Wednesday, January 31, 2007

The Cell Phone is the new Polaroid

I have film cameras, I have digital cameras, but the camera I find myself using most often and spontaneously is the one in my cell phone. The quality is finally good enough for snapshots. (See the image of the RR sign).

Just a few years ago, the only option if you wanted an immediately-available photo was the Polaroid and the trade-off on quality for instant gratification was acceptable. Now cell phones fill that role. I don't really care that the resolution is inferior to an 8-megapixel Nikon or Canon as long as I get the image in the moment.

And I did just hear that there is technology which will enable printing photos from cell phones...not sure if that means an actual little printer with the phone...that sounds way too cool, but I hope so.

Now, I don't mean to suggest that our treasured Polaroid cameras be discarded or shelved, never to be used again. I will always enjoy shooting Polaroid. I just see their value now as the unique feel of the image they produce and the somewhat nostalgic photographic experience.


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