Don’t be fooled by the name— single-use cameras are the perfect addition to so many different occasions! Fujifilm’s very own QuickSnap, for example, can be described as a film camera in its most basic form. Made of lightweight material, they come with a preset shutter speed, aperture and focus, and are pre-loaded with a roll of 35mm film so that all users have to do is point and shoot! Once the film’s 24-27 exposures are used up, it’s time to get those shots developed. This is usually the most complicated step but keep reading to find out how Fujifilm Printlife is making it easier than ever.
Perhaps you are wondering why anyone would opt for shooting on film anymore. While digital photography is widely accessible and offers reliability in providing image previews, this also adds to the appeal of film. Having to wait for your images builds anticipation and adds an element of surprise to your experience! Additionally, the limited number of exposures will likely prompt greater selectivity about the photos you take, making each shot feel that much more special. Finally, there is the nostalgia factor: film photos tend to have bright, high-contrast colours and a candid feel that are hard to replicate even with the best filters and photo-editing apps. Although film photography can seem intimidating, single-use cameras are a great place for anyone to start, bearing some key tips in mind.
Key Tips for Single-Use Cameras:
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When in doubt, use the flash:
Perhaps the most essential piece of advice we can offer is to always use the flash setting unless you are taking a photo of reflective surfaces such as mirrors or glass. This is the best way to ensure your photos turn out sharp and bright, as underexposure will result in dark, murky images— probably the opposite of what you are going for.
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Mind those fingers:
Keep in mind that what you see through the camera’s viewfinder will be slightly different than what the lens picks up. Because of this, it may not be obvious when your finger is covering part of the lens and obscuring your image. When shooting, try to hold the camera by its outer edges, keeping your fingers as far from the lens as possible.
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Stand 5-10 feet away from the subject and keep still:
Note that the clearest part of each photo will usually be the middle of the frame and a few feet away from you, so try to position your subject(s) accordingly. Because of their shutter speed, single-use cameras and their subjects should keep still for the sharpest results. However, we encourage experimentation! Subjects in motion can also capture a more spontaneous or dreamy vibe.
Situation Inspiration
Single-use cameras are great for travelling, as their small size and light weight make them easy to bring along on any adventure. They also allow some extra peace of mind in capturing exciting new experiences, since you do not have to worry about damaging the device itself. This also makes them super helpful for family holidays and field trips, as kids can have fun documenting from their own perspective— QuickSnap Waterproof cameras are especially perfect for beach vacations!
It’s also becoming very trendy to incorporate single-use cameras into larger events, such as wedding receptions, by placing one on each table as part of the centerpieces! This is a great interactive activity for guests who will enjoy taking their own candid shots without having to line up for a photo booth. Likewise, these cameras are growing increasingly popular among Gen Z, who are often using them to document fun moments at casual parties and gatherings as well.
Your camera is out of exposures... Now what?
Shooting your photos was the fun part, but maybe now you’re having trouble trying to figure out where to develop your film. Not to worry! Fujifilm Printlife’s new mail-in film developing service makes this part of the process super convenient! All you need to do is visit develop.fujifilmprintlife.ca and follow 3 easy steps:
- Select a developing package, print one label for each item and attach the label(s) to each individual envelope, then place your film roll or QuickSnap inside.
- Bring them to your local Canada Post store for drop-off. 3.
- Sit back and relax. Your printed photos with a link to download digital image assets will be available within 7 to 10 business days.
Bringing the best parts of analog and digital together, this service also makes sharing your film photos easier than ever! Especially if you do choose to have single-use cameras at an event like a wedding, digital scans allow you to share guests’ images the same way you would any of your other photos.
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