Polaroid Flip instant camera with auto lens select and sonar autofocus captures prized moments

Polaroid has just released a new instant photography camera that’ll bring a smile to the face of passionate clickers. The company claims the Polaroid Flip is the ultimate point-and-shoot instant camera, and given its features, we second that. The latest analog shooter’s folding design is inspired by the cameras that marked the glorious past, including the Polaroid OneStep 600 introduced in 1983.

The instant camera is ideal for people who are used to taking a lot of shots with their smartphone, or beginners who want to ease into their hobby of point-and-shoot photography. Polaroid Flip will be available for members starting today, and you can create an account with them right away if you are an eager buyer. Otherwise, you can grab the shooter from April 29 via online stores, and on May 13 from other retailers for $200.

Designer: Polaroid

Polaroid Flip reintroduces the flipable design that folds down the big flash to protect the lens when the camera is not in use. In fact, the adaptive flash is one of the most powerful (able to illuminate the subject over 14 feet away) that the company has ever offered on its instant cameras. The flash intensity can be adjusted easily to avoid overexposure at near distance. The camera comes with a four-lens system – including a close-up lens for distances up to 0.65 meters, near-field for 0.85 meters or lower, mid-field to shoot 1.2 meters, and far field for 2.5 meters distance – that rotates inside the housing. Based on the scene and the distance of the subject, the appropriate lens is chosen, and Polaroid claims the shots are equally good with better sharpness, depth of field and vividness.

What interests me the most in Flip is the sonar autofocus system that makes use of sonar waves to determine the distance of the subject from the lens and the exposure levels. If the subject is too far or too close, they are alerted with a flashing red light as a part of the ‘scene analysis’ feature, to make the necessary adjustments. This ensures the final shot is desirable and the compatible Polaroid i-Type and 600 film is not wasted. The user can, of course, take charge of the settings like exposure or self-timer via the compatible app. Other features of the camera include the ability to shoot double exposure shots for a crisper output and remotely control the camera from a distance.

The Flip camera will come equipped with a USB-C rechargeable battery, so you don’t have to worry about running out of juice, as you can carry an extra battery for peace of mind. According to Polaroid, this camera embraces real-life moments by connecting to life’s best moments. With eight pictures in “a pack that will connect to life far more than 800 digital ones,” the camera’s analog shooting experience will bring real-life moments to life with instant printed versions.