Which Instant Cameras Have A Self-Timer?

Instant cameras have been making a huge comeback over the recent years. According to Marketwatch.com, they are estimated to bring in 965.2 USD million by the end of 2022 and will continue to increase to up around 1214.2 USD million by 2028. One of the popular ways to use instant cameras is to take groupies and selfies. In order to do this you need a way to trigger the camera without pushing the button yourself so one question you may have is which instant cameras that have a self-timer?

The self-timer feature is included in analogue instant cameras like Fujifilm Instax 70 Mini, Instax 90 Mini, Instax SQ6, and almost all Polaroid instant cameras produced after 2008. Many hybrid instant cameras also include a self-timer such as Fujifilm Instax Mini 90 Evo, Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo, Instax Mini Liplay, and the Kodak Mini Shot 3.

Unfortunately, popular instant cameras like the Instax Mini 8, Instax Mini 9, and Instax Mini 11 all do not have a self timer, but there are many cameras that do. See this article for cameras vintage and modern Polaroid camerasOpens in a new tab. that include a self timer. Keep reading to find out what cameras do have a self timer and how long the delay is.

Table of Contents hide

Chart of Analog Instant Cameras That Have A SelfTimer

ANALOG INSTANT CAMERA
SELF TIMER LENGTH IN SECONDS
Fujifilm Instax Square SQ6
10 second self timer
Fujifilm Instax Mini 70 
10 second self timer; 1 or 2 shot mode
Fujifilm Instax Mini 90
10 second self timer; 1 or 2 shot mode
Lomo’Instant Automat Glass
Up to 10 second self timer
Polaroid OneStep2
8 second self timer
Polaroid OneStep+
8 second self-timer or 1 – 12 second self-timer using phone app
Polaroid Now I-Type
9 second self-timer
Polaroid Now+
9 second self-timer
Polaroid Go
9 second self-timer
Leica Sofort
2 or 10 second self-timer
Chart of analogue instant cameras that have a self-timer and how long it is

Chart of Hybrid Instant Cameras That Have A SelfTimer

HYBRID INSTANT CAMERA
SELF TIMER LENGTH IN SECONDS
Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo
2 or 10 second self-timer
Fujifilm Instax Mini Liplay
2 or 10 second self-timer
Kodak Mini Shot 3
Up to 10 second self-timer
Chart of hybrid instant cameras that have a self-timer and how long it is

Which Analog Instant Cameras Comes With A Self-Timer?

Unlike hybrid instant cameras, these analog instant cameras don’t have the digital features that allow for photographs to be stored or posted online. Instead, these old-school instant cameras are a call-back to the original instant cameras and only print photos on the spot.

However, this makes them popular with photographers who prefer an analog camera experience without the bells and whistles associated with digital photography. It also means they are more rugged than their digital counterpart. Some analogue instant cameras, like the Polaroid Lineup, can connect to your phone for additional options but can’t save your images to your phone or print out images from your phone like the hybrid instant cameras can.

There are many different brands of analog instant cameras and different styles within those brands. It may be difficult to find out which brand and/or style of instant camera has a self timer so let’s go over a few of them now:

ANALOG INSTANT CAMERA
SELF TIMER LENGTH IN SECONDS
Fujifilm Instax Square SQ6
10 second self-timer
Fujifilm Instax Mini 70 
10 second self-timer; 1 or 2 shot mode
Fujifilm Instax Mini 90
10 second self-timer; 1 or 2 shot mode
Lomo’Instant Automat Glass
Up to 10 second self-timer
Polaroid OneStep2
8 second self-timer
Polaroid OneStep+
8 second self-timer or 1 – 12 second self-timer using phone app
Polaroid Now I-Type
9 second self-timer
Polaroid Now+
9 second self-timer
Polaroid Go
9 second self-timer
Leica Sofort
2 or 10 second self-timer
Chart for What Analogue Instant Cameras Have A Self-timer and how long it is

Now that you have seen the top brands and how long the self-timers take, it is time to go into a little more detail. The timer speed is an essential aspect of an instant camera but you may want to know more about each camera.


Fujifilm Instax Square SQ6

Fujifilm Instax Square SQ6 Instant Camera in Aqua Blue
Fujifilm Instax Square SQ6 Instant Camera in Aqua Blue

The Fujifilm Instax Square SQ6 is a good choice with a 10 second self-timer and built-in tripod mount. This makes the Instax SQ6 one of the few instax cameras with a tripod mount. The Instax square-style filmOpens in a new tab. (3 x 3 inches) prevents the photographer from having to fiddle with either landscape or portrait settings, and the Instax Square prints produced by the Square SQ6 are 1.3 times bigger than the photos produced by the Fujifilm Instax MiniOpens in a new tab.. The Square SQ6 is built with thick, sturdy plastic that is more likely to take an accidental drop or two without sustaining permanent damage to the camera’s mechanisms. The camera has auto-exposure control with a high output flash also allows for adjustments in light exposure, and double exposure and easily transitions to selfie, macro, and other shooting modes.

Keep in mind this camera uses Fujifilm Instax Square instant film. When purchased in bulk, the price of the Instax square color film is around $95.98 for 100 images (10 boxes of 10 images in each), which makes the cost about $0.95 per exposure.

Does Instax SQ6 have self-timer?

Yes, the Instax SQ6 has a 10 second self-timer that is activated by pressing the self-timer button on the back of the camera located below the mode button.

Self-Timer Button Location on the back of Instax Square SQ6
Self-Timer Button Location on the back of Instax Square SQ6

How do you set a timer on SQ6?

Follow these steps to set a timer on SQ6:

  1. Located the self-timer button on the back of the camera below the “mode” button.
  2. Press the button once to activate the 10 second self-timer mode.
  3. The light above the button will light up to let you know that it is activated.
  4. Press the shutter button to trigger the self-timer. The self-timer light on the front of the camera next to the flash will stay lit for 7 seconds then will flash for 3 seconds before taking an image.

NOTE: If you want to cancel the self-timer for any reason, press the self-timer button while the self-timer lamp on the front of the camera is lit or flashing

How To Use the Self-Timer on Instax SQ6
How To Use the Self-Timer on Instax SQ6

For the manual to the Instax SQ6, visit this linkOpens in a new tab..


Fujifilm Instax Mini 70 

Fujifilm Instax Mini 70 Instant Camera
Fujifilm Instax Mini 70 Instant Camera in Black

The Instax Mini 70 was Introduced in 2015 and uses Instax Mini filmOpens in a new tab. as an update to the instax Mini 90. The camera includes a tripod mount and a 10 self-timer that can take one or two shots. This makes the Instax Mini 70 one of the few instant cameras with a tripod mount. It weighs 15.2 oz / 430g (without batteries and film) and its dimensions are 6.1 x 5.1 x 2.7 inches. The camera uses 2 CR2 batteries and has an automatic exposure with a Hi-Key ModeOpens in a new tab. that brightens the overall exposure for cleaner-looking skin tones, a 35mm equivalent focal length and a fixed 1/60th shutter speed. The camera also features a selfie mirror with selfie mode for perfectly lit and focused selfies.

You can also find the manual for the Instax Mini 70 cameraOpens in a new tab. here.

Does the Instax Mini 70 have a self-timer?

Yes, the Fujifilm Instax Mini 70 instant camera has a 10 second self-timer with two modes. Similar to the Instax Mini 90, the first mode (one shot timer mode) will take one image after a 10 second countdown. The second self-timer mode (continuous photo self-timer mode) makes the camera take two images – one image after 10 seconds and another one 6 – 9 seconds later – in case someone moves or blinks. This function along with the built-in tripod mount, makes this camera great for taking shots of you in large groups without having to ask someone else or images with a long exposure.

Self-Timer button on the back of a Instax Mini 70
Self-Timer button on the back of a Instax Mini 70

How do I use the self-timer on my Instax Mini 70?

Follow these steps to use the 2 modes of the self-timer function on the Instax Mini 70:

  1. Located the 3 circular buttons on the back of the camera under the LCD screen.
  2. Press the “self-timer” button (the middle button that has the clock icon on it) once. The self-timer icon should appear on the LCD screen and activate the first self-timer mode (one shot timer mode) that will only take one image. To turn off the self-timer function, press the self-timer button until the self-timer icon does not appear in the LCD screen on the back of the camera.
  3. To activate the self-timer mode for 2 images (continuous photo self-timer mode), press the timer icon until a “2x” appears on the LCD screen on the back of the camera. By pressing the self-timer icon again, a small “2” should appear next to the self-timer icon on the LCD. In this mode, the first image will be taken after 10 seconds and the camera will take another image in 6 – 9 seconds.
  4. Press the shutter button all the way down to start the self-timer countdown in both modes. In the 1 shot timer mode, the self-timer light near the shutter button on the front of the camera will light for about 7 seconds and flash 3 seconds before taking an image. In the continuous photo self-timer mode, the self timer light near the shutter button on the front side of the camera will be lit for 7 seconds and flash for 3 seconds before taking the 1st photo and for the second photo the self-timer light will stay lit for 3 – 6 seconds and flash for 3 seconds before taking the second photo.

NOTE: To cancel the self-timer, press the self-timer button once while the self-timer light is lit or flashing.


Fujfilm Instax Mini 90 Neo Classic
Fujifilm Instax Mini 90 Neo Classic In Red

Fujifilm Instax Mini 90 Neo Classic

The Instax Mini 90 Neo Classic was Introduced in 2014 and has quickly become one of the best Instax cameras available because of its features such as it’s 10 second self timer that can take 1 or 2 shots, built-in tripod mount, it’s 35mm equivalent focal length, size and weight, 3-range motor-driven focus (including macro mode), and the ability to turn off the flash. This makes the Instax Mini 70 one of the few instant cameras with a tripod mount.It takes Instax Mini filmOpens in a new tab. and it is similar in body style to the Instax Mini 40 but larger and has more features. It does not have a selfie mirror but it does have an automatic exposure measurement that flashes the correct aperture setting for perfectly exposed images.

Does the Instax Mini 90 have a self-timer?

Yes, the Fujifilm Instax Mini 90 Neo Classic instant camera has a built-in 10 second self timer with two modes. Similar to the Instax Mini 70, the first mode (one shot timer mode) will take one image after a 10 second countdown. The camera also has a second self-timer mode (continuous photo self-timer mode) that makes the camera take two images – one image after 10 seconds and another one 6 – 9 seconds later – in case someone moves or blinks. This function along with the built-in tripod mount, makes this camera great for taking shots of you in large groups without having to ask someone else.

Self Timer Button on the back of Instax Mini 90 Neo Classic
Self Timer Button on the back of Instax Mini 90 Neo Classic

How do I use the self-timer on my Instax Mini 90?

Follow these steps to use the 2 modes of the self-timer function on the Instax Mini 90:

  1. Located the five circular buttons on the back of the camera under the LCD screen.
  2. Press the “self-timer” button (the middle button that has the clock icon on it) once. The self-timer icon should appear on the LCD screen and activate the first self-timer mode (one shot timer mode) that will only take one image. To turn off the self-timer function, press the self-timer button until the self-timer icon does not appear in the LCD screen on the back of the camera.
  3. To activate the self-timer mode for 2 images (continuous photo self-timer mode), press the timer icon until a “2x” appears on the LCD screen on the back of the camera. By pressing the self-timer icon again, a “2x” should appear next to the self-timer icon on the LCD. In this mode, the first image will be taken after 10 seconds and the camera will take another image in 6 – 9 seconds.
  4. Press the shutter button all the way down to start the self-timer countdown in both modes. In the 1 shot timer mode, the self-timer light near the shutter button on the front of the camera will light for about 7 seconds and flash 3 seconds before taking an image. In the continuous photo self-timer mode, the self timer light near the shutter button on the front side of the camera will be lit for 7 seconds and flash for 3 seconds before taking the 1st photo and for the second photo the self-timer light will stay lit for 3 – 6 seconds and flash for 3 seconds before taking the second photo.

NOTE: To cancel the self-timer, press the self-timer button once.


Lomo’Instant Square Glass Camera Pigalle Edition
Lomo’Instant Square Glass Camera Pigalle Edition

Lomo’Instant Square Glass Camera Pigalle Edition

The Lomo’Instant Automat series of cameras are instant camera from the Lomography photography companyOpens in a new tab. that popularized plastic cameras like the Holga and Diana cameras and produces their own 35mm, 110, and medium format film.

The addition of the wide-angle glass lens in the Lomo’instant Automat Glass series of cameras made a vast improvement over the original Automat instant camera (which does not have a self timer). The Lomo’Instant Square Glass camera has a electronically controlled 10 second self timer, a tripod mount, uses the small Fujifilm Instax Square film (but with a seperate kit can use Instax Mini film), has a foldable design, a 45mm equivalent focal length, can do unlimited multiple exposures, an auto off to save batteries, exposure compensation, selfie mirror, a glass portrait lens adapter that allows for up-close focusing, 8s – 1/250th shutter speeds and bulb mode up to 30 seconds, a bright flash that can be turned off, automatic exposure but with exposure compensation, uses 2 CR2 batteries, and a remote (that uses a CR2025 battery) that you can use to remotely trigger the camera and attaches to the camera so you don’t lose it. It has a f/10-f/22 aperture, and is the world’s first fully automatic instant camera with a wide-angle glass lens for sharp images and saturated colors and the first instant camera to shoot the instax square film Opens in a new tab.when it was developed by Fujifilm.

Does the Lomo’Instant Square Glass Camera have a self-timer?

Yes, the Lomo’Instant Square Glass Camera has a electronically controlled 10 second self-timer. It is also the only Lomo instant camera with a self-timer.

The Self Timer button located on the back of the Lomo'Instant Square Glass Camera
The Self Timer button located on the back panel of the Lomo’Instant Square Glass Camera. Note the last button on the bottom with the universal self-timer icon.

How do I use the self-timer on Lomo’Instant Square Glass Camera?

To activate the electronically controlled 10 second self-timer on the Lomo’Instant Square Glass Camera, all you need to do is press the self-timer button located on the back panel of the camera below the film counter and the mode button. Follow these steps to use the self-timer:

  1. Press the self-timer button so the light next to the self-timer icon lights up
  2. Press the shutter button (the Lomo Logo on the front of the camera) to trigger the 10 second self-timer
  3. Press the self-timer button again to turn off the self-timer setting to return to normal operation

Polaroid One Step 2 Instant Camera
Polaroid One Step 2 Instant Camera

Polaroid Onestep 2

The Polaroid Originals OneStep 2 came out in 2017 and is a modern redesign of the famous OneStep Polaroid cameras from the 1970s. This camera is for photographers who are wanting the old-school experience combined with new technology and ease of use. The camera features includes an 8 second timer, a tripod mount, ability to turn the flash on or off for regular images as well as using the self-timer, a high-quality polycarbonate and acrylic lenses, exposure control, and focus from 3ft – infinity. The Polaroid OneStep2 was made for the Polaroid i-Type film but is compatible with the older Polaroid 600 film. The OneStep 2 camera also has a built-in rechargeable battery recharged by USB that lasts for 120 – 160 exposures (15 – 20 film packs) or 60-day battery life

Does Polaroid OneStep 2 have self-timer?

Yes, the Polaroid OneStep 2 has a 8 second self-timer. It is activated by pressing the self-timer button next to the lens on the front of the camera and triggered by pressing the red shutter button also on the front of the camera.

The self-timer button located on the front of the Polaroid OneStep2 between the lens and the flash.
The self-timer button located on the front of the Polaroid OneStep2 between the lens and the flash.

How do you use the self-timer on a Polaroid Onestep 2?

Follow these steps to use the Self-Timer on the Polaroid OneStep 2:

  1. Locate the self-timer button the front of the OneStep 2 camera between the flash and lens.
  2. The self-timer button will light up to solid orange when it is activated
  3. Frame up your photo and press the shutter button, which is the red button located beneath the flash on the front of the camera
  4. Once the self-timer function is triggered, the self-timer button (lit up as orange) will flash to show the countdown. If the environment is bright or sunny the flash will do short, low powered flashes to indicate the self-timer is counting down.
  5. The self-timer function will count down from 8 seconds before taking an image.

NOTE: The flash will automatically fire when using the self-timer function. To turn off the flash when using the self-timer function, activate the self-timer then press and hold the flash button.

Click hereOpens in a new tab. for the Polaroid OneStep 2 manual.

  1. Press the self-timer button again to turn off the self-timer setting to return to normal operation

Polaroid OneStep+ Instant Camera
Polaroid OneStep+ Instant Camera

Polaroid Originals OneStep+ 

The Polaroid Originals OneStep+ came out in 2018 and is similar looking to the Polaroid OneStep 2 but comes with several upgrades that make it more versatile as a camera than its predecessor. The camera has a 8 second self timer and built in tripod mount, built-in rechargeable battery recharged by USB that lasts for 120 – 160 exposures (15 – 20 film packs) or 60-day battery life, exposure control, can focus from 3ft – infinity, built-in flash with flash on/off, high-quality polycarbonate and acrylic lenses, and the camera is made for Polaroid i-Type film but also compatible with Polaroid 600 film.

Many of these features are featured in the OneStep2 but the additional features that you can find on the Polaroid OneStep+:

  • Bluetooth connectivity and companion app which gives you access to full manual control, double exposure, light painting, and a noise trigger (App available for iOS and Android)
  • App lets you extend the 8 second timer to 1 – 12 seconds
  • Added close-up portrait lens that allows you to focus up from 1 – 3ft. that is accessed by a switch on the top of the camera

Does Polaroid OneStep plus have self-timer?

Yes, the Polaroid OneStep+ has a 8 second self-timer. It is activated by pressing the “plus” button next to the front lens twice and triggered by pressing the red shutter button also on the front of the camera. It can also be canceled by pressing the “plus” button once again. The self-timer can also be activated using the Polaroid smartphone app which also gives you the option to change the timer to 1 – 12 seconds.

The self-timer button located on the front of the Polaroid OneStep Plus between the lens and the flash.
The self-timer button located on the front of the Polaroid OneStep Plus between the lens and the flash.

How do you use the self-timer on a Polaroid Onestep Plus?

There are two ways to use the self timer mode on the Polaroid OneStep+: using the camera or the Polaroid App. Keep in mind that using the camera for the self-timer gives you the default 8 seconds timer but setting the self-timer via the app, give you a custom timer length between 1 – 12 seconds.

Follow these steps to use the Self-Timer feature on the Polaroid OneStep+ camera:

  1. Locate and press the “+” button the front of the OneStep+ camera between the flash and lens twice.
  2. The “+” button will light up to solid orange when it is activated
  3. Frame up your photo and press the shutter button, which is the red button located beneath the flash on the front of the camera
  4. Once the self-timer function is triggered, the “+” a button (lit up as orange) will flash to show the countdown. If the environment is bright or sunny the flash will do short, low powered flashes to indicate the self-timer is counting down.
  5. The self-timer function will count down from 8 seconds before taking an image.

NOTE: The flash will automatically fire when using the self-timer function. To turn off the flash when using the self-timer function, activate the self-timer then press and hold the flash override button located on the back of the camera beneath the on/off switch. To cancel the self-timer function when activated, just press the “+” button again.

Follow these steps to use the Self-Timer feature on the Polaroid OneStep Plus using the App:

  1. Download the Polaroid App. (if you don’t have it, read hereOpens in a new tab.) and if you are having problems connecting your camera to your phone read hereOpens in a new tab.).
  2. Select the top menu option within the Polaroid app that is ‘OneStep+’
  3. To show that you are now in “Remote” mode of the Polaroid app, the screen will turn blue
  4. Moving between shooting modes by swiping right until the screen is orange and reads “Self Timer” at the top
  5. The large button on the bottom left of your screen will now be remote trigger for your OneStep Plus
  6. To adjust the length of the self-timer countdown (between 1-12 seconds) and choose a time, move your finger around the dial on the screen. Once the self-timer is triggered via the app or the camera the time you selected will be how long the camera’s shutter is delayed.

NOTE: If you have no film in the camera or if the camera’s flash is charging, you won’t be able able to use the shutter button in self-timer mode.

Click hereOpens in a new tab. for the Polaroid OneStep+ manual.


Polaroid Now I-Type Instant Camera in Blue
Polaroid Now I-Type Instant Camera in Blue

Polaroid Now I-Type

The Polaroid Now i-Type camera was released in 2020 and was the first instant camera sold after the company change from Polaroid Originals to simply PolaroidOpens in a new tab. to signify a new start. The camera has a 9 second self-timer function but no tripod mount and comes in 7 bright colors plus black & white. The tough exterior shell is made of polycarbonate and ABS plastics and the camera provides all of the instantaneous qualities of the original Polaroid instant camera with the added benefit of autofocus, auto-exposure, built-in double exposure feature, 2 lens system that easily switches back and forth from close-up and further focusing, and an upgraded flash system that produces sharp and vivid colors. The camera also features a built-in rechargeable battery that lasts for 15 packs of film (120 images) and that charges in about 2 hours through a micro USB port on the side of the camera next to the battery level indicator. The Polaroid Now I-Type may be a little bulkier than some of the other instant cameras in this list, but it is lighter than traditional analog Polaroid cameras and it’s capable of taking larger photographs than many of the other instant cameras on the market.

Like the Polaroid OneStep 2, Polaroid OneStep Plus, and Polaroid Now Plus, The Polaroid Now I-Type can take both Polaroid I-Type and 600 Type Polaroid film. When purchased in bulk, the price of the Polaroid I-Type on Amazon is around $64.99 for 40 images (8 packs of 8 images each). This makes the cost around $1.62 per exposure for Polaroid I-Type instant filmOpens in a new tab., which is the cheaper of the two options but the film is still one of the most expensive films per exposure on the list.

Does Polaroid Now I-Type have a self-timer?

Yes, the Polaroid Now I-Type has a 9 second self-timer. It is activated by pressing the self-timer button next to the lens on the front of the camera and triggered by pressing the red shutter button also on the front of the camera.

The self-timer button located on the front of the Polaroid Now I-Type below viewfinder next to the camera lens
The self-timer button located on the front of the Polaroid Now I-Type below viewfinder next to the camera lens

Where is the self-timer button on Polaroid now?

The self-timer button on the Polaroid Now is located on the front of the camera next to the camera lens and below the viewfinder.

How do I use the timer on my Polaroid now?

Follow these steps to use the Self-Timer on the Polaroid Now I-Type:

  1. Locate and press the self-timer button the front of the Polaroid Now I-Type camera next to the camera lens and below the viewfinder
  2. The self-timer button will light up to solid orange when it is activated
  3. Frame up your photo and press the red shutter button, which is on the front of the camera below the flash
  4. Once the self-timer function is triggered, the self-timer button (lit up as orange) will flash to show the countdown.
  5. The self-timer function will count down from 9 seconds before taking an image. If you want to cancel the self-timer, press the self-timer button again after it is activated.

NOTE: The flash will automatically fire when using the self-timer function. To turn off the flash when using the self-timer function, activate the self-timer then press the flash button located on the back of the camera next to the on/off switch.

Click hereOpens in a new tab. for the Polaroid Now I-Type manual.


Polaroid Now+ Instant Camera
Polaroid Now+ Instant Camera

Polaroid Now+

The Polarolid Now+ i-Type camera was released in 2021 and is one of the most advanced Polaroid instant cameras. This multi-featured camera has a 9 second self timer, a tripod mount, and comes in 3 colors (white, black, and blue-gray) and provides all of the instantaneous qualities of the original Polaroid instant camera with the added benefit of included lens filters, built-in flash, built-in rechargeable battery, ability to connect to the Polaroid app which unlocks features of your camera, and a new autofocusing system. The camera is essential a cross between the Polaroid OneStep Plus and the Polaroid Now I-Type camera (both of which are on this list).

Some of the best features of the Polaroid Now+ i-Type Instant Camera are the auto exposure system, the upgraded autofocusing system (over the Polaroid Now I-Type) that automatically switches between a close-up mode and standard mode, a strong on-camera flash that can be turned on and off, the creative app (available for iOS and Android) that allows you to connect the phone to your camera via bluetoothOpens in a new tab. and gives you access to full manual control, double exposure, light painting, and a noise trigger. The camera has a built-in double exposure function to create two images in one and a built-in rechargeable battery that charges by a micro-usb port on the side of the camera in around 2 hours and lasts for about 15 film packs (120 images).

This camera can take both Polaroid i-Type and 600 Type Polaroid film. When purchased in bulk, the price of the Polaroid i-Type on Amazon is around $64.99 for 40 images (8 packs of 8 images each). This makes the cost about $1.62 per exposure for Polaroid i-Type instant filmOpens in a new tab., which is the cheaper of the two options but the film is still one of the most expensive films per exposure available.

Does Polaroid Now Plus have a self-timer?

Yes, the Polaroid Now Plus has a 8 second self-timer. It is activated by pressing the self-timer button with a “+” on it next to the lens on the front of the camera and triggered by pressing the red shutter button also on the front of the camera. You can also activate the self-timer through the Polaroid smartphone app, which gives you the additional timer options of 1 – 12 seconds.

The self-timer button located on the front of the Polaroid Now Plus next to the camera lens and blew the viewfinder with a "+" icon
The self-timer button located on the front of the Polaroid Now Plus next to the camera lens and blew the viewfinder with a “+” icon

How do you set the timer on a Polaroid now plus?

Follow these steps to use the self-timer on the Polaroid Now+ on the camera:

  1. Located the self-timer button (has the “+” on it) on the front of the Polaroid Now Plus camera next to the lens and below the viewfinder
  2. The self-timer button will light up to solid orange when it is activated
  3. Frame up your photo and press the red shutter button that is beneath the flash on the front of the camera
  4. Once the self-timer function is triggered, the self-timer button with the “+” icon (lit up as orange) will flash to show the countdown. If the environment is bright or sunny the flash will do short, low powered flashes to indicate the self-timer is counting down.
  5. The self-timer function will count down from 9 seconds before taking an image.

NOTE: The flash will automatically fire when using the self-timer function. To turn off the flash when using the self-timer function, activate the self-timer then press the flash button located on the back of the camera next to the on/off switch.

Follow these steps to use the Self Timer feature on the Polaroid Now Plus using the App:

  1. Download the Polaroid App. (if you don’t have it, read hereOpens in a new tab.) and if you are having problems connecting your camera to your phone read hereOpens in a new tab.).
  2. Select the top menu option within the Polaroid app that is ‘Now+’
  3. To show that you are now in “Remote” mode of the Polaroid app, the screen will turn blue
  4. Moving between shooting modes by swiping right until the screen is orange and reads “Self Timer” at the top
  5. The large button on the bottom left of your screen will now be remote trigger for your Now+ camera
  6. To adjust the length of the self-timer countdown (between 1-12 seconds) and choose a time, move your finger around the dial on the screen. Once the self-timer is triggered via the app or the camera the time you selected will be how long the camera’s shutter is delayed.

NOTE: If you have no film in the camera or if the camera’s flash is charging, you won’t be able able to use the shutter button in self-timer mode.

Click hereOpens in a new tab. for the Polaroid Now Plus manual.


Polaroid Go Camera
Polaroid Go Camera

Polaroid Go Instant Camera & Film Started Set

This white Polaroid Go instant camera was released on April 27, 2021 from Polaroid and is one of smallest cameras on the list at 4.1 x 3.3 x 2.4 inches at 0.71 lbs (with film). This makes the camera small enough to wear around your neck without being too heavy. At the time of release makes it the world’s smallest instant camera. It uses the iconic Polaroid film but in a much smaller size at 2.6 x 2.1 inches (compared to the normal Polaroid square film which is 3.5 x 3.1 inches and Instax Mini film which is 2 x 3 inches).

The features of the camera are the 9 second self timer, the 35mm equivalent lensOpens in a new tab. that produces sharp, bright, and vivid colors with autofocus and autoexposure supported by an on-camera flash, a built-in rechargeable battery that lasts for 15 packs of film ( images) and is charged by a micro USB port on the side of the camera, selfie mirror on the front of the camera, and its small form factor. However, the Polaroid go does not have a tripod mount.

The Polaroid Go camera is only compatible with the smaller Polaroid Go color film. The film is around $19.99 for a pack of 16 sheets of film. This makes the cost about $1.25 per exposure for Polaroid Go film, which makes the film one of the more expensive options on the list compared to Instax Mini film.

Does the Polaroid Go have a timer?

Yes, the Polaroid Go has a 9 second self-timer. It is activated by pressing the self-timer button (with a flash symbol on it and also controls the flash and double exposure features) next to the red shutter button on the top of the camera and is triggered by pressing red shutter button once activated.

Get everyone in the photo with the Polaroid Go self-timer. Hold the self-timer button for >2 seconds. The orange LED below the flash on the front of the camera will turn on. Once you have framed your photo, press the shutter button. The orange LED will blink to indicate the self-timer countdown. You have 9 seconds before the photo is taken. If you change your mind, you can cancel the self-timer by holding it down again for >2 seconds. To take a self-timer photo without the flash, activate the self-timer first. Now hold the same button for <1 second to disable the flash. Take your photo.

The flash / self-timer / double exposure button located on the top of the Polaroid Go next to the red shutter button.
The flash / self-timer / double exposure button located on the top of the Polaroid Go next to the red shutter button.

How do you use the self-timer on a Polaroid Go?

Follow these steps to use the self-timer on the Polaroid Go:

  1. Located and press the self-timer button on the top of the Polaroid Go camera next to the red shutter button for more than 2 seconds. This button also has a lighting bolt on it because it also controls the flash and the double exposure effect.
  2. An orange light below the flash on the front of the camera will light up to let you know it has been activated.
  3. Frame up your photo and press the shutter button, which is the red button located beneath the flash on the front of the camera
  4. Once the self-timer function is triggered, the orange light below the flash on the front of the camera will flash to show the countdown.
  5. The self-timer function will count down from 9 seconds before taking an image. If you want to cancel the self-timer, when the self-timer function is activated hold the same button (the button with the lighting bolt on it) down again for more than 2 seconds.

NOTE: The flash will automatically fire when using the self-timer function. To turn off the flash when using the self-timer function, activate the self-timer then press and hold the same button (with the flash lighting bolt) for less than 1 second to disable the flash.

Click hereOpens in a new tab. for the Polaroid Go manual.


Leica Sofort Instant Camera
Leica Sofort Instant Camera

Leica Sofort

The Leica Sofort Instant cameraOpens in a new tab. was released in 2016 and is the cheapest Leica camera available at just under $300 and is based on the Fujifilm Instax mini 90 Neo Classic so it takes the Instax Mini film (the cheapest instant film availableOpens in a new tab.). The camera is difficult to find new but it is available on the used market. The camera has a 2 or 10 sec self timer and a integrated tripod mount, takes Instax Mini filmOpens in a new tab. and comes with the usual instant camera features in addition to some new ones. The features of this camera include: a built-in rechargeable battery that lasts about 100 images on one charge, 35mm equivalent focal length, Mechanical shutter with speeds of 1/8 to 1/400 second, and shooting modes including Automatic, Self-Portrait, People & Party, Action & Sport, Bulb, Macro, and Double Exposure.

Does Leica Sofort have a self-timer?

Yes, the Leica Sofort has a 2 or 10 second self-timer. It is activated by pressing the self-timer button on the back of the camera located beneath the flash button on the button control panel.

The self-timer button located on the back of the Leica Sofort below the flash button. The self-timer function is currently "off" since the self-timer icon is not in the LCD.
The self-timer button located on the back of the Leica Sofort below the flash button. The self-timer function is currently “off” since the self-timer icon is not in the LCD.

How do you use the self-timer on a Leica Sofort?

Follow these steps to use the Self-Timer on the Leica Sofort:

  1. To on your Leica Sofort Camera
  2. Locate the self-timer button on the back of the camera beneath the flash button in the control panel
  3. Press the button once for a 10 second delay or twice for a 2 second delay with the self timer or three times to turn off the self-timer function.
  4. Press the shutter button on the top of the camera to take the image. With the 10 second delay the LED self-timer light will light up for 7 seconds then flash for 3 seconds before taking an image. With the 2 second delay the LED self-timer light will flash for 2 seconds before taking an image.

NOTE: After the camera takes the image using the self-timer function, the feature will turn itself off. The self-timer function will also turn off automatically when the camera is turned on, even if it was on before the camera turned off.

Click hereOpens in a new tab. for the Leica Sofort manual.

Which Hybrid Instant Cameras Comes With A Self-Timer?

A hybrid instant camera is a combination of digital and analogue instant cameras. One of biggest differences with these cameras compared to analogue instant cameras is the addition of the screen on the back of the camera and being able to connect to the camera with your smartphone. Some of these cameras even include a touchscreen that allows you to adjust the settings of your image while other cameras, like the Instax Mini Evo, Instax Liplay, and Kodak Mini Shot 3 will let you print images directly from your phone. See the cameras and their self-timer lengths below:

HYBRID INSTANT CAMERA
SELF TIMER LENGTH IN SECONDS
Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo
2 or 10 second self-timer
Fujifilm Instax Mini Liplay
2 or 10 second self-timer
Kodak Mini Shot 3
Up to 10 second self-timer
Chart For Which Digital Instant Cameras Have A Self Timer and how Long it is

You can see that these hybrid digital instant cameras give you roughly the same amount of time as the analog cameras (around 10 seconds), except that most of these instant cameras have can be adjusted down to 2 seconds. This comes in handy when trying to capture fidgety children or not having to wait long to take long exposures. See below on how to activate the self timer on these cameras as well as a summary of their features.


Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo

Fujifilm Instax Mini EVO instant film camera
Fujifilm Instax Mini EVO instant film camera

Fujifilm recently released the silver and black Fujifilm Instax Mini EVO in 2021, which, at the time of writing, costs around $280. This camera has a 2 or 10 second timer, travels well due to its smaller size, a retro look, built-in effects, long battery life, and the fact that it is an instant hybrid camera (digital camera and instax printer in one). This instant camera uses the 2×3 inch Instax Mini film, the cheapest instant film availableOpens in a new tab., like other Instax Mini cameras and it can also save images to the camera so you are able to choose the images you want to print to save your film. It can also transfer saved images to your smartphone or print images from your phone when connected via bluetooth.

Does the Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo have a self timer?

Yes, the Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo instant camera has a built in self timer that gives you the option for a 2 or 10 second timer and is activated using the control panel on the back of the camera.

The back of the Instax Mini Evo. To activate the self-timer you need to turn on the camera and use the menu button.
The back of the Instax Mini Evo. To activate the self-timer you need to turn on the camera and use the menu button.

How do you use the self-timer on a Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo?

Follow these steps to use the self timer function on the Instax Mini Evo:

  1. Press the left or right arrows until self-timer appears on the shooting screen of the camera
  2. Press the up or bottom arrows to select “2 sec” or “10 sec” appears in the center of the screen. If you don’t want to the self-timer select “off”
  3. Press the shutter button all the way down to begin the timer countdown. If the 2 second timer is selected the the self timer light on the lens side of the camera will flash for 2 seconds before taking the image. If the 10 second timer is selected, the same self-timer light will flash for 10 seconds before taking an image.

NOTE: To cancel the self-timer, press the back button (looks like an arrow with a long tail pointing left).

How to Use the Self-Timer on an Instax Mini Evo
How to Use the Self-Timer on an Instax Mini Evo

For the manual to the Instax Mini Evo, visit this linkOpens in a new tab..


Fujifilm Instax Mini LiPlay Hybrid Instant Camera
Fujifilm Instax Mini LiPlay Hybrid Instant Camera

Fujifilm Instax Mini Liplay Hybrid Instant Camera

The Instax Mini LiPlay was Introduced in 2019 and takes Instax Mini film. It is a hybrid camera that has a 2 or 10 second timer and shoots digital images with a rear digital display to use as a viewfinder when shooting images, when editing images, and when choosing which images to print – saving you money on film. Until the Instax Mini Evo was introduced in 2021, it was the only Instax Mini camera to have a screen and save images to a memory card. It also functions as a printer by allowing you to print images from your phone via the App when connected through bluetooth. The Instax Mini LilPlay has built-in memory and slot for a micro SD / micro SDHC memory card to save images to or transfer images to your computer or phone. The internal memory will hold around 45 files and you can save around 850 files per 1gb (without sound). The rear display features a 2.7-inch color LCD monitor with around 230K pixels.

The Instax Mini LiPlay camera also have a single-focus autofocusing system with a light to help the camera focus in dark environments, a self-mirror, a shutter speed range of 1/4 sec. to 1/8000, light sensitivity of ISO 100 to 1600 (auto), 256 segmented TTL metering / Multi-Metering, a built-in flash with 3 flash modes (Auto, Forced, Suppressed), and an internal rechargeable battery that charges by Micro-B cable that lasts for around 100 prints and takes 2 – 3 hours to charge and takes about about 12 seconds for the film to eject from the printer and around 90 seconds for the film to fully develop. 

You can also find the manual for the Instax Mini LiPlay cameraOpens in a new tab. here.

Does the Fujifilm Instax Mini Liplay have a self-timer?

Yes, the Fujifilm Instax Mini LiPlay instant camera has a built in self timer that gives you the option for a 2 or 10 second timer and is activated using the arrow keys on the control panel located on the back of the camera.

The back of the Instax Mini LiPlay. To activate the self-timer you need to turn on the camera and use the menu button.
The back of the Instax Mini LiPlay. To activate the self-timer you need to turn on the camera and use the menu button.

How do you use the self-timer on Instax Mini Liplay ?

Follow these steps to use the self timer function on the Instax Mini Evo:

  1. On the shooting screen, press the left side of the ring buttons around the menu button until the self-timer option appears on the shooting screen of the camera
  2. Press the ring around the menu button to up or down to select “2 sec” or “10 sec” options on the screen If you don’t want to the self-timer, select “off”
  3. Press the shutter button all the way down to begin the timer countdown. If the 2 second timer is selected and the shutter is pressed, the the self-timer light next to the camera lens on the front of the camera will blink for 2 seconds before taking the image. If the 10 second timer is selected, the same self-timer light will light up for 7 seconds and blink for 3 seconds before taking an image.

NOTE: To cancel the self-timer, press the back button (looks like an arrow with a long tail pointing left).

How to use the self timer on the Instax Mini LiPlay instant camera
How to use the self timer on the Instax Mini LiPlay instant camera

For the manual to the Instax Mini LiPlay, visit this linkOpens in a new tab..


Kodak Mini Shot 3 Retro 2-in-1 Portable Instant Camera in yellow and black
Kodak Mini Shot 3 Retro 2-in-1 Portable Instant Camera in yellow and black

Kodak MiniShot 3

Kodak has been one of the biggest names in photography for decades, and their Kodak Mini Shot 3 Retro instant camera holds up to other more known brands. While this is technically not an instant film camera and just a combination digital camera and printer, the image does magicially come to life as you watch it print, going in and out of the camera 4 times, to become a physical object – similar to instant cameras.

Some of the other best features of the Kodak Mini Shot 3 Retro are it’s compact design that fits into a small backpack or purse, which makes it a good travel camera. It has an up to a 10 second timer and can also be connected to your phone via mobile apps so that you can print any of your stored digital pictures on the camera and allows for even more customizing and editing of your digital images. The Kodak Mini Shot 3 Retro also uses Kodak’s 4Pass technology that allows the camera to print sharp, precise high-definition photographs in about 50 seconds. The 3 x 3 inch prints can be borderless or with a border that resembles a smaller polaroid. The resulting prints are also waterproof, smudge proof, and fingerprint-proof.

For film, the camera also uses the Kodak 4Pass Cartridge All-In-One Paper and Color Ribbon. When purchased in bulk, the price of the paper and color ribbon cartridge is $34.99 for 60 images (3 cartridges). This makes the cost $0.58 per exposure and puts the film as one of the less expensive options you can buy.

Does the Kodak MiniShot 3 Retro have a self timer?

Yes, the Kodak MiniShot 3 Retro camera has a self timer that gives you the option for up to a 10 second timer. The self-timer is activated by using the “list” button and the control panel located on the back of the camera.

LCD and control panel on the back of a Kodak Mini 3 Retro Instant Camera. Note the red arrow on the back pointing to the list menu.
LCD and control panel on the back of a Kodak Mini 3 Retro Instant Camera. Note the red arrow on the back pointing to the list menu.

How do you use the self-timer on a Kodak MiniShot 3 Retro?

To use the self-timer function on the Kodak Mini Shot 3 Retro, follow the steps below:

  1. Turn on the camera using the black power button on the top of the camera
  2. Press the ‘list’ button on the top left corner of the camera control panel on the back of the camera
  3. Press until you see the self-timer page
  4. Use the arrow buttons to change the time of the self-timer up to 10 seconds
  5. Once you have chosen the correct time, press “OK”. This will activate the self-timer mode
  6. To activate the self-timer, press the large red or yellow shutter button on the top of the camera

In Summary

There are several popular instant cameras from Polaroid, Fujifilm, Kodak, and Lomo that come with a self-timer. However, they aren’t all the same length of time and aren’t activated the same way. However, Polaroid and Fujifilm have the most instant cameras with a self-timer with 5 each. Fujifilm has more hybrid instant cameras with a self-timer like the Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo and Instax Mini Liplay while Polaroid has more analg instant cameras like the Polaroid Go, OneStep 2 and OneStep Plus, Now I-Type and Now Plus series of Instant cameras.

If you are looking for an instant camera with a self-timer that is the most consistent and shoots Instax Mini film (the cheapest instant filmOpens in a new tab.), then I suggest Instax Mini EVO or Mini 90 camera from Fujifilm. If you are looking for an instant camera with a self-timer that takes larger, square images, than I suggest the Polaroid Now Plus.

Lee

My name is Lee Jones, MFA and I'm the professor behind The Photography Professor. My goal is to answer your questions about film-based photography in a format that is easy to read and understand.

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