Tips for taking the best polaroid photo

Written by Sanne

Edited on

6 June 2023

·

12:12

Tips for taking the best polaroid photo

You bought an instant camera, but how do you take a nice Polaroid picture? In this article, you'll find 5 useful tips to help you do that. That way, you'll soon have perfect Instant photos you can hang on your wall

Think about your photo

Tip 1: think about the photo you're going to take

When you take a photo with an instant camera, it prints the photo right away. So you only have one shot at taking the right photo. That's why it's important to think about what you're capturing beforehand. Try different angles before you press the button. Explore the location to find the best spot for your photo. Perspective is key to the final result.

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Use colors

Tip 2: find fun colors

When you determine the right location for your photo, it's important to be creative. Look around and find vibrant colors to use in your photo. You might find a background that provides a nice contrast against the outfit of the person you're photographing. Colors in nature help, such as a clear blue sky or nice plants and trees.

The right lighting

Tip 3: choose the right light

The best Polaroid photo is taken during the day. But you have to know how to use the sun. Don't point the camera directly at the sun, as your photo will come out overexposed. Make sure the sun is behind you. Some cameras have different exposure settings, which allow you to reach the best result in every light situation. If you're taking photos in a dark space, take the flash range of your Polaroid camera into account.

Distance to the subject

Tip 4: keep the right distance from the subject

Polaroid photos are relatively small, so don't try capture too much in your photo. Keep a short distance between you and the subjects. If you photograph from a larger distance, you probably won't be able to see what you've captured. With a smaller distance, you reduce the risk of blur. Many Polaroid cameras can't focus on an object from a 60cm distance or less.

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Develop in the dark

Tip 5: develop the photos in the dark

Don't worry, you don't need a dark room to develop your Polaroid photos. But you will get a more beautiful photo if you develop it in the dark. After you take the photo, put the photo facing down so the light doesn't get to it. That way, the light doesn't affect the photo, which results in a more powerful contrast. But if the photo is underexposed, you should keep it in the light.

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Article by Sanne

Camera Expert.

Sanne