Instant: The Polaroid Instant Camera Review

Back in the days before camera phones and even digital cameras, film ruled the roost for photography. While the results could look stunning, there was always the issue of having to wait for the photos to be developed, usually by some professional that required payment. That was until the Polaroid camera came along, allowing users to take photos and instantly see results, as it printed a square photo out for all to see. It might not have produced extraordinary results but it was very convenient.

Instant: The Polaroid Instant Camera mimics such behaviour, backed up by the iPhone's rather powerful camera. It's very realistic, right down to the sound effects and the need to blow or shake the device in order to develop the photo faster. It's a nostalgic fan's dream.

As simple to use as a Polaroid camera was, users can get straight into snapping away. Numerous filters are available to apply, 30 in all, with 10 matching the days of the classic camera. In each case, photos are arranged in a square fashion, with the framing just like it was in the old days. It's possible to add text to photos, too, incorporating a handwritten style quality. It's all simple stuff, but it works well. A variety of fonts can be chosen, as well as colors, with each filter proving quite attractive or memorable. More subtle effects can be implemented through a series of sturdy sliders, reminiscent of the clunkier technology of the past.

Instant: The Polaroid Instant Camera won't turn photographs into stunning pieces of art, like other filtering apps may, but it adds a delightful dose of nostalgia. Such attention to detail with the presentation and sound effects is great to see. It's the kind of thing that's perfect for fans to show to their children, to demonstrate just how things used to be. Linked to numerous social networks, it can spruce up many an Instagram submission, too.