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Impossible Project I-1 a modern take on the original instant camera (pictures)

The I-1 is the first instant-film camera made by the Impossible Project, the company that reengineered instant film in 2008 after Polaroid shut down production.

Joshua Goldman
Managing Editor Josh Goldman is a laptop expert and has been writing about and reviewing them since built-in Wi-Fi was an optional feature. He also covers almost anything connected to a PC, including keyboards, mice, USB-C docks and PC gaming accessories. In addition, he writes about cameras, including action cams and drones. And while he doesn't consider himself a gamer, he spends entirely too much time playing them.
Joshua Goldman
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Impossible Project I-1

The I-1 is the first instant film camera from the Impossible Project. The company reinvented instant film from scratch starting in 2008 to use in Polaroid 600-type, SX-70 and Image/Spectra cameras.

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Point and shoot

The camera is designed to be very simple to use. The ring flash on front gives you a nice burst of light for your shots. A switch on one side turns it on and off, while another on the opposite side lets you adjust intensity. Also, when you turn it on, the flash lights up with the number of remaining shots in the camera.

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Old and new

The company wanted to get away from the original Polaroid designs, but it still has the familiar sloping back that is needed for the mirror inside that directs the image to the film at the bottom.

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Pop up and shoot

The viewfinder on top is just a simple target so you know what you're shooting.

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Fold down for travel

The viewfinder quickly folds down when it's not in use.

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Magnets make it removeable

Magnets securely hold the viewfinder in place, but you can pull it off easily. The plan is to offer other accessories that can quickly be attached such as a waist-level viewfinder or additional flash.

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Setting your sights

Again, nothing fancy here. Just line up your subject and shoot.

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In case you forgot the name

The I-1 is the only branding on the camera.

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Shutter release

The I-1's shutter release is on the side (the ring round it is the power/Bluetooth switch). A half-press focuses the camera and pushing it all the way down takes the picture.

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Bluetooth enabled

The dial around the shutter release turns the camera on and off, but also activates the camera's Bluetooth. Using an iOS app, you'll be able to connect an iPhone or iPad to the camera and control it. With the app you'll be able to remotely trigger the camera as well as control aperture and shutter speed. There are also creative tools for doing things like light painting and multiple exposures.

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Tripod mount

If you're going to take advantage of the camera's manual controls, you'll want to put it on a support.

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Film

The camera can be used with Impossible I-type and 600 type film cartridges. Each pack has eight shots and costs approximately $20, £17 and AU$29 or more each (though there is a discount if you buy multiple packs). That's $2.50 a picture.

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Available now for $299

The I-1 instant camera retails for $299 (AU$390, £229) and is available exclusively at the MoMA Design Store, Colette, Paul Smith and Selfridges in the UK, as well as on www.impossible-project.com.

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