I’m an old school guy but the absence of available peel apart film has me admiring those old Polaroids as pieces of mechanical art instead of as useable cameras.
You nailed it. Old, mechanical parts etc. The engineering of the tool is as visible and beautiful as the results it produces. It has the print of "human" on it, personable.
I always want to love Polaroid but their film cost, film quality, and constantly having to clean the rollers just put me off from using. With instax being essentially bulletproof I have found I use and love converted backs like the Nons, zinstax, and lomo back more.
@@ribsy it also ages well. I have stored some instax ambient and shot 1-2 years after expiry with no difference. As you mentioned Polaroid is almost useless once expired. I even ran Polaroid and instax through my bag in an airport X-ray. Polaroid was completely destroyed, instax had no impact.
I was really turned off of impossible/polaroid when they claimed that they didn’t know how to make thinner sheets, and they could only fit 8 shots per cartridge, compared to old Polaroid which had 10. Then the community showed 10 fits just fine. I get that it’s a business but sheesh.
I would love to shoot instant film in my RB67 or especially in 4x5 as it would give respectable image size. Unfortunately instax backs for the RB67, while available, are ridiculously expensive and 4x5 instant film has not been made for decades. Of course there's the possibility of single-loading Instax film and using an Instax camera to develop it but that kind of defeats the whole idea of instant film as it's really not instant or handy in any way. Still might get an Instax camera just to experiment.
I LOVE my 1-2! Got it back in Dec ‘23, and it was the only camera I took on my trip to Japan (had to bring all my film as there’s no reliable, official Polaroid vendor in Japan), and have been completely blown away by the results - which in the final analysis is the make or break for any camera! At least in my book 😊. The most amazing thing to me is that the camera and film are able to morph the world in front of me into something that looks different. I have 50mp DSLR, MF, and LF analog cameras that all do an amazing job of recording the world faithfully. Got that base covered. But when I started shooting with the I-2, I got something radically DIFFERENT, and that difference, to me, is truly transformational. It brings an element of serendipity into the photographs that make them (excuse the hokey term) magical. As for the price, each of my other cameras I have cost multiples of the $600 this cost me. And like you I feel like I definitely got what I paid for, and more! It’s been a solid performer, traveled the world, and is the first camera I reach for to do my personal work! Good on you for continuing to use the camera and to publish your re-evaluation of it. 👍🏼
I hated the Mini-film TL70 2.0. Maybe the Plus improves on things, but the prior model? Probably the camera decision I regret the most. The meter isn't under the ND filters, making exposure a total crapshoot in the sun, with no useful control over the shutter speed (the Plus seems like shutter speed is under control). Meanwhile, the aperture plates don't often sit right, and this leads to horrible vignetting in a lot of shots, even stopped down. I felt like I got much better shots with an Instax Mini 8 than the Mint. And it's a shame, because looking through that finder is a joy. The focus wheel could be nicer (it doesn't come close to actual 120 film TLRs), but for a f/5.6 lens, the viewfinder is so bright and fun to use. A great experience with everything except the actual pictures.
When I bought my I-2 right at Launch I expected to love it but its unreliable meter was very disappointing. I hadn’t expected to have to meter with my Sekonic to get usable shots.
Ribsy! Great vid man. I 100% agree on the overall quality of polariod colour film - its just not there at the moment. I want to love it but just camt get into it while its so inconsistent. Instax does it for me at the moment. I find with the new polaroid cameras- give it 18 months when the early adopters sell them and you get a bargain! Great to see you on YT again, would love to see more of those doco type videos youve been doing too!
I think it’s a sweet camera. I would buy one if I had the extra money, and maybe someday I will. I use my newer Polaroid off and on, and I agree the black and white film is really good!
I feel like the SX-70 and Polaroid I-2 are both worth owning since they excel in different aspects. SX-70 has better accessories for macro, telephoto, and Fisheye but the Polaroid I-2 is a more streamlined camera with true manual + program modes and easier studio work.
Not for the price. And you would think they would have made a view finder over the lens for centered photos. For that money they should have done that. Sharper image mini instax camera is the only instant camera that has the view finder directly over the lens.
I have criticisms of Fujifilm Instax film, compared to Polaroid film, often include: 1. **Smaller Size**: Instax photos are generally smaller than Polaroid's, especially with the popular Instax Mini format. The larger Polaroid formats, like the classic 600 and SX-70, tend to be preferred by those who want more impactful, artistic photos. 2. **Less Nostalgic or Vintage Aesthetic**: Instax film, especially in its color tones, is sometimes seen as more modern or commercial, with brighter colors and less of the vintage, dreamy look that Polaroid film often captures. Polaroid is often favored for its unique color shifts, imperfections, and classic vibe, which some photographers find more appealing. 3. **Fewer Artistic Flaws**: Instax film is generally praised for its consistency and reliability, but this very quality can be a drawback for those who like the unpredictable, often flawed nature of Polaroid film. Many people enjoy how Polaroid film can produce unexpected color variations, light leaks, and other "happy accidents" that give the photos character. 4. **Color Quality and Range**: Instax colors are sometimes criticized for being too saturated or lacking the softer, more subtle hues that Polaroid film can provide. Polaroid fans often prefer the more muted, pastel-like colors and natural skin tones. 5. **Texture and Finish**: Some users find that the glossy finish of Instax film lacks the textured feel or matte finish of Polaroid prints, which are perceived as more premium and aesthetically pleasing. Polaroid film, despite being more expensive and less reliable in terms of image consistency, is often loved for these artistic imperfections and its ties to photographic history. Its larger size, color quality, and the “vintage” look contribute to its appeal over Instax for many enthusiasts.
I would have the newer one. Because I can have peace of mind in it's functions. Like analog works, but when you have this and you give it respect you know what's happening. I like knowing what's happening. And it's a kind where I can trust it. Analog is allot of knowing but everything. The way I can get those Polaroid features is on my f100. But this is more fun where people look at me way differently in a good way.
@@ribsy for sure! And you move a lot differently compared to an F100.... Like I have the Polaroid go and now+, it works so much better our person in front of you with these cameras.... But yeah this one? I cannot throw 600 bucks at it yet
I want both. They both look fun to use! I dont like how i-type film looks though, its so ugly! If they made a new one that had much better dynamic range and looked nicer, I'd buy the modern one in a heartbeat. Think you'll try the newest Instax camera? The one with analogue "filters"? That one also looks super fun to use.
Polaroid used to make some really simple to use instant film cameras. I loved my first one but as I grew up I ditched it for a "real" camera. Great information. 👍👍
You can buy a full modern slr, the NONS SL660 that uses exchangeable lenses and uses instax film. Sorry that polaroid is a 600 a hunk of junk when you can spend the same price for a solid metal slr that was designed to use instax square from NONS.
@@ribsyI’m afraid so. I’ve spent so much money to come to this conclusion. Bought the alpha and had it refurbished like it just came out of the box. Had the built in rechargeable battery installed for it also. Just fantastic camera. Constant inconsistency in film and bad packs. Did I learn my lesson? No! Bought a sonar and had it all tricked out also and again the frustration of the horrible film just never made the experience what I wanted. Again did I learn? No! I get that I I-2 and now you get lousy instant film and over exposure issues. And around the same time I got the instax wide 300 as a gift and found my wife was always preferring the photos from wide 300 from any of them. Returned that horrible I2. Sold off all the Polaroid cameras and got the NONS camera which is a true slr and miles better than that I2 in picture quality, consistency and has reliable film. Never again with Polaroid.
non sl vignetted and best lens in instax film not is good because more easy fired higlihts or solarize the film;all modded instax camera whit tominon lens or other not make diffrence;and to use giant 110 b whit back not is hand held friendly and make pink shift
All mechanical all day my friend. Nothing is worse than finding a sweet vintage camera that depends on batteries for operation, only to find that it won't work and no one is fixing them anymore. Sweet Polaroid though and I hope it gives them the funds they need to stay open and continue to make film for the millions of vintage cameras out in the world.
I am a real hater. I cannot understand the $600 price point of the new camera other than the fact that it has a manual mode. Most of us can’t even afford that these days.
@@plateoshrimp9685 Yea you are better off finding an autofocus model on eBay or something if you want a Polaroid. Ive been using their 600 film for the first time in 4-5 years and it’s gotten a lot better, but I have still seen expired film from 1999 that looks better than what they have out right now.😂
I'm not saying it's not expensive... but for context, one of the closest vintage equivalents the Polaroid SLR 690 was MSRP $399 in 1998. With inflation, that'd be about $750 today. Cameras have always been expensive.
@@thebitterfig9903 Yea, can’t argue with that. I think I am just more frustrated with the lack of mid range cameras that are available. IMO Polaroid could certainly make a manual capable camera that is still in the $250-$300 range, as well as many other camera brands.
Totally agree the Polaroid film isn’t it. I have Polaroid pictures from decades ago that are far better, richer, sharper, and nicer to look at than what’s being produced today.
Not a fan of this Polaroid digital version. I'm old school and like metal or alloy magnesium Build Quality like Rolleiflex, Nikon F3, D700, Fujifilm XT2, Canon 5D series, etc. I don't mind to spend money on quality build than buying plastic. I hate Cheapo Plastic cameras such as Canon R5, R6 mirrorless nowadays..
My man has seen the light 🙌🏻 Haha stoked you’re enjoying it now!
Yea man! Now I just need to a find a plug for discounted film 🤣 Polaroid is pricey!
Yea man! Now I just need to a find a plug for discounted film 🤣 Polaroid is pricey!
I’m an old school guy but the absence of available peel apart film has me admiring those old Polaroids as pieces of mechanical art instead of as useable cameras.
Yea true
You nailed it. Old, mechanical parts etc. The engineering of the tool is as visible and beautiful as the results it produces. It has the print of "human" on it, personable.
Old and mechanical will always be more beautiful
I appreciate the honest review, especially coming from somebody who isn't as big a Polaroid film guy compared to instax!
Thanks for watching!
Now see thats a genuine review and i like it. I also bought this camera to shoot B&W film on. Thank you for a genuine review
You are welcome
I always want to love Polaroid but their film cost, film quality, and constantly having to clean the rollers just put me off from using.
With instax being essentially bulletproof I have found I use and love converted backs like the Nons, zinstax, and lomo back more.
totally agreed - instax film performs way better
@@ribsy it also ages well. I have stored some instax ambient and shot 1-2 years after expiry with no difference. As you mentioned Polaroid is almost useless once expired.
I even ran Polaroid and instax through my bag in an airport X-ray. Polaroid was completely destroyed, instax had no impact.
I was really turned off of impossible/polaroid when they claimed that they didn’t know how to make thinner sheets, and they could only fit 8 shots per cartridge, compared to old Polaroid which had 10. Then the community showed 10 fits just fine. I get that it’s a business but sheesh.
I would love to shoot instant film in my RB67 or especially in 4x5 as it would give respectable image size. Unfortunately instax backs for the RB67, while available, are ridiculously expensive and 4x5 instant film has not been made for decades. Of course there's the possibility of single-loading Instax film and using an Instax camera to develop it but that kind of defeats the whole idea of instant film as it's really not instant or handy in any way. Still might get an Instax camera just to experiment.
Try the lomofraglok back for 4x5
I LOVE my 1-2! Got it back in Dec ‘23, and it was the only camera I took on my trip to Japan (had to bring all my film as there’s no reliable, official Polaroid vendor in Japan), and have been completely blown away by the results - which in the final analysis is the make or break for any camera! At least in my book 😊.
The most amazing thing to me is that the camera and film are able to morph the world in front of me into something that looks different. I have 50mp DSLR, MF, and LF analog cameras that all do an amazing job of recording the world faithfully. Got that base covered.
But when I started shooting with the I-2, I got something radically DIFFERENT, and that difference, to me, is truly transformational. It brings an element of serendipity into the photographs that make them (excuse the hokey term) magical.
As for the price, each of my other cameras I have cost multiples of the $600 this cost me. And like you I feel like I definitely got what I paid for, and more! It’s been a solid performer, traveled the world, and is the first camera I reach for to do my personal work!
Good on you for continuing to use the camera and to publish your re-evaluation of it. 👍🏼
Yea it’s a great value for the money!
Completely agree with you on the film. Instax for color, Polaroid for B+W for me.
A good 1 2 punch!
Hi Ribsy. I’m surprised that you haven’t tried the new mint cameras. TL70 plus looks like a camera you would enjoy!
never tried that one. i tried the mint rf70 and i really didn't like it - the lens was underwhelming
@@ribsy I’m about to order one. I will DM you some images when I get it.
I hated the Mini-film TL70 2.0. Maybe the Plus improves on things, but the prior model? Probably the camera decision I regret the most. The meter isn't under the ND filters, making exposure a total crapshoot in the sun, with no useful control over the shutter speed (the Plus seems like shutter speed is under control). Meanwhile, the aperture plates don't often sit right, and this leads to horrible vignetting in a lot of shots, even stopped down. I felt like I got much better shots with an Instax Mini 8 than the Mint.
And it's a shame, because looking through that finder is a joy. The focus wheel could be nicer (it doesn't come close to actual 120 film TLRs), but for a f/5.6 lens, the viewfinder is so bright and fun to use. A great experience with everything except the actual pictures.
When I bought my I-2 right at Launch I expected to love it but its unreliable meter was very disappointing. I hadn’t expected to have to meter with my Sekonic to get usable shots.
The meter can def be a challenge. I usually meter by hand
I got my hands on a pre-production I-2 - I INSTANTLY fell in love (pun intended) I felt like it made sense.
It def makes sense! Such a good way to put it. Just wish the wheels were better
Ribsy! Great vid man.
I 100% agree on the overall quality of polariod colour film - its just not there at the moment. I want to love it but just camt get into it while its so inconsistent. Instax does it for me at the moment.
I find with the new polaroid cameras- give it 18 months when the early adopters sell them and you get a bargain!
Great to see you on YT again, would love to see more of those doco type videos youve been doing too!
Instax for life
I think it’s a sweet camera. I would buy one if I had the extra money, and maybe someday I will. I use my newer Polaroid off and on, and I agree the black and white film is really good!
Yea it’s def worth it!
I feel like the SX-70 and Polaroid I-2 are both worth owning since they excel in different aspects.
SX-70 has better accessories for macro, telephoto, and Fisheye but the Polaroid I-2 is a more streamlined camera with true manual + program modes and easier studio work.
Definitely two different beasts! Def worth having both
How about a I-2 vs an Fuji evo
Never used the evo but doubt it’s better
Not for the price. And you would think they would have made a view finder over the lens for centered photos. For that money they should have done that. Sharper image mini instax camera is the only instant camera that has the view finder directly over the lens.
This cameras has a viewfinder with the frame lines. Composing isn’t difficult nor imprecise
@@ribsy Again. For that price the view finder should be centered over the lens and make coffee.
I like shooting with my pixel and printing with my Instax Wide printer. Which has a battery.
Never tried that!
Curios where you go that Polaroid 110 converted ?
My friend did it for me
instagram.com/identidem.design?igsh=MXBpY2hyY3o0aW0xYg==
I want a camera that shoots Fuji Instaxwide with good results for a reasonable price.
Try a 4x5 camera with the lomograflok, you can probably get that together for $5-600
Alternative that shoots instax square would be the mint tl70+, It’s great imo. Cheers!
Haven’t tried it yet!
4:40 this exactly. I wish this took instax. I just can't get myself to like the Polaroid film.
Yea right?! Instax film is so much better
I have criticisms of Fujifilm Instax film, compared to Polaroid film, often include:
1. **Smaller Size**: Instax photos are generally smaller than Polaroid's, especially with the popular Instax Mini format. The larger Polaroid formats, like the classic 600 and SX-70, tend to be preferred by those who want more impactful, artistic photos.
2. **Less Nostalgic or Vintage Aesthetic**: Instax film, especially in its color tones, is sometimes seen as more modern or commercial, with brighter colors and less of the vintage, dreamy look that Polaroid film often captures. Polaroid is often favored for its unique color shifts, imperfections, and classic vibe, which some photographers find more appealing.
3. **Fewer Artistic Flaws**: Instax film is generally praised for its consistency and reliability, but this very quality can be a drawback for those who like the unpredictable, often flawed nature of Polaroid film. Many people enjoy how Polaroid film can produce unexpected color variations, light leaks, and other "happy accidents" that give the photos character.
4. **Color Quality and Range**: Instax colors are sometimes criticized for being too saturated or lacking the softer, more subtle hues that Polaroid film can provide. Polaroid fans often prefer the more muted, pastel-like colors and natural skin tones.
5. **Texture and Finish**: Some users find that the glossy finish of Instax film lacks the textured feel or matte finish of Polaroid prints, which are perceived as more premium and aesthetically pleasing.
Polaroid film, despite being more expensive and less reliable in terms of image consistency, is often loved for these artistic imperfections and its ties to photographic history. Its larger size, color quality, and the “vintage” look contribute to its appeal over Instax for many enthusiasts.
I would have the newer one. Because I can have peace of mind in it's functions. Like analog works, but when you have this and you give it respect you know what's happening. I like knowing what's happening. And it's a kind where I can trust it. Analog is allot of knowing but everything. The way I can get those Polaroid features is on my f100. But this is more fun where people look at me way differently in a good way.
Totally. It’s a great camera for serious work too where you can rely on experimentation
@@ribsy for sure! And you move a lot differently compared to an F100.... Like I have the Polaroid go and now+, it works so much better our person in front of you with these cameras.... But yeah this one? I cannot throw 600 bucks at it yet
I want both. They both look fun to use! I dont like how i-type film looks though, its so ugly! If they made a new one that had much better dynamic range and looked nicer, I'd buy the modern one in a heartbeat.
Think you'll try the newest Instax camera? The one with analogue "filters"? That one also looks super fun to use.
I doubt I’ll try the new instax. I have seen the light with the Polaroid 110A with instax. Hard to go backwards from there 😅
@@ribsy Haha fair!
Polaroid used to make some really simple to use instant film cameras. I loved my first one but as I grew up I ditched it for a "real" camera. Great information. 👍👍
Thanks! This new one is easy to use too
It has a plastic lens? Better put a protective filter in front of it right away.
Yea
You can buy a full modern slr, the NONS SL660 that uses exchangeable lenses and uses instax film. Sorry that polaroid is a 600 a hunk of junk when you can spend the same price for a solid metal slr that was designed to use instax square from NONS.
hunk of junk? lol ok
@@ribsyI’m afraid so. I’ve spent so much money to come to this conclusion. Bought the alpha and had it refurbished like it just came out of the box. Had the built in rechargeable battery installed for it also. Just fantastic camera. Constant inconsistency in film and bad packs. Did I learn my lesson? No! Bought a sonar and had it all tricked out also and again the frustration of the horrible film just never made the experience what I wanted. Again did I learn? No! I get that I I-2 and now you get lousy instant film and over exposure issues. And around the same time I got the instax wide 300 as a gift and found my wife was always preferring the photos from wide 300 from any of them. Returned that horrible I2. Sold off all the Polaroid cameras and got the NONS camera which is a true slr and miles better than that I2 in picture quality, consistency and has reliable film. Never again with Polaroid.
non sl vignetted and best lens in instax film not is good because more easy fired higlihts or solarize the film;all modded instax camera whit tominon lens or other not make diffrence;and to use giant 110 b whit back not is hand held friendly and make pink shift
All mechanical all day my friend. Nothing is worse than finding a sweet vintage camera that depends on batteries for operation, only to find that it won't work and no one is fixing them anymore. Sweet Polaroid though and I hope it gives them the funds they need to stay open and continue to make film for the millions of vintage cameras out in the world.
Not worried about the electronic aspect. It’s a modern product
I definitely agree, I really dislike the color polaroid film, but the black and white is nice!
For sure
!
The new formulation looks even better!
Polaroid is very usefull in controlling studio work
100%
I am a real hater. I cannot understand the $600 price point of the new camera other than the fact that it has a manual mode. Most of us can’t even afford that these days.
Yeah, I gotta agree. The camera is insanely expensive. The crappy film is also really expensive. I'd never even consider buying this thing.
@@plateoshrimp9685 Yea you are better off finding an autofocus model on eBay or something if you want a Polaroid. Ive been using their 600 film for the first time in 4-5 years and it’s gotten a lot better, but I have still seen expired film from 1999 that looks better than what they have out right now.😂
I'm not saying it's not expensive... but for context, one of the closest vintage equivalents the Polaroid SLR 690 was MSRP $399 in 1998. With inflation, that'd be about $750 today. Cameras have always been expensive.
@@thebitterfig9903 Yea, can’t argue with that. I think I am just more frustrated with the lack of mid range cameras that are available. IMO Polaroid could certainly make a manual capable camera that is still in the $250-$300 range, as well as many other camera brands.
It could prob be cheaper but there is no comparable product out there. They have the pricing power. At least the camera is well made 😅
Totally agree the Polaroid film isn’t it. I have Polaroid pictures from decades ago that are far better, richer, sharper, and nicer to look at than what’s being produced today.
Not a fan of this Polaroid digital version. I'm old school and like metal or alloy magnesium Build Quality like Rolleiflex, Nikon F3, D700, Fujifilm XT2, Canon 5D series, etc. I don't mind to spend money on quality build than buying plastic. I hate Cheapo Plastic cameras such as Canon R5, R6 mirrorless nowadays..
Def feels like a digital camera
Those aren't cheap cameras but okay lol.
Cheapo plastic cameras such as the R5? It’s 3 grand!
I2 by far, i hate old school like Leicas. I love M7 too
😃
Oh I agree: cameras from the time when men still knew how to dress properly... 😢
lol ok
Polaroid photos are ugly to be honest.