When I was first introduced to photography, I was given a hand-me-down camera and two rolls of film. Because of the cost associated with developing the film, I was careful to only take shots of things that were important to me–like all my stuffed animals. I swear I still have undeveloped rolls of film kicking around somewhere.
The world of photography has changed dramatically since then. Today, whether it is with a smartphone, tablet, point-and-shoot, or SLR camera, we can take as many photos as we want, of anything, at any given time. We can then share those photos to our social media networks, or download them to any number of photo organization programs on our computers. What many of us don’t do though, is print them. I don’t know about you, but I for one, miss physical printed photos. That’s why I am a giant fan of Fujifilm’s Instax cameras and the HP Sprocket Photo Printer.
Why you would want an instant camera
I can’t count the number of times I’ve taken a photo with my phone only to have the people I am with ask me to send it to them, or to tag them on it when I post it to social media. But imagine being able to take a photo and printing it on the spot so you can actually give them a physical copy?!
That is exactly what you get with an Instax camera from Fujifilm. Take for example the Instax Mini 9. With it, you can snap retro-inspired, bold photos and selfies and instantly print them on credit-card-sized paper that comes complete with a classy white border. You can even perfect your selfie game by framing your face via the mirror that is integrated right next to the lens. For those single people out there, I think this is an awesome way to leave someone your phone number, just saying!
The Instax Mini, which comes in a variety of colours including Ice Blue, Smokey White, Flamingo Pink, Cobalt Blue and Lime Green, also comes with a brightness adjustment dial so you can shoot in various lighting conditions.
Another awesome option from Fujifilm is the Instax WIDE 300 instant camera. Its wide film delivers vivid prints in an instant, and because of the larger format and bigger film, is ideal for capturing everyone’s facial expressions. It also features a tripod socket, real image finder and lens ring dial with focus zone setting. Personally, I see this instant camera being the ideal companion for new parents so they can print a photo of their little one the moment it’s taken.
Then of course there is the Fujifilm Instax SQUARE SQ10 hybrid instant camera that lets you snap and instantly print photos measuring 2.4” x 2.4”. To spice things up a bit, you can also use one of the SQ10’s various preloaded filters and vignettes, and preview and edit your handiwork on its 3” TFT full-colour LCD display before you print your photos out.
Why you would want an instant photo printer
If you like the idea of printing your photos as easily as you share them online, but don’t necessarily like the idea of adding another photo-taking device to your electronic catalogue, the HP Sprocket photo printer is definitely for you.
With it, you can instantly print 2” x 3” photos directly from your smartphone or tablet! All you need to do is connect the printer to your device via Bluetooth or NFC and then use the HP Sprocket app to customize your photos before printing them. This functionality is pretty cool in and of itself, but the idea that anyone can connect to the printer via Bluetooth would be super handy for family functions, parties, and other get-togethers.
Plus its portable and lightweight (6 ounces) design makes it easy to take with you anywhere you might think it could come in handy. Mom and dad, if you are reading this, consider your Christmas shopping for me done!
If you know someone who would like the idea of being able to instantly print and share their photos, then an instant camera or photo printer is an easy gift idea this holiday season. Happy snapping!
