 years ago for me) actually took good pictures? My first I don't know how long was just riddled with bad pictures that I liked and helped me learn and improve. There's nothing wrong with it, I was starting out. And they don't do any harm just existing in the internet, whether it's a flickr account, blog or facebook album. We're not talking about commercial and fine art photography being done by novices that have tilted horizons and are just washed in messed up colors and no focus, professionals still have that same level of skill as always. So it's not having any adverse affect on photography, all it's actually doing is getting more people into it. Are they good? It's irrelevant.
I know a lot of people don't like a company charging as much as they do either, which I am mixed with. I mean, I don't mind paying $40-$50 for my Holga or Diana or whatever. Do I wanna pay $400 for a limited edition LC-A+? Not really, I can't justify spending that much on one of their cameras. Same thing with some of the cameras with a flash, the Diana Mini was over $100 with it. That I don't like.
Otherwise, yeah they're a company that saw people that had fun with film cameras like the Holga and Diana, these toy cameras were selling already, so they started selling them for $30 per Holga, which you really can't argue as being a ton of money. The Diana F+ is $40 and right now it's $66 with a flash. For what you get, that's a fantastic price. After they sold these, they made some shitty film that they could sell 3 rolls of for $12 so when you leave their site, you don't have to go through the hassle of getting 120 film shipped from yet another place (more money).
I have heard the old LOMO cameras were good, and while I haven't played with the new lubitels, I think it's at least nice that they're trying to preserve these old cameras in some fashion. I mean, they can't be as good no matter what, but if you're into the fantastic quality of these old cameras, this won't be an adequate replacement, so it's not trying to play a fast one on you.
Have you read the ten golden rules of lomography? I think it's at least interesting for any photographer, regardless of how you feel about the company.
Overall, I'm not going to hate a company for getting more people to take pictures in any way, and especially not for bringing back obscure and funky cameras.
Only thing I can think of is the Instax Mini Printer
We're also wanting to do the polaroid thing, with this camera
http://www.amazon.com/Polaroid-Instant-Digital-Printing-Technology/dp/B015JIAD7C
My only concern was that it only takes 10 prints before it needs refilling, we don't want somebody to have to be in charge of it, but we don't want guests confused and not be able to use it.
I just bought this 5 pack of Portra 400 off of amazon for $29 with free shipping.
http://www.amazon.com/Kodak-Portra-Professional-Exposures-Negative/dp/B004FNRTGG/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1311272278&sr=8-1
I plan on buying more 5 packs from Amazon in the future.
https://www.amazon.com/Polaroid-Originals-4670-Color-White/dp/B075H4WWP1
https://www.bestbuy.com/site/polaroid-originals-instant-film-8-sheets-white/6089943.p?skuId=6089943
At BestBuy you can get 25% off if you buy three or more!
That's medium format, 120 film. You're looking for 35mm rolls, which I do have to admit can get pricy. It's probably going to get weird now, too, with Kodak flitting about in bankruptcy land.
There are much cheaper stocks out there, but Portra works really well with skin tones, and has much more muted colors than Ektar does.
Shipped and sold by Amazon via Polaroid originals. I contacted Amazon and they just told me to file a return and have a new one sent out.
An electric blanket is always a great go to for anyone
Essential oil diffusers seems to always be a hit
LED roomlights are perfect for someone in college
History repeats itself, Polaroids are back in style
College rooms can get smelly
If she likes to cook, you need a good knife
Reusable zip lock bags are way better than Tupperware since you don't have to match lids. And easy to take to campus
The old F-1 and F-1n take a PX625 mercury battery which is no longer produced. This is the modern replacement, but it's a zinc-air battery with a shorter lifespan. There are battery adapters that allow the use of common silver batteries.
The new F-1 with a battery compartment on the front takes a 6V lithium (Duracell 28L) or alkaline (Energizer A544).
You can buy an old cheap Polaroid camera off ebay, but then you're going to be spending $2 per shot, with a 8 shots per pack. Or you can buy the Fuji Instax Neo 90 (which has considerably more manual-ish control) and buy Instax film which can be as cheap as $0.60 per shot with 10 shots per pack. It won't take long for the Instax to be the more economical option. Instax film is smaller than Polaroid/Impossible film, however.
This is probably your best bet if you haven't found any already
http://www.amazon.com/Fujifilm-Instax-Wide-300-Instant/dp/B00TGOWK3Q/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1458217584&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=instax+wide+300
This is the newest version of the one I own. I LOVE mine :) This is the film (20 pictures for $19).
Try this. It is a little expensive but people swear by them. Disclaimer: I have not used them because I am sending my OM-1 MD to John for a CLA and he does the conversion with it.
I really like this one. https://www.amazon.com/Canon-AE-1-35mm-Film-Camera/dp/B00GTX4RCO.
Although I also like my Afga Optima I, too.
So cute! If she’s creative she’ll probably live something like these:
Make your own mini erasures kit
Wreck this journal
Lip Balm Maker Kit
Instant Camera
Also, if she loves to build, you can never go wrong with Legos.
I actually think Fuji Instax mini, if you are buying the value pack at usually 60-67 cents per frame, is cheaper than shooting film after you account for the amount of shots you might mess up in film. Take a $7.50 roll of Portra and $12 to process+scan, at 12 of 36 good frames you are shooting $1.63 per frame. If you get 36 of 36 good shots you are shooting 54 cents per frame in 35mm, but that is typically difficult to do.
It's not exactly the same thing as there are pros and cons for one vs the other. And on the Instax you still have to scan, though the 35mm you still have to print.. but for a student I think Instax will bring you the most joy for the cost.
Why use old when you can buy new?
Just out of curiousity, what makes the 450 worth the effort?
If you're just into instant film, check out The Impossible Project. The film is really expensive, but at least you can buy instant 8x10 B&W. You can also turn the peel-off portion into a usable negative if you have the proper chemicals on hand. So, kind of "best of both worlds", as long as you don't mind paying $20 per shot.
Here's something in your price range. Unfortunately, even the cheapest of cheap DSLR's are $500-$600. You can look around for used ones though and probably get a pretty good deal.
Bravo! I always choose non-food rewards as rewarding myself with food is part of what lead me to being overweight.
For 100 lbs, I'd really want to splurge. Maybe a really great outfit for upcoming holiday parties, a special piece of jewelry, or something fun like an updated Polaroid style camera .
Theres also a good DIY 35mm TLR out there. I personally love using mine for the weird results and lens flare. There are a bunch that are just rebranded, if you search you can find them cheaper probably.
http://www.amazon.com/Genuine-Fotodiox-Detailed-Instructions-Exposure/dp/B005ODJ6DK
There is always the Fujifilm Instax Share Smartphone Printer SP-1 you can use a smart phone or tablet.
The Fuji Camera looks fugly and cheap for its price. The again it looks like Polaroid makes a fugly model too. This Polaroid looks better, but cost a lot more.
I want that!
It looks like it has a pack film back. I'm not 100% positive, but I believe you can buy this film:
http://www.amazon.com/FUJIFILM-FP-100C-Inches-Professional-Instant/dp/B0000ALLYO/
And use it in that camera. I'm not sure if it needs batteries or anything.
http://www.amazon.com/Polaroid-Z2300-Digital-Instant-Camera/dp/B008GVXL1A
http://photojojo.com/store/awesomeness/polaroid-z340/
These cameras are both manufactured by Polaroid, so there's that... the prints are a bit small, and I cannot vouch for build quality or handling and things like that, but it might be neat to look into!
Absolutely, the Fuji Instax are the modern instant cameras. His is an older Instax Wide model (film here: https://www.amazon.com/Fujifilm-Instant-20-Exposures-Packaging/dp/B00ZFQQJ18/ref=sr_1_3?rps=1&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1502394850&amp;sr=8-3). More popular are the Instax Mini (Camera here: https://ww.amazon.com/Fujifilm-Instax-Mini-Instant-Camera/dp/B06WWLJ7KY/ref=sr_1_4?s=photo&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1502394977&amp;sr=1-4&amp;refinements=p_89%3AFujifilm Film here: https://www.amazon.com/Fujifilm-INSTAX-Mini-Instant-White/dp/B00EB4ADQW/ref=pd_bxgy_421_2?_encoding=UTF8&amp;pd_rd_i=B00EB4ADQW&amp;pd_rd_r=890S20EPE58QP1KVGEY9&amp;pd_rd_w=RX9N1&amp;pd_rd_wg=7n0oP&amp;psc=1&amp;refRID=890S20EPE58QP1KVGEY9
Nearly $10 - Will teach you a lot about photography...
http://www.amazon.com/Genuine-Fotodiox-Detailed-Instructions-Exposure/dp/B005ODJ6DK/
Amazon would probably work best, but being in NYC I'm sure I have plenty of option. Thank you for the advice! A bit off topic but what do you think of Lens kit or Polaroid Camera as gift options?
Last packs I bought from Amazon. I buy from Adorama and B&H when it's over $8.99
Very helpful! Thank you very much!
Edit; I took a guess for the film you were talking about -- https://www.amazon.com/Fujifilm-1068620-Superia-X-TRA-400/dp/B00004TWLZ/ref=sr_1_1?s=photo&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1482091800&amp;sr=1-1&amp;refinements=p_n_feature_browse-bin%3A172451 Like this?
There's a Fujifilm Instax mini printer. I imagine that's how they did it.
What about this one? Looks like it cost less per print.
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B015JIAD7C?psc=1
I saw someone use a Polaroid yesterday! But, it was one of these:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B015JIAD7C/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awd_YduKwbPR2HWRD
or would this be a better purchace? http://www.amazon.com/Canon-AE-1-35mm-Film-Camera/dp/B00GTX4RCO/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1448985094&amp;sr=8-2&amp;keywords=slr+film
Is this the Superia you are talking about?
Seems pretty cheap; worth a shot!
Thanks for the recommendation!
It's a different avenue, but you can buy darkroom bag linke this one on Amazon and then transfer to another cartridge. That's what I do when a battery pack dies on me.
You're gonna need chemicals
Other materials:
I was able to obtain most of these except the developing tank, dark, bag, and chemicals cheaply. But the FPP does offer a full kit for sale through their store.
They also have a pretty helpful video, and there are a bunch of walkthroughs online. I'll list a couple.
The first guide has you warming your chemicals in a bath, I use a home depot bucket.
they've got a 7s model which is almost half the price. it just doesn't have as many features and settings as the 50s.
I used this from Fuji film. It was opaque... I opened the camera afterwards and made sure the pinhole existed, and it did too.
If you're on a budget, Instax is the way to go for sure.
As someone else mentioned, the Instax Neo 90 is a very safe bet and right around your range. The camera is very "automatic" but also has some creative control if you prefer (night more, multiple exposures, bulb mode, flash off, darker, lighter, macro). The film is also very cheap (approx. $12.50 for 20 shots but can often be found for less on sale)
The downside is that the Instax Mini format is about half the size of Instax Wide or Polaroid film. I still really like it, it's cheap, it's easy to use and a fun system to shoot with!
Price does vary, but don't spend more than $129 (bestbuy/urbanoutfitters will sometimes list it at $179-199). You can sometimes find a used one for about $79: https://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/B00FR85IRK/ref=dp_olp_used_mbc?ie=UTF8&amp;condition=used
Heh -- err fair prices doesn't exist. Plan on spending about $30. Check Urban Outfitters. I believe they bought out the factory supply.
If you want an option that's still produced and more readily available, look into getting a camera that uses Fuji Instax film like this.
Oh, I misunderstood! I was thinking you would shoot the shot with your hassy, shoot the same scene with the Instax & give them the instax print as a business card of sorts. I do not think there's a Instax back for a hassy. I have shot instax film in a RB67 polaroid back, but the process probably wouldn't work for street photography. If you're looking for polaroid FILM alternatives that CAN be shot in a pola back, I think FP-100c is your only option
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0000ALLYO
Sonya, your momma wouldn't tell you this but... LIVE, every single day to the best of your ability. If you love someone , tell them. If you have a dream, chase it. If you want to see the word, do it. Love with all your heart, laugh whenever you can, show kindness to everyone you meet. The whole point of living is to be alive. When you're young its easy to put things off for another day, but someday you'll look back and may regret the chances and opportunities you didn't grab hold of. So take them, own them and give it all you've got.
A camera to capture all of the memories she makes
Does anyone else on RAOA collect cameras? I walked into my favorite thrift store for the first time in months. Everything was half off. I walked away with a BRAND NEW [FujiInstax Wide] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00TGOWK3Q/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;creativeASIN=B00TGOWK3Q&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;tag=rachelfilmsth-20&amp;linkId=f12a5f2d8fbd69279dccdba1f43d3da8) for $5! AHH!!! <33333
If I can I try to shoot with film over digital as I work with digital all of the time.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/B00GTX4RCO/ref=dp_olp_0?ie=UTF8&amp;condition=all
nice asshole
When you try to add more, it says:
> This seller [Amazon] has a limit of 5 per customer. To see if more are available from another seller, go to the product detail page.
Now that you've been blocked from ordering the film from Amazon, can you still order it from marketplace sellers?
In my experience the ASA 800 have worked slightly better so I try and use those.
As for the combo plastic mailer bags/film canisters/printable postage stamps I have tried a different approach. I have got a flat rate box pre-addressed and pre-paid to myself and duct tape this to the camera. I also duct-taped a permanent marker for people to write their e-mail on it. I think this way is easier since it is less stuff to do, less stuff to get separated, and less work for the end user. What do you think?
I might try and steal your idea about the pre-paid stamps with the irregular item because I don't plan on using a flat-rate this year. I think having the camera built into the box will be even better and less things to get separated. Any chance you live on the east coast (or not California) where I can build one and mail one a test dummy to see if the USPS will get it there?
Why don't you just go buy some more? Or did I miss something?
Holga 120N Medium Format Fixed Focus Camera with Lens
The Professional Chef [Hardcover]
KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixer
The Many Varieties of Beer Poster
Dr. Steve Brule T-Shirt
If I got any of these things I would be happy as fuck.
EDIT: Forgot about the Volvo prancing Moose magnet I'd put on my 740.