How to Print Polaroid-Style Photos

Polaroid-style photos have an undeniable charm. The retro aesthetic, the instant gratification, and the nostalgic feel make them perfect for personal keepsakes, gifts, or decor. 

Whether you want to preserve memories in a fun, vintage way or simply love the look of classic Polaroids, there are multiple ways to create these iconic photos. In this guide, we'll walk you through the best methods for printing Polaroid-style photos, from online services to DIY options at home.

Why Print Polaroid Style Photos?

Polaroid-style photos evoke nostalgia, transporting us back to the heyday of instant photography. Their aesthetic appeal makes them a timeless choice for a variety of uses. The unique borders and instant gratification add to their vintage vibe, making them stand out in a world dominated by digital photos.

Polaroid-style prints make fantastic personalised photobook additions, personalised gifts, or unique decor. A gallery wall of Polaroids, or creating a photo scrapbook will bring a touch of personality and warmth to any space.

Polaroid-style prints allow you to capture moments and turn them into tangible pieces of art. They can serve as creative mementos that transport you back to special occasions.

Best Method: Order Online for Professional Polaroid-Style Prints

For the best results, professional services like PostSnap offer a simple, high-quality option for printing Polaroid-style photos. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you order and create your retro prints easily:

Step-by-Step Guide for PostSnap Polaroid Printing

Go to the PostSnap website and navigate to the "Retro Photo Prints" section.

1. Choose the photos you want to print and upload them directly from your smartphone or computer.
2. Select the Polaroid-style photo print format. You can usually adjust the photo to fit the frame or add a caption for a more personalised touch.
3. Use PostSnap’s intuitive editing tools to adjust your images. You can crop, enhance, or add text to give your Polaroids a polished, professional look.
4. Once you’re happy with your design, choose the quantity and confirm your order. Your Polaroid-style prints will be delivered to your door in just a few days.

Using a professional service ensures crisp, clear prints with a high-quality finish, perfect for preserving memories with a polished, authentic look.

Print Using a Polaroid-Style Printer

Another great option for printing Polaroid-style photos is using a dedicated Polaroid-style printer. Devices like the Fujifilm Instax, Polaroid Lab, or Kodak Mini are designed specifically for printing instant retro photos. Here’s how to print your Polaroid-style images with one of these printers:

What You Need:

A compatible Polaroid-style printer (Fujifilm Instax, Polaroid Lab, Kodak Mini)
A smartphone or tablet with the relevant app
Photo paper (specific to your printer)

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Select the Polaroid-style printer you want to use. Popular options like the Fujifilm Instax or Polaroid Lab connect seamlessly with your mobile device to print photos in the iconic Polaroid style.
2. Most Polaroid-style printers connect to your device via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. Download the relevant app (e.g., the Fujifilm Instax app or the Polaroid Lab app) and follow the instructions to sync your printer.
3. Open the app and select the photo you want to turn into a Polaroid. Most apps allow you to edit your image, adjust the size, and add filters or text for a personalised touch.
4. Hit ‘Print,’ and your photo will emerge on Polaroid-style paper. Be sure to give the print a moment to develop before handling.

This method provides instant prints, and the results are tangible in moments, perfect for those who enjoy an interactive and DIY approach.

Print at Home with a Regular Printer

For those who prefer a more budget-friendly or DIY approach, printing Polaroid-style photos at home can be an enjoyable, creative project. With a few tools, you can create your own prints on high-quality photo paper.

What You Need:

Glossy photo paper
A standard colour printer
A Polaroid-style template (available online or easy to create)

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Search for a Polaroid-style template online or design one yourself. You can find pre-made templates that have the iconic Polaroid frame, or you can use a design tool like Canva to create your own.
2. Open your chosen template and insert the photos you want to print. You may need to resize your images to fit perfectly into the Polaroid frame.
3. Use glossy photo paper for a smooth, professional finish. Print your photos at the highest resolution for the best results.
4. After printing, carefully cut along the template to create the Polaroid-style shape. If desired, add a glossy finish with a photo laminator or clear adhesive sheets.

Printing at home allows for creative freedom and a personal touch, but it may take a little more effort to ensure the quality is up to your standards.

Tips for High-Quality Polaroid Style Prints

To ensure that your Polaroid-style photos look their best, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

Choose the Right Resolution
Make sure your images are high resolution to avoid pixelation when printed. Images with a resolution of at least 300 DPI (dots per inch) will ensure crisp, clear prints.

Best Paper Type
Use glossy or satin photo paper for a shiny, professional finish that closely mimics traditional Polaroid prints. Matte paper can be used for a more subtle, vintage effect.

Editing Photos for an Authentic Look
To capture that retro feel, consider applying filters that mimic the vintage tones of Polaroid prints. Many apps and photo editors allow you to add light leaks, vignettes, or faded edges.

Avoid Common Layout Mistakes
When using templates, be mindful of how your image fits within the frame. Avoid cutting off important parts of your photo, and ensure the borders of the Polaroid are proportionate.

Summary and Key Takeaways

There are several ways to print Polaroid-style photos, whether you're using an online service like PostSnap for professional results, a dedicated Polaroid-style printer for instant gratification, or printing at home for a DIY approach. Each method offers unique benefits, but PostSnap stands out for its convenience, quality, and easy-to-use platform.

No matter which method you choose, Polaroid-style prints make great gifts, creative home decor, and a fun way to preserve memories. Try creating your own personalised photo wall or scrapbooking project with these stylish prints.

‍