Impossible I-1
The I-1 is an instant camera that was released in the spring of 2016 by Polaroid Originals, formerly known as Impossible. It was touted as the first new camera in over a decade to use the Polaroid-type instant film. The Impossible I-1 is designed to use type 600 instant film and can make use of either the standard 600 film (which includes a battery in the film pack) or the less expensive i-Type film (with no battery in the pack) as the camera itself has an internal, rechargeable battery.
The I-1 is a combination of both simple design and controls, combined with numerous features hidden under the surface. At its most basic, the I-1 works like many other Polaroid instant cameras; focusing is automatic, as is exposure. The camera has a basic over/under compensation switch for brightening and darkening the exposure of shots. A pop-up glass viewfinder provides basic framing and a ring flash is mounted around the lens for extra illumination. The flash regulates itself based on distance and automatic metering.
Under this simple surface, the I-1 is rich with features, most of which come via a companion smartphone app. The camera contains a bluetooth radio that allows it to communicate with both i-Phone and Android smartphones. The app allows full manual control of focus, shutter, aperture, as well as flash. One can set a delayed self-timer and choose the length of delay, triggering the camera either by remote or noise. The app also allows bulb mode exposures and has a built-in photo "scanning" feature which allows you to easily render your analog images digital. It even has perspective control so that the shots of your shots have parallel lines and square corners. The app also has a log that keeps track of pertinent technical information for each exposure that you make.
While not a perfect camera, the I-1 does an admirable job of presenting a new camera that feels new without snubbing its traditional roots. While more appropriate for those invested in the instant film world, this is a camera that could be enjoyed by any photographer...whose budget is large enough to accommodate its costs.
za/sd
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