Polaroid I-2 High-end instant camera review
Polaroid I-2 High-end instant camera review
Polaroid I-2: A High-End Instant Camera with Modern Amenities
At first glance, you might wonder what “high-end” means when it comes to a Polaroid camera. After all, for most of its history, Polaroid has been synonymous with instant gratification and point-and-shoot simplicity. However, with the advent of digital photography, waiting for a Polaroid photo to develop can feel like an eternity. Additionally, the soft, saturated images produced by Polaroid cameras can’t quite match up to the razor-sharp photos captured by even the most basic smartphones. But fear not, because Polaroid has finally introduced a camera that combines the quirks and charm of instant film with modern features that will appeal to serious photographers – the Polaroid I-2.
With a price tag of $599, the Polaroid I-2 does come at a premium compared to other cameras in the company’s lineup. However, it’s important to note that this camera offers the fastest lens available in the current Polaroid lineup. The 98mm f/8 lens, equivalent to a 38mm f/2.8 on a 35mm camera, allows for larger apertures than previous Polaroid cameras, which usually top out at f/11 or even f/16. While not exceptionally wide, the larger aperture of the I-2 lens offers improved low-light performance and greater creative control.
Despite being made of acrylic and polycarbonate instead of glass, the lens of the I-2 still delivers impressive image quality according to Polaroid. The company claims that the difference in quality is negligible and that using glass would significantly drive up the cost of the camera. Whether or not this is true can only be confirmed through testing, but it’s clear that Polaroid puts great emphasis on the lens of the I-2, even enlisting the help of experienced Olympus engineers in its design.
The Polaroid I-2 was developed over a period of four years, and the attention to detail is evident when holding the camera. While the body is predominantly plastic, it feels sturdy and boasts an aesthetically pleasing design. The matte black body with dark silver and red accents gives the camera a classier look compared to the more brightly colored Now line. Even the underside of the camera features a quote from Polaroid co-founder Edwin Land, highlighting the company’s commitment to the history and legacy of instant photography.
One standout feature of the I-2 is its compatibility with standard lens filters, allowing photographers to easily experiment with different effects. Unlike other cameras in the current Polaroid lineup, which lack this feature, the I-2 can accommodate a 49mm ND filter right off the shelf. This is particularly useful considering the camera’s top shutter speed of 1/250 of a second. Combined with the 640 ASA of standard i-Type film, capturing properly exposed images in bright sunlight can be challenging.
While the shutter speed of the I-2 might not be ideal for freezing fast-paced action, it still outperforms the Now+ camera, which tops out at 1/200. Interestingly, the $99 Polaroid Go actually surpasses both the I-2 and the Now+ with its shutter speed of 1/300 of a second. However, the Go uses smaller film. Despite this difference, the I-2 sets itself apart by offering on-board manual settings, allowing photographers to have complete control over the aperture and shutter speed without relying on external apps or accessories. Both aperture and shutter speed are adjusted using a single ring around the lens, with the option to switch between them conveniently.
In conclusion, the Polaroid I-2 is a unique instant camera that appeals to both nostalgia and the demand for modern capabilities. Despite its higher price point, the I-2 offers a faster lens, on-board manual settings, and compatibility with standard lens filters, making it a standout choice for photographers seeking a more professional and creative experience with instant film. So if you’re ready to capture memories with a touch of vintage charm and a dash of contemporary flair, look no further than the Polaroid I-2.
