cosmogirl's Full Review: Polaroid I-Zone Pocket Film Camera
How it all started
I admit, I didn't want an I-Zone. I saw the commercials on television for it and I thought it was a waste of money. I already owned a Fuji camera and didn't see the need for a Polaroid. But when my sister got an I-Zone as a gift, I wanted one too. It was so easy to use and she got her pictures instantly. The next day, I went and bought one for myself.
What do I get?
I was able to get one of the new Silver I-Zones for $19. It came with 2 AA batteries, a 6 exposure film, and a strap. There is also very minimal instructions for that is all that is needed. I followed the instructions and loaded the batteries easily. The film wasn't much harder. I just opened the film compartment, lay the film in as directed, and shut the case. In less than 5 minutes, I was ready to take pictures.
My experiences
First and foremost, the I-Zone is easy to use. The first time I used it, it was to take a picture of my dog. I just turned on the flash, waited about 30 seconds for the orange 'ready' light to come on and snapped the picture. The pulling out of the picture was a bit tricky. The instructions clearly state not to stop when pulling out the picture. I was afraid I might pull too hard and more than one picture would come out. But that didn't happen. In one swift motion, I pulled out my picture and the next shot was loaded. I was very happy. I waited about 2 minutes for the picture to fully develop.
The first picture I took was way too light. My dog was dark brown and he ended up looking white/beige. So I tried again. The second picture was really dark. My dog almost blended in with the background. I found that through my experiences with the camera, these things do happen. It didn't matter if I took the pictures indoors or outdoors, near or far.
My recommendations
*Please follow the instructions
The film for the camera can be expensive. The last thing you'd want to do is ruin a whole roll. The instructions are very short and to the point. It's worth spending the extra time. And as a bonus, there are step by step instructions on the bottom of the camera. So you will have it with you at all times.
*Use natural light, if possible
When taking your pictures, try to follow the simple rule of thumb of having the sunlight behind you. This will help keep your pictures from turning out too dark. And if natural light isn't available, I find that turning on a light in the room, helps.
*Utilize the strap
The camera comes with a handy strap. I use mine as a hanging strap. Whenever I'm not using my camera, I hang it up on a hook. I wouldn't want to leave it lying in my messy room and possibly having the button be pushed down. The last thing I'd need is pictures of my mess. The strap can also be used a wrist strap when holding the camera and snapping pictures.
*Saving money
I've heard the complaints from other people. Yes, the film can be expensive. It doesn't have to though. I was able to get a 4 pack of 12 exposure rolls for $18 at Sam's Club. I've only gone through one pack so far, but I'm not worried. The expiration dates on the film aren't until December 2001. In this case, it's worth buying in bulk. Single rolls can go for over $6.
My final thoughts
The Polaroid I-Zone camera isn't perfect. If you are looking for high quality pictures, I suggest a 35 mm camera instead. But the I-Zone is a fun camera that is easy to use and convenient. The camera itself is inexpensive and the film can be too, if you shop around and buy in bulk. I have been able to take many great pictures and seen the results immediately. And capturing moments like that are priceless.
Takes instant pictures the size of a postage stamp Fun, new film format Focus-free with built-in flash and simple loading Sticky or nonsticky film ava...More at Amazon Marketplace
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