At some point, you've probably seen someone take a photo and immediately have a copy of it and thought to yourself: "That's cool. I want one." However, there are certain factors to look into to determine whether you would really be happy with it or not. Here are the pros and cons you should learn before buying one.
Pros:
1. You'll get a physical copy of the photo right away. It's the selling point of instant cameras. With digital cameras or smartphones, you'll have to print them yourself, if you have the right devices, or go to a print shop and have them do it for you.
2. Shots develop into unique outcomes. If you've seen a developed photo from an instant camera, you'll notice that it has a vintage-like aesthetic. With this feature, you'll have more excitement over how the photo turns out the moment you take it.
3. You can keep it as a memento. Yes, you can just take a photo using your smartphone and have a digital photo, but there's a different appeal to physical photos that you can have as keepsakes or hang on your wall.
4. They're very easy to use. If you like taking photos but don't want to be bothered by professional-level settings from DSLR cameras, then an instant camera is the perfect photo-taking device for you. All you have to do is point and click.
5. Newer models have rechargeable batteries now. Older models used to rely on disposable batteries, which can be costly if you use the instant camera often. Now, you can just recharge the battery and even buy spare ones for the road.
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Cons:
1. You'll have to spend a bit on film packs. You'll have to make every shot count when it comes to instant cameras since each pack can cost you around $15 for 20 shots. It feels wasteful when you make a mistake considering the very limited number of films per pack.
2. The majority of instant camera models don't have a focus function. You'll have to point and angle the camera right if you want a clear photo, otherwise, you'll end up with a blurry subject and a clear background.
3. You'll need good lighting for photos. Unlike digital cameras or smartphones, you can't adjust the settings to make the photo seem clearer even with dark lighting. With instant cameras, there's no in-between. You'll have to use the flash feature if it has one, which could sometimes result in a photo that's too light.
4. The photos fade over time. If you want to keep an instant photo for a long time, you have to store them properly. For instance, they cannot be exposed to sunlight, or they will fade. The same effect comes with moisture and inconsistent room temperatures as well.
5. The batteries run out fast. You'll get in about a hundred shots before the battery is dead, and that's not a lot especially if you're traveling or intend to take a lot of photos during an occasion. With your smartphone or digital camera, you can even reach up to a thousand shots on a fully charged device.
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