The 4 Best Instant Film Cameras

No patience? Instant film cameras are what you need. Learn what the best ones are on the list of our favorites in the Moment shop.

Instant film cameras are a great way to capture those special moments quickly and easily. Whether you’re an amateur or professional photographer, or just want the fun of being able to instantly see your shot, an instant film camera is the way to go. There are many different types and brands of instant film cameras on the market, so it can be difficult to determine which one is best for you. This article will take a look at the best instant film cameras on the market today and discuss their individual features, so that you can make an informed decision about which one is best for your needs. We'll take a look at both vintage and modern camera models from various price points, allowing you to find the perfect camera for your budget and style. We'll also discuss the pros and cons of each camera and consider the type of photography each would be best suited for.

1. Fujifilm’s Instax Square SQ1

Best For: People who want a fun, simple way to share instant photos at parties, gatherings, etc.

Fujifilm’s Instax brand might be the most popular instant film camera of choice. It's become THE camera to use for parties, wedding receptions, and small gatherings as an immediate, personable gift to give your beloved company. On the SQ1, Fujifilm has removed multiple manual controls found on the previous model, the SQ6, and created a point-and-shoot instant camera that's incredibly simple to use. Although the controls are more limited, the improved auto-exposure system in the new Instax Square SQ1 delivers better-looking instant photos than the previous model.

The Simplicity

This camera is the perfect testament to new film users; simple shoot and share with the touch of a button.

Better Exposure

Optimized for better exposure, the SQ1 is now made for darker scenarios with improved flash capabilities.

Moment Instax 16670522 Square SQ1 Chalk White thumbnail

Fujifilm

Instax Square SQ1 Instant Camera

The photo you take and can hold in your hand instantly is something special! Take it with the Instax Square SQ1, the latest instant camera from Fujifilm.

Buy for $119.99

2. Polaroid Now Instant Film Camera

Best For: Creators who love Polaroid’s classic name and even more classic products.

Capture the moments of your life forever with Polaroid Now. This state-of-the-art analog instant camera has autofocus to help you snap those special memories in classic Polaroid instant film format. With 7 different colors to choose from, including black and white, there is sure to be a Polaroid Now that fits your personality.

Autofocus 2‑Lens system

In other words: sharper photos, easily. The Polaroid Now decides which lens is suitable, so you get beautiful portraits in more places, more often — even without the flash.

Self‑Timer

Get yourself in the shot with the self-timer. In just one tap, you’ve got 9 seconds to gather your friends and smile.

Moment Polaroid 9027 Polaroid Now White thumbnail

Polaroid

Now Instant Camera

You had this as a kid, and now it's back with upgrades! Point, shoot, keep everyday moments forever with the Polaroid Now. The instant camera with autofocus

Buy for $119.99

3. Lomography Instant Wide

Best For: Those who admire the artistic, experimental side of instant photography with additional lenses, accessories, and exposures.

Whether you’re lounging in the sun at a pool party in the Hollywood Hills, savoring a cup of tea with your pup doing backflips, cycling through Chilean vineyards, or reconnecting over Sunday brunch with friends–simply choose your desired shooting mode and start your journey! The 21mm equivalent Ultra Wide-Angle Lens attachment lets you capture every moment and more. Take wide, bright landscapes to post on Instagram, or take the ultimate selfie with all your friends included in the frame. For stunning long exposures, switch to Bulb Mode on your Lomo’Instant Wide. Engage your creative side with light painting by manually keeping the shutter open for as long as you need.

Close Up Addition

When you just can’t get close enough, simply slip on the Close-Up Lens and focus up to 0.1m!

Unlimited Multiple Exposures

With the flick of the MX switch, you can create awe-inspiring multiple-exposure classics in an instant.

Color Gels

Add artistic style to your shots and experiment with cool and crazy results—4 brightly colored flash gels let paint your Lomo’Instant Wide shots with a smack of color.

Moment Lomography LI900 B Lomo Instant Wide Combo Black thumbnail

Lomography

Lomo'Instant Wide Instant Camera

Are someone who experiments? Shoot your adventures in an expanded format! The Lomography Lomo'Instant Wide is fully manual and you get the results instantly

Buy for $199.00

4. Fujifilm Instax Mini

Best For: People who want a fun, simple way to share instant photos at parties, gatherings, etc.

The Instax Mini from Fujifilm is a classic camera that can be seen on nearly every wedding reception table, adding a touch of fun and color to the event. With its automated settings, colorful shell, and built-in selfie mirror, this mini marvel makes it easier than ever to keep your memories alive. It even calculates the best brightness for taking a picture, letting you know which setting to use with an illuminated lamp. All you have to do is turn the brightness adjustment dial to the position (mark) of the lamp, and you're ready to go.

Selfie Mirror

You can check your framing with the mirror next to the lens.

Close-Up Lens Attachment

Close-up shooting up to 35 cm away is possible.

High-Key Mode

Setting the brightness adjustment dial to the high-key mode mark allows you to take pictures with a softer impression.

💌 There's More!

Enjoyed this read? Subscribe now and receive all the latest and greatest articles straight to your inbox. All original. Community first. 100% ad-free.