Polaroid is a name synonymous with instant cameras and a time when instant didn't mean online. For years, it was the go-to brand for point-and-shoot photos that had a retro look and feel.
With the convenience of smartphones, it's hard to justify the cost of instant cameras since you have little control over their final output. After all, trying to take a once-in-a-lifetime shot and missing it isn't very fun.
However, with Polaroid's newest model, the Polaroid Now+, you may want to consider the thrill of instant photography again. Here are a few reasons why.
1. Bluetooth Connectivity
Aside from its size, the biggest difference between the Polaroid Now+ and the Polaroid Go, which was released in April 2021, is its Bluetooth connectivity. But it's important to note that the Polaroid Now+'s Bluetooth features don't work the same as other digital cameras.
For one, you still can't preview your shots or transfer them to your phone or computer via Bluetooth. However, the app gives you access to several settings that you can use while snapping pictures, like light painting mode, portrait mode, double exposure, and manual mode.
2. Five Clip-On Lens Filters
For the longest time, instant cameras only ever came with one lens. While it was possible to purchase additional lenses, the Polaroid Now+ is the first Polaroid model released with five clip-on lens filters straight out of the box. Its colors include red vignette, starburst, orange, blue, and yellow.
In addition, Polaroid Now+ even comes with an integrated light sensor to make your photos pop even more when using filters.
3. Tripod Mount
While many of its predecessors definitely had autofocus, dynamic flash, and self-timer functions, one of the growing complaints about Polaroid's instant cameras was their difficulty to mount.
With the Polaroid Now+, it is now possible to mount your instant camera on a variety of tripods that can enhance your photo-taking experience.
4. Old Body, New Color
Polaroid has experimented with various camera bodies throughout the years. However, the Polaroid Now+ takes a step back and looks nearly identical to its first model. Launched in 1977, the Polaroid OneStep has the same sloped, chunky appearance that is making a comeback.
You can purchase the model in black and white, both of which come with Polaroid's signature rainbow stripe. But if you want something a little different, you can also opt to purchase the Polaroid Now+ in a sleek blue-gray, with a powder blue stripe running down the middle.
5. Redesigned Polaroid App
Lastly, it's not just the hardware that has leveled up. Alongside its various changes in appearance and usability, its accompanying app also got a makeover.
Making use of its new mounting capabilities, the revamped Polaroid Originals app also has a variety of fresh features, such as tripod mode and aperture priority.
Download: Polaroid Originals for iOS | Android (Free)
Polaroid Now+ Is the Middle Ground Between Analog and Digital
As Polaroid dances along the lines of easy-to-use and feature-rich, it's easier than ever to exercise a level of creative control over your photos. However, whether most people will actually make use of these options is still up for debate.
While some users will argue that adding more functionalities takes the appeal away from instant photos, others will be grateful for a chance to avoid wasting film. Part of the joys of shooting instant photos is the thrill of literally gambling a few dollars on its final result.
Get Back Into Old School Instant Photography
Over the years, Polaroid has attempted to go from pure analog to digital, finally finding its footing on a middle ground. With a slew of digital integrations, the Polaroid Now+ is likely the first of a new generation of instant cameras.
At its core, Polaroid thrives from that irreplaceable high that occurs just before a shot is developed. If you've been hesitant about instant cameras for a while, the Polaroid Now+ might be the one that can finally change your mind.
