The popularity of having a physical camera seemed to fall into obscurity after we all started taking all our pictures with our phones, but thanks to Instagram, another interest was revived: taking pictures with lo-fi cameras.
That's when Japanese company Fujifilm jumped in and took the trend to the next level, by making the the Instax Mini 8 series. These cameras are so cute you'd want one just as an accessory.
The cameras previously retailed for $75, but the Instax Mini 8 series is now on sale, starting at $50. They come in several lovely colors, including a pastel blue, a rich grape, basic black and white, and a happy yellow.
A photo posted by Fujifilm Instax North America (@fujifilm_instax_northamerica) on
The camera itself is not the only cute thing in the Instax family. The film itself comes in plain Polaroid-style white (which is also on sale right now) and many fun patterns. And of course there are tons of great cases to choose from too. It's popular in Japan to keep a Sharpie in your pocket and write a message on the photo to a friend or to remember the date.
Fujifilm also has nurtured a terrific Instax community, both on its own Instagram and through the Instax hashtag. Be sure to post your own when you get yours – not only is it fun to snap the photos, but the pics you get make perfect art!
Colette Bennett is a writer/editor who specializes in internet culture, skincare, and all things geek. Her work has appeared on CNN, HLN, Engadget, Colourlovers, and Continue Magazine. She also writes horror and sci-fi fiction for Corona Books. Her first novel is forthcoming from Rebellion Publishing in 2021.