Polaroids/Photography in general?

Question

I really want a polaroid camera, if not for the "cool" factor alone, then for the instant gratification of having a Polaroid picture. But everyone I mention Polaroids to says "They're cool, but..." But what? What is the downside of a polaroid camera? I know their quality is bad, and the film can be expensive sometimes, but is there anything else I need to know?

Apparently my Grandma is going to give me her old one from the late 80s/early 90s...are they hard to repair or something?

And since I guess I shouldn't waste points on a whole other, yet related question, I am thinking of getting into photography as a hobby in general. I have a 35mm camera (my mother's Cannon EOS Rebel 2000) already, but is there anything else I need? And does anyone know any good photo ops in/near Los Angeles?

Wow, that's a mouthful. Thanks, and if you can answer either one or both parts of this question, please do. It's much appreciated.

I still have acouple characters left to work with. Well, thanks again

Answer 1

The point of any hobby is to pursue your own passion. If Polaroid photography is the one for you, what difference does it make what anyone else thinks?

Yes, there are practical considerations - cost per picture, image quality, future availability of film, etc. But none of that is important if you love the hobby.

Most hobbies have some impractical characteristics. Very few make money.

So follow your interest! It's yours, not anyone elses. The worst that can happen is that you end up with an interesting collection of polaroid cameras.

For general photography, the Canon SLR camera you have will let you take good pics. Over time, you need a collection of different lenses and filters, but you can grow into that slowly. One downside for beginners with a film camera is the cost of film and developing, coupled with the delay in seeing your result.

Digital cameras are better for learning because you can see the result immediately (and free!). So you can try out different settings for taking the same pic. When learning with the film camera, be sure to keep a journal describing what technique you used for each pic. Then after developing, review each pic with the journal to note any conclusions about your success.

Good Luck

Answer 2

You say, " I know their quality is bad, and the film can be expensive sometimes, but is there anything else I need to know?"

What else is there to know? As long as you are aware of that and can live with it, get a Polaroid! The good thing about them is that every film pack has a fresh battery built in, so as long as you can find film, your camera will work. I've owned some (3 at present) for 20 or 30 years and I've never had one break. I only bought new cameras for new features. I have not used one for about 5 or 6 years - since digital came out - but I would say I used a couple of them quite often for about 20 years. I have two in the office that were used frequently for about 20 years with no problems at all.

Answer 3

Yes a huge mouthful. The picture quality isnt great and the thing is bulky too. I used to use the polariod camera at my grandmas house too but after digital cameras were introduced in my life, I havent looked back. Their probably a good antique though, its just a fun camera to use. If your not planing on using it for $$ then its a great camera to use. If you plan on selling your pictures you will need a film or digital SLR, or a really good P&S camera.

Answer 4

Personally I think Polaroids are a novelty item. They are cool for artsy projects or maybe just to hang some where on your wall, but to substitute it for a real camera or a digital camera is not worth it.

If you're really into photography, here's an article that'll tell you how to keep our camera film from aging:

http://wehow.ehow.com/how_2029075_store-film-keep-aging.html