I remember a time when owning a Polaroid was the ultimate symbol of cool, and digital cameras hadn’t yet taken over. Friends would gather around, waiting for that fresh print to develop, shaking it as if that would make the image appear faster (it didn’t). There was something enchanting about seeing your snapshot emerge right in your hands. That tangible magic is precisely why instant cameras continue to captivate people, even in our smartphone-obsessed world.
The Polaroid Trance concept by designer Samarth Saluja merges the convenience of digital photography with the immediacy of a physical keepsake, hitting that sweet spot between new tech and old-school tangibility. By offering manual controls for shutter speed, aperture, and other pro-level settings, it’s a dream for anyone who wants more than a quick phone snap but still loves the classic feel of a Polaroid.
In terms of design, Trance ditches the chunky, boxy shape of its predecessors for a sleeker build. Rounded edges add comfort, while a two-tone body with bright accents gives it a playful edge. Buttons and dials are thoughtfully placed, allowing you to adjust everything from focus to color saturation without fumbling. It’s the kind of camera that sparks curiosity, seamlessly fusing the retro charm of instant prints with modern capabilities—and nudging you to explore the art of photography.
What sets Trance apart is the “me2” button, a clever tool that puts the photographer in the frame. With a quick tap, a front-facing camera snaps a selfie and merges it into the scene you’ve just shot, so you never feel left out of the memory. It’s a simple add-on, but it instantly transforms the standard point-and-shoot into a communal experience, with everyone on both sides of the lens included.
Another highlight is “Moments,” a short snippet of footage recorded before and after each shot, so you can glimpse the lead-up and aftermath of that split second. Even though the final product is a physical print, this extra slice of movement adds depth to the memory, like a mini time capsule. It’s a nod to how we experience media on our phones, reimagined in Polaroid’s iconic format.
For now, Trance is just a concept, with no confirmed release plan. Still, it’s an exciting look at how instant cameras might evolve without losing their nostalgic spark. In a world always craving the next cool thing, this design proves there’s plenty of space to blend the old and the new—especially when we’re capturing those little slices of life that matter most.
