Instant Film Camera Buying Guide: Polaroid, Instax and Vintage Models

Instant cameras are wonderfully simple in use, but there is one thing worth understanding before you buy: film compatibility. Different instant cameras take different film types, and choosing the wrong one can make a camera expensive, inconvenient or impossible to use. This guide explains what film instant cameras use, how Polaroid and Instax formats differ, what to expect from vintage models, and how much you are likely to spend per shot.

If you are choosing a camera from our instant film cameras collection, use this guide to compare running costs, film availability, features, limitations and the kind of shooting experience each format offers.

Quick answer: what film do instant cameras use?

Instant cameras use self-developing film packs. After you take a photograph, the print is ejected from the camera and develops on its own over the next few minutes. However, there is no universal instant film. A Polaroid 600 camera cannot use Instax film, an Instax Mini camera cannot use Polaroid film, and a Polaroid SX-70 camera needs a different film type from a Polaroid 600 camera.

The main instant film types you are likely to encounter today are:

• Polaroid 600 film: used by many vintage Polaroid box cameras and some folding models.

• Polaroid SX-70 film: used by classic Polaroid SX-70 folding cameras and some earlier Polaroid models.

• Polaroid i-Type film: used by modern Polaroid cameras only; it does not have a battery inside the film pack.

• Polaroid Go film: a smaller format for Polaroid Go cameras.

• Fujifilm Instax Mini film: credit-card-sized prints used in Instax Mini cameras.

• Fujifilm Instax Square film: square prints used in Instax Square cameras.

• Fujifilm Instax Wide film: larger rectangular prints used in Instax Wide cameras.

Older discontinued formats also exist, including peel-apart pack film, Kodak instant film and Spectra/Image film. These are not generally practical for everyday use because fresh film is unavailable or very limited.

Polaroid vs Instax: which instant system should you choose?

Polaroid and Instax both produce physical prints straight from the camera, but they offer different experiences. Polaroid tends to feel more nostalgic, larger and more unpredictable. Instax is usually sharper, faster to develop and more cost-effective per shot.

Understanding Polaroid film types

Polaroid is where many instant camera buyers become confused, mainly because several film types look similar but are not interchangeable. Before buying a Polaroid camera, always check whether it uses 600, SX-70, i-Type, Go or another discontinued format.

Polaroid 600 film

Polaroid 600 film is one of the most common choices for vintage Polaroid cameras. It is used by many classic models from the 1980s and 1990s, including box-style cameras with built-in flash. These are often popular because they are straightforward, fun and instantly recognisable.

One important feature of Polaroid 600 film is that the film cartridge contains a battery. Many vintage Polaroid cameras rely on the battery inside the film pack to power the camera, flash and film ejection system. This is why modern i-Type film, which has no battery, will not work in standard vintage 600 cameras.

Polaroid 600 film is a good option if you want:

• a vintage Polaroid camera that is easy to use;

• the classic square Polaroid print size;

• built-in flash for indoor shooting;

• a simple point-and-shoot experience.

You can browse suitable models in our Polaroid Cameras collection.

Polaroid SX-70 film

SX-70 film is designed for Polaroid SX-70 cameras, including the famous folding SLR models. These cameras are some of the most desirable instant cameras ever made. They offer a more refined and tactile shooting experience than most box-type Polaroids, and many photographers love their design, lens character and close-focusing ability.

SX-70 film has a lower sensitivity than 600 film. In simple terms, it needs more light. This means SX-70 cameras are best used outdoors, in bright window light, or with an appropriate flash attachment. Indoors, without flash, results can be underexposed or blurry due to slower shutter speeds.

SX-70 cameras are excellent if you enjoy a slower, more deliberate style of instant photography, but they are less forgiving than later 600 cameras. They are not usually the best choice for someone who wants effortless party snapshots in dim lighting.

Can an SX-70 camera use 600 film?

Some photographers use 600 film in SX-70 cameras with a neutral density filter or a modified camera, but it is not a straightforward match. 600 film is more sensitive than SX-70 film, so an unmodified SX-70 camera may overexpose the image if you simply load 600 film. If you want a simple experience, use the correct SX-70 film or buy a 600 camera instead.

Polaroid i-Type film

Polaroid i-Type film is made for modern Polaroid cameras such as the Now, Now+, OneStep 2, OneStep+ and other i-Type models. It produces the same size image as Polaroid 600 film, but the cartridge does not include a battery.

This makes i-Type film slightly less expensive than 600 film in many cases, but it also means it is unsuitable for most vintage Polaroid cameras. If a camera needs the film pack battery to operate, i-Type film will not power it.

Choose i-Type if you are buying a modern Polaroid camera and want the Polaroid look with lower running costs than vintage 600 models. Do not buy i-Type film for a traditional vintage 600 camera unless you know the camera has been specially modified.

Polaroid Go film

Polaroid Go film is a smaller instant format for the Polaroid Go camera range. It gives you tiny Polaroid-style prints with the familiar white border. It is fun, portable and suited to casual use, but it is not compatible with full-size Polaroid 600, SX-70 or i-Type cameras.

Discontinued Polaroid formats to be careful with

Some vintage instant cameras are beautiful but no longer practical because their original film has been discontinued. This does not always make them worthless, but it does make them unsuitable if you want to shoot regularly.

Formats to approach carefully include:

• Polaroid Spectra/Image film: discontinued and no longer reliably available fresh.

• Peel-apart pack film, such as Type 100: highly sought after but discontinued; remaining stock is expensive and often expired.

• Old roll film Polaroids: generally collector pieces rather than everyday shooters.

• Kodak instant film cameras: original film is discontinued and not compatible with modern Instax or Polaroid film.

If your main goal is to take photos rather than display the camera, choose a model that uses currently available film.

Understanding Instax film formats

Fujifilm Instax is often the easiest instant system for new users. Film is widely available, development is quick, and results are usually consistent. Instax cameras also tend to be less expensive to run than Polaroid cameras, especially if you shoot often.

You can browse compatible film in our Instax Film collection.

Instax Mini film

Instax Mini is the most common Instax format. The print is about the size of a credit card, with a smaller image area inside the border. It is ideal for parties, travel journals, scrapbooks, gifts and everyday snapshots.

Instax Mini cameras are usually compact, affordable and beginner-friendly. The smaller print size also helps keep the cost per shot lower than most other instant film formats.

Choose Instax Mini if you want:

• the lowest typical instant film running cost;

• a compact camera for travel or events;

• easy film availability;

• simple operation for beginners or younger users.

Instax Square film

Instax Square film gives you a square print, making it attractive to people who like the Polaroid look but want Instax consistency. It sits neatly between Mini and Wide in size: larger than Mini, easier to carry than Wide.

Instax Square is a good choice if composition matters to you. The square frame is versatile for portraits, still life, street scenes and creative projects. It also feels more substantial than Mini without becoming too bulky.

Instax Wide film

Instax Wide is the largest common Instax format. It is especially useful for group photos, landscapes, interiors and event photography where you want more detail in the frame. The print is wider than Instax Mini and Square, giving your images more presence.

The trade-off is camera size. Instax Wide cameras are usually bigger, so they are less pocketable. For many people, though, the larger image is worth it.

How much is film for a Polaroid camera?

The cost of film for a Polaroid camera depends on the format, pack size and where you buy it. As a general UK guide, modern Polaroid film is usually one of the more expensive instant film options. Polaroid 600 and SX-70 film commonly come in packs of 8 shots, while Instax film is often sold in 10-shot or 20-shot packs.

Prices change over time, but these are realistic ballpark figures for understanding running costs:

For the latest available options, see our Polaroid Film collection.

Polaroid film cost per shot: what it means in real use

When buying an instant camera, it is worth thinking beyond the price of the camera body. A cheap camera that uses expensive or hard-to-find film may cost more in the long run than a slightly dearer model that uses affordable film.

For example, if you shoot one pack of Polaroid 600 film each month, you may spend roughly £216–£264 per year on film. If you shoot two 20-shot packs of Instax Mini per month, you may spend a similar amount but get many more photographs. This is not to say one is better than the other; it simply shows why running cost matters.

Polaroid is often chosen for atmosphere, nostalgia and the distinctive character of the print. Instax is often chosen for value, consistency and ease. If every shot needs to count and you enjoy the slower pace, Polaroid is very rewarding. If you want to take lots of photos at parties, events or while travelling, Instax may be the more practical choice.

Vintage vs modern instant cameras

One of the biggest decisions is whether to buy a vintage instant camera or a modern one. Both can be excellent, but they suit different users.

Why choose a vintage instant camera?

Vintage instant cameras offer a look and feel that modern cameras often cannot replicate. They may have glass lenses, unusual folding designs, sonar autofocus, exposure compensation wheels, built-in flash bars or the chunky charm of classic 1980s and 1990s Polaroids.

A vintage instant camera may be right for you if you want:

• a more authentic Polaroid-era shooting experience;

• a collectible camera with design history;

• distinctive imperfections, colour shifts and optical character;

• a camera that feels different from modern digital devices.

The main drawback is age. Vintage cameras can have worn rollers, weak flashes, tired motors, dirty viewfinders or uncertain electronics. Buying from a specialist seller helps reduce that risk, especially when the camera has been checked and described accurately.

Why choose a modern instant camera?

Modern instant cameras are generally easier to recommend if you want convenience. They may offer rechargeable batteries, better exposure automation, selfie mirrors, app control, creative modes or more consistent flash performance.

A modern instant camera may be better if you want:

• simple point-and-shoot operation;

• lower running costs with i-Type or Instax film;

• manufacturer support and modern accessories;

• more predictable exposure in mixed lighting.

The trade-off is that modern instant cameras can sometimes feel less characterful. If you are drawn to instant photography because of the design and history, a vintage Polaroid may be far more satisfying.

Polaroid SX-70 vs 600 vs i-Type: key limitations

These three formats are closely related in appearance, but they are not the same. Understanding their limitations will help you avoid buying the wrong camera or film.

If you are unsure, check the label inside the camera’s film door or look up the exact model name before ordering film. Many Polaroid cameras have similar styling, and guessing can lead to wasted film.

Flash: why it matters for instant photography

Instant film is not as flexible as a modern phone camera in low light. Flash can make the difference between a bright, sharp print and a dark, blurry one. If you plan to use your instant camera indoors, at parties, in pubs, at weddings or during winter evenings, flash is extremely important.

Many Polaroid 600 cameras have a built-in flash, which makes them practical for everyday use. Some SX-70 cameras require a separate flash attachment or flash bar, and without it they are best used in strong natural light. Instax cameras often have built-in flash, although the amount of control varies by model.

When choosing a camera, ask yourself:

• Will I mostly shoot outdoors in daylight?

• Will I use the camera indoors or at social events?

• Does the camera have a built-in flash?

• Can the flash be turned off when I want a natural-light look?

• Does the camera offer exposure compensation or lighten/darken controls?

For casual indoor shooting, a Polaroid 600 or modern Instax model with built-in flash is usually easier than an SX-70 without flash.

Exposure controls: simple but important

Instant cameras range from fully automatic to surprisingly controllable. The most basic models may only offer a shutter button. More advanced models may include lighten/darken controls, manual focus, exposure compensation, double exposure, self-timer or app-based settings.

On many vintage Polaroid cameras, a lighten/darken slider or wheel adjusts exposure slightly. This is useful because instant film can be sensitive to bright backgrounds, backlighting and strong contrast. If your subject is standing in front of a bright window, the camera may underexpose the person unless you compensate.

Common exposure controls include:

• Lighten/darken control: found on many vintage Polaroids; useful for fine adjustment.

• Exposure compensation: common on more advanced cameras; helps with difficult lighting.

• Flash override: allows more creative control in daylight or reflective scenes.

• Manual focus or zone focus: helpful for portraits and close subjects.

• Close-up mode: useful for flowers, objects, details and tighter portraits.

If you are new to instant photography, do not worry about having every control. A simple camera can still produce lovely photographs. However, if you already enjoy photography, a camera with exposure adjustment and better focusing may keep you interested for longer.

Print size comparison

Print size affects the whole experience. Smaller prints are cheaper and easier to carry, while larger prints feel more special and display better. If you are making albums, decorating a wall or giving photos to guests, print size may matter as much as camera style.

Which instant camera is best for beginners?

For most beginners, the easiest choices are Instax Mini, Instax Square or a Polaroid 600 model with built-in flash. Instax is usually the safest option if you want low running costs and consistent results. Polaroid 600 is ideal if you specifically want the classic Polaroid look and do not mind paying more per shot.

A beginner should usually look for:

• readily available film;

• built-in flash;

• automatic exposure;

• simple loading;

• reasonable film cost;

• a camera body that has been tested or properly checked.

If the camera is a gift, Instax Mini is often a very practical choice because the film is affordable and the camera is simple. If the recipient loves retro design, a vintage Polaroid 600 camera may make a more memorable present.

Which instant camera is best for creative photography?

If you want more creative control, consider a Polaroid SX-70, a higher-end vintage Polaroid 600 model, or a modern instant camera with manual features. SX-70 cameras are especially appealing to photographers who enjoy composition, focusing and a slower pace.

Creative users may want features such as:

• close focusing;

• manual or zone focusing;

• exposure compensation;

• tripod socket;

• double exposure mode;

• flash control;

• glass lens construction.

Remember that instant film rewards experimentation, but each experiment costs money. If you are testing techniques, lighting or exposure, budget for a few learning packs.

Which instant camera is best for events and parties?

For events, you want reliability, easy operation and a sensible cost per shot. Instax Mini and Instax Wide are popular for weddings, parties and guest books because film is relatively affordable and develops quickly. Instax Wide is particularly good for group photos because the larger frame gives people more room.

Polaroid can also be excellent at events, especially if you want the iconic square print, but the higher film cost becomes noticeable when many guests are taking photos. If you put a Polaroid out at a party, expect people to use film quickly.

For events, prioritise:

• built-in flash;

• simple controls;

• film that is easy to buy in multipacks;

• a camera that is robust enough for casual handling;

• a print size that suits your guest book or display.

Film availability: what to check before buying

Before you buy any instant camera, confirm that fresh film is still being made. This is especially important with vintage models. A camera may look appealing, but if the film is discontinued it may be better as a display item than a practical camera.

As a general rule, the safest current formats are:

• Polaroid 600;

• Polaroid SX-70;

• Polaroid i-Type;

• Polaroid Go;

• Instax Mini;

• Instax Square;

• Instax Wide.

Be cautious with anything that uses Spectra, peel-apart pack film, Kodak instant film or unusual obsolete cartridges unless you are buying for collection rather than use.

How to store instant film

Instant film is sensitive to heat, age and light. To get the best results, store unused film in a cool, dry place. Many photographers keep film in the fridge, but it should be allowed to return to room temperature before use. Do not freeze instant film unless the manufacturer specifically advises it.

Good storage habits include:

• keeping film away from direct sunlight and heat;

• using film before or close to its expiry date;

• letting refrigerated film warm up before loading;

• not opening the sealed film pack until you are ready to use it;

• keeping the camera out of hot cars and damp rooms.

Expired instant film can be fun for experimental results, but it may produce colour shifts, weak contrast, streaking or failed development. For important occasions, use fresh film.

How to load instant film safely

Loading modern instant film is usually simple, but there are a few rules that help avoid wasted shots. Follow the instructions for your camera, line up the film pack correctly, and close the film door firmly. Most cameras eject a dark slide first. This is normal and does not count as a photograph.

Do not pull film out by hand, open the film door mid-pack, press on undeveloped prints, or shake Polaroid film. Shaking is a common myth from older pop culture, but it is not recommended. Let the print develop flat and protect it from strong light during the first moments after ejection, especially with Polaroid film.

Common buying mistakes to avoid

Many instant camera problems come from choosing the wrong film or misunderstanding the camera’s limitations. Avoid these common mistakes:

• Buying i-Type film for a vintage Polaroid 600 camera.

• Buying 600 film for an SX-70 camera without understanding exposure differences.

• Buying a discontinued-format camera and assuming modern film will fit.

• Choosing an SX-70 for indoor parties without a flash solution.

• Ignoring film cost per shot when planning event use.

• Expecting instant film to behave like a digital camera in low light.

• Opening the film door before the pack is finished.

• Using old or poorly stored film for important photographs.

Choosing by use case

Best for the classic Polaroid look

Choose a Polaroid 600 camera or an SX-70 if you want the unmistakable square print with vintage character. A 600 camera is easier for general use, while an SX-70 is better for collectors and careful photographers.

Best for lowest running cost

Choose Instax Mini. It is usually the most affordable instant format per shot and is widely available.

Best for gifts

Instax Mini is simple and budget-friendly. A vintage Polaroid 600 is more distinctive and nostalgic, especially for someone who loves retro cameras.

Best for weddings and guest books

Instax Wide is excellent for larger group photos, while Instax Mini is cost-effective if guests will be taking lots of pictures. Polaroid gives a beautiful look but costs more per print.

Best for collectors

Polaroid SX-70 folding cameras are among the most collectible instant cameras. Look for condition, working electronics, clean optics and film compatibility.

Best for travel

Instax Mini and Polaroid Go are the most portable options. If you want larger prints, Instax Square is a good compromise between size and practicality.

Instant camera buying checklist

Before you choose an instant camera, run through this checklist:

• What film does the camera use?

• Is that film still made and easy to buy?

• How much does the film cost per shot?

• Does the camera have a built-in flash?

• Will you mainly shoot indoors or outdoors?

• Do you want a small print or a larger display-worthy print?

• Do you prefer vintage character or modern convenience?

• Does the camera need batteries, and are they easy to find?

• Has the camera been tested or checked?

• Are you buying for casual fun, creative work, events or collecting?

Frequently asked questions

What film do instant cameras use?

Instant cameras use self-developing film packs, but the exact type depends on the camera. Common current formats include Polaroid 600, Polaroid SX-70, Polaroid i-Type, Polaroid Go, Instax Mini, Instax Square and Instax Wide. These formats are not interchangeable, so always match the film to the camera model.

How much is film for a Polaroid camera?

Polaroid film in the UK typically costs around £15–£22 per pack, depending on whether it is i-Type, 600, SX-70 or Go film. Full-size Polaroid packs usually contain 8 shots, so the cost is often around £1.90–£2.75 per photograph. Prices vary, so check current stock before buying.

Can I use Instax film in a Polaroid camera?

No. Instax film and Polaroid film are different formats. They have different cartridge shapes, chemistry and camera requirements. A Polaroid camera needs the correct Polaroid film type, and an Instax camera needs the correct Instax format.

Can I use i-Type film in a vintage Polaroid camera?

Usually no. i-Type film does not contain a battery, while most vintage Polaroid 600 and SX-70 cameras rely on a battery inside the film pack. Standard vintage Polaroid cameras generally need 600 or SX-70 film, depending on the model.

Is Polaroid 600 the same as SX-70?

No. Polaroid 600 film is more sensitive to light than SX-70 film. Although the cartridges are similar, the cameras are designed for different film speeds. Using the wrong film can cause exposure problems unless the camera is modified or a suitable filter is used.

Is Instax cheaper than Polaroid?

In most cases, yes. Instax Mini is usually the cheapest instant film per shot, followed by Instax Square and Instax Wide. Polaroid film is typically more expensive, especially 600 and SX-70, but it offers the classic Polaroid print size and character.

Which instant film has the biggest print?

Among common current formats, Instax Wide has one of the largest image areas and is excellent for groups and landscapes. Full-size Polaroid 600, SX-70 and i-Type prints have the classic square format and feel larger than Instax Mini, though the shape is different.

Do instant cameras need batteries?

Many do. Some vintage Polaroid cameras are powered by the battery inside the film pack, while modern Instax and Polaroid cameras often use AA batteries, CR2 batteries or rechargeable built-in batteries. Always check the camera model before buying.

Why are my instant photos too dark?

Instant photos often come out dark when there is not enough light, when the flash is not used indoors, or when the subject is backlit. Use flash indoors, move closer to your subject, shoot in brighter light, or use the camera’s lighten control if available.

Should I choose Polaroid or Instax?

Choose Polaroid if you want the classic nostalgic look, larger square prints and vintage camera character. Choose Instax if you want lower running costs, quicker development, consistent results and easier everyday shooting. Both are enjoyable; the best choice depends on how often you plan to shoot and what kind of prints you prefer.

Final thoughts

The best instant camera is not simply the one with the nicest design. It is the one that uses film you can easily buy, at a cost you are happy to pay, in a format you enjoy using. Polaroid 600 is a brilliant route into classic vintage instant photography. SX-70 offers a more collectible and creative experience. i-Type is a sensible modern Polaroid option. Instax Mini, Square and Wide are practical, reliable and generally more affordable to shoot.

If you want to compare available cameras, start with our instant film cameras collection, then match your chosen model with the correct Polaroid film or Instax film. A little compatibility knowledge before buying will save money, prevent frustration and help you enjoy every shot.