PolaCon NYC is a Convention for Instant Film Photography Fans

Apr 26, 2023

PolaCon NYC

Polaroid and instant film photography supporters are invited to PolaCon in New York City to celebrate all things instant film photography.

The three-day PolaCon NYC event, running from May 19-21 at various locations in “The Big Apple,” includes photo walks, meet-ups, presentations, and special events designed to help people meet like-minded photographers, share their work, learn from talented professionals, and check out the latest instant film gear and techniques.

PolaCon was founded in 2015 by the Instant Film Society (IFS) and previous events have been held in Texas and California. The upcoming PolaCon NYC marks the first time the event has been in New York.

IFS itself was founded in 2012 to “increase awareness, accessibility, and understanding of instant film photography.” As part of that mission, IFS partnered with camera shops, local camera clubs, and film collectives as part of PolaCon.

“We are excited to bring together the instant film photography community for a weekend of creativity, education, and fun. Our goal is to create a welcoming and communal environment where photographers can connect with others who share a similar passion for instant film,” says the organizers of PolaCon NYC.

Alongside workshops, demos, artist talks, and photo walks, the event promises many other fun and educational events, including scavenger hunts, giveaways, “revelry,” and “dancing.” The convention’s website includes a full breakdown of the full schedule of events, including locations and event descriptions. Brooklyn Film Camera is the primary hub for the event, hosting meet-ups, check-ins, and the event’s wrap party on May 21.

PolaCon NYC Polaroid Now Plus — Polaroid Now+

PolaCon NYC is sponsored by Polaroid, Wyckoff Windows Studios, Brooklyn Brewery, and Liquid Death.

In recent years, film and instant film photography have experienced a surge in popularity. There are a lot of instant cameras on the market, and PetaPixel’s guide to “The Best Instant Cameras in 2023” cuts through the noise to deliver an in-depth overview of instant photography’s best gear, including PolaCon’s sponsor, Polaroid’s Now+, named the “Best Classic Instant Camera.”