Disposable Cameras vs Instant Cameras for Weddings
Which is better?
Disposable cameras on wedding tables are making something of a comeback. They’re nostalgic, fun, and give guests the opportunity to capture the day from their own perspective. But how do they compare to a polaroid-style instant camera?
Both have their appeal, but there’s a rather important difference - with one, you get a physical print there and then. With the other, you get a collection of plastic cameras and a developing bill.
The case for disposable cameras
Disposable cameras are great for capturing candid moments throughout the day. Leave one on each table, encourage guests to pass them around, and collect them afterwards.
The downside? You’ll need to pay to have the film developed, wait for the results, and accept that some photos won’t come out particularly well. Dark venues, forgotten flashes and enthusiastic children can all take their toll.
On the plus side, you often get some wonderfully unexpected photos that you wouldn’t have otherwise.
The case for instant cameras
Instant cameras produce a physical print straight from the camera, which develops in front of you. Guests can take a photo and, once it’s developed, stick it into your wedding guestbook alongside a message.
There’s no trip to the developing lab afterwards, no waiting for the post, and you can see whether a photo worked while there’s still time to take another.
The trade-off is cost. Instant film isn’t cheap, and every failed photograph still uses a shot. Give guests a few basic instructions and put the camera somewhere reasonably well lit.
Which would we choose?
If you’re looking for candid photographs to discover after your wedding, disposable cameras can be brilliant.
But if you’re creating a photo guestbook, instant cameras win fairly comfortably. Getting the print there and then is rather the whole point.
And if you don’t particularly fancy buying an instant camera just for one day, you can hire one from us, complete with film, instructions and the essentials for your guestbook.
Explore wedding camera hire packages