Not being a fan of the colorful, bulky “kid” cameras that don’t teach much about photography with options for graphics on images, not to mention even when printed small they still look pixelated, I’m always looking for a fun but durable camera for Maya to explore with. She’s shot with vintage Holgas, Dianas, and Brownies but I wanted to find something really fun for her.

That came in the form of the FujiFilm Instax 210 Polaroid camera. Such a fun camera, and I surprisingly really like the wide Polaroid image frame. Outside the cost of the film, although cheaper than the 600, the only con that I have experienced is the “smart” flash that automatically comes on in lower light conditions. Doesn’t help to teach her when flash might be needed and to look at light. Otherwise, it is fun and a bit nostalgic.

We went on an adventure yesterday to photograph things that interest us at Union Station. I love the light in there and decor. Quite a few people stopped us and commented on the Polaroid. Not realizing, that yes, they are still being made. Maya quite enjoyed sharing her knowledge about her new camera and “See that line right here? That’s where the picture comes out then you have to wait for it to ‘come in’”. “Come in” is how she describes “developing”.

Things that interest Maya on this adventure were the “rainbow roofs” (Union Station’s new train cover), the huge Christmas tree in the middle with all the presents, lockers, and she even asked two employees if she could take their picture. One request turned into the entire Concierge group who were oohing and awwing over the  Polaroid afterwards and had to take a picture of it with their phones.

I see I have competition in about 10 years, maybe even 5!