polaroid has to up their film stock quality control. Never had pack of stock without ruined shots due to inconsistency of the corners. No. Cleaning the roller don't really work.
I have this camera (day 3) and have to say I am loving it but I do believe the meter is extremely center-weighted. They should probably have gone for an average weighted meter that would work better in more versatile situations or given an option to adjust the metering modes. However with the awareness of it being center weighted, I shoot it as such and find I no longer have issues with the exposures coming out accurately.
Thats very interesing to hear. So this isn't like a software/firmware problem, but like a metering problem. So were you able to shoot well exposed picture after you figured that out? I am still thinking about buying this one, but the metering kept me away from doing it so..
Nevermind the camera, the cost of a pack of film is WHAT!? JEEEEZ! I have an old Nikomat and I get black & white, as well as colour film, for much less. I have been waiting for the new film camera coming from MiNT, but since it has not yet been released, I was going to get this one, because I love the look of it. The cost of the film packs will eat me alive. Well, this means I am officially out.
I get what you're saying, but my experience with the I-2 has been a better one. Sure, a few missed shots here and there due to the exposure being off a bit, but overall I really love the camera. And when I remember that the price is less than half of what I paid for one of my Canon lenses, it doesn't really seem that steep. I agree that another firmware update would be a good idea.
Understand. I really wanted to love the camera too. I just couldn’t justify the cost of Polaroid film to the results and the camera price on top of it. If they fix some of the issues I would be keen to revisit it again as I do enjoy the format, but for us in Singapore, our pricing is just too high
Great video review! Polaroid needs to listen and work it out, so much potential but for it not to work well (at least nailing 90% of shots) and at that cost… bummer
Thanks! Yes hopefully they amend some of the issues with the camera. It’s a great platform and I wanted it to work better so much, I delayed this video in hopes an update would fix some things. Never came
The artefacts of the film is why I shoot Polaroid. That being said, this camera's meter is very inconsistent. Basically unusable in my opinion. Shooting in manual works fine, but it's frustrating because it has a single control dial requiring clicking the mode switch button to toggle between shutter speed and aperture. I don't mind the price. I know from experience how expensive producing niche products is. Ultimately, if we want new film camera we need to support the manufacturers. I would have preferred this camera be just manual exposure (with dual control dials) if they can't get the meter working properly. Oh and the viewfinder is particularly hard to see. Still I am happy that I got it though. It's the only modern Polaroid camera that can focus close... or focus at all for that reason. And the only one with manual controls.
Yes the meter issue seems odd. With so many cheap meters out there that work well one would think Polaroid would have this one working in good order. Not sure of the decision on the viewfinder too. A flat piece of glass would have been much better considering the info inside it to see. Sometimes I think companies test a product in a silo that when it comes to market and the public actually uses it the real issues come out
it's true... i am using the original SX-70 and the film is inconsistent in output. TBH tho.. the polaroid film nowadays is much better compared to the previous iterations when it was still branded as Impossible film. the guys behind the current polaroid films are putting in a lot of work to revive the old chemistry.. but they really have some ways to go.
Yes it’s indeed better but one would think with current technology and production capabilities the issues of the past would be behind us. Hopefully they improve over time
I bought the Polaroid I-2 on day one and have put several packs through it and I am really love it. I appreciate that you come from a place of positivity, but I feel some of your judgments of the camera come more from judgements of the film. Polaroid film has such a limited dynamic range, many lighting conditons simply won't work even using fully manual mode. It can be incredibly challenging to master the medium (I won't claim I have!). I think this camera deserves a fairer shake than a few packs! Many of the polaroid "influencers" got a lot of flack for assumed bias since Polaroid provided a review camera to them, however for many of them I cannot blame them for giving a positive review to a camera which opens sooooo much picture making potential for those who know how to work the film. There is loads of potential in the camera I hate to see it go to waste!
I agree. To have these conclusions after 3 packs of film just shows he hasn’t spent much time with the media. No matter the camera, you will have to learn the limitations of it and work it as such. The landscape he showed with clipped shadows in the bridge is a great example. I would look at that and immediately add at least a stop of exposure comp if shooting priority (even on a conventional film camera), but that’s something you learn with time in. Same thing with the indoor photography criticism. To expect any built in flash to expose more than close portraits is somewhat misguided, and to be honest the portraits of one or two people at waist cropping looked great in the video.
Hi. Thanks for the comment. Actually my main issues are inconsistent metering which result in exposure inconsistencies, viewfinder which is frustrating to look through in a 2023 camera, film QC and flash. I didn’t buy this camera or was gifted it. I was passed one to review and given a few packs to try. While I can agree with the statement it may takes more than a few packs to understand, if I look at it from a consumers standpoint, how much money do I need to spend on a camera system to understand how it works? I can pick up a Leica Sofort 2 or Fuji Instax camera and get better results from the first pack of film? Reality is most consumers aren’t going to invest 100 dollars or more in film and spend this price on a camera to try and understand it. Sure the Polaroid photography fans will, but are there enough of those to keep Polaroid in business and making a profit? Reality is the average consumer will give a camera like this maybe a pack or two to try out and if it doesn’t produce consistent results they will return, exchange or sell it off. I really feel Polaroid has a good product on their hand if they can fix those issues that a firmware update will address. You can’t change the viewfinder on our own but if we could I would change that too.
Those shots of the two buildings were taken one right after the other on the same settings :) That’s how inconsistent the camera is. It’s not me changing anything in the camera. Both readings were spot on for exposure. Yes sometimes the flash works and sometimes it doesn’t. This is what was frustrating. I was testing this camera with the Sofort 2 at the Teochew Opera and the results were that the Sofort gave me better consistency based on the metering and flash from the cameras.
@btonelli I think my point still stands because this simply isn't an average consumer's camera. It's aimed at artists and professionals, which means giving a good review requires professional skills in Polaroid photography or at least time to learn the camera. A review of something like the Polaroid Now or Now+ would be a great idea for reviewing a consumer perspective, not the most advanced film camera Polaroid ever made haha! Additionally, Polaroid film qc is entirely dependent on storage and age. If it isn't cold stored and fresh, your results will experience a lot more pod failures, occasional cracking, and discolored or crushed shadows. This is why Polaroid gives lots of info about their film to help people young and old to know what to do to get the best photos. The viewfinder is a funny criticism to me because you somehow took issue with the clearest, brightest, and best viewfinder since the SX-70 which I truly don't understand. The angling of light means you cannot see through it unless you are looking head on which maybe is a draw, but why frame your photo without looking head on through the viewfinder! As for the other issues, I understand the criticism! We've noticed how exposure is best when turning the dial to the -1 by a single degree which corrects the tendency to over expose, but like I said with dynamic range, if your scene contains high contrast in which a bright thing might disrupt the sensor, you have to take care to adjust for that, it's something you learn shooting Polaroid! That's why this camera benefits from operating with a fully manual mode, I highly recommend it! I personally don't have issues with the flash, but I agree that older Polaroid flashes seemed to be more overpowering and I think the I-2 could benefit from perhaps some manual flash setting. I think every time you compare to the Leica Sofort 2 it is very silly because this is apples to oranges! The Leica Sofort 2 is a DIGITAL camera which prints photos onto instant film, so naturally you can expect different results! There are a few instax cameras which work this way also. The I-2 is fully analog, meaning there's no digital imaging computer in it making the final print just light and optics! To me this makes it much better and more interesting than a digital camera with a printer, but to each their own. Either way, the digital camera will have all the benefits a digital camera has and can print to instax accordingly to ensure a high quality final photo with shadows and highlights perfectly exposed on the film. This engineering isn't in the I-2, so don't act like they're comparable. We Polaroid fans can be defensive, but please understand a review with a big frowny disappointed face on the thumbnail only to find the reviewer shot only a few packs and came to a negative conclusion without spending time to learn the camera and better learn the film can be frustrating, especially knowing the potential of this camera.
I respect your passion and love for the medium and this camera, but reading your comments, I see a number of exceptions being given to the camera for your love of it. As a reviewer part of what I need to do is take the emotional attachment out of a product and look at how it functions, performance and price based on the results I’m getting. For example when I review Leica M cameras, I understand that this camera serves a niche audience and I will address this audience but also be non-biased and address those that aren’t fans of the system to give them enough info to decide for themselves. Polaroid in its DNA is an Instant camera, bringing simplicity and fun to the photography community with the ability to share and bring people together while creating a tangible item (instant photographs) in minutes. It’s a genre of photography that is unique and brings joy to many. The I-2 is trying to evolve that with a lot of the latest technology which I appreciate; Lidar AF, various semi-automatic shooting styles etc etc. However if the camera requires so much from the photographer to re-create that simplicity and fun then the experience is lost. In addition we have the price factor which to some is very high, especially the premium we need to pay in Singapore. If the lack of QC from the film stock is causing issues, or functionality of the camera that doesn’t perform to at least the standards of cameras a few years old, then why release it to the general public? Better to have a limited run or public beta, sell to those that truly want to embrace the medium with the inconsistencies and leave it there. However in business that model doesn’t always work for long term growth. I’ve watched a number of reviews before and after I did this video to see what others say. For those that love the camera, they are willing to invest 100’s if not thousands on film to figure out how to use it. For those that give it a try with a few packs, their results are similar to mine. Does that make them less informed or their points lack merit because they don’t want to buy 10 packs for example, make sure every pack is stored correctly, try to understand how to under or over expose based on certain camera settings, or do pre-exposure by losing one shot? Let’s be real for a minute. If you need to do all that then there is something wrong with the camera. And I have to disagree the Leica and Fujifilm cameras are a good comparison as they perform the same simple function that made Polaroid so special. Instant photos. While these cameras are digital cameras as well, to the average consumer they perform very similar. The benefits of these cameras though outside of the tech is the price points. I can buy three cartridges of film for less than the price of a pack of Polaroid. If my photo doesn’t come out well, it doesn’t sting so much. Polaroid is charging a premium for 8 photos on top of a camera that’s priced at a premium. Here in Singapore it’s much more expensive than the US. Consumers will look at things this way and make their decisions based on price, performance and consistency. Polaroid has a good product, but they need to refine it and please remove that odd glass from the viewfinder. If you are going to put information at the bottom of the OVF, it should be legible from first glance, not having to move your eyes around to see it clearly.
finally a serious review. One factor though that no one seems to mention is the film. Honestly, the new "polaroid" films are not that good. Inconsistent, slow, unreliable.
I will stick to my SX-70 Sonar 😅 I have a lot of the older box cameras and one iType. My iType camera from 2017/2018 has better auto exposure than the newest models. Polaroid needs to shape up before they go bankrupt again. People do not want to spend $20 for 8 photos for only 3 to be good. I used Polaroid film when I was a kid before they went out of business and that chemistry was the OG perfected formula. I miss that
I spent a few days looking through every box in my house and garage in search of my SX-70, purchased in 1979. One day it will turn up, but not today. I then discovered " SLR670-X MING EDITION (Type i)" for $1149.00. I am simply looking for a fun camera that will result in a photo I can hold in my hand, put in an album, and look at years from today ,aka, the 20th century photo experience. Your thoughts and the thoughts of those into photography, are appreciated.
Of course. Poloroid is imperfect and beautiful but for the price of film and the camera I just want the exposure and film quality to be improved. That’s not much to ask
oh really ! gotta check eyesight . I'm loosing my grip on reality , clearly (pun intentional;) gmt is a pinnacle of Rlx . simple although with touch of 'complication' . I myself rock batman on jubilee . best regards @@btonelli
I had the same experience with this camera. I use Instax and Polaroid as my fun cameras. This camera is anything but fun. It is a beyond frustrating tool. This is from a working photographer who has used just about every camera out there from Sinar view cameras to the latest Canon and Sony offerings and almost everything in between.
I have a Polaroid 636 closeup and always wanted something better (SX-70). I was about to buy an I-2 second-hand on eBay, so I am glad to have seen this - it will save me some money.
I am not a RUclips content creator nor am I an “influencer.” Just a guy who’s been doing photography for over 50 years, including a BFA in photography. I shoot Leica M6, Mamiya 6, Canon 5DSR, and Toyo 4x5 field camera. I also had an SX-70 back in the 70s and 80s. I’ve also extensively used other cameras, including Nikons and Hassy and Fuji MF. I’m very familiar with photo equipment (cameras, lenses, films, PS, printers, etc…) that creates high IQ pictures. I bought an I-2 about two weeks ago from Polaroid. I got 5 packs of their I-Type color included (Black Friday deal) and bought another 5 packs of their B&W film. (I have another 10 packs of the B&W coming that I just bought a couple days ago.) Like I said, I have zero interest in influencing others. People listen to whomever they want. But I do have to state categorically that I love this camera! Full stop. Yes, it has its quirks and yes its price point is high (compared to Polaroid’s other cameras - for high quality photo gear, $600 is pretty modest.) It is NOT for the casual Polaroid photographer. I’d say it took me a good three packs of shooting before I got consistently good results. But that’s not outrageous. Every camera, every new film, new lens, takes time and experience to really get to know. But this camera, with its quirks, is definitely an excellent camera in my eyes. I love the way it transforms the reality in front of it into a unique image. Unlike any other camera I have or have used. And that is exactly what I wanted when I bought it. If I want classic high IQ I have several cameras that will do that. If I wanted high resolution, again a number of my cameras will perform. If that’s all this camera delivered, I would NOT have purchased it. Why would I? I’ve got those bases covered already. So that’s my two cents worth. Thanks for sharing your experience. I gave your video a 👍🏼 because I watched it all the way through. Happy shooting all!
Thank you for watching and taking the time to write this out much appreciated. I’m happy to hear you have enjoyed this camera. While I may have had a slightly different experience than you with it, I’m keen to learn how you overcame the inconsistency with exposure etc. This was one of my biggest issues with the camera and from what I’ve seen and read I’m not the only one. Even in manual mode, the camera only reads the light when the Autofocus is activated. Would love to hear how you overcame such issues as I genuinely wanted to like this camera for its features etc.
@@btonelli Basically I have shot only in Auto, and only during daylight. I had watched some RUclipsrs before I got the camera, and the consensus seems to be to underexpose by -⅓ or -⅔. That helped. I’m still not sure what kind of a meter is built-in, but I’d guess an averaging one rather than a spot or center weighted. But I’ve had pretty good results with metering carefully for the area I seem most important, usually the highlights. Then, using AEL, I recompose. (I know none of this is “secret sauce” stuff, but it’s been working really well for me thus far!) A couple of shots have been totally in shade, and on one of them, the flash went off unexpectedly! Oh. Must remember to check flash. 😆 But the photo turned out really well. I did one that was extremely backlit (of a holiday flag with the sun right behind it) that turned out really nicely given the challenges in that kind of lighting. I’ve dusted off my Sekonic meter, and am ready to start exploring manual. I watched one RUclipsr who uses pre-exposure flashing to open up the shadow areas by using the multiple exposure settings. I’m going to give that a try too. I just have to wait a few days for my film to arrive. I’ve got two packs right now, and I’ve ideas for work I want to do with those. When the 10 packs arrive, I’ll start experimenting. Some have said they’ve had their best results using film purchased directly from Polaroid, which is all I’ve used so far. I do get the occasional anomaly in the photos, but so far I’d classify them more as quirks than flaws. Thanks for taking my comments in the spirit in which they were written. Just a different take. I think part of it is a mind set. It’s in a way sort of like working with a high end Holga 😊. I can definitely shooting a lot with this camera. Indeed, I’m going to Japan in March for two weeks and I’m thinking only the I-2 and only B&W. I do hope you give it some more time and that your results get more to your liking - or maybe that you like the results you get more. But I’d understand if you felt like “Nope.” No one camera is a match for everyone. Thank goodness there is still a wide variety to choose from! All the best!
Thanks for the reply. Yes I was playing with the metering a bit under exposing and over exposing to try and compensate but my results were hit and miss. I found that the B&W film to have better QC than the color so far but again with limited packs. I wasn’t gifted this camera and it goes back to the distributor next week, so not sure if I’ll get more time with it. For the price here in Singapore I would rather purchase something that will give me more consistent performance, but with that said, if Polaroid does improve some of these features with an update or two I’ll definitely reconsider. However price to performance for me is a bit of a hard pill to swallow currently.
@@btonelli Totally understand. 👍🏼 Like I said, I’ve not yet found a camera that was 1) perfect or 2) that fit everyone’s needs/wants/expectations. Even something as storied (and gorgeous) as the Leica M6 ain’t for every one nor every situation. I like your style and will happily subscribe to your channel.I’ve found with pretty much everyone I can learn something. 😁 Happy shooting! Ernest
It can only break your heart if you have incorrect expectations. It is not a digital camera, it will need some photographic knowledge to function (like older cameras that were using a film) but really not that much. If you're unsure, you may use automatic mode with good natural light, it will take super sharp polaroid type shots. Do not overcomplicate.
I shoot film and I tried various different settings and even automatic and still had issues. Can someone get good shots from this from time to time? Most definitely, but the price to results doesn’t seem to match at this point in time. I do hope there were updates since this to improve the camera. I think it has a lot of potential
I do think the guys from the Impossible Project have done their best to bring back Polaroid. However, I also think there is still a long road to walk. I have a vintage Polaroid Spirit 600, and it takes more sharp photos than my Polaroid Now 🤷🏻
Matt Day did a comparison between the Mint SLR (modified SX70) and the Polaroid I-2. It was a very interesting comparison since they both occupy "the top" when it comes to Polaroid cameras.
Thanks for giving your honest thoughts. I was thinking of getting one, since I don't like how small the instax square is compared to i-type. But this camera is supposed to be a fun and easy to operate camera - without thinking about much. I guess Polaroid missed the mark big time.
it's not supposed to be easy to operate, it's an advanced camera, go with a Now that's easy to operate and still has creative options like double exposure.
Thanks for watching. While it’s the most advanced Polaroid camera they have made, the new tech should work as promised or close to it. So if one wants to go full auto great, shoot that way or if one wants to shoot in a more manual setting the performance is there. I think they are a Firmware update or two away and better QC on their film packs.
It is supposed to be easy to operate, but gives you the flexibility if you choose your particular settings. That’s why there is an Auto mode, Aperture Priority, Shutter Priority and Manual. You have the choice.
I mean f8 is relative to the image sensor size. Polaroid is larger than medium format sizes fwiw and large format lenses are like… half the size if not the size of the camera
The camera is fine. Compare it to Polaroids other itype cameras. This one is way better and way sharper. When doing instant photography you need to get CLOSE. It’s just not going to perform the same as a digital or film camera for landscapes. Portraits or close ups are where it’s at. And Polaroid film is still improving. The “tears” are pod failures where the developer paste didn’t make it up all the way and the “fingerprints” are from bending the film as it develops (usually happens right when you take it out of the film shield after it ejects, just try to kinda flick the shield off rather than pull the film out)
I’ve had Polaroid cameras all my life. Yes for close up use but not this bad on exposure and flash. Pod failures are fine but if one spends this kind of money, the tolerances should be higher. Yes I understand how to take the film out. I could shoot two photos back to back and one would have the fingerprints the other no and no difference in removal
@@btonelli I am assuming your film was fridge stored and bought direct from Polaroid yes? If you still experience these problems you can contact their customer support. Sometimes they provide advice and sometimes replace faulty film.
@@elleoat hi. My film was provided to me by the distributor for the review. I’m not sure how they store it. I can say though the B&W seems to be more consistent in a good way versus the color
it always cracks me up when digital camera focused channels review instant cameras. you basically get everything wrong because you have no experience shooting instant film 🤣 FYI the Polaroid I-2 98mm f8 lens is equivalent to 38mm f2.8 on 35mm full frame. If you did even a little bit of research you wouldn't be complaining about specs lol
I grew up with Polaroid cameras and also shoot film. While I don’t talk about it much here doesn’t mean I don’t have experience with it. I’m aware of the focal range. But aperture is aperture. Depth of field may be more like 2.8 but the amount of light let in is just the same. When you buy a light meter you don’t get separate ones for medium format, large format and 35mm.
I own an I-2 and love it and have my disagreements some of the statements in this video, however this comment foolish. The critique of the aperture in this video is over the limitations when it comes to the low light capabilities. While the depth of field is important, that does not change the light level that enters the camera at F8. Please do a little bit of research you wouldn't be commenting this lol.
polaroid has to up their film stock quality control. Never had pack of stock without ruined shots due to inconsistency of the corners. No. Cleaning the roller don't really work.
Agree. For the price they need to be at the level of Fujifilm QC.
I have this camera (day 3) and have to say I am loving it but I do believe the meter is extremely center-weighted. They should probably have gone for an average weighted meter that would work better in more versatile situations or given an option to adjust the metering modes. However with the awareness of it being center weighted, I shoot it as such and find I no longer have issues with the exposures coming out accurately.
Thats very interesing to hear. So this isn't like a software/firmware problem, but like a metering problem. So were you able to shoot well exposed picture after you figured that out? I am still thinking about buying this one, but the metering kept me away from doing it so..
@@Tjenias4 Yeah I've been very happy with my results knowing the nature of the meter.
Nevermind the camera, the cost of a pack of film is WHAT!?
JEEEEZ!
I have an old Nikomat and I get black & white, as well as colour film, for much less.
I have been waiting for the new film camera coming from MiNT, but since it has not yet been released, I was going to get this one, because I love the look of it.
The cost of the film packs will eat me alive. Well, this means I am officially out.
Agree. The film prices aren’t sustainable
I get what you're saying, but my experience with the I-2 has been a better one. Sure, a few missed shots here and there due to the exposure being off a bit, but overall I really love the camera. And when I remember that the price is less than half of what I paid for one of my Canon lenses, it doesn't really seem that steep. I agree that another firmware update would be a good idea.
Understand. I really wanted to love the camera too. I just couldn’t justify the cost of Polaroid film to the results and the camera price on top of it.
If they fix some of the issues I would be keen to revisit it again as I do enjoy the format, but for us in Singapore, our pricing is just too high
Polaroid needs to concentrate on making stable and predictable film not new cameras. It's too expensive not to be reliable. Nice vid thanks.
I’m sure they will improve. This is already a great platform to start from
Thank you for an honest review ❤
Most welcome
Great video review! Polaroid needs to listen and work it out, so much potential but for it not to work well (at least nailing 90% of shots) and at that cost… bummer
Thanks! Yes hopefully they amend some of the issues with the camera. It’s a great platform and I wanted it to work better so much, I delayed this video in hopes an update would fix some things. Never came
The artefacts of the film is why I shoot Polaroid. That being said, this camera's meter is very inconsistent. Basically unusable in my opinion. Shooting in manual works fine, but it's frustrating because it has a single control dial requiring clicking the mode switch button to toggle between shutter speed and aperture.
I don't mind the price. I know from experience how expensive producing niche products is. Ultimately, if we want new film camera we need to support the manufacturers.
I would have preferred this camera be just manual exposure (with dual control dials) if they can't get the meter working properly.
Oh and the viewfinder is particularly hard to see.
Still I am happy that I got it though. It's the only modern Polaroid camera that can focus close... or focus at all for that reason. And the only one with manual controls.
Yes the meter issue seems odd. With so many cheap meters out there that work well one would think Polaroid would have this one working in good order.
Not sure of the decision on the viewfinder too. A flat piece of glass would have been much better considering the info inside it to see.
Sometimes I think companies test a product in a silo that when it comes to market and the public actually uses it the real issues come out
Just get a Polaroid 600SE with film back mod, if you want something professional
Well that's disappointing.
Unfortunately yes
it's true... i am using the original SX-70 and the film is inconsistent in output. TBH tho.. the polaroid film nowadays is much better compared to the previous iterations when it was still branded as Impossible film. the guys behind the current polaroid films are putting in a lot of work to revive the old chemistry.. but they really have some ways to go.
Yes it’s indeed better but one would think with current technology and production capabilities the issues of the past would be behind us. Hopefully they improve over time
I bought the Polaroid I-2 on day one and have put several packs through it and I am really love it. I appreciate that you come from a place of positivity, but I feel some of your judgments of the camera come more from judgements of the film. Polaroid film has such a limited dynamic range, many lighting conditons simply won't work even using fully manual mode. It can be incredibly challenging to master the medium (I won't claim I have!). I think this camera deserves a fairer shake than a few packs! Many of the polaroid "influencers" got a lot of flack for assumed bias since Polaroid provided a review camera to them, however for many of them I cannot blame them for giving a positive review to a camera which opens sooooo much picture making potential for those who know how to work the film. There is loads of potential in the camera I hate to see it go to waste!
I agree. To have these conclusions after 3 packs of film just shows he hasn’t spent much time with the media. No matter the camera, you will have to learn the limitations of it and work it as such. The landscape he showed with clipped shadows in the bridge is a great example. I would look at that and immediately add at least a stop of exposure comp if shooting priority (even on a conventional film camera), but that’s something you learn with time in. Same thing with the indoor photography criticism. To expect any built in flash to expose more than close portraits is somewhat misguided, and to be honest the portraits of one or two people at waist cropping looked great in the video.
Hi. Thanks for the comment.
Actually my main issues are inconsistent metering which result in exposure inconsistencies, viewfinder which is frustrating to look through in a 2023 camera, film QC and flash.
I didn’t buy this camera or was gifted it. I was passed one to review and given a few packs to try.
While I can agree with the statement it may takes more than a few packs to understand, if I look at it from a consumers standpoint, how much money do I need to spend on a camera system to understand how it works? I can pick up a Leica Sofort 2 or Fuji Instax camera and get better results from the first pack of film?
Reality is most consumers aren’t going to invest 100 dollars or more in film and spend this price on a camera to try and understand it. Sure the Polaroid photography fans will, but are there enough of those to keep Polaroid in business and making a profit?
Reality is the average consumer will give a camera like this maybe a pack or two to try out and if it doesn’t produce consistent results they will return, exchange or sell it off.
I really feel Polaroid has a good product on their hand if they can fix those issues that a firmware update will address. You can’t change the viewfinder on our own but if we could I would change that too.
Those shots of the two buildings were taken one right after the other on the same settings :)
That’s how inconsistent the camera is. It’s not me changing anything in the camera. Both readings were spot on for exposure.
Yes sometimes the flash works and sometimes it doesn’t. This is what was frustrating. I was testing this camera with the Sofort 2 at the Teochew Opera and the results were that the Sofort gave me better consistency based on the metering and flash from the cameras.
@btonelli I think my point still stands because this simply isn't an average consumer's camera. It's aimed at artists and professionals, which means giving a good review requires professional skills in Polaroid photography or at least time to learn the camera. A review of something like the Polaroid Now or Now+ would be a great idea for reviewing a consumer perspective, not the most advanced film camera Polaroid ever made haha! Additionally, Polaroid film qc is entirely dependent on storage and age. If it isn't cold stored and fresh, your results will experience a lot more pod failures, occasional cracking, and discolored or crushed shadows. This is why Polaroid gives lots of info about their film to help people young and old to know what to do to get the best photos. The viewfinder is a funny criticism to me because you somehow took issue with the clearest, brightest, and best viewfinder since the SX-70 which I truly don't understand. The angling of light means you cannot see through it unless you are looking head on which maybe is a draw, but why frame your photo without looking head on through the viewfinder! As for the other issues, I understand the criticism! We've noticed how exposure is best when turning the dial to the -1 by a single degree which corrects the tendency to over expose, but like I said with dynamic range, if your scene contains high contrast in which a bright thing might disrupt the sensor, you have to take care to adjust for that, it's something you learn shooting Polaroid! That's why this camera benefits from operating with a fully manual mode, I highly recommend it! I personally don't have issues with the flash, but I agree that older Polaroid flashes seemed to be more overpowering and I think the I-2 could benefit from perhaps some manual flash setting.
I think every time you compare to the Leica Sofort 2 it is very silly because this is apples to oranges! The Leica Sofort 2 is a DIGITAL camera which prints photos onto instant film, so naturally you can expect different results! There are a few instax cameras which work this way also. The I-2 is fully analog, meaning there's no digital imaging computer in it making the final print just light and optics! To me this makes it much better and more interesting than a digital camera with a printer, but to each their own. Either way, the digital camera will have all the benefits a digital camera has and can print to instax accordingly to ensure a high quality final photo with shadows and highlights perfectly exposed on the film. This engineering isn't in the I-2, so don't act like they're comparable. We Polaroid fans can be defensive, but please understand a review with a big frowny disappointed face on the thumbnail only to find the reviewer shot only a few packs and came to a negative conclusion without spending time to learn the camera and better learn the film can be frustrating, especially knowing the potential of this camera.
I respect your passion and love for the medium and this camera, but reading your comments, I see a number of exceptions being given to the camera for your love of it.
As a reviewer part of what I need to do is take the emotional attachment out of a product and look at how it functions, performance and price based on the results I’m getting.
For example when I review Leica M cameras, I understand that this camera serves a niche audience and I will address this audience but also be non-biased and address those that aren’t fans of the system to give them enough info to decide for themselves.
Polaroid in its DNA is an Instant camera, bringing simplicity and fun to the photography community with the ability to share and bring people together while creating a tangible item (instant photographs) in minutes.
It’s a genre of photography that is unique and brings joy to many.
The I-2 is trying to evolve that with a lot of the latest technology which I appreciate; Lidar AF, various semi-automatic shooting styles etc etc. However if the camera requires so much from the photographer to re-create that simplicity and fun then the experience is lost. In addition we have the price factor which to some is very high, especially the premium we need to pay in Singapore. If the lack of QC from the film stock is causing issues, or functionality of the camera that doesn’t perform to at least the standards of cameras a few years old, then why release it to the general public? Better to have a limited run or public beta, sell to those that truly want to embrace the medium with the inconsistencies and leave it there.
However in business that model doesn’t always work for long term growth.
I’ve watched a number of reviews before and after I did this video to see what others say. For those that love the camera, they are willing to invest 100’s if not thousands on film to figure out how to use it. For those that give it a try with a few packs, their results are similar to mine. Does that make them less informed or their points lack merit because they don’t want to buy 10 packs for example, make sure every pack is stored correctly, try to understand how to under or over expose based on certain camera settings, or do pre-exposure by losing one shot? Let’s be real for a minute. If you need to do all that then there is something wrong with the camera.
And I have to disagree the Leica and Fujifilm cameras are a good comparison as they perform the same simple function that made Polaroid so special. Instant photos. While these cameras are digital cameras as well, to the average consumer they perform very similar.
The benefits of these cameras though outside of the tech is the price points. I can buy three cartridges of film for less than the price of a pack of Polaroid. If my photo doesn’t come out well, it doesn’t sting so much. Polaroid is charging a premium for 8 photos on top of a camera that’s priced at a premium. Here in Singapore it’s much more expensive than the US.
Consumers will look at things this way and make their decisions based on price, performance and consistency.
Polaroid has a good product, but they need to refine it and please remove that odd glass from the viewfinder. If you are going to put information at the bottom of the OVF, it should be legible from first glance, not having to move your eyes around to see it clearly.
again blunt frankness highly appreciated ,
Thank you. I have to be honest with my experiences
Nice review, Bobby! Interesting to hear your thoughts. Great explanations and appreciate the transparency! 👏
Thank you. Hoping they come out with a firmware update soon
Thinking about buying this one. Did they release a firmware update yet? @@btonelli
finally a serious review. One factor though that no one seems to mention is the film. Honestly, the new "polaroid" films are not that good. Inconsistent, slow, unreliable.
Thanks. Yeah the films QC wasn’t good when I tested the camera. Not sure about now
I will stick to my SX-70 Sonar 😅 I have a lot of the older box cameras and one iType. My iType camera from 2017/2018 has better auto exposure than the newest models. Polaroid needs to shape up before they go bankrupt again. People do not want to spend $20 for 8 photos for only 3 to be good. I used Polaroid film when I was a kid before they went out of business and that chemistry was the OG perfected formula. I miss that
I’m hoping they fix this and rethink pricing a bit.
I spent a few days looking through every box in my house and garage in search of my SX-70, purchased in 1979. One day it will turn up, but not today. I then discovered " SLR670-X MING EDITION (Type i)" for $1149.00. I am simply looking for a fun camera that will result in a photo I can hold in my hand, put in an album, and look at years from today ,aka, the 20th century photo experience. Your thoughts and the thoughts of those into photography, are appreciated.
Hope you find the SX-70. Would be a nice find. Thanks for watching and your kind words
😂 thank you
Most welcome 😊
I will sound strange but l wont spent so mutch money ever for this l better wait and find sx70 , film to expensive to vaste it 🙂
Yes film is too pricey for consistent experimentation
Polaroid web page is very clear, a camera for the imperfectionist
Of course. Poloroid is imperfect and beautiful but for the price of film and the camera I just want the exposure and film quality to be improved. That’s not much to ask
Early gang.
Yep. First comment 😊
It's the film :/ they were never able to get the original formula back
Hope things have improved since the review. Thinking of revisiting the system for a follow up
oh , Bobby - congrats on root beer :) finally radiomir put to rest :)))
Haha didn’t get a Root Beer. Still the same yellow gold and Steel GMT.
oh really ! gotta check eyesight . I'm loosing my grip on reality , clearly (pun intentional;) gmt is a pinnacle of Rlx . simple although with touch of 'complication' . I myself rock batman on jubilee . best regards @@btonelli
A shame about the i-2! It does look like it can take well exposed pictures as well!
It can. That’s what’s frustrating is when it works, it works so well
I had the same experience with this camera. I use Instax and Polaroid as my fun cameras. This camera is anything but fun. It is a beyond frustrating tool.
This is from a working photographer who has used just about every camera out there from Sinar view cameras to the latest Canon and Sony offerings and almost everything in between.
Glad I’m not the only one. So much potential but as you said frustrating and also too expensive for the results it gives
I have a Polaroid 636 closeup and always wanted something better (SX-70). I was about to buy an I-2 second-hand on eBay, so I am glad to have seen this - it will save me some money.
That bone structure, though!
Hahaha
Awesome review, thank you for your honesty…
Thanks for watching. Much appreciated
I am not a RUclips content creator nor am I an “influencer.” Just a guy who’s been doing photography for over 50 years, including a BFA in photography. I shoot Leica M6, Mamiya 6, Canon 5DSR, and Toyo 4x5 field camera. I also had an SX-70 back in the 70s and 80s. I’ve also extensively used other cameras, including Nikons and Hassy and Fuji MF. I’m very familiar with photo equipment (cameras, lenses, films, PS, printers, etc…) that creates high IQ pictures.
I bought an I-2 about two weeks ago from Polaroid. I got 5 packs of their I-Type color included (Black Friday deal) and bought another 5 packs of their B&W film. (I have another 10 packs of the B&W coming that I just bought a couple days ago.)
Like I said, I have zero interest in influencing others. People listen to whomever they want.
But I do have to state categorically that I love this camera! Full stop.
Yes, it has its quirks and yes its price point is high (compared to Polaroid’s other cameras - for high quality photo gear, $600 is pretty modest.)
It is NOT for the casual Polaroid photographer. I’d say it took me a good three packs of shooting before I got consistently good results. But that’s not outrageous. Every camera, every new film, new lens, takes time and experience to really get to know.
But this camera, with its quirks, is definitely an excellent camera in my eyes. I love the way it transforms the reality in front of it into a unique image. Unlike any other camera I have or have used. And that is exactly what I wanted when I bought it. If I want classic high IQ I have several cameras that will do that. If I wanted high resolution, again a number of my cameras will perform. If that’s all this camera delivered, I would NOT have purchased it. Why would I? I’ve got those bases covered already.
So that’s my two cents worth.
Thanks for sharing your experience. I gave your video a 👍🏼 because I watched it all the way through.
Happy shooting all!
Thank you for watching and taking the time to write this out much appreciated.
I’m happy to hear you have enjoyed this camera. While I may have had a slightly different experience than you with it, I’m keen to learn how you overcame the inconsistency with exposure etc.
This was one of my biggest issues with the camera and from what I’ve seen and read I’m not the only one. Even in manual mode, the camera only reads the light when the Autofocus is activated.
Would love to hear how you overcame such issues as I genuinely wanted to like this camera for its features etc.
@@btonelli Basically I have shot only in Auto, and only during daylight. I had watched some RUclipsrs before I got the camera, and the consensus seems to be to underexpose by -⅓ or -⅔. That helped.
I’m still not sure what kind of a meter is built-in, but I’d guess an averaging one rather than a spot or center weighted. But I’ve had pretty good results with metering carefully for the area I seem most important, usually the highlights. Then, using AEL, I recompose. (I know none of this is “secret sauce” stuff, but it’s been working really well for me thus far!) A couple of shots have been totally in shade, and on one of them, the flash went off unexpectedly! Oh. Must remember to check flash. 😆 But the photo turned out really well. I did one that was extremely backlit (of a holiday flag with the sun right behind it) that turned out really nicely given the challenges in that kind of lighting.
I’ve dusted off my Sekonic meter, and am ready to start exploring manual. I watched one RUclipsr who uses pre-exposure flashing to open up the shadow areas by using the multiple exposure settings. I’m going to give that a try too. I just have to wait a few days for my film to arrive. I’ve got two packs right now, and I’ve ideas for work I want to do with those. When the 10 packs arrive, I’ll start experimenting.
Some have said they’ve had their best results using film purchased directly from Polaroid, which is all I’ve used so far. I do get the occasional anomaly in the photos, but so far I’d classify them more as quirks than flaws.
Thanks for taking my comments in the spirit in which they were written. Just a different take. I think part of it is a mind set. It’s in a way sort of like working with a high end Holga 😊. I can definitely shooting a lot with this camera. Indeed, I’m going to Japan in March for two weeks and I’m thinking only the I-2 and only B&W.
I do hope you give it some more time and that your results get more to your liking - or maybe that you like the results you get more. But I’d understand if you felt like “Nope.” No one camera is a match for everyone. Thank goodness there is still a wide variety to choose from!
All the best!
Thanks for the reply. Yes I was playing with the metering a bit under exposing and over exposing to try and compensate but my results were hit and miss.
I found that the B&W film to have better QC than the color so far but again with limited packs. I wasn’t gifted this camera and it goes back to the distributor next week, so not sure if I’ll get more time with it. For the price here in Singapore I would rather purchase something that will give me more consistent performance, but with that said, if Polaroid does improve some of these features with an update or two I’ll definitely reconsider. However price to performance for me is a bit of a hard pill to swallow currently.
@@btonelli Totally understand. 👍🏼 Like I said, I’ve not yet found a camera that was 1) perfect or 2) that fit everyone’s needs/wants/expectations. Even something as storied (and gorgeous) as the Leica M6 ain’t for every one nor every situation.
I like your style and will happily subscribe to your channel.I’ve found with pretty much everyone I can learn something. 😁
Happy shooting!
Ernest
@@ezpoppy55 thanks Ernest! Great chatting with you
It can only break your heart if you have incorrect expectations. It is not a digital camera, it will need some photographic knowledge to function (like older cameras that were using a film) but really not that much. If you're unsure, you may use automatic mode with good natural light, it will take super sharp polaroid type shots. Do not overcomplicate.
I shoot film and I tried various different settings and even automatic and still had issues. Can someone get good shots from this from time to time? Most definitely, but the price to results doesn’t seem to match at this point in time. I do hope there were updates since this to improve the camera. I think it has a lot of potential
I do think the guys from the Impossible Project have done their best to bring back Polaroid. However, I also think there is still a long road to walk. I have a vintage Polaroid Spirit 600, and it takes more sharp photos than my Polaroid Now 🤷🏻
Let’s hope for better versions in the future.
Better get the mint cameras
Yes I’m going to look into those
Matt Day did a comparison between the Mint SLR (modified SX70) and the Polaroid I-2. It was a very interesting comparison since they both occupy "the top" when it comes to Polaroid cameras.
I saw it. Interesting video
worth noting he was given the i2, as was ben who he mentions.@@elleoat
Thanks for giving your honest thoughts. I was thinking of getting one, since I don't like how small the instax square is compared to i-type. But this camera is supposed to be a fun and easy to operate camera - without thinking about much. I guess Polaroid missed the mark big time.
it's not supposed to be easy to operate, it's an advanced camera, go with a Now that's easy to operate and still has creative options like double exposure.
Thanks for watching. While it’s the most advanced Polaroid camera they have made, the new tech should work as promised or close to it. So if one wants to go full auto great, shoot that way or if one wants to shoot in a more manual setting the performance is there.
I think they are a Firmware update or two away and better QC on their film packs.
It is supposed to be easy to operate, but gives you the flexibility if you choose your particular settings.
That’s why there is an Auto mode, Aperture Priority, Shutter Priority and Manual. You have the choice.
The mint instax rangefinder camera seems a lot more reliable then. Such a shame for Polaroid they couldn’t get this right out of the gate.
Currently I would say yes but let’s see what Polaroid does in the future.
to spend 600-900 on a camera with a fixed lens that has a min f8 aperture in 2023 is just WILD. that alone for me makes it not worth it.
Yes a bit odd they went this way or at least create film to compensate for it or a stronger flash
I mean f8 is relative to the image sensor size.
Polaroid is larger than medium format sizes fwiw and large format lenses are like… half the size if not the size of the camera
@@gotja it’s about the light being let in versus the speed of the film
@@btonelli what I'm getting at is the lens would be massive compared to the body
@@gotja yes it would but depends on what aperture they go with
Great review,,,,nice going
Thanks for watching
The camera is fine. Compare it to Polaroids other itype cameras. This one is way better and way sharper. When doing instant photography you need to get CLOSE. It’s just not going to perform the same as a digital or film camera for landscapes. Portraits or close ups are where it’s at. And Polaroid film is still improving. The “tears” are pod failures where the developer paste didn’t make it up all the way and the “fingerprints” are from bending the film as it develops (usually happens right when you take it out of the film shield after it ejects, just try to kinda flick the shield off rather than pull the film out)
I’ve had Polaroid cameras all my life. Yes for close up use but not this bad on exposure and flash.
Pod failures are fine but if one spends this kind of money, the tolerances should be higher. Yes I understand how to take the film out. I could shoot two photos back to back and one would have the fingerprints the other no and no difference in removal
@@btonelli I am assuming your film was fridge stored and bought direct from Polaroid yes? If you still experience these problems you can contact their customer support. Sometimes they provide advice and sometimes replace faulty film.
@@elleoat hi. My film was provided to me by the distributor for the review. I’m not sure how they store it. I can say though the B&W seems to be more consistent in a good way versus the color
it always cracks me up when digital camera focused channels review instant cameras. you basically get everything wrong because you have no experience shooting instant film 🤣
FYI the Polaroid I-2 98mm f8 lens is equivalent to 38mm f2.8 on 35mm full frame. If you did even a little bit of research you wouldn't be complaining about specs lol
I grew up with Polaroid cameras and also shoot film. While I don’t talk about it much here doesn’t mean I don’t have experience with it.
I’m aware of the focal range. But aperture is aperture. Depth of field may be more like 2.8 but the amount of light let in is just the same. When you buy a light meter you don’t get separate ones for medium format, large format and 35mm.
I own an I-2 and love it and have my disagreements some of the statements in this video, however this comment foolish. The critique of the aperture in this video is over the limitations when it comes to the low light capabilities. While the depth of field is important, that does not change the light level that enters the camera at F8. Please do a little bit of research you wouldn't be commenting this lol.
@@btonellithank you for saying this. This aperture equivalency misunderstanding is all over RUclips
@@Abc1987 no problem. Yes it is. Even some big channels state this, but they get confused on depth of field vs light let in.
peado avatar pic = peado
Can’t believe the Sofort 2 is better. 😂
Yes I was shocked but it is