In an age where digital perfection has become mundane, Polaroid continues to champion the beautifully imperfect tangibility of instant photography. Recently, the legacy brand dropped what might be the most significant advancement in instant photography we’ve seen in years. The Flip takes everything we love about the iconic format and cranks it up with genuine innovation rather than the usual nostalgic rehash. While competitors seem content pushing minor updates to decades-old tech, Polaroid clearly went back to the drawing board to solve actual photography problems.
HYPERFOCAL REVOLUTION
The Flip’s most notable advancement is its groundbreaking 4-lens “hyperfocal” system, which represents a complete rethinking of how instant cameras approach focusing. Rather than the traditional method of physically moving lens elements (as found in Polaroid’s own I-2) or relying on fixed-focus limitations, the Flip employs a quartet of revolving lenses that work in conjunction with integrated sonar autofocus technology.
The sonar autofocus is really the star of the show, with a system that intelligently selects the appropriate lens for your subject’s distance, with dedicated optics for close-up (2 to 4ft), mid-range (4 to 8ft), landscape (8 to 16ft), and distance (16ft+) photography. It’s a clever solution that eliminates the mechanical complexity of traditional focusing while delivering superior optical results. It’s the kind of solution that makes you wonder why nobody thought of it sooner.
Also, through the newly-optimized Polaroid app, the Flip is capable of even more, including exposure setting controls such as aperture and shutter speed. Using a replaceable and rechargeable battery, the camera powers up via USB-C and has Bluetooth phone connectivity.
THOUGHTFUL EXECUTION
What separates good design from great design often lies in the details, and the Flip demonstrates Polaroid’s careful consideration of the user experience. The larger handgrip isn’t just an aesthetic choice but also houses the camera’s rechargeable battery and provides ergonomic stability.
While some instant and digital cameras (including past models from Polaroid) feature convoluted menus that leave you spending more time trying to figure out which setting to use rather than actually taking spontaneous photographs, the simple and intuitive 3-button interface on the Flip eschews the overwhelming menu systems. Things like flash, double exposure, and self-timer are clearly laid out in front of you for a generation of photographers used to taking pictures with their phones.
And while many might overlook it, the Flip’s viewfinder deserves special mention. Larger and brighter than previous Polaroid offerings, it provides a more accurate representation of what you’ll capture on film. Far too often, I’ve taken photos with an instant camera and got results much different than what I saw through my viewfinder.
FILM FORWARD, For Better or Worse
While the Flip introduces meaningful hardware innovations, it’s worth noting that it still uses Polaroid’s standard i-Type and 600 film packs. This double-edged sword means you’ll benefit from the same iconic square format and distinctive color rendering that’s become synonymous with the Polaroid name, but also inherit the relatively high $2 per shot and somewhat temperamental development process.
Comparable in price, Fujifilm’s Instax line offers more consistent (albeit smaller) results at nearly half the price per frame. On the other hand, Polaroid’s commitment to its legacy format remains both its greatest strength and most significant limitation. There’s still nothing that matches the presence of a full-size Polaroid print. It’s an expensive habit, but one that rewards patience with results no Instagram filter can replicate. Plus, the benefit of this innovative new lens tech pushes the Flip to the front of the pack.
SPEC SHEET
Model: Polaroid Flip
Lens System: 4-lens hyperfocal array with sonar autofocus
Film Compatibility: Polaroid i-Type and 600 film
Viewfinder: Large-format optical
Special Features: Self-timer, long exposure mode, double exposure capability
Materials: Polycarbonate body with partial metal components
Dimensions: 4.5” × 3.7” × 5.9”
Weight: 1.8lbs
PRICING & AVAILABILITY
Available in either black or white-and-orange colorways, the Polaroid Flip is priced at $200. For those seeking something with a bit more visual punch, limited-edition red and blue variants are expected to follow later this year. Head over to Polaroid’s website to learn more.
Recap
Polaroid Flip Camera
Building off its legacy in the category, Polaroid’s newest Flip instant camera has an innovative autofocus system that uses sonar to intelligently select between four revolving lenses.
