Polaroid Film

Polaroid Film

Depending on the Polaroid camera you’re using, you’ll want to make sure you have the right type of film to work with it. While there is some cross-compatibility, not all types of Polaroid film will work with all Polaroid cameras, so it’s worth double-checking. Here are the main types available currently.

Types of Polaroid film

How to use Polaroid film

Polaroid film is extremely easy to use, and has been popular for decades for precisely this reason. Once you’ve made sure you’ve got the compatible film type, it’s pretty much a matter of loading it into the camera and then simply pointing and shooting.

With regards to storage – Polaroid recommends storing the film in the refrigerator to increase its lifespan, but letting it rise back to room temperature before using it. You should not freeze the film, as that can affect the chemicals that allow it to develop.

And lastly – despite what OutKast may have led you to believe, you don’t need to shake a Polaroid picture! In fact, the development of a Polaroid photo will run much smoother if it is left alone and still for 10-15 minutes – so place it face down or somewhere out of the light, and practice a little patience!

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Polaroid photos waterproof?

No, Polaroid photos are not typically waterproof. A little splash may not hurt them, but by and large you should avoid getting them wet whenever possible.

Is Polaroid film compatible with the Polaroid Snap?

No – the Polaroid Snap is a Zink (zero ink) camera, and uses special photo paper rather than film. It’s similar to the Polaroid Zip instant printer in this respect.

Is Polaroid film vegan?

Unfortunately, Polaroid film (like all film) is made using small amounts of gelatin, and therefore is sadly not vegan.

What happens when Polaroid film expires?

Expired film is still perfectly useable – it won’t damage your camera or anything like that. The manufacturers just warn that the effects of expired film can be unpredictable. Expiry can cause colour shift, or a loss in contrast, or any number of other effects – or, indeed, nothing at all. It’s a gamble, so if you have some expired Polaroid film don’t throw it away. Use it, and embrace the unexpected!

Will Polaroid film work with Fujifilm Instax cameras?

No. The film stocks are different sizes, so Polaroid film won’t even fit in an Instax camera, much less produce a photograph in one. The same goes for the other way round.

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