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Instant film is a variety of film cartridge that contains chemicals for fast self-development. When you take a photo using an instant camera and instant film, your developed print appears in minutes.
Analog instant cameras don’t use negatives, so when you take a photo, you’ll only get one print. Some digital cameras feature built-in instant printing so you can produce multiple copies of each shot or make minor photo edits and add filters before printing.
At its inception, instant film was a popular option for many families because you didn’t have to wait for a lab to develop your photos. It was also comparatively less expensive than film printing.
Back when Polaroid was the only instant film around, its brand name was synonymous with instant photographs. People took Polaroids at parties and social events. Meanwhile, professional photographers used Polaroids together with film photographs for reference.
Instant film comes in both color and black-and-white versions, and most instant cameras work with either variety of film. Color film is perfect for casual, social, and travel uses.
Black-and-white instant film is helpful for black-and-white film photographers because it gives you an idea of how colorful environments will render in monochrome.
While there aren’t many manufacturers for instant film these days, there are a number of different instant camera formats and sizes. It’s important to select the appropriate film cartridge type for your specific camera.
Common sizes include mini, wide, square, round-frame, and 8x10. Some instant films feature unique colorful borders, patterns, and sticker backs, while others are closer to the original Polaroid style with a classic white border.
Most instant film packs contain eight to ten exposures per pack, but you can stock up on film more affordably by purchasing kits and multipacks.
No matter which instant camera or type of instant film you choose, shooting with instant film is fun and easy to do. Brands like Polaroid and Fujifilm are the top contenders in the instant photography market. With fun, retro, and unique instant cameras to choose from and an ever-expanding range of instant film varieties, these brands offer plenty of options to get excited about!