The Polaroid Go is an instant camera. It was introduced in 2021 by the Polaroid successor company from the Netherlands. It is the company's first instant camera for a new film format, which previously also used the Polaroid Originals brand name. The big special feature of the camera is its size. It is the smallest Polaroid camera still manufactured today.
The camera is equipped with a housing made of ABS plastic. Polaroid offered versions in purple blue, white, red and black.
Functional scope of the instant camera
The instant camera comes with a fixed lens. The focal length cannot be changed and is 51.1 mm. The largest aperture is f/9. The focus of the lens is fixed and cannot be changed. It is recommended to maintain a minimum distance of 45 cm from the subject to avoid blurry photos. There is no zoom function.
The light meter built into the camera makes it easier to measure exposure. The exposure settings are automatically controlled by the camera's electronics. There are no manual setting options.
The built-in flash provides enough light. The range of the flash is around two meters.
Other features include the built-in self-timer and the option for double exposures. There is also a small mirror on the front for selfies. There is no tripod thread. A camera strap can be connected to the Polaroid Go.
According to the operating instructions, the camera weighs 242 grams. The dimensions are 10.5 x 8.3 x 6.1 cm. The camera has a built-in battery. The battery is charged via a USB-C port.
Films for the Polaroid Go
The Polaroid Go camera is designed for the Polaroid Go format. This film format was introduced in 2021 along with the camera.
An image has a size of 66.6 by 53.9 mm. Part of it is taken up by the white frame. The captured image takes up an area of 47 by 46 mm. This makes it almost square, like the original Polaroid films.
The film is an instant film that develops automatically after shooting. Development time varies depending on ambient temperature, but is usually around 10-15 minutes.
The Polaroid Go Film comes in a twin pack with two cassettes with 8 images each. The price varies depending on the retailer and quantity, but is generally around 20 euros per double pack.
The Polaroid Go film is currently only available as a color film (Polaroid Go Color Film*). There is no black and white option at this time.
Polaroid Go Gen 1 vs. Polaroid Go Gen 2
A 2nd generation of the camera was introduced in 2022. Among other things, the maximum aperture was changed from f/12 (Gen 1) to f/9 (Gen 2). The smallest aperture also changed from f/52 to f/42. Additionally, the charging port changed from Micro-USB to USB-C. In addition, at the time of the first generation there was no blue variant.
Taking photos with the Polaroid Go camera
It is easy to use and offers some special functions for creative recordings.
First steps: After unpacking, you should make sure that the camera, charging cable, carrying strap and quick start guide are present. Before getting started, it is important to fully charge the camera as it will not be fully charged for transport. Charging takes place using the included USB-C cable, which is connected to a charger (5V/1A). Charging time is around two hours.
Insert film: The camera only uses Polaroid Go film. To insert the film, the film door is opened and the color marking on the film cassette is compared with the corresponding marking in the camera. The cassette is carefully pushed in until it clicks into place and the film door is closed.
Take photos: After switching on, the display shows the number of photos remaining. The flash is enabled by default, but can be turned off if necessary. For an optimal shot, you should maintain a distance of at least 45 cm from the subject. Pressing the shutter button takes the photo and ejects it. It is important to protect the image from light in the first few seconds by leaving it covered with the film shield.
Selfie Mirror: The selfie mirror is located next to the lens and enables precise image composition for self-portraits. By looking in the mirror you can make sure you are perfectly positioned in the frame before pressing the shutter button.
Self-timer: The self-timer is ideal for group photos or if you want to be in the picture yourself. After activating the self-timer, you have about 9 seconds to get into position before the photo is automatically taken.
Double Exposure: The double exposure feature allows you to combine two different subjects in a single photo. After the first shot, the film is not ejected but remains in the camera. Pressing the shutter button again superimposes a second shot on top of the first, creating a unique and artistic image.
Flash and Light: The camera has a flash, which is recommended for low light or indoor photography. The flash can be turned off in bright sunlight. You can experiment with different light sources for creative effects.
Battery: The battery level of the camera is displayed via an LED display. The LED lights up green when the battery is full and red when the battery is low.
