Polaroid's new camera does something entirely different. I was one of the first photographers to try the Polaroid Mod

The Polaroid Mod, unveiled on September 29, is a new fully analog instant camera designed for experimental photography. Unlike other Polaroid cameras, the Mod features a mode dial wrapped around the lens, which is used to activate four experimental photography modes. These modes include double exposures, light painting, split shots, and motion freeze.

The double exposure mode allows users to combine two photos into a single Polaroid frame, while the light painting mode requires a tripod to create light trails using flash. The split shot mode uses a half lens cap to capture two images in one frame. Lastly, the motion freeze mode combines long exposure with rear-curtain sync flash to freeze the subject while creating light trails.

Although the Mod makes these camera tricks more accessible, some knowledge is still required, such as the necessity of using a tripod for light painting and the benefits of high-contrast shots and textures for double exposures. Despite these requirements, the Mod aims to make photography tricks almost as simple as turning a mode dial, appealing to both novice and seasoned photographers.

Equipped with an exposure compensation dial and the option to turn off the flash, the Mod offers more control than other modern Polaroid cameras. It also features a rechargeable battery via USB-C. Priced at $169.99, the Mod sits between the Polaroid Now+ Gen 3 and the Polaroid Flip, offering a unique and fun twist on traditional instant photography. The Polaroid Mod is set to launch in the US on October 06, with additional countries following in early 2027.