We live in a time where it seems that every moment is captured either in a photograph or a video. Do something silly and you can almost be guaranteed that you'll hear the words, "Oh man, I can't wait to post this one!" Unfortunately, not only are people creating instant photographic records but they are also making them quite readily available online to anyone that has an interest in viewing them. The public seems to have a much greater love affair with online photo albums than they ever did with print albums. Yet, there is still the niche of people who want photographs that they can hold in their hand.
Among the print aficionados, there are some photographers that have always had a love for instant cameras. In this case, the "instant" refers to the film and not so much the camera itself. Cameras, like the well-known and immediately recognizable Polaroid, provide a photograph that develops literally before one's eyes. Even in today's world of digital cameras, there is still a use for this film and these types of cameras. In spite of the fact that there were other manufacturers of instant cameras and self-developing film - such as Fuji and Kodak - instant photographs have generally been referred to as "Polaroids."
Polaroids, or instant photographs, have been widely used in the fields of law enforcement, insurance adjusting, medicine and private investigation. Even where conventional photographic equipment will be used, instant cameras are called into service for test shots. However, admittedly, digital cameras are quickly usurping the need for Polaroids since, with their LCD displays, it is possible to ascertain whether or not photographs are viable. Viability or good composition is not the determining factor for a photograph in all cases, though. When used for identification or passport photos or for any of the reasons previously outlined, instant cameras create photographs that cannot be altered. This can certainly not be said of digital imagery.
In the past, some viewed instant cameras as a more affordable photographic option (although, truth be told, self-developing film is not inexpensive) because there was no film to process. Other budget-conscious consumers chose "instamatics," such as those offered by Kodak. These were very easy to load and use but should not be confused with a "Kodamatic," for instance, which was a Kodak instant picture camera, similar to a Polaroid. Today, the most popular "budget cameras" are single-use or disposable cameras. These camera housings come pre-installed with film and the entire unit is submitted at the time of processing. For those who cannot afford or do not wish to own a camera, disposable cameras offer a fun and convenient option for vacations, special events and some can even be used as underwater cameras without the significant investment normally required. They have also become quite a mainstay at wedding receptions and companies are now developing the housings to be much more decorative and wedding-friendly.
More people are buying spy cameras nowadays. Parents are buying spy cameras to place in strategic places in their homes to protect their children from caregivers. All too often parents learn that their trusted nannies and babysitters are not the people they thought they were. All too often parents see bruises on their babies and toddlers that are explained away as accidents. You never want to believe someone could harm your children, but this kind of abuse happens occasionally. Many cautious parents are now installing spy cameras in their homes to protect the welfare of their infants and children. It's better to install spy cameras and not need them, than not to and wish you had.
Do you like to scuba dive? Most underwater cameras are the point and shoot variety. They are very lightweight, and can strap around your neck or attach to your wrist or diving belt. Many waterproof cameras can serve as underwater cameras. However, divers who take the best underwater photos use because they are uniquely designed to function underwater.
In spite of all the technological advances that have been made in photography, it's quite a testament to the instant camera that it still has a place in society and valued uses some 70 years after its creation. Whether you are a professional photographer, or a novice, you can purchase a camera that will suit your needs and expertise. Kodak cameras have a great reputation for quality. If you take photos for a living, or you just like taking pictures you will enjoy using a Kodak digital camera. It's surprising that many people haven't used any type of digital camera. If you have never used a digital camera, try a Kodak; you will be surprised how easy it is to operate. |
