In an age where our phones hold thousands of digital photos, there’s a certain magic that has been lost. We scroll endlessly, but rarely do we hold a photograph in our hands. I remember the thrill of waiting for a Polaroid picture to develop, the anticipation as the colors slowly bloomed into existence. It was a tangible piece of a moment, something to pin on a board or slip into a wallet. I began my search for a modern instant camera hoping to recapture that feeling, but I wanted more than just a simple point-and-shoot. I wanted the charm of analog film combined with the creative control I’ve grown accustomed to in the digital era. The challenge was finding a device that could bridge this gap without being overly complicated or sacrificing the spontaneous joy that makes instant photography special. The fear is always spending a significant amount on a camera and expensive film only to end up with a collection of blurry, overexposed, and ultimately disappointing prints.
- POLAROID NOW+ : It's the Polaroid camera you love PLUS so much more. Our Bluetooth-connected app features full manual control - double exposure - light painting - noise trigger - and more! Now+...
- BONUS GIFT: The Polaroid Now+ includes a bonus lens filter kit. Includes 5 creative lens filters – Starburst, Red Vignette, Orange, Yellow and Blue.
- DUAL LENS AUTOFOCUS: Get the perfect shot, automatically. The Polaroid Now+ feature a dual zone (Close-Up & Standard) auto-switching hyperfocal optical lens system.
What to Consider Before Buying an Instant Camera
An Instant Camera is more than just a device for taking pictures; it’s a key solution for creating immediate, physical artifacts from life’s fleeting moments. In a world saturated with digital images, the instant camera offers a refreshing return to singularity. Each photo is unique, an uneditable capture of a specific time and place. This solves the problem of “photo-hoarding” on our devices, forcing us to be more deliberate and present in our photography. The main benefits are the tangible output, the nostalgic aesthetic of the film, and the shared social experience of watching a photo develop right before your eyes. It turns photography from a solitary digital process into a communal, interactive event.
The ideal customer for this type of product is someone who values the process as much as the result. This includes hobbyist photographers, creative individuals who enjoy experimenting with light and composition, and anyone looking to create unique keepsakes from events like parties, weddings, or travels. It’s for the person who understands and embraces the charming imperfections of analog film. Conversely, it might not be suitable for those who demand pixel-perfect clarity, the ability to take hundreds of shots without consequence, or easy digital sharing. If you need to edit your photos, zoom in on details, or send them to your entire family instantly, you would be better served by a high-quality smartphone camera or a traditional digital camera.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Space: Instant cameras are inherently bulkier than smartphones. The Polaroid Now+ Gen 2 App Controlled Camera, measuring 5.9 x 4.4 x 3.7 inches, is not pocket-sized. Consider how you plan to carry it—in a dedicated camera bag or with the included neck strap. Its size is part of its retro charm, but it’s a practical consideration for travel and portability.
- Performance/Capacity: Performance in an instant camera is about creative control and film format. The Now+ uses Polaroid’s classic square i-Type or 600 film, which is larger and more iconic than many smaller instant formats. Its key performance feature is the app connectivity, which unlocks manual controls over aperture and shutter speed, a feature almost unheard of in this category.
- Materials & Durability: The build quality dictates the camera’s lifespan. The Gen 2 model notably incorporates 40% recycled materials in its body, a commendable step towards sustainability. The plastic construction feels solid and substantial in hand, though like any camera, it should be handled with care to protect the lenses and internal mechanics.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: There’s a spectrum of complexity. While you can use the Now+ as a simple point-and-shoot, its true potential is unlocked through the app, which introduces a learning curve. Maintenance is minimal, mainly consisting of keeping the rollers clean (per Polaroid’s instructions) to avoid streaks on your photos and charging the internal battery via the modern USB-C port.
Keeping these factors in mind, the Polaroid Now+ Gen 2 App Controlled Camera stands out in several areas, particularly for its unique blend of performance and creative features. You can explore its detailed specifications and see the latest pricing here.
While the Polaroid Now+ Gen 2 App Controlled Camera is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
- Compact and cute design. Easily twist the lens to turn on and off
- POLAROID NOW: The Polaroid Now 3rd Generation Instant Camera is the classic analog instant camera, optimized for sharper pictures in more lighting conditions for even better photos and even more fun.
- Includes FujiFilm Mini 12 Camera Lilac Purple, The Fujifilm Mini 12 Camera Lilac Purple features a Fujinon 60mm f/12.7 Lens, Optical Image Viewfinder, Auto Exposure and a Built-In Flash. Instantly...
First Impressions: Unboxing a Modern Classic
Opening the box for the Polaroid Now+ Gen 2 App Controlled Camera felt like a nostalgic event with a modern twist. The Forest Green color is deep and rich, giving the camera a sophisticated, almost vintage look that stands out from the pastel colors common in the instant camera market. The first thing I noticed upon picking it up was its heft. At 451.5 grams, it feels substantial and well-built, not like a cheap toy. The body, made with 40% recycled plastics, has a pleasant matte texture that feels good in the hands and resists fingerprints.
Inside the box, alongside the camera, was a welcome surprise: a pouch containing five creative lens filters. This immediately signals that this camera is built for experimentation. The filters—Starburst, Red Vignette, Orange, Yellow, and Blue—snap satisfyingly onto the front lens. Also included are a comfortable neck strap and a USB-C charging cable, a modern convenience that I greatly appreciate. There’s no film in the box, which is standard for Polaroid, so we made sure to have a few packs of i-Type film ready. Powering it on, the camera greets you with a simple LED display showing the shot count. The real magic, however, begins when you pair it with your phone.
Advantages
- Unlocks full manual control, aperture priority, and creative modes via Bluetooth app
- Includes 5 physical lens filters for artistic, in-camera effects
- Dual-lens autofocus system intelligently switches between standard and close-up shots
- Eco-conscious design incorporating 40% recycled materials
- Uses the iconic large-format Polaroid square film (i-Type and 600)
Drawbacks
- Significant learning curve to master manual settings, leading to wasted film
- High cost per photo (around $2 per shot) makes experimentation expensive
- Image results can be inconsistent, a common trait of analog photography
Deep Dive: Bridging Analog Charm and Digital Control
The true test of the Polaroid Now+ Gen 2 App Controlled Camera isn’t just in its specs, but in the experience of using it. It positions itself as the ultimate tool for the creative instant photographer, and after spending considerable time with it, we can say it largely delivers on that promise—if you’re willing to embrace the process.
The App-Connected Creative Powerhouse
The single most important feature of this camera is its Bluetooth connectivity. Without the Polaroid mobile app, it functions as a competent, if basic, point-and-shoot instant camera. But once connected, a whole new world of creative possibilities opens up. The pairing process was seamless on both iOS and Android. The app’s interface is clean and intuitive, presenting you with a suite of powerful tools: Aperture Priority, Double Exposure, Light Painting, Noise Trigger, and a full Manual Mode.
We spent an entire afternoon experimenting with these modes. Aperture Priority was a revelation, allowing us to control the depth of field to create beautiful, soft-focus backgrounds for portraits—something nearly impossible on most instant cameras. The Double Exposure mode was equally impressive, letting us layer two different images onto a single piece of film with surprising accuracy. But it was the full Manual Mode that truly won us over. Being able to precisely control both aperture (from f/11 to f/64) and shutter speed (from 1/200s to a 30-second bulb mode) is a game-changer. We used a tripod (thanks to the built-in mount) to capture stunning long-exposure light trails at night. This level of control is exactly what separates the Now+ from its peers. As one user aptly put it, they bought this camera specifically “to mess around with the settings in the Manual mode,” embracing the $2-per-picture cost as a tuition fee for learning analog photography. It is this spirit of intentional learning that the camera rewards most. If you value this deep level of artistic control, the Polaroid Now+ Gen 2 offers a creative suite unlike any other in the instant film world.
Image Quality and Embracing the “Polaroid Look”
Let’s be clear: if you are expecting the razor-sharp clarity of a modern digital camera, you will be disappointed. That’s not what Polaroid is about. The beauty of the Polaroid Now+ Gen 2 App Controlled Camera lies in its unique, often unpredictable, analog character. The photos have a dreamy, slightly soft quality with rich, sometimes moody colors that feel timeless. The dual-lens autofocus system works well, automatically switching between a close-up lens (for shots from 0.4m to 1.3m) and a standard lens. In our tests, it did a good job of keeping the intended subject in focus, a noticeable improvement over fixed-focus instant cameras.
However, many users report inconsistent results, with photos coming out too dark, too bright, or out of focus. We experienced this as well, especially in the beginning. This is the steep learning curve in action. The camera’s light meter can be tricked by complex lighting situations, like strong backlighting. We found, as several users noted, that the built-in flash is almost essential, even when shooting outdoors in daylight. It acts as a “fill flash,” balancing the exposure and preventing harsh shadows on your subject’s face. Understanding how light interacts with the film is crucial. After about two packs of film, we had a much better feel for the camera’s quirks and were able to produce consistently pleasing images. The frustration of early “wasted” shots is real and costly, but the satisfaction of nailing a difficult shot using manual settings is immense. It’s a journey, not a destination.
Design, Ergonomics, and the Creative Lens Kit
The physical design of the Polaroid Now+ Gen 2 App Controlled Camera is a thoughtful blend of retro aesthetics and modern functionality. While some users find it bulky, we felt its size contributed to a stable and comfortable grip. The shutter button has a satisfying two-stage press for focusing and then capturing, and the dedicated tripod mount on the bottom is a crucial addition for anyone serious about using the creative long-exposure modes.
The included kit of five lens filters is far from a gimmick. These physical filters are a fantastic way to get creative directly in-camera. We particularly enjoyed the Starburst filter, which turns point-light sources into dramatic four-pointed stars, perfect for night cityscapes. The colored filters (Orange, Yellow, Blue) are great for dramatic B&W film shots or for creating surreal color shifts on color film, while the Red Vignette adds a moody, romantic halo to portraits. They simply push-fit over the lens, making them easy to swap on the fly. This hands-on approach to creativity feels perfectly aligned with the analog spirit of the camera. It encourages you to slow down, think about your shot, and physically interact with your gear in a way that tapping a screen filter just can’t replicate.
What Other Users Are Saying
Scouring user feedback reveals a starkly divided opinion on the Polaroid Now+ Gen 2 App Controlled Camera, which largely confirms our own findings. The camera is a device you either love for its creative depth or find frustrating for its unpredictability and cost.
On the positive side, many users embrace the learning experience. One detailed review celebrated the camera as “super fun,” acknowledging their lack of experience but highlighting their desire to “learn how to work with aperture, shutter speed, lenses.” This sentiment is common among those who give the camera high ratings; they see the cost of film as an investment in a new skill. Enthusiasts from non-English speaking regions echo this, with one calling it “an incredible camera” and another stating it’s “the best among instant cameras by far,” worth the price for creating precious memories.
Conversely, the negative feedback is just as passionate and often centers on three issues: inconsistent results, defects, and the high cost of film. One user expressed extreme frustration, stating, “each picture comes out completely different and it’s not a good thing,” even after getting a replacement. Others reported receiving cameras with physical defects like hair inside the lens or being bundled with expired film, leading to damaged photos. A recurring and significant complaint involves marks on the photos, such as a “big fingerprint looking splotch on every picture,” which points to potential quality control issues with the camera’s rollers. These experiences highlight the risk and potential frustration involved, making it clear this camera demands patience and a bit of luck.
How Does the Polaroid Now+ Gen 2 App Controlled Camera Compare to the Alternatives?
The Polaroid Now+ Gen 2 App Controlled Camera occupies a unique niche, but it’s important to see how it stacks up against other options in and around its category. Some alternatives offer simplicity, while others are essential companions to the hobby.
1. Ruibytree 2 Pack Mini Photo Album
- Universal Compatibility - Suitable for Fujifilm Instax mini LiPlay EVO 12 11 9 99 90 8+ 8 7S 7c 7+ 7 40 26 25 instant film cameras, Mini Link /share SP-1 printer, Polaroid Snap / Snap Touch / PIC-300...
- Mini Photo Album - With only 1 photo per page, the cover of this photobook is just a little larger than a credit card. Hold your photos in my hand，It’s really cute and pretty small
- Take You with Me Wherever I Go - The mini polaroid album book doesn't just belong at home, you can put it in your bag or even in your pocket to take it out and show the photos of your loved ones to...
This product isn’t a camera but an essential accessory for any instant photography enthusiast. Each photo you take with the Polaroid costs a premium, making it a precious object. The Ruibytree Mini Photo Album provides a safe, organized, and stylish way to store and display these memories. While the Polaroid Now+ produces larger square format prints, these albums are typically designed for the smaller “mini” format from other brands. However, they’re perfect for anyone who might also own a smaller format camera or for those who want a compact way to carry a few favorite shots. For owners of the Now+, seeking out a larger album specifically for i-Type film would be the direct solution, but this highlights the universal need for all instant photographers: protecting your investment.
2. Fujifilm INSTAX Mini 12 Holiday Bundle
- Compact and cute design. Easily twist the lens to turn on and off
- Built-in selfie mirror for easy selfies Close-up mode with parallax correction
- Features automatic exposure and flash control for bright photos that are not “washed-out”
The INSTAX Mini 12 represents the other end of the instant camera spectrum. It is the epitome of simplicity, fun, and accessibility. Where the Polaroid Now+ is about manual control and experimentation, the Mini 12 is a true point-and-shoot. It features automatic exposure and a simple close-up/selfie mode, making it incredibly easy for beginners, kids, or anyone at a party to pick up and use. The film is smaller, rectangular, and significantly cheaper per shot. If your primary goal is to easily capture fun, spontaneous moments with zero learning curve and at a lower cost, the INSTAX Mini 12 is arguably the better choice. You sacrifice all the creative depth of the Now+ for ultimate convenience.
3. Polaroid Now+ Black Instant Camera with Lens Filter Set
- POLAROID NOW+ : It's the Polaroid camera you love PLUS so much more. Our Bluetooth-connected app features full manual control - double exposure - light painting - noise trigger - and more!
- BONUS GIFT: The Polaroid Now+ includes a bonus lens filter kit. Includes 5 creative lens filters – Starburst, Red Vignette, Orange, Yellow and Blue.
- DUAL LENS AUTOFOCUS: Get the perfect shot, automatically. The Polaroid Now+ feature a dual zone (Close-Up & Standard) auto-switching hyperfocal optical lens system.
This is the first-generation version of the camera under review, offered in a different color. Functionally, the Gen 1 and Gen 2 Now+ cameras are nearly identical. They both connect to the same Polaroid app, unlock the same creative modes (Manual, Aperture Priority, etc.), use the same autofocus system, and come with the same set of five lens filters. The primary difference is that the Gen 2 model (in Forest Green) is manufactured with 40% recycled plastics. Therefore, the choice between them comes down to three factors: your color preference, price (if you can find the older model at a discount), and whether the use of sustainable materials is a priority for you. For the user, the core photographic experience will be the same.
The Final Frame: Is the Polaroid Now+ Gen 2 App Controlled Camera Worth It?
After extensive testing, experimenting, and yes, a few disappointing prints, our verdict is clear: the Polaroid Now+ Gen 2 App Controlled Camera is a phenomenal tool for the right person. It is not a simple camera for casual snapshots; it is an instrument for the creative soul who wants to get their hands dirty with the art of analog photography. The app-based manual controls are its killer feature, offering a level of artistic freedom that is simply unmatched in the world of instant film. When you nail the shot—balancing the light, aperture, and shutter speed perfectly—the result is a uniquely beautiful, tangible piece of art that no phone can replicate.
However, this power comes at a cost, both in terms of the steep learning curve and the price of each photo. It demands patience, a willingness to learn from mistakes, and a budget for film. It is not for the impatient or for those seeking digital perfection. We recommend this camera to the hobbyist photographer, the art student, or anyone who finds joy in the process and embraces the beautiful imperfections of an analog world. It’s a rewarding challenge that turns photography back into a thoughtful craft.
If you’ve decided the Polaroid Now+ Gen 2 App Controlled Camera is the right fit for your creative journey, you can check its current price and purchase it here.
Last update on 2025-10-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API