No, they're not just for hipsters. Polaroid cameras are becoming more and more popular as talented artists and individuals are looking for more creative ways to use their photography skills. Whether you are a professional photographer, or a passionate amateur, the best Polaroid cameras chosen by the experts will help you practice your art and up your photography game. Here are the best Polaroid cameras selected by the experts. These models either have great features, affordable prices, stylish retro looks or a perfect combination of all three. Understanding what makes these Polaroids so great involves first knowing what a Polaroid camera is, and then comparing and contrasting these highly-rated cameras.

What Is a Polaroid Camera?

Polaroid camera is actually a bit of an outdated term. The Polaroid Corporation patented and debuted the first camera to use the process of instant film in 1948. The process has since been copied by several of its competitors, including Fujifilm and Kodak. The cameras have since been popularly known as Polaroid cameras, but they are also known as instant cameras. They are great for hobbyists or amateur photographers because you can easily share these photos with your friends. It is a particularly popular camera style for parties or events. Place a few Polaroids around the room at a wedding, birthday party or get-together and have plenty of great mementos that you and your friends or family can share.

Why Isn’t My Film Developing?

There’s nothing worse than buying an instant camera only to have the film not develop, well, instantly. While Polaroid film is designed to develop in a variety of situations, sometimes overheating can cause the process not to function correctly. If the temperature is too far over 70 degrees, you may need to cool the film down for a few minutes before it can develop properly. If it is especially hot and you happen to be at home, try putting the film in the refrigerator for a few minutes. This should ensure the film is cool enough to develop.

Why Does Polaroid Film Fade?

Polaroid film was not meant to last forever, but instead is a unique way to take pictures quickly, develop them promptly and often discard them. As Polaroid film is being used more and more for professional photographs, there are a few ways to keep them for longer periods of time. Well stored, a Polaroid picture can last up to 100 years. First, the oils on your skin can cause your photos to become yellowed. If you are viewing an important picture, be sure to use gloves or only handle the edges. While you are not viewing, be sure to store these images laying flat in a dark, archival album. Try to keep the film within the temperature range of 55 – 82°F. If you are desperate to recover a photo that has already been yellowed, there are some ways to clean it. However, this should be a last resort. Take care to store the images properly to begin with, and you will not need to worry about cleaning.

What Features Do You Look for in a Polaroid Camera?

Finding the best Polaroid can be a challenge. There are many options to choose from, and more being introduced every year. Here are a few features to consider when looking to purchase a Polaroid camera. These features include:

How Do You Choose the Best?

After reviewing the important features of a Polaroid camera​. This represents not only professional opinion regarding these features, but it also takes into account customer ratings and other professional reviews. This list is a comprehensive and unbiased list. Its purpose is not to advertise a certain brand or model, but to highlight some of the competitive cameras on the market today, in order to give you an informed opinion before purchasing your Polaroid camera.

Price Range

​The more expensive options are adequate for professional use with lots of features, and the lower cost models are better for amateurs and hobbyists.

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