12 Days of Christmas – Day 8 is Fujifilm instant photography

Day eight of the 12 Days of Christmas could be the one where you consider instant photography and printing from Fujifilm. Instant photography is a throwback to the bygone era of the Polaroid—snap a photo and get a print right on the spot. It was super popular back then and seen a resurgence in the digital era.

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There are several reasons why you might want to get in on the action. Think about the fun people could have using a Fujifilm Instax camera at a live event or family gatherings during the holidays. The immediacy of holding a print leaves a lasting memory one could cherish and display with pride, much like previous generations did with photos of loved ones.

Why an Instax camera?

Fujifilm has a pedigree for this very thing, both from the quality of the camera itself and on to the paper used for the prints. The company’s heritage in film and photo paper stands out in a big way. Generally, an Instax camera is made up of a portable camera you can take with you that includes a slot for sheets to print out the images. You can buy replacement sheets in packs and refill the camera whenever you need to.

Fujifilm also adapted its cameras for today’s preferences. In a world where 1:1 square and upright portrait mode photos are in vogue, you can find Instax printers that will deliver the goods. Plus, there really is something cool about hearing a click and whirring sound to anticipate something of interest is about to roll out.

The difference is each shot you take means something. Rather than a digital camera or phone where only storage is a limitation, the sheets force you to consider how you want to snap every photo. At the same time, they are a fun way to introduce photography to kids who can appreciate the tactile feeling of holding and looking at an image they took at the same time. One could argue they could also help teach kids and teens about composition, like the basics of framing and focus, for example.

Instax cameras usually run on AA batteries rather than rechargeable lithium batteries. That way, you don’t always have to concern yourself with whether the camera is charged up or not. They also work with Fujifilm’s Instax Up! app to scan and share Instax photos. Fuji actually has several apps for both iOS and Android that work with both cameras and printers under the Instax line.

Fitting in with style

The cameras come in various colours and styles, so it’s not hard to find something to suit your tastes. That also goes for the quality of the sheets, which are a nice stock that ensures prints will last a long time without ever fading. You can choose to use the flash or leave it off, and have the ability to take selfies or macro photos, depending on the model you get. Despite the lack of granular controls like other cameras and photography apps, there’s enough creativity to work with.

What about an Instax printer?

Sure, why not? Instax printers are instant photography with a digital twist. Take photos from your smartphone—or even other devices like a Nintendo Switch—and print them on a Fuji Instax printer right on the fly. Portable, wireless and easy to use, these printers could change how you take photos. For example, some printers give you the option to output in a classic film style or more true-to-life colours. Others include augmented reality with QR codes to allow others to download digital versions that also allow you to add visual effects. It’s even possible to take a still from a video and print that out.

Create collages or printable memes—the creative choices will feel pretty extensive when you dive in. And because the printers are so portable, they can be a hit during family functions, special events or vacations.

Check out the latest Instax cameras and Instax printers at Best Buy now. Also, check out all the replacement print packs.