Customer Ratings & Reviews

I'm of the age group that remembers the 80s Polaroid and having photos taped in my locker. The Polaroid Now Gen 2 camera brings back all of that fun, with some modern upgrades. In the box is the Polaroid camera, USB-C charging cord, quick start paperwork, and wrist strap. Unfortunately, when you purchase this camera, you'll want to buy the I-type film at the same time, as no samples are included. I charged the camera out of the box for an hour prior to using, and have used up two photo cartridges with flash without needing a recharge. As for build, the Polaroid is light weight, with two attachment points for the wrist strap or for better portability go buy a neck strap, which I highly recommend. While the camera is lightweight, it is pure 80s vibe in the boxy build. One note for the 10% of the population that is left handed, this camera is very much for right handers. The view port can be used with your left eye if you don't mind squishing your nose into the back of the camera of holding it a few inches away from your face, otherwise it works fine using your right eye. The photo button is on the right front, power and flash on the right back (facing you), making it impossible to take photos with your left hand, unless you hold the camera upside down and are ok with the print being upside down to the traditional look. The film comes in cartridges of 8, with a protective paper cover. To use, remove the film cartridge from the wrapper, leave the protective paper on, and insert the cartridge. Make sure the camera is powered on, close the film door, and the camera will automatically eject the protective paper. The display will then flash "8" showing you how many photos you have left. To take photos, its literally point and shoot, the camera then will eject the photo under a black cover. The photo will stay in place until you pull it out and flip it over (photo side down) to finish developing. One thing that should be obvious, but I continue to forget is that this is not high res photography. The images are comparable to what you took with the 80s Polaroid camera. A few upgrades from the 80s are that this camera has an internal battery, charged through the included USB-C cable, comes with an autofocus leveraging two different lenses based on conditions, flash, double exposure, and timer. The camera does best outdoors in full sun, but the flash gives enough ambient light that you can still take quality photos from up to ~4' away. The timer allows for group photos, to do so, press the timer button, then hit the photo button, the timer light on the left front will start a count down, and start rapidly blinking just prior to the photo being taken ~9 seconds total time. The double exposure feature was an interesting idea, to turn it on, you press the timer button twice. You will then take a photo as normal, the display will show a 1, then reposition (no time limit that I found) and take a second photo. The camera will superimpose the images, and while it sounds really neat, so far all I've managed to do is turn two cat photos into a frankencat (see photos for example). Although, I'm sure there is all kinds of fun face mixing that can be done with this feature. Overall, enjoy this camera for what it is, a fun experience to be shared with friends. Have instant gratification in getting your photos on demand (after the few minutes of exposure time), have a fun conversation piece, and take it anywhere. This won't be a high res camera that captures all of your important memories, but it will be the fun camera that catches the good times.

This camera is a really fun way to capture memories in physical form! The camera's design is super retro and iconic, something that Polaroid does best, and with a few different color options to choose from, you can make the design uniquely fit your vibe! It is admittedly a bit bulky of a camera compared to several other similar types on the market (due to that iconic retro Polaroid design, thankfully a wrist strap is included in the box though!), but it’s extremely worth it to bring around because it’s a great conversation piece, and you instantly get physical pictures to keep! The camera uses square-shaped i-Type Polaroid film (not included unfortunately), and with it you can take awesome vintage-looking shots and fit plenty of subjects in the photos; the photos won’t be the clearest photos you've ever seen, but they definitely give a special sense of nostalgia that can’t be replicated in any way but through film! Definitely go for i-Type Film over the 600 Film type, because while both are supported by this camera, 600 Film has a battery in the film pack that this camera does not require. Also be prepared to drop some money on the film if you purchase this camera; it’s not the cheapest, but it’s definitely worth it if you value having instantly printed photos and all of the accompanying aesthetics! Other features this camera includes are a shockingly clear viewfinder, autofocus and flash so you can get pictures in any lighting, timer functionality, a dual-exposure mode to merge two shots together on one photo, as well as a built-in USB-C rechargeable battery and an indicator for your remaining photos in your current film pack. If you’re looking for a hip, vintage yet modernized large-film camera, this camera is perfect for you!

I recently got my hands on the Polaroid Now Instant Film Camera Generation 2 in the classic Black & White and I must say, it’s like going back to my childhood before digital cameras and phone cameras. As someone who enjoys photography and who appreciates the charm of analog photography, this camera is a blast from the past for that vintage look in photographs. The Polaroid Now Generation 2 has a timeless elegant look of the disposable cameras of Polaroids from the past. Its sleek black body gives it that old school look, and the build quality is excellent. It feels sturdy yet lightweight, making it easy to carry around for impromptu photo sessions, the capture button is kind of in an awkward position, as someone with big fingers it was hard to get a good grip and pressing the capture button. What sets the Polaroid Now apart is its instant film capability. The anticipation of waiting for the film to develop adds a sense of excitement and charm to the entire process. There’s something incredibly special and nostalgic about holding a physical photograph moments after capturing it, and the Polaroid Now brings that feeling back. The Polaroid Now Generation 2 is incredibly user-friendly. The camera features autofocus, ensuring that every shot is sharp and clear. The built-in flash adjusts automatically based on the lighting conditions, guaranteeing well-lit photos in various environments. That being said I definitely recommend taking pictures in well lit environments to get the best out of the camera photos, because even with the flash if there's not enough light photos can come out very dark, and with the price of the film you don't want to waste it with bad lighting. Overall the Polaroid Now Instant Film Camera Generation 2 in Black & White is a delightful blend of vintage charm and modern convenience. Its old school design, instant gratification, monochrome magic, ease of use, and the joy of tangible results make it a must-have for anyone passionate about photography and preserving memories in a timeless form. Using this camera is not just about capturing moments; it’s about creating timeless mementos that will be cherished for years to come. I absolutely love the Polaroid Now 2 and highly recommend it to anyone seeking a nostalgic photography experience.

I haven’t used a Polaroid in over 25 years. I remember using one when I was a kid. It was great since the photo was developed as you take the photo. You can give it friends immediately. You can write on the tab part of the photo with a marker. The Instant Film Camera is fun. I brought it to work for Halloween. It brought back memories from my co-workers. We took some pictures during lunch. This camera is just like the older Polaroid except you can charge it with the included USB-C cable. It can be used with two types of film. The 600 or the I-Type. From what I read the 600 film has a battery and is compatible with older models. A bit of a warning. The film can be expensive. You’re looking at about $1.60 - $2.00 per photo. There are no edits to the photos. As soon as you take it, it will start to develop the shot. There is no zooming in and out either. You, as the photo taker will have to move towards or away from your subject(s). I tried to look for third party brands but cannot find any. You can save by buying in bulk. Each pack will do 8 photos. This is ideal to use at gatherings and parties in a house. I wouldn’t take it on trips or outdoor events. You will have to carry the film(s) and the photos themselves after they develop. Aside from the cost per photo, these are fun to have. The look of the photos is great. I’m still learning to shoot with good light. There’s no preview. There is a flash though. Fun camera.

We got this Polaroid camera because it is fun for the entire family, recently in Halloween we gave pictures away to everyone who wanted them and it was everyone. When the camera arrived, it is a fun looking box, I like the presentation and the camera looks simple yet elegant. It is retro looking with the benefits of the new features. The box comes with a strap, USB-C cable and instructions. The camera has autofocus, it uses two lenses and chooses one to take awesome pictures, so there is no need to do anything but just point and shoot. The double exposure makes the pictures look great. We like the self-timer, just place it somewhere to take the picture, set the timer and done. I like that the camera is made with 40 percent of recycled materials and it also comes with an internal battery so no more batteries or cartridges with batteries are thrown away. The flash is soft yet it brings plenty of light so the pictures look great. The camera uses the Polaroid 600 film so have plenty on hand because we used it right away. Overall it is a lot of fun for everyone, it is not our first Polaroid and I am certain it will not be our last.

What is it that makes Polaroid unique? The ability to blend classic with modern styles. The classic look of an instant camera, but with a modern touch. Although this instant camera looks and feels like a retro instant camera, you're able to turn your flash on or off, and charge it by plugging it in instead of replacing its batteries. Polaroid added nifty features to the Now camera. A self-timer, double exposure, and flash, help add to the unique shots that can be taken by it. Per my experience, flash is always necessary while shooting indoors for best photos. The Now also is compatible with two Polaroid films: the i-Type and 600. The difference between the two? The 600 film contains a battery pack inside that powered older Polaroid Instant camera models while the i-Type does not contain a battery. This does not affect the Now model and I would prefer using the i-Type since it technically uses less material. Both film types are in 600 iso, which helps to create those unique, vintage style photos. For the best film quality photos, Polaroid recommends putting the film in the refrigerator and letting it sit out before using the film to take pictures. They also recommend after taking photos, to set the film in a dark place or flipping it around with the photo side down. The quality of the photos themselves makes me reminisce some of my old family photos. However, working with this i-type film seems different to me. It took me a couple of tries, but I finally got the film to not be speckled once it cures. After trying with the refrigerated and non-refeigerated films (I bought a double-pack to test them out), I did find the refrigerated pack worked better at not having the ink move around. Now for the downsides. The Now's battery only lasts for about 15 shots before needing to be charged again (the light near the charging port will indicate the battery level (green/yellow/red). Second, although the camera is meant to create grainy photos with a soft, creamy pastel like feel, I would also like to have the option to take sharp photos. All the photos I took seemed a bit out of focus, even with the grainy effect, with the farther ones looking sharper than close-up shots, which was a disappointment for me when it came to portraits. Overall, I was not too impressed by this Polaroid Instant camera. Maybe, I could learn to use it better. Regardless, I have used other brand instant cameras that have given me sharper and brighter photos. However, if you're looking for the vintage, creamy look, this one is perfect for that.

When talking about instant cameras, Polaroid is a brand that always comes to mind. You have to have a creative eye to really take advantage of this particular camera. I say this because the film used is made to capture colors based on your subject and lighting. In dark environments, your subject has to be close enough to take advantage of the built in flash. Anything past 3 feet will be pretty dark. In good natural lighting, photos come out looking the best. It's kind of big to carry as a street camera but it's somewhat manageable and it even comes with a wrist strap. You have to make every shot count. Each picture will cost you around $2.12 since an 8 pack currently costs $16.99. It also took me a few Best Buy's to locate 1 of the I-type films and even then the one box they had looked like it was opened. Overall, this gets looks when I use it on the streets and gets the conversation started with random a talking about the "good ol' days". It comes with USB-C charging which is a plus now a days. While I may not take it everywhere, I know it will get used to stay creative.

The Polaroid Now Gen 2 camera is, well, polarizing. It is at the same time cool, retro, stylish and at the same time cumbersome, inconvenient and difficult. In essence, this is not a photography tool,rather it’s an experience; it sits in a world of its own. After playing around with it for the last couple of weeks, here’s some aspects that I like and don’t like. Likes: The overall experience is unique, and at least to me very fun. It makes taking each and every photo an event, and a memorable one. It’s never dull, and creates opportunities to be creative Everything works like a charm. I’ve yet to get any jammed paper, or other weird issue. Less buttons and options = less chance of things getting wrong Camera is well built and does not need “babying” like other cameras. Lens seems well protected, the body is made out of durable plastic Different types of paper/films are available, ranging from normal color or black-and-white, to fancy framed and special edition ones Supports both Polaroid i-type and the old-school 600 films Flash gives off an old school vibe which I like There’s a timer in the front with an indicator light that helps to take selfies - again in the old-school way! An overall fun plaything especially at events and gatherings Dislikes: Some of the pros can be taken as cons for a lot of people - especially if the only camera you’ve ever used is a smartphone Needs some thinking to “frame” and “setup” the photo No autofocus, so distance needs to be optimum to reduce blurriness Almost unusable without the flash and decent light Flash is old-school i.e. has the red–eye effect As you should already be aware - no post processing or saving of the image. This is a purely “print-once” camera. What you captures is what you get printed As above, no memory, so no way to duplicate or retrieve a photo Films are proprietary and quite expensive Needs some experimentation with different types of film, so it becomes a more expensive venture Film development takes some time, and needs to be handled properly (lied on it’s back in a dark place) - can be bothersome if you’ve not planned and are out and about In essence, the Polaroid Now instant camera is a mixed bag. Unless you’re committed to put up with the chore or taking a once in a lifetime photo, and agree to spend some dough on the film, it may turn into a useless piece of toy. On the other hand, if you’re an aficionado and appreciate the art of taking good photos with not-so-fancy gear and don’t like digital wizardry, this may be something of a passion project. I personally love it, and have been using it to capture memorable moments of my family and my dogs. But most possibly, I’d give it a lot of thought before recommending it to anybody.

Beautiful and love how the pictures come out and you can also turn in or off the flash

Make sure you get the right film because I had a few pictures come out bad. Also, read up on how to use the flash properly.

“An essential aspect of creativity is not being afraid to fail”. This quote molded into the case of the Polaroid Now, a nostalgic update to a classic camera. It offers compatibility with i-Type and 600 series film, autofocus, flash, rechargeable battery, double exposure, and a self timer in a classic looking package. So is this bit of nostalgic photography for you? Are you ready to do the Polaroid shake? Or should you be afraid to fail? Let’s address the elephant in the room to start with. Polaroid film is expensive. This camera isn’t cheap, but shooting with it can be a lot more expensive than even the camera. I purchased over $90 worth of film after getting this camera and I’d say about 50% of my shots were unusable. Given each shot is $2 give or take, it’s understandable you might be afraid to fail - which is why they put that quote on the bottom to encourage you.. To buy more film… Ok, but seriously it’s not a cheap sport to play. Getting past that, let’s move on to the camera. So out of the box immediately you’ll notice that the camera hits that nostalgic design you expect from Polaroid. The triangular shapes, black matte plastic, and rainbow trim all give a classic feel to this camera. The 35-40mm lens dominates the front along with the view finder glass and flash. Flanking this are also the LEDs, sensors, self timer button and shutter button. The Polaroid Now is one of the few cameras I’ve seen that has more going on in the front than the back. On the back you find the power, flash, and LED display (that shows the remaining shots in the current cartridge). The view finder helps frame the shot, but the lack of any reticle or feedback means it’s only as useful as a perspective. The shutter button is two stage that works with the autofocus. Overall it’s a pretty basic setup. Beyond framing the shot, the Polaroid Now does offer some basic features. Most of these features rely on the self timer button. Pressing this once will activate the self timer, which will start a 9 second countdown for a shot after pressing the shutter button. Pressing the self timer button twice will activate double exposure mode, so you can take two photos in one picture, which takes some time to master. I suppose you could create some interesting mash ups using this feature. My experience taking pictures was mixed. Polaroid film wants a lot of light. Like metric tons of light to get anything that resembles a photo. Many indoor photos will appear dark, and even with the flash, you might end up with overexposed subjects in dark scenes. Polaroid shooting is an art, and I’m still learning. Normal rules apply, put light sources behind you - shining at your subject. Even outdoor shots could be too dark if you don’t have direct sunlight. The compatibility of the camera with i-Type and 600 film is good. I-type is an update to the Polaroid cartridge of the 600 film. The primary difference is the lack of battery found in the 600 film. Since the Polaroid Now has an internal battery, the film’s battery is not required. Nevertheless 600 film still works. Speaking of the battery, I had no trouble charging it via the USB-C port. The flash charges quickly and I was unable to kill it in the 3-4 packs of film I’ve used so far. It’s rated for 15 cartridges of shots, but unless you’re burning money, you’ll probably just want to charge it before heading out for your day of photography. Overall the question of whether or not this bit of nostalgia is worth it comes down to the flavor of photography you’re attempting to do. This is an analogue experience, with the only digital experience being the LED that has a digit of shots left. Photos will be blurry, soft, and out of focus more often than not. They will also be warm, real, and authentic. The magic of Polaroids is the immediacy of the picture. It’s definitely nostalgic. Overall I think this camera comes down to what you’re trying to manage. I took a few photos of my kids with the gold print film to leave out as talking pieces and memories. I got some great photos, and some duds. Overall I was pleased with my experiment, but if you’re looking to do some serious photography with this camera, I might look at the plus version which is only slightly more expensive, but offers a lot of filters to work with the lens.

THIS… Is Polaroids Gen 2 Instant Film camera, and it is everything you could ask and hope for… with a price. But the first question that popped into my mind was.. Gen 2? What is the upgrade? It was actually a reasonably substantial upgrade to the first generation, fixed the overexposure issue, color accuracy is on point, focal point is sharp with in tripod mode netting you a max distance to get a good photo ~6ft, as in you can get a clear pic of someones face about 6ft away. Color balancing in the medium to low lighting was actually superb. I really enjoyed taking photos in darker environments where I would have strayed away from on my first gen, out hiking or in the city… I really never worried about the outcome on the photo as the Gen 2 Polaroid always nailed it. Something that is super cool is that the Polaroid actually uses exposure timing… as in take the photo and wait while it soaks up all the glory of the image you just took. And it did it really quick too, not really ever taking more than 15/20 seconds on the high side. Some other things that just make sense on the Gen 2 Polaroid is that it has a rechargeable battery, something I have wanted on other ‘instant’ film cameras. I never have batteries! Nothing takes batteries, my PS5 doesn’t, my tv remote doesn't, it is nice that I don’t have to spend $8 on 12 batteries and then spend half of my day trying to find them again when the batteries run out. It also uses type C charging so +1 to Polaroid for spending the extra 7 cents to make my life easier. Something that also must be noted is how absolutely sick this camera looks in green, bestbuy sent me the white one but I have a friend that bought it in green and I am just actually stunned that they can make these look so cool now. So where does the fun run out? I mean truthfully, it really never does. The biggest thorn in my side is that there is A. No film in the box to test and B. The film is pricy and C. There is no sample pack!!! Do I want my film in black and white? Do I want it in color? Why is it so hard to find the white color frames? Thankfully, I was able to get all the film I needed from bestbuy in one swoop, but let me run over the numbers here… For 16 white framed photos, its $31.99 or lets just say $32 for math (and taxes).. Thats $2 a picture! But I have to say, once you start taking the photos, I spent a lot of $2 lol. So how does this end? Well, if you have any inkling to scrapbook, hang photos on the wall, save memories or create the perfect themed photo then you should look no further. Film is expensive, always has been and there are tons of options out there to manage this. That being said, this is the best Polaroid or Polaroid like camera I have touched. Battery life was so long I forgot it was even a thing, flash and camera balancing was PERFECT and its super easy to get all the things you need to resupply your camera on the go. As always, Bestbuy has an excellent return policy and even better customer service, so you never have to worry about buying a product that you don’t like… so why not test it out?!