Summary

  • In the video posted by Hackaday, Mellow Labs detail how they made their own instant camera, avoiding the costly Polaroid pricing.
  • Using an ESP32-CAM for imagery, and a serial thermal printer for the instant photos, while limited to black and white and low resolution, the camera has an artistic, lo-fi appeal that may be popular with younger users.
  • The build video details some of the challenges faced in interfacing the printer and ESP32, as well as providing a case and surprisingly large battery.
  • Alternative methods of creating instant photos include the use of e-ink, as detailed in a previous Hackaday article.
  • Additionally, a gingerbread house that was made into an instant camera using film also received coverage.

By Tyler August

Original Article