In 2008, the Polaroid Corporation announced that it was ceasing production of all of its instant films and cameras. In a digital age, many believed that Polaroids were a nostalgic, but redundant, throwback to the analog era. However, even a cursory glance at Etsy reveals that there are many amazing artists that continue to work with the beautiful medium of instant peel apart and integral films. Polaroid photography thrives on Etsy, and with the Polaroid Street Team growing each day, the marketplace is a wonderful venue for exploring the amazing world of instant photography. Artists using vintage Polaroid cameras abound, selling their original photos, emulsion lifts, transfers, and photo and giclée prints to growing audiences that love the soft focus and nostalgic beauty that only genuine analog instant photography can create.
Instant photography as we know it today was the invention of one of the 20th century’s most astonishing scientific minds, Edwin H. Land (1909-1991). The creator of 537 patents (only Thomas Edison held more!) and founder of the Polaroid Corporation in 1937, Land’s early inventions included 3-D movie glasses, guided missile systems, and polarized eyewear and camera lenses. His 4-year-old daughter, Jennifer, inspired Land’s most artistic breakthrough. In 1944, while her father took a series of photos, the young girl asked, “Can I see them now, Daddy? Why can’t I see them now?” This poignant, direct question got Land thinking, and by 1947, he debuted the world’s first instant photography to a stunned audience in New York City. By 1949, Polaroid roll film cameras were flying off the shelves, and photographers such as Ansel Adams were hired as dedicated artistic consultants. By 1950, over one million rolls of Polaroid instant film had been sold, and by 1956, over one million cameras were in the possession of excited artists and hobbyists thrilled by the actualized answer to little Jennifer Land’s question, “Why can’t I see them now?”
With Land at the helm, the Polaroid Corporation continued to introduce amazing new advances in instant photography. In the 1960s, the era of the Pack Film cameras emerged, along with color film and large format cameras. As families around the world used Polaroids to commemorate their lives, professional artists became captivated by the Polaroid’s immediacy, as well as the myriad ways that peel-apart Pack film could be manipulated. Emulsion lifts and transfers became increasingly popular among enthusiasts, while the large format films became de rigueur tools of portrait and fashion photographers. Moreover, industrial uses of Polaroids skyrocketed, thanks to instant passport and ID photo cameras, instant X-rays, and the value of instant crime scene photography to police and fire investigators.
By the dawn of the 1970s, Polaroid cameras were ubiquitous features in homes and businesses, and artists, such as Andy Warhol, were famous for their Polaroid images. However, Land had an even more remarkable invention to unleash upon the world: the SX-70, a single-lens reflex camera that created a photograph that viewers could watch develop before their eyes. This iconic camera, released to the public in 1972, created a revolution in photography. Using a sophisticated, yet easy-to-use, platform, the SX-70 amazed consumers with its magical integral photos that developed in the palms of their hands. SX-70 photos became renown for their intricate details, soft colors, and the novelty of having an image appear moments after it was taken. Polaroid artists discovered that the emulsion of the SX-70′s dedicated film, known as Time-Zero, could be manipulated to emulate the soft, dreamy lines of impressionist paintings.
Over the next thirty years, many billions of Polaroids were taken around the world. New cameras, such as the 600, the Spectra, and the I-Zone, were in use alongside the SX-70 and Land Pack film cameras. However, by the beginning of the 21st century, Edwin Land had passed away, and the Polaroid Corporation found itself adrift. Poor fiscal management, the acquisition of the company by outside forces uninterested in promoting the innovative technologies for which the company was famous, and the rise of digital photography had a terrible impact on Polaroid’s bottom line. In 2008, the Polaroid Corporation announced it was ceasing production of all instant films. Polaroid enthusiasts around the world were devastated, and artists who rely on the unique qualities of pack film, Time-Zero, and other integral film products, were thrown into deep mourning. 
However, a determined crew of Polaroid enthusiasts vowed to keep the Polaroid legacy alive. At the forefront of the movement was Etsy’s own Anne Bowerman, otherwise known as Polaroidgirl on Etsy, a cofounder of Save Polaroid, a grassroots movement to promote instant photography. With the activism of Save Polaroid and many other fans around the world, new hope for instant photography has sprouted! The most exciting development has been the creation of the Impossible Project, a promising business venture that plans on reintroducing Polaroid-compatible instant photography in 2010. It appears that, in this era of digital photography, analog is not dead; there is nothing that can emulate the magic of holding a Polaroid in your hands and watching it develop, and the new resurgence of instant photography’s popularity promises to carry the medium well into the 21st century.
Polaroids Subsubcategory | Vintage Polaroid Cameras | Artistic Endeavors Series
152 comments
Sign in to add your ownbylynnkrestel says:
i remember polaroid pics as a kid - instant gratification!! now we have digital... taking me back!!
2 years ago
allthingswhite says:
they were the coolest thing when I was a kid, I can still smell the special coating you had to put on them after they were dry !!!
2 years ago
BeadinBabe says:
Oh how I love Polaroid camera's :) Great for impatient people like me!!
2 years ago
aymujer says:
When they discontinued Time Zero film, I went out and bought the last 30 boxes at my local shop. Then I went to the not-so-local shops and bought them out, too. I've shot most of that film by now. But, as my supply dwindles, it's hard to open a box and shoot with the same free happiness that I used to get. C'mon Impossible Project!
2 years ago
spacejam says:
i have a polaroid camera in my shop. I love it, but unfortunately it is not that easy to find film.
2 years ago
lilworkerb says:
Those cameras were the coolest! They should really consider keeping them in production.
2 years ago
bomobob says:
A lot of people don't realize that 100-series packfilm for most Polaroid packfilm cameras is still widely available from Fuji.
2 years ago
VintageEye says:
oh, waiting for the image to appear... you are taking me back...
2 years ago
Aquanetta says:
Long live the polaroid!
2 years ago
Radness says:
Its also fun to mess with the polaroid while its developing! For a psychadelic look :)
2 years ago
jenniferladd says:
When I think of Polaroid, I think of my grandpa. He'd take his Polaroid out whenever we were over and, as kids, we loved watching and waiting for the picture to develop. We've come a long way from those days, now, but some of the magic is now gone!
2 years ago
RoyalPrincess says:
right, gone are those day
2 years ago
blueskyclouds says:
Urban Outfitters was selling a special edition Polaroid camera and film, but they are already sold out! http://www.urbanoutfitters.com/urban/catalog/productdetail.jsp?itemdescription=true&itemCount=60&startValue=1&selectedProductColor=&sortby=&id=17086422&parentid=A_COLL_LATEFALL09APT&sortProperties=+subCategoryPosition,&navCount=57&navAction=poppushpush&color=&pushId=A_COLL_LATEFALL09APT&popId=APARTMENT_WHATSNEW&prepushId=
2 years ago
blueberryshoes says:
this is definately delicious
2 years ago
lovelygifts says:
Interesting post.
2 years ago
RageoftheAge says:
omg...memories!!
2 years ago
wristielove says:
oh nostalgia! i bought a polaroid camera again last year and stocked up on film. one of the best purchases ever! thanks for the fugi tip bomobob!
2 years ago
TheCottageCheese says:
This post makes me feel all warm and fuzzy. Vintage Polaroid cameras are fascinating, and great examples of beautiful product design. The 1950's-1970's land cameras were the ultimate in form + function. I do hope that the film is produced again soon. Long live Polaroid!
2 years ago
jamieribisi says:
YESSS Hooray for Polaroid!!!!
2 years ago
beachhouseblues says:
The art and craft of photography has changed dramatically over the past ten years. It's a bit sad really. I hope the Impossible Project is successful!
2 years ago
FrillyButts says:
Awesome! I like to shake it like a polaroid picture...
2 years ago
thebestvintage says:
There have been so many GREAT artists who worked with Polaroid products over the years. Nice post!!
2 years ago
cutcopycreate says:
I love it! i have a one step and it's just amazing. I only have one pack of film left.
2 years ago
MelroseFields says:
What a great tribute of items!
2 years ago
BibbysRocket says:
My new fave things, the Polaroid and Holgaroid!
2 years ago
HibouCards says:
Great article, I learned a lot. I never owned a polaroid camera and always wanted one :) Thanks for sharing!
2 years ago
PuzzleBoBuzzles says:
What a fun article. I have a Kodak Colorburst instant camera in my shop: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=27371211
2 years ago
LuminousDreamDesigns says:
Great article! I miss the Polaroid camera.
2 years ago
theLostEarring says:
Love polaroids! If you're looking to have some fun, you can use the free "Poladroid Image Maker" which allows you to drag and drop your regular photos into it. It spits out a cute little polaroid version of the image onto your desktop. It even makes that awesome polaroid sound! http://www.poladroid.net/
2 years ago
belovedbaglady says:
Love the old Polaroids! I sold the coolest one ever in my shop a few weeks back!
2 years ago
thecluelesscrafter says:
It truly is an art form that needs to be preserved. The funny thing about the polaroid is that it offers instant gratification, but also ages and dies side by side with you. After several years, the pictures start to fade, and it is this quality that makes polaroid so easy to connect with.
2 years ago
zwzzy says:
Polaroids are great! I love coming across old ones when browsing through my grandmother & mothers old photos!
2 years ago
girltuesdayjewelry says:
I remember getting a Polaroid for Christmas one year when I was a kid. I still have many of the photos I took with that camera!
2 years ago
ovgilliesdesigns says:
Great picks & wonderful quality to the photos!
2 years ago
FrucciDesign says:
Lot of good memories come up in my mind when I think of Polaroid!
2 years ago
lisaroy says:
Love polaroids and I've created many awesome pics with my mother's vintage one (that I incidentally dropped when I was 9).
2 years ago
thestapeliacompany says:
I love Polaroid photos. It's too bad they discontinued the film. I think there's a whole aesthetic that will disappear without it. Love these photos!
2 years ago
ericawalker says:
love polaroids- and does anyone else miss the izone? they were so much fun.
2 years ago
ByTheBy says:
It was like magic watching those images appear! I hope someone can figure out a way to make the film again for artists' sakes :)
2 years ago
mgfashionjewelry says:
I love Polaroids.
2 years ago
prettylittlethieves says:
great post! i love polaroids so much!
2 years ago
BlackStar says:
Great post! I used to love taking Polaroids!
2 years ago
polaroidgirl says:
wonderful article Nancy! thank you!!!
2 years ago
theninestories says:
Thank You! That is so Beautiful.
2 years ago
michellesadventures says:
I bought a Polaroid printer at X-mas time. I can blue tooth pictures from my phone & digital camera to the printer. Super tiny and portable and I love it. They are still making cool stuff...
2 years ago
citylight says:
This is a beautiful article! Thanks for the feature and letting me a part of this! <3
2 years ago
blockpartyprints says:
Great article! I have great memories of taking Polaroids. Hope their successful. I'd love to share the "magic' with my kids!
2 years ago
revelry says:
Great article! I have both a Polaroid one-step and an old Land camera from 1971. I need film for both!! I really hope the Impossible Project makes it possible again. Crossing my fingers to take Polaroids once again.
2 years ago
pocketmemories says:
Congrats for your article. And thanks a lot for featuring the polaroid print "Ace up one's sleeve" http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=22855144
2 years ago
jerseymaids says:
long live the polaroid!
2 years ago
SimpleJoysPaperie says:
I haven't used a Polaroid in years, but it's sad to think of it ending. :( I hope Impossible Project is successful!
2 years ago
Kimmay says:
Gosh this brings back such great memories from being a kid- at the time I thought they were so lame because the photos weren't as crisp and new and "cool"... but now I miss "shaking it like a polaroid picture" xoxo
2 years ago
Morado says:
Polaroid reminds me of mum and dad!! how i miss them http://twitter.com/MoradoShop http://www.facebook.com/MoradoShop
2 years ago
BlueGremlin says:
KEEP POLAROID ALIVE!!! There is a place for it in our everything now day and age! Plus it is just sooo cool!
2 years ago
maclancy says:
wow! such a great article one that I can truly relate to. I am so honored to have Sara w her doll featured..thank you. I started my Polaroid adventure years ago and went so far as to purchase a slide printer for Polaroids, spending an entire summer making lots of Polaroids. I am so excited by the thought that the Polaroid is not dead. It has always been and will continue to be a wonderful venue for photographers and artists alike. Thanks so much for this article. !!
2 years ago
ooty says:
lovely post. I love the tiny surprise after taking a pic with polarois waiting for it to come out =0)
2 years ago
VixVintage says:
I had the Swinger by Polaroid! Good memories, thanks.
2 years ago
jenaardell says:
Awesome article... love all the shots!! Thanks so much for including mine. :)
2 years ago
thewhimsytrove says:
This is so weird-- I was just talking about the Impossible Project with someone here at the studio not less than twenty minutes ago! Great minds!
2 years ago
msmithlewis says:
I still have several boxes of Type 55 sitting next to my 4x5... long live Polaroid dreams!
2 years ago
babook says:
I fell in love with ''Polaroid'' i want to buy it so much !! it was amaze in the ''Polaroid'' world of the picture : )
2 years ago
paramountvintage says:
truly a beautiful format. polaroids create such unique and individualized photos. perfect for every artist!
2 years ago
AbstractOctopus says:
I have Polaroid transfer and emulsion lifts in my shop and am a part of the Polaroid street team. Check out my shop!
2 years ago
buygollymissmolly says:
MY FAVORITE!!!
2 years ago
kaylovesvintage says:
wonderful work
2 years ago
TipsyTimeMachine says:
Years ago I took a workshop where we transfered Polaroid emulsions to prinkmaking paper, also using the slide machine Mclancy mentioned; and I had some pretty cool results. I've held onto my camera, so super to hear I might be able to finally get some film soon. My first camera was a Polaroid, and though I've had many a camera since then (remember the Disc camera?), it still has a big place in my favourite childhood memories.
2 years ago
advokait says:
I wish Impossible Project every success - keep the Etsy community apprised of their work! I would love, love, love to buy a Polaroid-like camera again - they are so hard to find these days. Thanks for a great article.
2 years ago
lornaruth says:
Well done! Thanks for all of the information!
2 years ago
jessicarogers says:
Thank you so much for including my transfer! (Bodie Junkyard Car) The world of Polaroid art is near and dear to my heart - I am one of MANY who went into mourning when we heard of the passing of the Polaroid company. I check in periodically with the Impossible Project and am hopeful that this art form will be reborn and live on! It is through my working with Polaroid transfers & lifts over the past 10 years that I discovered my own personal artistic style. Long live Polaroid! ~Jessica
2 years ago
MagicMarkingsArt says:
What a fabulous collection of Polaroid pictures. I just favored a ton of new items! Absolutely love the vintage look of these photographs and prints.
2 years ago
JulieWebb says:
I love Polaroid too! I have an old SX-70 at home that I must collect next time I'm there, some of the photos I took using it are still some of my faves. Thanks for a great article and featuring the fabulous Polaroid talent on Etsy. :)
2 years ago
bhangtiez says:
I found a Polaroid camera in a "free" box n my neighborhood. Havn't bought film 4 it yet, but can't wait...luv Polaroid...so cool!
2 years ago
jessicarogers says:
I blogged about my love of Polaroid after reading this article! ;) http://jessicarogersphotography.blogspot.com/
2 years ago
jewelrybyjackie says:
This is just wonderful! One of my favorite past-times! Gonna pull out the old polaroid this weekend!
2 years ago
2RavenChicks says:
Oooh - the memories this brings back. One of my past jobs required me to take accident/damage photos with the Polaroid instant cameras! The featured photos are - ahem - a LOT better than the ones I took :D
2 years ago
KimsCraftyApple says:
lovely article! Inspired me to purchase a polaroid camera :)
2 years ago
ClaudiaLord says:
Great article! My mother had one in the 60's - so much fun to watch the photo develop! Hope the project is successful!
2 years ago
asundrynotion says:
My folks bought one of the earliest Polaroid cameras in the 60s. It was the latest thing and a huge deal. Wish they had saved it. Thanks for the thorough background. Only knew bits & pieces.
2 years ago
WickedDarling says:
This brings back sooooo many memories! I loved my Polaroid! Drove my parents nuts...always needing more film!
2 years ago
VintageZen says:
That makes me so happy! SAVE POLAROID!!!
2 years ago
MilesOfLight says:
Love polaroid, still trying to find one SX-70. Great selection of photographs.
2 years ago
DeltasWorkshop says:
I dipped my finger into instant transfer when I inherited an old Canon T50. I bought slide film, a datalab and a couple boxes of Type 669. I loved the results. I cried when I read Polaroid's announcement. I wondered what all the other Polaroid enthusiasts felt. I have my answer and will do what I can to support Impossible Project... small donation? Thanks for a the article and the great shots from the Etsy community.
2 years ago
modhuman says:
There is nothing like Polaroid. Great article. Thanks for bringing attention to a wonderful brand and featuring Mod Human in the pics.
2 years ago
NOSSUBGALLERY says:
I was a Polaroid Creative Use consultant for a number of years and taught workshops on Polaroid Emulsion Transfer. We were not paid by Polaroid, but for many years, they supplied all the 669 film we needed or wanted for the workshops. It was a sad day when Polaroid was purchased by the current owners and even sadder when they discountinued the peel apart film, particularly for me, in the 8x10 size.
2 years ago
MyMoms says:
Great finds! I love them all and want to go back in time!!!!!!
2 years ago
recycledwares says:
wish i still had my old camera.
2 years ago
pinkytoeclothing says:
so cool - brings back such memories
2 years ago
piggytailsboutique says:
I always wanted a poloroid camera...they were so much fun! :)
2 years ago
theivorymagnolia says:
long live the polaroid!
2 years ago
jakemessenger says:
Polaroid forever! Great article, and thanks for including my picture amongst the lovely choices.
2 years ago
evihan says:
great great greatttt
2 years ago
hamble says:
Thankyou so much for promoting polaroids! Square format pieces of goodness you can hold in your hand. A true icon. I love the impossible project, everyone, please support it if you can!
2 years ago
fernfiddlehead says:
I begged for a Polaroid camera as a kid. So exciting to see that photo develop before our eyes.
2 years ago
niceartthings says:
Polaroids were and always will be amazing. R.I.P. You will be sadly missed.
2 years ago
poppyswickedgarden says:
awwwe I got my polaroid camera on my 10th birthday! I remember running around taking pics at myparty and anxiously awaiting them not to be fuzzy!
2 years ago
undertheroot says:
my grandfather gifted me my first polaroid and the sentimentality plus delicious pics are still my most treasured images.
2 years ago
lovebirdco says:
I am definitely a Polaroid fan... hoping somebody will come out with a compatible film for it. Fuji has their own version of an instant camera/film but I haven't tried it out yet.
2 years ago
patspottery says:
I had one, many moons ago. Still have the photos:>)
2 years ago
remnantrerun says:
Please save the Polaroid! Long live polaroid!
2 years ago
elisasherejewelry says:
I love polariod and polaroid transfers - so beautiful. I'm so excited to hear that there are other enthusiasts out there trying to keep the dream alive.
2 years ago
kazza127 says:
Just bought a Polaroid -and 2 packs of film at a garage sale for $8.00...YAY!!!!
2 years ago
SimpleTraditions says:
I love The Stairs and the Thetford Forest.
2 years ago
OrangeElephant says:
It will be a sad day indeed when polaroid film becomes a thing of the past....
2 years ago
BrazanDesign says:
long live analog!
2 years ago
obsequies says:
I had just gotten my camera literally about a month before they made the announcement...I was devistated. I had wanted a polaroid for ages but they didn't sell it here in Canada anymore. My lovely friend from down south sent me the camera and film...it was magical. When I heard the announcement I was horribly sad, then angry, and now hopeful that the Impossible Project will come through. As much as I like my Fuji Instax instant camera, there is nothing quite like a classic polaroid. I long for the day when I can actually try my hand at the SX-70 camera. Digital may be the 'it' thing now, but it's isn't as special and significant as real film. You just don't feel quite as proud to take a decent picture with a digital as you do when you take something with film. Everyone should experience the joy of instant film, and sadly not many do.
2 years ago
Maykela says:
Great post,thanks!
2 years ago
dinafragola says:
Great article! And what a cool selection! I love the Castle Urchin picture, so atmospheric!
2 years ago
PolaroidTeam says:
if you're a polaroid photographer on etsy come join the polaroid street team!
2 years ago
MODERA says:
cool prints! great article!
2 years ago
jodieflowers says:
Love the oldschool polaroid!!!
2 years ago
1AEON says:
yes sir!!! polaroid rules!!
2 years ago
primelias says:
Vernacular photography at its best...instant gratification.
2 years ago
kathiroussel says:
so glad that the magic of the poloroid and it's seeming simple technology might be salvaged!! great news!
2 years ago
4TheSparrowsNest says:
I adore the prints that have become famous with that certain "polaroid look." Such a lovely, often ethereal feel! I do hope that somebody somewhere continues to produce instant film..someone mentioned that Fuji still does? Because there is certainly a demand for the lovely artworks these cameras create.
2 years ago
bellablisse says:
dreaming of a future where I am happily manipulating time zero film once again...
2 years ago
GreenTease says:
Thanks for the history lesson!
2 years ago
darlingsavage says:
i love polaroid.
2 years ago
bayberrymeadowherbs says:
As an artist (at the time) I loved having polaroid around and enjoyed watching the pictures developed in front of your eyes. Really hope that your new venture project is a great success.
2 years ago
pilpush says:
Desperately waiting for the impossible project to start!! looking all over for film to my sx 70 Polaroid!! Amazing pictures :-)
2 years ago
crazybutcute says:
Keep alternative photography alive! Polaroid must go on.
2 years ago
jesophi says:
i love your photos futurowoman! once in my blog I put one... :) and I linked to your photostream... no worries . just wanted to congrats you...♥ polaroid love...
2 years ago
That70sShoppe says:
Super article!
2 years ago
TiffanyTeske says:
Nancy, you are a wonderful writer. Thank you for drawing attention to the wonder and creative possibilities of Polaroid!!
2 years ago
SlimHands says:
Beautiful photos, thank you for sharing!
2 years ago
mossyrockpottery says:
I love the way they tear off the edges of the Polaroids and make it all "old" looking...
2 years ago
psheredano says:
I had so much fun with my Polaroid. It was my first camera ever for my 8th grade graduation. Small photos maybe 3x4 black and white. I still have them and they remind me of the 'good ol' days'!
2 years ago
fasola says:
great nfo on the Polaroid brand. that as a blast from the past. develop in ur hand! wow!
2 years ago
sweetjasminedesigns says:
Polaroid is another thing this new generation of kids will never know along with record players, typewriters, tape cassettes, and the Walkman.
2 years ago
impressatations says:
My eldest son is autistic and making photos with his polaroid 600 was wonderful. Photos plastered all over his room. He has taken many of great and silly photos. We use to buy in bulk for about a year. Alas we now had to retire the beloved. film is too expensive now. He too has moved onto digital.
2 years ago
quiltwork says:
I remember seeing my first polaroid - watching with amazement as the photo appeared! I invite you to visit my blog: http://quilt--works.blogspot.com/
2 years ago