The Polaroid OneStep Plus (or OneStep+) brings together what doesn’t really belong together: the classic instant camera and your own smartphone. And indeed, it offers some features that the competition is missing. We’ll take a look at whether this combination really fits or one should rather pick the “oldschool” model OneStep 2 Viewfinder. UPDATE: We recommend taking a look at the successor, the Polaroid Now +.
In Short:
- Analog camera with smartphone app
- Picture size: 3.5 x 4.2 Inches
- Film: i-Type or 600 film
- Lithium-ion battery (USB charging cable)
- Portrait, double exposure and light painting mode
- Selftimer
- Remote release
- Noise trigger
- Price: approx. 140,- $
What is the difference between the OneStep 2 and the OneStep Plus?
We have already gone into more detail about the history and the resurgence of the Polaroid brand in our review on the OneStep 2 Viewfinder instant camera. Basically both cameras are almost identical in construction. The design is based on the classic OneStep from the 70s, the films used are the i-Type or the 600 film, and the features on the camera are straightforward. Classic. The question remains as to the difference between the two instant cameras or what justifies the higher price of the OneStep Plus.
Firstly, the Polaroid OneStep Plus has an additional lens, one for portraits (1 – 2 feet) and one for standard shots (2 feet – infinity). On the other hand, the Plus comes with its own app whose functions expand the camera’s range of applications.
The app features of the Polaroid OneStep Plus in detail
The Polaroid Originals Onestep Plus can be used as a point-and-shoot camera just like its sister model. But the Plus unfolds its true potential through the App. As soon as you press the Plus button on the camera, your smartphone and camera are connected via Bluetooth. The app, available for Apple and Android, offers a range of modes and functions that expand the camera’s possibilities in an exciting way. For example, data (e.g. exposure values) is continuously sent to the app, and control is now possible entirely via the app if desired.
However, a misunderstanding should be avoided here: Images from the camera lens are NOT transferred to the app. This means that no live images will be displayed on the mobile phone; the camera’s viewfinder must continue to be used for this.
The remote trigger (remote release)
No desire for the stress caused by the classic self-timer? With the remote trigger you decide yourself when the camera should release without being behind it. Whoever has ever tried to direct a larger group of people will appreciate this function.
Self-Timer
Of course the Plus also has a classic self-timer. Because it is not always possible to hold a smartphone in your hand when taking a photo. The timer is triggered at 12 seconds as standard.
Double-Exposure-Mode
With the double exposure mode, small creative masterpieces are created. Two images are merged into one, or more precisely, a photo is exposed twice. This way you create exciting effects that make the photo unique.
The Light Painting Mode
With the Light Painting mode, Polaroid Originals offers probably one of the most exciting features in the app. It uses the LED light of the smartphone to “paint” in the air. During this time the lens is open. The camera then shoots a photo – the drawn light beams and the photo motif merge. Unique photos are guaranteed.
Manual-Mode
In manual mode you have full control over the camera settings. Professionals can adjust values for shutter speed, flash intensity etc. according to their own wishes.
Noise-Trigger
The purpose of the Noise Trigger Mode only becomes clear at second glance. In this mode, the camera automatically triggers at a certain noise level. The level can be freely selected and is continuously displayed on the mobile phone. The trick: together with friends you activate the trigger by the generated noise level.
Further details of the Polaroid Onestep +
As with the OneStep 2 Viewfinder, the Plus uses small LED lights on the top of the camera to display the remaining photos. The battery life is stated as 60 days thanks to the built-in lithium-ion battery. A toggle switch is used to switch between the lens or portrait mode and normal mode. At the touch of a button, the automatic triggering of the flash can be prevented and another switch on the camera allows over- or underexposure. The camera comes with a carrying strap and a charging cable. This Polaroid Originals instant camera is available in black or white.
Tech Specs:
- Dimensions: 5.9 x 4.4 x 3.8 Inches (length/width/height)
- Weight: approx. 17.4 oz (without film)
- Built-in Lithium-Ion battery (1100mAh)
- Films: i-Type or 600 film
- USB charging cable
- shoulder strap
- Material: plastic
- Standard lens focal length: 103 mm
- Portrait lens focal length: 89 mm
- Field of view: 41 degrees vertically, 40 degrees horizontally
- Connection via Bluetooth
Quelle: https://www.polaroid.com/onestep-plus
Conclusion
The Polaroid Originals OneStep Plus appeals to a fundamentally different group of buyers than the somewhat cheaper Polaroid OneStep 2. And the app in particular turns the camera from a classic point-and-shoot instant camera into a technical toy. The app’s modes not only create a lot of creative possibilities, functions like remote control prove to be extremely practical and justify the slightly higher price. For fans of classic design who don’t want to use an extra app for special modes, it’s worth taking a look at the Instax Mini 90 from Fujifilms Instax series.
Here you can find the Polaroid Originals OneStep Plus Manual Download!
VIDEO: Polaroid Originals gives a brief introduction to the features of the camera:
