Blast from the Past: The Return of Instant Cameras

When it comes to technology, everyone wants the latest and greatest: the newest smartphone, the largest television and computers with the highest specs. But in that shuffle to the next big technological advancement are those who are returning to slightly simpler times—at least in regard to photography.

Instant cameras are back, and this time they’re bringing wireless capabilities and other modern features to the forefront.

“There’s something truly magical about a tangible photograph, and even more so one that develops before your eyes,” says Katherine Phipps, marketing and public relations manager for instant camera company Lomography USA. “… The photos themselves are beautiful representations of their subjects, especially in the wide format film, so they become very precious because oftentimes they’re one of a kind. They become a collection of moments, of memories.”

That magic has inspired companies like Fujifilm, the Impossible Project and Lomography to create new instant cameras (as well as refurbish older models)—and consumers are willing to help them do it. Lomography’s Lomo’Instant was financed through crowdfunding platform Kickstarter. The campaign initially sought $100,000, but concluded with more than $1 million from nearly 8,500 backers. The camera, which won a Lucie Technical Award for Best Instant Camera, is available in both narrower and wider formats and with different design patterns inspired by locales around the world. It also features the largest aperture setting of any instant camera.

Read more at Salamander Magazine.