3 Reasons Why You Need To Try A Disposable Camera

Are you tired of capturing moments only with your phone’s camera? While cameras have evolved in numerous ways, there’s a unique joy in the simplicity of pointing and shooting almost instantly. Enter the disposable camera – an enjoyable way to seize the here-and-now, catering to everyone from professional photographers seeking an artistic twist to kids capturing their favorite zoo animals.

My first encounter with disposable cameras dates back to elementary school. A trip to Bass Pro’s Wildlife Museum in Springfield, MO, my mother equipped my brother and I with disposable cameras, each resulting in a blast of captured memories.

Fast forward to a recent road trip from Springfield, MO to Gunnison, CO. Armed with my trusty Canon QL17, I also brought along a disposable camera for my friends to use. I wanted to see the trip through their eyes and discover moments they deemed worthy of capturing.

Here are some images from the camera we used:

The first concept of what would be later known as the disposable camera was invented in 1886 by a man named Alexander Pop Whittel. His plan for the camera was similar to what they are used for today. Whittel wanted to allow for greater access to photography. His creation would be sold for 25 cents per camera.

Modern disposable cameras come from Fujifilm (the 2nd largest film-maker). They announced plans in 1986 to enter the market and released their camera the next year. Their creation was the Fujicolor Quick Snap.

Kodak decided to enter the market in 1987 as well to compete with its main competitor. The Kodak Fling came out the same year as the Fujicolor Quick Snap but started at a lower price point.

There are several reasons to pick up a disposable camera. These cameras can be fun in almost any place at any point in time. Big life events, small day trips, and any time around friends allow for a good opportunity to have a disposable on hand. 

Here is a list of awesome disposable camera uses:

Road Trips

One of the joys of travel is the memories created along the journey. A disposable camera is perfect for capturing candid moments during road trips, from the initial unboxing excitement to unexpected pit stops between destinations.

Day at the Park, Zoo, Museum, and More

Weekends or days off with loved ones deserve to be documented without unnecessary distractions. A disposable camera, with its single-frame focus, allows you to fully immerse yourself in the moment.

Weddings & Parties

Inject a unique perspective into your event photos by distributing disposable cameras. They offer a different look compared to smartphones and provide diverse angles from different tables or groups.

Although these cameras have decreased in popularity there are still dozens of places that carry them. When buying one be sure to check on the number of exposures, flash or no flash, waterproof capabilities, and look on the box for an expiration date. Select from those features to determine the disposable camera for you.

Here are some disposable cameras that are easily available:

Amazon: Ilford XP2 Super Single Use Camera with Flash (27 Exposures) Black and White Film

This camera allows you to take beautiful black and white pictures while still being fun, simple, and cheap.

Walgreens: HD Kodak Power Flash Single Use Camera

Walgreens carries these great single-use cameras in most of their stores which makes it a great option if you need one quickly. (My disposable photos are from this camera)

B&H Photo: Kodak 35mm One-Time-Use Disposable Camera

This camera is a great cheaper alternative to the disposable Walgreens carries. There is still a flash and 27 exposures, but this one-time-use camera isn’t HD.

Walmart: Weddingstar Enchanted Hearts White And Silver Single Use Camera

A perfect example of a disposable camera fit for a wedding. This camera only has 16 exposures and a lower ISO, but would be good for indoor well-lit events.

In conclusion

In conclusion, the next time you embark on a trip or explore your city, consider grabbing a disposable camera. The prints might bring unexpected joy when you revisit them years later.

Comment and share your experience with disposable cameras!