5 Easy Steps To Use A Polaroid Camera (With Pictures)

How to use a polaroid camera? I would say that taking pictures from a polaroid camera is tricky.

I mean it’s not a Digital SLR-type camera or mirrorless camera, instead a retro camera that delivers the photographs immediately after you take them.

Considerably, a polaroid camera comes with many advantages but how to use a polaroid camera is a challenge.

So, if you are the one reading this blog, ironically you want to know the methods to properly learn a polaroid camera.

Thankfully, you can read this blog because I have mentioned a step-by-step guide to use a polaroid camera.

Understanding Polaroid Camera

What is a Polaroid camera? It goes by many names. Some say it is an Instant camera while others say it is a shoot-and-print camera.

Because of the camera’s ability to develop pictures instantly. Within a few seconds, you can see and touch the picture you captured, thanks to revolutionary technology it uses.

Though it has existed since 1932 and was available in mass. Today, you can find modern polaroid cameras from various brands like Fujifilm, Leica, and Kodak.

Peculiarly, you would find polaroid cameras in the market with different shape, size, style, and film development mechanism.

Therefore, choosing the best polaroid camera and how to use it properly is important at a glance.

Continue reading to know about how to use a polaroid camera properly and some top-ranked polaroid cameras of this year.

How To Use A Polaroid Camera?

How to use a polaroid camera properly involves the five basic and important steps.

Here’s the explanation of each steps:

Step 1 – Loading perfect film size (cartridge)

Figure out what brand of polaroid camera you have and what film size it demands for.

• Kodak polaroid camera uses 76.2 mm x 76.2 mm cartridge.
• Instax square camera uses 62 mm x 62 mm cartridge.
• Polaroid go instant camera uses 66.6 mm x 53.9 mm cartridge.
• Instax Mini camera uses 62 mm x 46 mm film size cartridge.

Purchase the relevant cartridge for your polaroid camera. In case you have the cartridge then simply insert the film in this manner its metal parts are facing down and the darker side is facing the cover.

You might find the cartridge insert area on the back or bottom of your camera.

Step 2 – Power on the device

Mostly, the majority of the modern polaroid cameras have a dedicated power button provided. The placement of this button may be different on different brands of camera.

For instance, Kodak mini shot 3 power buttons provided on the top of the camera. Instax Square SQ6 power button placed on the back side.

To power on your polaroid camera, press and hold the power button for 2 to 3 seconds.

Step 3 – Distancing and fixing exposure

Now you are almost ready to take a picture. Figure out the right distance (you and your object) and set the right exposure for better picture taking.

Setting the right exposure is important because it decides how much light or dark the tones of your photos should be.

Again exposure setting function available in different forms. For e.g. Polaroid Go cameras have slider style exposure feature while Instax cameras have analog-type exposure setting options.

For distancing, stand at atleast 4 feet away nearly 1.22 meter away from your subject to get better picture overall.

Step 4 – Use the viewfinder to frame your shot

Most modern polaroid cameras incubate viewfinder to assist photographers to frame their shots.

Use the viewfinder to determine the scenario you are going to capture. It helps you in shooting better pictures with a good angle and understanding.

Step 5 – Use capture button to snap a photo

You’re almost done!

Once you have set your exposure, focus length, and confidence to shoot, simply use the capture button to snap the moment.

Majority of the modern polaroid cameras allow you to preview your shot and print instantly.

That’s done my friend… you learned how to shoot and use a polaroid camera.

Polaroid Camera Tips For Better Picture Taking

To add more fun, I have mentioned some tips for better picture taking. These tips have been collected from surveys and feedback.

Hope you like trying these tips:

• Shoot outdoors for best image quality.
• Use the flash indoors to add to any natural source.
• Take advantage of external light sources to add charm in your subject.
• Consider a wide size polaroid camera for indoor photography.
• Set the exposure level balance to ensure good light of tone in your photos.
• If needed, cover your flashbar to shoot politely and effectively.
• Do not use a camera in too hot or cold weather as it affects your film indirectly.

Best Polaroid Cameras

Consider bringing a new polaroid camera or switch to a modern polaroid camera. Well, here are some of the year’s best Polaroid cameras to check.

1. KODAK Mini Shot 3 Retro

Film size: 62 mm x 62 mm
Film type: Fujifilm instax square film
Minimum shooting distance: 30cm
Film feeding out: Automatic
Battery: CR2 lithium batteries
Dimensions: 118.7 mm x 128.1 mm x 58.1 mm
Weight: 393g

Read full review on Kodak mini shot 3 retro

2. Instax Square SQ6

Film size: 62 mm x 62 mm
Film type: Fujifilm instax square film
Minimum shooting distance: 30cm
Film feeding out: Automatic
Battery: CR2 lithium batteries
Dimensions: 118.7 mm x 128.1 mm x 58.1 mm
Weight: 393g

Read full review on Instax square sq6

3. Polaroid Go

Film size: 66.6 mm x 53.9 mm
Film type: Polaroid Go instant film
Minimum shooting distance: NA
Film feeding out: Automatic
Battery: lithium-ion battery (rechargeable via USB)
Dimensions: 105 mm x 83.9 mm x 61.5 mm
Weight: 242g

Read full review on Instax square sq6

4. Polaroid Now+ Generation 2

Film size: 88.9 mm x 106.68 mm
Film type: Polaroid i-Type and 600
Minimum shooting distance: NA
Film feeding out: Automatic
Battery: lithium-ion battery (rechargeable via USB)
Dimensions: 105.2 mm x 112.2 mm x 95.5 mm
Weight: 451.5g

Read full review on Instax square sq6

5. Instax Mini 40

Film size: 62 mm x 46 mm
Film type: Instax mini instant film
Minimum shooting distance: 30cm
Film feeding out: Automatic
Battery: AA-size alkaline batteries
Dimensions: 104 mm × 121 mm × 65 mm
Weight: 330g

Read full review on Instax square sq6

Frequently Asked Questions