Film cameras

A disposable camera, also called a single-use camera, comes loaded with one roll of film. When the roll is done, the whole camera goes in for developing. It's an easy pick for weddings, cottage weekends, grad trips and stocking stuffers, and it suits anyone who likes the surprise of seeing photos later. Before you buy, check how many exposures it holds, whether it has a built-in flash for indoor shots, and whether a lab near the person still develops film. Buying a few at once works well for group events.

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  Gift ideaUsually $15–$25

  Disposable single-use film camera

  This simple camera is perfect for capturing spontaneous moments at events or parties without worrying about complex settings.

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Instant film is one of the most practical gifts for someone who already owns an instant camera, because every shot uses up a sheet. Mini film makes small, wallet-sized prints that suit journals, lockers and photo walls. Before buying, confirm which format the person's camera takes: mini, square and wide films don't swap between cameras. Also check whether they like plain white borders or coloured and patterned frames. Adding a pack or two of film to an instant camera gift means they can start shooting right away.

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  Curated pick$15–$25

  Instax Mini Film (2 Pack)

  Fresh film for the instant camera they've been rationing shot by shot.

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An instant camera takes a photo and pushes out a print that develops in a minute or two. It's a favourite with teens and young adults for parties, sleepovers and travel, since the prints can be handed around right away. Look for simple controls, an easy selfie mode and a size that fits in a bag. Before you buy, check which film format it uses and how easy that film is to find. Some models use a paper cartridge instead of instant film, so it helps to know which kind you're getting.

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  Curated pick$50–$100

  Instax Mini 12

  Point, click, and a real print develops on the spot for someone to keep.

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  Curated pickOver $100

  Kodak Mini Shot 3

  Guests snap, preview, and print square keepsakes before the night ends.

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  Gift ideaUsually $50–$100

  Instant print film camera

  Delight friends and family with immediate physical photos, perfect for creating tangible memories on the spot.

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A hybrid instant camera saves photos digitally, so you choose which ones to print instead of printing every shot. It suits someone who likes the look of instant prints but doesn't want to use up film on missed shots. Many hybrids also add lens and film effects, and some can print photos from a phone. Before buying, check that it works with the person's phone, how it charges and whether it uses the same mini film they may already have. It works well for anyone who has outgrown a basic instant camera.

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  Curated pickOver $100

  Instax Mini Evo

  They preview every shot on screen and print just the frames worth keeping.

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A reusable 35mm camera lets someone keep shooting film roll after roll. Point-and-shoot models handle focus and exposure on their own, so they're friendly for beginners. Simple fixed-focus cameras are light and easy to carry, and lomo-style cameras add colour shifts and odd effects on purpose. For someone who wants to learn more, a manual single lens reflex camera gives full control over focus and exposure. Before buying, check the battery type, whether there's a flash, and whether the person is ready for the cost and wait of developing film.

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  Gift ideaUsually $50–$100

  Compact automatic 35mm film camera

  An ideal choice for casual photographers seeking a straightforward way to capture everyday life with classic film aesthetics.

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  Gift ideaUsually $25–$50

  Simple reusable 35mm film camera

  A perfect entry point for those curious about film photography, offering a step up from disposables with basic controls.

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  Gift ideaUsually $50–$100

  Experimental lomo-style film camera

  Inspire artistic expression with a camera known for its unique light leaks, vignettes, and vibrant, unpredictable results.

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  Gift ideaUsually over $100

  Manual single lens reflex film camera

  This camera empowers aspiring photographers to explore creative control with interchangeable lenses and adjustable settings.

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Medium format cameras use larger film than 35mm, which gives richer detail and a distinct look. They're often bulkier and slower to use, with fewer shots per roll. They suit someone who already shoots film seriously and enjoys a slower, careful way of taking pictures. It's rarely a first camera. Before buying, find out which film size the person wants to shoot, whether they already have lenses, and whether a lab nearby can develop that film. It's best to confirm the model with them first, or ask a friend who knows what they shoot.

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  Gift ideaUsually over $100

  Professional medium format film camera

  For serious enthusiasts, this camera delivers exceptional image quality and detail with larger negative sizes.

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Wide-format instant cameras make prints about twice the width of mini prints. That's handy for group photos, landscapes and scrapbooks where small prints feel cramped. They suit families, event hosts and anyone who wants prints that are easier to see across a room. The cameras are usually larger, so they're better for events than for carrying every day. Before buying, check that wide film is easy to get where the person lives. Also decide between a classic instant model and a hybrid that lets them choose which shots to print.

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  Curated pickOver $100

  Instax Wide Evo

  Instant prints twice the usual size — big enough for everyone at dinner.

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