Today, the most popular way of storing photos is on digital media. To put a picture in a photo album, you can print it on a printer at home, which requires certain costs and skills, or visit the nearest trade kiosk with a similar service. It is much more convenient to get the moments of life captured on film instantly. Not so long ago, the production of instant cameras has resumed, and this opportunity has become generally available.
The editorial staff of the site "bestx.htgetrid.com/en/" offers you an overview of the best cameras for instant printing of pictures the size of a business card and more.
Content
- 1 Instant cameras
- 2 Popular device manufacturers
- 3 Top Best Instant Cameras 2020
- 3.1 Xiaomi XPRINT Pocket AR Photo Printer
- 3.2 Polaroid Snap Touch (POLSTB) Instant Print
- 3.3 Fujifilm "Instax Mini 90 Neo"
- 3.4 Leica Sofort
- 3.5 Fujifilm "Instax Wide 300"
- 3.6 Fujifilm "Instax Mini 9"
- 3.7 IMPOSSIBLE I-1
- 3.8 LOMOGRAPHY LOMO'INSTANT AUTOMAT
- 3.9 Fujifilm Instax Mini 50S
- 3.10 Polaroid Originals OneStep 2
- 4 Features of the use of devices
Instant cameras
Snap photography has recently become popular, as it is used not only for personal purposes, but also in the professional sphere of human activity. For example, in forensic medicine, scientific practice, and where it is necessary to obtain images on the spot. Such photos can be immediately used in any current life situation, presented as a gift, and can be added to the collection of family photos. It is quite convenient, you can get the result in one or two minutes, and all the necessary accessories for this are now easy to find on the sales market.
Modern device models are equipped with the latest technological developments and functions. This full-fledged digital technique allows you to take high-quality pictures, zoom in on a distant object, switch shooting modes and much more. It can be a worthy gift for a professional photographer or an ordinary person. Manufacturers present to the attention of buyers devices that are different in size, shape, design and parameters, which is incredibly pleasing and encourages the purchase of just this kind of photo device. Therefore, you need to know how to choose the right device, learn to understand the main characteristics, understand the principle of operation, so as not to be disappointed in its functionality and necessity in the future.
Principle of operation
Snapshots are obtained using two methods:
- Image development using a special reactive liquid in a replaceable cartridge. The photographic material acts as two in one, that is, as a film and photographic paper at the same time. After taking the picture, it moves along the roller mechanism, begins to manifest itself under the action of the reagent, and leaves the camera outside.
- Manifestation through crystalline elements. In this case, special paper is required, which, interacting with the temperature of the crystals, acquires the appropriate color. This latest development is called "Zink", thanks to which the picture does not get dirty with fingerprints, it is moisture resistant, and does not lose its original high-quality appearance with age.
Equipment for the execution of frames with instant printout has recently become in demand. Owners appreciate the opportunity to get a photo immediately after capturing, within 1-2 minutes, and sometimes even 30 seconds.This is quite convenient, it guarantees that the memory of a significant event will be reflected on the film and will remain in the album 100%, and will not be unintentionally removed from the digital medium without having time to be reborn on paper. But paper and cartridges are not cheap, and bad moments will be printed right away. Therefore, everyone decides how necessary it is to purchase this type of camera, comparing the possibilities of their own budget, skills of use with obtaining high-quality, unique, unforgettable photos.
Specifications
Instant cameras originally released for sale were not digital like they are now. The newest improved models differ from the previous ones and have a number of "smart" features, features and additional useful options. The parametric data of each model are important selection criteria. But you should take into account the fact that such devices are not suitable for professional photography, rather for parties, or for outdoor recreation with the whole family.
room | Parametric data | Characteristic |
---|---|---|
1 | Type of food | Runs on conventional batteries (2 or 4 pieces) or from a rechargeable battery. |
2 | Photo size | Each device implements a photograph of a certain size. |
3 | Focal length | The distance the lens is capable of extending. It is designated in millimeters, which means what is the gap between the optical center of the lens to the sensor of the device. |
4 | Excerpt | The time elapsed after the shutter button is pressed. The faster the shutter speed, the clearer the shot of a subject in motion, for example. |
5 | Front-camera | Many cameras have a built-in mirror for taking selfies. Located on the front panel next to the lens, allows you to take a self-portrait. |
6 | Matrix resolution | Mostly 2 to 18 megapixels. The higher this indicator, the higher the cost of the device. |
7 | Automatic brightness control | This is a handy function, as the device itself determines the most appropriate brightness setting for the room you are filming. |
8 | LCD screen | The presence of the screen allows you to view the received images before printing. |
9 | Light filters | These filters produce richer images. |
10 | Photo flash | The flash allows you to make a shot of high quality, thanks to the intense illumination of a darkened room where the subject is. The flash distance is different for each model. |
11 | Photo editor | The ability to correct the photo before printing, for example, remove the red-eye effect. |
12 | Built-in mini printers | An important element of the camera, designed for instant printing of images on photographic paper. |
13 | Frame counter | Helps to control the remainder of unspent frames. |
14 | Indicators for various purposes | The warning about the state of the camera occurs by lighting up or blinking colored lamps (mainly yellow, green, orange and red). |
15 | Tripod mount | You can attach a tripod to keep the camera at a certain height from the ground, and is also useful for taking pictures after the self-timer. |
16 | Data transfer method | Using modern means of transmission - GPS, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth. |
17 | Zoom capability | This is a camera lens parameter required for close-up shooting of a distant object or its remoteness. |
Thus, when choosing, do not forget that cameras of this kind are non-professional or semi-professional, as well as how much each of the models costs. Multifunctionality is valued higher, which means that the more the camera includes standard operations, special features, additional options, the more expensive it is. The average cost for such cameras varies from 4,000 to 20,000 rubles. Inexpensive devices can be purchased within 4000-5000 rubles. They operate on batteries, the size of the finished photo is 6.2 cm by 4.6 cm, with a focal length of up to 60 cm. For 6-8 thousand - a battery-powered device with a retractable lens and several modes.Expensive ones, from 9 to 20 thousand rubles, have many different functions, the presence of which justifies their cost when using the device by beginner and experienced amateur photographers.
Popular device manufacturers
For several decades, the best companies producing instant photo printing equipment are:
- American company "Polaroid Corporation";
- Japanese manufacturer Fujifilm Holdings Corporation;
- Austrian Lomographic Society "Lomography";
- German manufacturer Leica Camera AG;
- instant photo reconstruction project "Impossible Project".
Thanks to these manufacturers, analogue obsolete devices have improved, have become closer to the advanced generation, and resumed on sale. Every year they undergo improvements, various useful additions, and become more and more popular among buyers. Which company is better to buy a camera, everyone decides independently, but you should not dwell on the popularity of any one, since all models are unique and worthy of consumers' attention.
Top Best Instant Cameras 2020
Back in the 90s, the most famous brand of instant photo devices was Polaroid. The modern photographic equipment market is represented by several manufacturers. But in order to determine the choice of such a rich assortment of devices, a rating of the best popular models was prepared based on reviews of amateurs, reviews and consumer ratings.
Xiaomi XPRINT Pocket AR Photo Printer
A pocket printer starts the list of the highest quality machines. Weighing 237 grams, it prints photos anywhere, anytime, no matter where the photographer is. It is possible to connect to a smartphone, iPhone, tablet via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC module. The pictures are obtained with a size of 54 mm by 86 mm. The cost varies from 5500 to 7300 rubles.
Advantages:
- compact - can be carried in a pocket, purse;
- easy;
- connection to gadgets;
- color printing, thanks to the rich colors of the printer.
Disadvantages:
- activated only with a Chinese SIM card;
- maximum loading of sheets of photo paper - 10 pieces.
Polaroid Snap Touch (POLSTB) Instant Print
Photos are saved to MicroSD media (128 GB), which allows you to view photos and select the best ones for further printing using the Zink technology. Can record HD videos. Camera - 13 Megapixels, built-in photo flash, Bluetooth, which allows synchronization with gadgets, picture size - 50 mm by 75 mm. Price: 11 690 rubles.
Advantages:
- compactness;
- touchscreen;
- HD video recording;
- built-in Bluetooth;
- the ability to connect to a smartphone;
- saving pictures and clips to a memory card;
- printing photos under thermal influence and crystalline particles.
Disadvantages:
- cost.
Fujifilm "Instax Mini 90 Neo"
A Japanese device that combines the technology of a digital device and a device for instant photo development, weighing about 350 grams. Provides additional features such as a thread for use on a tripod. Photo size - 62 mm by 46 mm, manual focusing - up to 3 meters, flash, several shooting modes. A maximum of 10 sheets of photo paper can be loaded into the cassette. It acts on the market in the middle price segment - 8500-9900 rubles.
Advantages:
- additional functions;
- design;
- thread for mounting the camera on a tripod;
- easy cassette installation - ideal for beginners;
- convenient location of buttons on the back panel;
- Red-eye reduction.
Disadvantages:
- plastic case;
- long printing process - from 5 minutes or more;
- small image size;
- cost.
Leica Sofort
German premium device with 60 mm focal length, built-in flash, timer. Both the original film and the Fujifilm Instax Mini film are suitable. When using Leica film, users will be pleasantly surprised by the beautifully framed photos in a white frame.Includes a number of useful functions and several shooting modes: macro mode, auto start, portrait and much more. There is a mirror on the front of the device for easy selfies. The cassettes hold 10-20 sheets. Photo dimensions - 62 mm by 46 mm. The battery lasts for about 100 shots. How long the cartridge lasts depends on the number of sheets of paper loaded in the cassette. A high-quality device is far from budgetary cost - 27 thousand rubles.
Advantages:
- high-quality pictures;
- capacious cassette - up to 20 sheets;
- long battery life;
- many additional useful functions;
- the possibility of using a non-original type of film;
- design.
Disadvantages:
- small size of pictures;
- price tag.
Fujifilm "Instax Wide 300"
The model features a 95 mm extendable lens, ease of use, and weighs 612 grams. It shoots in normal and landscape formats, the pictures are large - 8 cm by 10 cm, they appear within one minute. Built-in automatic flash, black and white are balanced in the printed image. There is a tripod connector. The cost of this product is 8490 rubles.
Advantages:
- focal length;
- large photo size;
- ease and ease of use;
- tripod socket;
- built-in photo flash;
- image development speed.
Disadvantages:
- bulky and awkward appearance;
- small viewfinder;
- no selfie mirror;
- no timer.
Fujifilm "Instax Mini 9"
Inexpensive, easy to use, 60mm focal length camera. The photos are small, the size of a business card - 6.2 cm by 4 cm. For close-up photography, the kit includes a special attachment - a magnifying lens. On the front panel there is a mirror for the convenience of self-portrait, there is a timer, an indicator. A set of two AA batteries lasts for 100 shots. The price of the device is 5490 rubles.
Advantages:
- ease of use;
- the camera prompts you to choose a suitable mode;
- selfie mirror;
- the presence of an outbreak;
- delayed shooting time;
- compactness;
- affordable price tag.
Disadvantages:
- small size of the finished photograph;
- blurry image quality with fast movement;
- mandatory use of a macro lens for photographing an object located closer than 60 cm.
IMPOSSIBLE I-1
The camera allows you to use 5 focusing modes, includes a ring flash, automatic start, it can be used as a color scanner. By installing the corresponding application on your smartphone, you can operate this unit remotely. The finished photograph is 88 x 107 mm. The battery is charged via Micro-USB, but has a fast discharge property. At the price of the buyer, it will cost within 20,000 rubles.
Advantages:
- modern management;
- battery charging via USB;
- timer;
- convenient ring flash;
- fantastic design ("spaceship" or "pyramid").
Disadvantages:
- the battery charge is short enough;
- large dimensions of the device;
- cost.
LOMOGRAPHY LOMO'INSTANT AUTOMAT
The camera itself is very beautiful and has a striking design. The manufacturer presents devices of different colors for the individual taste of the buyer. This model can be used with interchangeable lenses such as fisheye, wide angle, macro and Fujifilm wide film. The flash is built in, there is no timer, but there is a tripod mount. The focal length is 60 mm. The finished images are 62 x 46 mm. Price: from 10,500 rubles.
Advantages:
- bright appearance;
- built-in flash;
- tripod socket;
- the ability to use various lenses;
- large size of the resulting photo.
Disadvantages:
- separate purchase of different lenses;
- lack of self-timer;
- cost.
Fujifilm Instax Mini 50S
It features a strict rectangular design. The case is plastic, glossy.You can automatically adjust exposure, set a timer for 10 seconds, and mount the camera on a convenient tripod stand. There is a manual setting of control, illumination parameters in the space where the removed object or object is located. The optical viewfinder makes the device easy to operate. Focal length - 60 mm, average size of images - 62 × 46 mm, which are of the highest quality, will easily fit into a business card holder or wallet.
There are special color albums on sale for storing photos of this type and size - it is convenient and fashionable.
There is a built-in, automatic flash, operating at a distance of 3 meters, as well as indication notification of status, modes, frame rates. There is an unusual ability to perform two cards in a row, which allows you to change location, posture, facial expressions while using the timer. The set contains 2 batteries, a strap, a macro lens, which helps when taking pictures in the style of selfies with an outstretched hand. You can purchase separately, for the purpose of decoration, and most importantly, to protect against shocks and scratches, a stylish case within 1,500 rubles. The device itself costs 4,990 rubles.
Advantages:
- purchase at an affordable price;
- strict rectangular design;
- many useful functions;
- convenience and ease of use;
- automatic exposure control;
- interchangeable optics included;
- self-timer 10-second;
- tripod stand connector;
- frame rate indicator;
- high-quality built-in, automatic flash;
- clear photos;
- good optical viewfinder;
- fast frame printing;
- weight 250 grams;
- 2 years warranty service.
Disadvantages:
- rare batteries;
- no memory card, which limits the ability to save photos for reprint and store them in digital form;
- plastic case;
- separate purchase of a cover if necessary and desired.
Polaroid Originals OneStep 2
This instant photo camera is the winner of the 2020 Best Devices Ranking. The camera has a retro design, works in automatic mode, but manual shooting is provided. The focal length is 106 mm, so many buyers keep repeating why it is worth buying this particular model. There is a timer, built-in flash. Powered by a lithium-ion battery that is charged via a USB cable. You can shoot in normal focus mode or in landscape and macro format. The advantage of this camera is that it takes rather large photos, which are 8.8 x 10.7 cm in size, and the square image itself is 7.9 x 7.9 cm. Cost: 10,990-11,900 rubles.
Advantages:
- design;
- ease of management;
- rechargeable battery via USB;
- focal length;
- manual and auto-tuning of work;
- automatic focusing;
- timer;
- high quality lens - captures objects from 60 cm and above;
- high-quality photo flash;
- a classic square-shaped shot, loved by many users.
Disadvantages:
- consumables are expensive.
Thus, modern manufacturers present to the attention of photographers and simply amateurs a large selection of devices, the main vocation of which is instant printing of photographs. To navigate the most popular cameras with the best quality, the number of built-in functions, the availability of useful features and the latest technologies, you need to be able to understand their parametric data.
Having avoided mistakes when choosing once, you can find a high-quality device that for many years will delight the owner, his family and friends with colorful photographs depicting important moments of their life.
Features of the use of devices
How to use the camera depends on what design it has, what technical characteristics and parameters it includes. These indicators and capabilities are described in detail for each model in the instructions attached by the manufacturer.
It is necessary to adhere to the requirements, tips for using the device, prescribed by the manufacturer, if you want the camera to last longer. It is important to use the recommended consumables, adhere to the shooting technique to keep the device in working order after each use, and to obtain high-quality images.
Photo paper is already built into the cassette, so it cannot be purchased separately. Cartridges should be selected taking into account the features of the model, because they have distinctive features, there is no universality in this production. Prior to shooting, the cartridge is placed in a specially designated compartment with extreme caution, since you cannot touch the film surface with your fingers or open the cassette. All such actions will protect the photo from damage and from damage to the device, which should be paid special attention to.
Then, using the viewfinder, you need to concentrate on the subject, choosing a certain mode, take a shot by pressing the "shutter" button. After waiting a certain period of time, usually from 30 seconds to 2-3 minutes, you can enjoy the resulting image on paper in printed form.
The first instant camera appeared on the market in 1948. Then they did not imagine that his “descendants” would undergo such incredible new technologies, that they would become his rebirth. Instant printer models will gain particular popularity.
Judging by the reviews of photography enthusiasts, the manufacturers have not in vain made the resurrection of instant cameras, many years after their production ceased.
Modern cameras are far from primitive, they provide convenience to their owners, produce much better pictures, justifying the money spent on them, sometimes considerable. With the development of digital equipment, these devices have acquired a decent look, improved functionality. Now they are gaining popularity among users, becoming a stylish acquisition for young people, indispensable helpers in the process of preserving memorable moments of a person's life, as well as their reproduction on a paper sheet in just one moment, here and now.
If you have experience in using instant-print cameras described in the rating, or a more interesting model, tell us about it in the comments.
Thanks for the review, helped a lot. I hope I make the right choice! Canon also started producing instant cameras, but so far it has not found much feedback.