One of the best ways to become more creative with your photos with a using Polaroid camera with a self-timer. This feature can be handy when taking self portraits, taking group shots, long exposure shots, or shot using a slow shutter in low light. There are so many Polaroid cameras out there so how do you know which ones can take a picture with a self timer delay?
Almost all Polaroid cameras produced in 2008 and after have the self timer feature while only a few Polaroid instant cameras produced before 2008 do. Some popular vintage Polaroid cameras, like the SX-70 series, do not have a built-in self timer but can use an adapter.
Polaroids have a long history of helping people capture special moments, with the self-timer being one of the most popular features on these cameras. Below is a list of vintage and modern Polaroid instant cameras that include a self-timer or need an adapter.
NOTE: If you are interested in learning about which instant cameras have a self timer
(not just from Polaroid) check out my comprehensive article.
Vintage Polaroid Cameras With Self-Timer (Pre-2008)
Vintage Polaroid cameras are a hot item among photography enthusiasts and for a good reason. These cameras offer a unique shooting experience that is unlike any other. One of the most notable features of vintage Polaroids is the self-timer, so let’s go through those who have it equipped.
Vintage Camera Model (Pre 2008) | Built-in Self-timer? | Length |
|---|---|---|
Polaroid 600 Impulse AF | Yes | 12 seconds |
Polaroid 600 Impulse SE | Yes | 12 seconds |
Polaroid One 600 Ultra | Yes | 12 seconds |
Polaroid One 600 Pro | Yes | 12 seconds |
Polaroid Spectra Pro | Yes | 12 seconds |
Polaroid Spectra Onyx | Yes | 10 seconds |
Polaroid Spectra 1200SI | Yes | 12 seconds |
Polaroid Spectra 2 | No | n/a |
Polaroid Roll Film Cameras | No, but with Adapter | 10 – 15 seconds w/ adapter |
Polaroid Pack Film Cameras | No, but with Adapter | 10 – 15 seconds w/ adapter |
Polaroid SX-70 Series | No, but with Adapter | 3, 5, or 10 seconds w/ adapter |
Polaroid SLR 680 | No, but with Adapter | 3, 5, or 10 seconds w/ adapter |
Polaroid SLR 690 | No, but with Adapter | 3, 5, or 10 second w/ adapter |
Polaroid 600 cameras
Polaroid 600 cameras were first introduced in 1980, and they quickly became popular thanks to their convenience and ease of use. In recent years, they have experienced a resurgence in popularity as people nostalgic for the days of traditional photography seek out vintage cameras and because new film is being produced for them by Polaroid. Not all Polaroid 600 models have a self timer, but the following Polaroid 600 models do come with a built-in 12 second self timer.
Polaroid 600 Impulse AF
The Polaroid 600 Impulse Autofocus is an instant camera that came out in the mid 1980’s and notable for being an update to the original Impulse 600. The camera featured a 12 second self timer as well as:
- Built-in 12 second self timer
- 3 element, plastic lens construction at 116mm
- Has automatic focus using Polaroid Sonar AF system with a minimum focus of 3ft
- Some of these cameras have a built-in “close-up” lens.
- Manual focus not possible with the camera
- Electronic shutter at 1/4 – 1/200 sec.
- Programmed automatic exposure system
- Automatic flash exposures for all pictures (flash always fires)
- Built-in electronic flash with automatic flash exposures for all pictures (flash always fires)
- Has electronic 12 second self-timer that is accessible on top of the camera
- Body style is streamlined with pop-up flash. Lens cover slides into place when flash is pushed back down and is also how you turn off the camera. The Shutter release is located on the top toward the rear of the camera.
- Body has rubber grips for side covering.
- Most of these are sort of blue-grey/charcoal in color, but may also be found in various other colors and combinations including maroon/red, yellow, blue, and green.
This camera is also compatible with the new Polaroid 600 film. For more about the Polaroid 600 Impulse AF, see the manual here.
Polaroid 600 Impulse SE
The Polaroid 600 Impulse SE version with Auto Focus has a built-in 12 second timer. There are other Polaroid Impulse versions but only the Polaroid Impulse AF and Polaroid Impulse SE AF have the built in self timer. Similar to the Polaroid 600 Impulse AF, the Polaroid 600 Impulse SE AF was update to the original Polaroid 600 fixed focus camera with adding features such as:
- A 12 second self timer on the top of the camera
- Autofocus using Sonar
- Updated the lens construction to a plastic 3 element lens
- Added a f/9 aperture
This camera is also compatible with the new Polaroid 600 film.
Polaroid One600 Ultra
The Polaroid One600 Ultra camera is a simple point-and-shoot camera that is easy to use and produces high-quality images that were first released in 2001. This body type was one of the last designs of the 600 series cameras. It opens and closes to a compact design similar to the Spectra series of cameras but with a more rounded design. It also featured:
- Built-in 12 second self-timer
- Silver/black in color
- Focus free lens
- Auto mode, Flash OFF mode, Red-eye reduction flash modes
- Self timer but no tripod socket
- LCD info screen that which current flash mode, the film count, and self timer status.
- Focus up to 2 ft vs the 3 ft for the Polaroid One600 Classic
The camera has a built-in flash and a 12 second self-timer so that you can take pictures in low-light conditions or with a group of people. This camera is also compatible with the new Polaroid 600 film.
Polaroid One600 Pro
The Polaroid One600 Pro camera was produced in the 2000’s. This camera has a 12 second self timer and is very similar to the Polaroid One600 Ultra except it had the following features:
- Built-in 12 second self timer
- No tripod socket
- More black than silver body color
- Focus free lens
- Sold as “smaller and more compact” than the OneStep Express it replaces.
- Has Auto mode, Flash OFF mode, Red-eye reduction Flash Modes
- 12 second self timer but without a tripod socket
- LCD screen on the back of the camera indicates flash mode, film count, and self timer status.
- Focuses up to 18 inches (45.7 cm)
- Has a lighten / darken switch for more exposure control
- Integrated handle
This camera is also compatible with old and new Polaroid 600 film.
Polaroid Spectra Models
The Polaroid Spectra is a series of instant cameras that the Polaroid Corporation produced from 1986 to 1991. The Spectra cameras were notable for their compact and innovative design, which incorporated a flash, more controls (sometimes less), and red-eye reduction into the camera’s body. Not all of these cameras included a self timer like the Spectra 2, but most did. Unfortunately, Polaroid stop producing new film for these cameras in 2019 and unexpired film is difficult to find.
Spectra Pro
The Polaroid Spectra Pro was produced in the mid to late 1980’s and was a high-end instant camera that allows users to select the aperture and shutter speed manually. The Spectra Pro featured a built-in flash, auto-focusing using Sonar, and a built-in 12 second self-timer. The camera also features:
- Built-in 12 second self timer and a socket for electronic remote control
- 125mm plastic f/10 3-element “Quintic” lens that was computer designed
- Electronic shutter with a range of 2.8 sec – 1/200 sec.
- Programmed automatic exposure with backlight compensation mode
- Automatic focus using Polaroid Sonar AF system with full manual focus override and infinity focus lock
- Focus distance indicator in viewfinder in feet or meters
- Built-in automatic electronic flash that fires automatically with every picture but can be turned off
- A LCD status panel and electronic menu selection of features
- Long exposure
- Multiple-exposure (up to 5 exposures at once)
- Built-in intervalometer which can be used along with the built-in self-timer
- Improved AF and auto exposure systems over the original Polaroid Spectra
Unfortunately, Polaroid stop producing new film for these cameras in 2019 and unexpired film is difficult to find.
Spectra Onyx
The Spectra Onyx was a limited edition Spectra camera produces in the mid 1980s with a 12 second self timer and similar to the Spectra Pro. One major difference was its dark color and clear body design that let you can see through the electronics on the top of the camera. The camera features:
- Built-in 12 second self timer and a socket for electronic remote control
- 125mm plastic f/10 3-element “Quintic” lens that was computer designed
- Electronic shutter with a range of 2.8 sec – 1/200 sec.
- Programmed automatic exposure with backlight compensation mode
- Automatic focus using Polaroid Sonar AF system with full manual focus override and infinity focus lock
- Focus distance indicator in viewfinder in feet or meters
- Built-in automatic electronic flash that fires automatically with every picture but can be turned off
- A LCD status panel and electronic menu selection of features
- Long exposure
- Multiple-exposure (up to 5 exposures at once)
- Built-in intervalometer which can be used along with the built-in self-timer
- Improved AF and auto exposure systems over the original Polaroid Spectra
Unfortunately, Polaroid stop producing new film for these cameras in 2019 and unexpired film is difficult to find.
Polaroid Spectra 1200SI
Released in the late 2000’s, the Polaroid Spectra 1200si is a high-end instant camera similar to the Polaroid Spectra, which it replaced except that the film counter counted up instead of down and included a built-in 12 second self timer. Today, it remains a popular choice for vintage camera collectors who love its self-timer and other features such as:
- Built-in 12 second self timer.
- 125mm plastic f/10 3-element “Quintic” lens that was computer designed
- Electronic shutter with a range of 2.8 sec – 1/200 sec.
- Programmed automatic exposure with backlight compensation mode
- Automatic focus using Polaroid Sonar AF system with full manual focus override and infinity focus lock
- Focus distance indicator in viewfinder in feet or meters
- Built-in automatic electronic flash that fires automatically with every picture but can be turned off
- A LCD status panel and electronic menu selection of features
- Long exposure
- Multiple-exposure (up to 5 exposures at once)
- Built-in intervalometer which can be used along with the built-in self-timer
- Improved AF and auto exposure systems over the original Polaroid Spectra
- Film counter counts upward rather than downward
Unfortunately, Polaroid stop producing new film for these cameras in 2019 and unexpired film is difficult to find.
Polaroid Roll film Cameras
The Polaroid Roll Film Cameras instant camera that was first sold in 1948. It uses specially designed film packs that contain self-developing films called type 40 film that has been discontinued. The different models had a simple design and were easy to use. While these Pack Film cameras didn’t have a self-timer, it can be attached as an accessory and can be found online on ebay.com or on etsy.com.
The most notable roll film camera was the model 95 which was released in 1948 and was the first Polaroid Land camera and the first commercially successful self-developing camera system in the world. The camera cost around $90 at the time (around $1001 USD in today’s money) and featured:
- 135mm, f/11, 3-element glass lens
- 4 speed everset rotary-leaf design shutter with a range of 1/8 – 1/60, plus Bulb
- M-sync via ASA-bayonet post flash connector
- Exposure set by Light Value scale (AKA “Polaroid numbers”)
- Folding viewfinder, with simple “ball-and-mast” parallax compensation device
- Scale focus, with distance set by arcuate lever
- Two tripod sockets and cable-release socket
- Most have a polished steel body with brown fake-leather covering
Although these cameras have the historical significance of being the first commercially successful instant camera that started it all for Polaroid, it was very popular with almost a million made so they are not highly sought after by collectors.
Polaroid Pack Film Cameras
The Polaroid Pack Film Cameras are an instant camera that was first sold in 1960’s starting with the Polaroid Model 100. They use specially designed film packs (that have been discontinued) that contain self-developing film. The different models have a simple design that was easy to use and had these similar designs in common:
- Pull-out front standard with scissor strut design that held bellows
- Removable hinged plastic cover protects entire front of camera when camera is not in use.
- The camera focused by pushing on either side of a sliding arm located near the base of the bellows struts.
- Shutter must be manually cocked and shutter release is on top of camera body
- Has PC socket for flash and flashgun is clipped to the top of the camera
- No built-in self timer but shutter can be triggered using an adapter or shutter release
While these Pack Film cameras didn’t have a self-timer, it can be attached as an accessory which can be found online on ebay.com or on etsy.com.
Polaroid SX-70 Cameras
The Polaroid SX-70 was a series of vintage instant cameras that was first released in the 1970s. The camera models had a sleek, compact design and were easy to use and was the first-ever instant SLR (single reflex lens) camera. Many people believe, including Edwin Land himself, that this camera was Polaroid’s pinnacle of camera design to that point. The SX-70 cameras did not have a built-in self-timer, however, it can be used by attaching a Mint camera self-timer.
SX-70
The Polaroid SX-70 is a foldable instant camera that was first introduced in 1972 with a price of $180 ($1,258.69 in today’s money). The SX-70 was equipped with manual focus allowing the photographer control over the focus for the shots. It was the first production SLR camera with a folding body and the first camera to use Polaroid Integral film. There were four main types of the SX-70 produced: the original, SX-70 Model 2, SX-70 Model 3, and SX-70 Sonar OneStep.
The most significant upgrade to the SX-70 cameras came in the SX-70 Sonar OneStep, which added automatic focus using Sonar to the camera while still being able to fold and still keeping the ability to manual focus.
Today, the SX-70 series of cameras are still prized by many photographers for its unique look and feel – especially since Polaroid SX-70 film is still being produced for it. The vintage camera has also become a popular collectible and is often sought after by those who appreciate its retro appeal and historical notoriety.
Common features of the SX-70 cameras include:
- 4-element 116mm f/8 glass lens
- Minimum focus of 10.4 inches
- Manual front focusing via geared wheel at top of lens/shutter housing (also included in the SX-70 Sonar OneStep)
- Electronic shutter
- Programmed automatic exposure with shutter speeds from less than 10 sec to 1/175
- Aperture range of f/8- f/22 and smaller apertures were possible when flash is used
- Auto flash exposure based on focus distance with a max flash distance of 20ft.
- Built-in flashbar socket for a flash. Accessory electronic flashes are still available.
- Socket for an electrically-actuated remote shutter release or self timer adapter
- Tripod sockets
Polaroid SLR 680
The Polaroid SLR 680 is a premium version of the SX-70 Sonar OneStep camera series released in 1982 that added a built-in electronic flash, ability to use Polaroid 600 film instead of SX-70 film, and the flash changes depending on focusing distance.
Like the previous SX-70 series of cameras, the Polaroid SLR 680 does not have a built-in timer, but you can use an adapter. Apart from that, it has an foldable and compact vintage design that will make you want to use it often.
Since this camera can use Polaroid 600 film, which is still being produced, I’d recommend this one if you can find it.
Polaroid SLR 690
Released in 1996, the Polaroid SLR 690 was an upgraded to the Polaroid SLR 680 as a high-end camera equipped with the Sonar AutoFocus system and built-in flash that included the additions of the film slot shade being made of plastic rather than metal and an electronic 4-bit microcontroller for metering and timing instead of analog.
One missing item on the Polaroid SLR 690 is the self-timer, like with all SX-70 style cameras, but you can used the Mint camera Self timer adapter.
This camera can uses Polaroid 600 film, which is still being produced.
Modern Polaroid Instant Cameras With A Self-Timer (Post-2008)
Best known for their innovative instant cameras and film, Polaroid has been a leading name in photography for decades. Under new ownership in 2008, they’ve released a new line of instant cameras with most including with a self-timer, and most compatible with both Polaroid i-type and Polaroid 600 film making it easier than ever to capture selfie and group shots.
New Polaroid Models (Post 2008) | Built-in Self-timer? | Length |
|---|---|---|
Impossible I-1 | Yes, Need App To Use | 5/10/20 seconds activated through an app |
Polaroid OneStep 2 | Yes | 8 seconds, activated on camera |
Polaroid Now I-Type | Yes | 9 seconds, activated on camera |
Polaroid Go | Yes | 9 seconds, activated on camera |
Polaroid Now+ | Yes | An 9 second self timer activated on the camera or 1 – 12 second self-timer using phone app |
Polaroid Originals OneStep+ | Yes | An 8 second self timer activated on the camera or 1 – 12 second self-timer using phone app |
Impossible I-1
The Impossible I-1 is an instant camera introduced in 2008 by the Impossible Project, combining the classic appeal of Polaroid instant photography with modern technology. The camera has a built-in tripod mount and a self timer (at 5, 10, or 20 seconds) but you need the mobile app to set it up and use it and was the first new camera that symbolized the rebirth of Polaroid film after Polaroid’s bankruptcy and it’s new company starting with the Impossible Project whose goal was to get Polaroid back to where they were in the early part of the 20th century. The camera was the first instant camera to have a ring flash and work with a smartphone app. Other features of the camera include:
- Self timer at 5, 10, or 20 seconds when using smartphone app
- Polycarbonate + ABS plastics with soft touch rubberized coating Outer Shell
- Strap mounts made of Zink Aluminum alloy
- Optical grade Polycarbonate and acrylic coated lenses with 5 possible configurations with a focal length of 82 – 109mm and aperture of f/10 – f/76
- Custom design shutter system using precision step motors with a range of 1/250 to 30 seconds
- Built-In LED ring flash that doubles as film counter on start up of camera
- Built-in rechargeable battery
- Weight of 15 oz (440 grams) without the film pack
The result is a powerful and easy-to-use camera that is perfect for both novice and experienced photographers alike.
The camera uses both Polaroid i-type and Polaroid 600 film.
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:
- 8 second timer, a tripod mount
- Ability to turn the flash on or off for regular images
- A high-quality polycarbonate and acrylic lenses
- Exposure control, and focus from 3ft – infinity.
- A built-in rechargeable battery recharged by USB that lasts for 120 – 160 exposures (15 – 20 film packs) or 60-day battery life.
- Compatible with both the new Polaroid i-Type film and with the older Polaroid 600 film as well.
See this article for how to use the self timer on the Polaroid OneStep 2.
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 Polaroid to signify a new start. The camera featured:
- a 9 second self-timer function but no tripod mount
- Comes in 7 bright colors plus black & white
- A tough exterior shell made of polycarbonate and ABS plastics
- Autofocus
- Auto-exposure
- Built-in double exposure feature
- 2 lens system that easily switches back and forth from close-up and further focusing
- An upgraded flash system that produces sharp and vivid colors
- 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.
- Compatible with both Polaroid I-Type and 600 Type Polaroid film.
See this article for how to use the self timer on the Polaroid Now I-Type
Polaroid Now+
The Polarolid Now+ i-Type camera was released in 2021 and is one of the most advanced Polaroid instant cameras. The camera is essential a cross between the Polaroid OneStep Plus and the Polaroid Now I-Type camera and features:
- 9 second self timer and a tripod mount
- Comes in 3 colors (white, black, and blue-gray)
- Built-in flash
- Built-in rechargeable battery
- 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
- Ability to connect to the Polaroid creative app (available for iOS and Android) that allows you to connect the phone to your camera via bluetooth and gives you access to full manual control, double exposure, light painting, and a noise trigger.
- Built-in double exposure function
- 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.
See this article for how to use the self timer on the Polaroid Now+
Polaroid Go
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:
- Built-in 9 second self timer
- 35mm equivalent lens that produces sharp, bright, and vivid colors with autofocus
- Auto exposure supported by an on-camera flash
- 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
- Small and compact form factor.
- No tripod mount.
The Polaroid Go camera is only compatible with the smaller Polaroid Go color film, which is around $19.99 for a pack of 16 sheets of film.
See this article for how to use the self timer on the Polaroid Go.
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 features:
- An 8 second self timer or 1 – 12 second self-timer using phone app
- 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
- Compatible with both Polaroid i-Type film and Polaroid 600 film.
- 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)
- 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
See this article for how to use the self timer on the Polaroid Onestep+
Frequently Asked Questions about Polaroids and Self Timers
Why do we have to use a self-timer?
The self-timer is a feature found on many cameras that allows you to take a picture after a delay of several seconds – on Polaroids, it’s usually 8 to 10 seconds. Self-timers are often used when taking selfies, group photos, photos requiring a slow shutter, or night photography when it’s important to keep the camera still when taking images.
How long is the timer on a Polaroid camera?
Polaroid cameras have a self-timer between 8 and 10 seconds with some as long as 20 seconds and as short as 3 seconds, depending on your camera model and if you are using a smartphone app. This dealy gives you enough time to take the picture and prepare for the next shot while taking selfies, group shots, or images with a long exposure. It can also allow for the image to develop correctly before taken out of the camera.
How do you use the self-timer on a Polaroid?
The self timer on a Polaroid camera is normally indicated as a standalone button on the front or top of the camera. Generally, you press the self timer button on the camera and then press the shutter button to engage the self timer feature on the camera. Read this guide on Instant Cameras a with self-timer to see how to use the feature on models produced after 2008.
Does Polaroid 600 have a self-timer?
Only specific Polaroid 600 cameras have a built-in self-timer: the 600 Impulse AF, 600 Impulse SE, the One600 Ultra, and One600 Pro. On these cameras, the self-timer can be used by clicking the button with a clock symbol, and the seconds will be shown on the small display on the camera.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a Polaroid with a self-timer, these were some of the most popular vintage and modern versions with a self timer. All of these cameras have an option for between a 8 to 10-second timer, which gives you enough time to get into position for your picture. Some of these cameras, like the SX-70 series don’t have a built-in self timer but the function can be added with an adapter.
