The Polaroid JoyCam is an instant camera for the Polaroid 500 Captiva film format. It was introduced in the late 1990s. It is very similar to the Polaroid PopShots disposable camera in construction, but it can be reused.
High quality is not a term that can be chosen to describe the camera. All the important parts of the camera are made of plastic. The camera has a built-in flash.
The JoyCam uses the Polaroid 500 / Captiva format. The area of a picture takes up 7.3 x 5.4 cm. There are ten pictures of the ISO 600 color film in a film cassette. Today, films are no longer produced for this format.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Instant camera |
| Film format | Polaroid 500 / Captiva |
| Film transport | Manual |
| Picture format | 73 mm x 54 mm |
| Focus | Fixed |
| Manual exposure settings | No |
| Date imprinting | No |
| Flash | Integrated flash |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | No |
| Estimated value / Used price | 63,37 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 18 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of May 18, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 28,00 Euro (30.31 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 34,58 Euro (36.80 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 31,10 Euro (33.55 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Polaroid JoyCam
Is the Polaroid JoyCam a disposable camera?
No, unlike the Polaroid PopShots, the JoyCam is reusable. You just need to replace the film pack when it's finished. It's designed for repeated use.
What type of film does this instant camera use?
The JoyCam uses Polaroid 500/Captiva film. Each pack contains ten photos. Unfortunately, this film is no longer produced.
How big are the pictures from the JoyCam?
Each photo from the JoyCam is 7.3 x 5.4 cm. This is a relatively large format for instant photos.
Does the camera have a flash?
Yes, the Polaroid JoyCam has a built-in flash. This ensures you can take photos even in low-light conditions.
What is the camera made of?
The JoyCam is primarily made of plastic. While not high-end materials, it's functional and durable enough for its purpose.