Rating of the best instant cameras from Fujifilm

Cameras have long been replaced by more modern gadgets such as smartphones, tablets, and DSLRs. But there are still those who value not the quality of the picture, but the shooting process itself, the atmosphere of paper photography, the aroma of freshly printed photographs and the tactile sensations of photography. All these functions are perfectly performed by an instant camera; its advantage is that developing photographs is absolutely not required, since the photo comes out immediately after pressing the trigger on the unit itself. You can immediately insert the received photos into a photo album, rather than storing them on your phone or developing them in a salon. In the article below, we will look at the rating, where you can choose the best instant camera for your use, having previously studied the reviews and characteristics of the entire TOP. Happy choosing!

comparison table

Polaroid Go

The smallest instant camera at the time of writing is a lot of fun.

Specifications:

• Lens: 34mm
• Focus: Normal (fixed)
• Flash: Built-in
• Self-timer: Yes

Advantages:

• Pocket format
• Easy to point and shoot

Flaws:

• Custom film is small and expensive
• Autofocus is missing

Right off the bat, Polaroid overtook Fujifilm in terms of instant innovation - something that hadn't really happened since the late 1980s. It's officially the world's smallest analog instant camera that fits right in the palm of your hand.

It's now a smaller version of the Polaroid featured in the camera review above, with most of the same features, including a self-timer and double exposure mode, that should appeal to more advanced photographers as well as beginner photographers. However, autofocus unfortunately misses the mark, so you're more likely to get blurry photos if you're too close to your subject.

This camera costs about the same as a full-size Polaroid now, making it much more expensive than the entry-level Fujifilm Instax Mini 11, but it's a figure worth paying if you want an instant camera you can use almost anywhere.

What should you pay attention to when choosing such a camera?

Firstly, its weight. Most people prefer to carry a camera with them all the time or take it on trips, so choose equipment up to 500 grams.

Secondly, depending on your preferences, pay attention to the size of the photos - you can buy a camera that produces very small cards, or you can buy standard ones.

Thirdly, a very important characteristic is the presence of autofocus and a timer. If there are no big problems with the timer, and the only thing you refuse to do is group photos with friends, then a beginner or amateur may not be able to handle manual focus.

The biggest disadvantage of instant cameras is that you need to buy replacement photo cartridges. This is quite expensive and not always convenient. An alternative is conventional digital compact cameras. They are small in size and easy to use. They are very convenient to take with you on trips.

If picture quality is your priority, pay attention to DSLR cameras. They are more expensive, but have excellent image quality and a huge number of settings.

TOP 11 best instant camera

The list of the best includes:

• Fujifilm Instax Mini 11 Geometric Se.
• Fujifilm Instax Wide 300.
• Fujifilm Instax Mini LiPlay.
• Fujifilm Instax Mini 11.
• Fujifilm Instax Mini 9.
• Fujifilm Instax Mini 90.
• Canon Zoemini S.
• Fujifilm Instax Mini LiPlay Bundle Hard.
• Fujifilm Instax Mini 70.
• Fujifilm Instax SQ 20.
• Lumicube DK04.

Let's take a closer look at the range presented.

Fujifilm Instax Mini 11 Geometric Se

The high-precision exposure metering system automatically sets the optimal shutter speed and flash intensity to match the brightness of the environment—no special settings required. The device automatically adjusts the flash brightness so that the subject and background are equally bright. The instant camera is available in five colors: white ice, blue sky, rich graphite, delicate lavender, pink dawn. The Instax mini 11 comes with a stylish strap and accessories for customizing the shutter button.

Cost: from 6900 to 8900 rubles.

Fujifilm Instax Mini 11 Geometric Se instant camera

Advantages

• adjusts to the brightness of the environment (no need for settings);
• automatic flash adjustment;
• many bright colors of the camera (white ice, blue sky, rich graphite, delicate lavender, pink dawn).

Flaws

• not found.

When purchasing such a device, it is important to understand that this camera is not intended for super professional photography, but it is perfect for storing important moments in tangible form. The shooting process itself is quite exciting and can interest a person of any age. The photographs themselves have a special atmosphere. When taking photographs, you experience a real thrill that you cannot feel when taking hundreds of frames a day on your phone. When shooting, no adjustments are required; focusing and flash occur automatically; you just need to point the camera and press a button. Printing a photo takes 3-4 seconds, developing about 3-5 minutes. The device is a bomb. I recommend.

Fujifilm Instax Wide 300

A laconic white and beige camera. Control panel with buttons. Two exposure modes: portrait (focusing distance from 1 to 3 meters) and landscape (3 meters infinity). Very simple exposure compensation settings: when turned on, the camera is in normal lighting, it can be adjusted, making the frame brighter or less bright, there is a compensating flash (lightning sign).

Convenient side handle for comfortable shooting. There is a tripod socket. The flash turns on automatically, so there is no need to apply special settings. The kit includes a strap (a large camera can be easily carried on the shoulder), a macro lens with a selfie mirror and 4 batteries.

Price tag: from 10,490 to 12,600 rubles.

Fujifilm Instax Wide 300 instant camera

Advantages

• stylish design in black;
• large image size (86×108 mm);
• automatic flash adjustment;
• automatic focusing.

Flaws

• not found.

The Instax Wide 300 camera prints wide-format cards. Their size is 62x99 mm. This is one of the main advantages of the device. The shots come out really big. It's a pleasure to hold them in your hands and put them in albums. Such photographs capture all the necessary area and eliminate the problem called “part of the face does not fit.” Again, due to the size, the cards turn out to be very atmospheric. There are few modes in this model, which simplifies the use of the camera. The main thing to remember when shooting with Instax is that its best friend is daytime sunlight. But in the dark with flash you also get good pictures. There is a macro lens in the camera box. To get a good shot, I had to suffer. Do not place the camera too close to the subject, but not further than 40-50 cm - then everything will definitely work out. There is a small selfie mirror on the same lens. I definitely recommend buying it; not a single photo from a phone can compare with a card from this camera.

Fujifilm Instax Mini LiPlay

Instax mini LiPlay is a unique new addition to the Fujifilm Instax line of instant cameras. This is the first gadget in the collection that can print photo cards with sound. Take cool pictures with audio that is saved on a QR code and can be played back using your smartphone.

All you need to do is take a photo with a special QR code and point your phone camera at the photo. You will hear a recording that can be up to 10 seconds long. You can also print photos from your smartphone using Bluetooth.

The instant camera makes it easy to print photos from your phone. Instax mini LiPlay will print your photo in 12 seconds. The battery charge is enough for 100 shots. Large selection of filters and frames for photo editing.

You can change the image at your discretion not only during, but also after the shooting process. The instant camera already has 10 frames installed, the photo card format is 6.2x4.6 cm. Fujifilm Instax mini photo paper is used for printing.

Price category: from 14,590 to 16,700 rubles.

Fujifilm Instax Mini LiPlay instant camera

Advantages

• printing a photo with sound (audio is saved on a QR code and played back using a smartphone);
• printing photos from a smartphone using Bluetooth;
• print photos in just 12 seconds;
• The camera comes pre-installed with 10 photo frames.

Flaws

• not found.

I wanted to buy an instant camera for a long time, and finally my dream came true. A very interesting technique. The idea is that you take a photo and print it right away. It’s a very strange but pleasant feeling when you can immediately touch a photograph taken. I shoot using automatic settings, but it is possible to make adjustments to the settings manually. The body itself is pleasant to hold in your hands. For some reason it doesn’t slide in my hands, but my husband tried to escape a couple of times. The photo itself is not very large, about 6 cm by 4.5 cm. I think that such a camera is a very pleasant addition to your vacation.

Fujifilm Instax Mini 11

You may be interested in: TOP 7 best monoblocks: how to choose, reviews, characteristics, price, pros and cons

Mini 11 is an improved version of the previous model Instax MINI 9. It produces the same size 6x5 cm frame, also called “business card”. Convenient format to carry with you and give to friends. Mini 11 came in five bright colors that everyone has become so accustomed to in the mini line.

The main emphasis, of course, is on blue and pink colors, as well as a purple version. They received very romantic, frankly speaking, girlish names - blue sky, pink dawn, delicate lavender. But there are options for less exalted individuals and, of course, men - these are white ice and black graphite.

The flash has become auto-adjustable and, depending on the conditions, calculates how much light needs to be supplied to the frame. Forget about overexposed faces, too dark, black backgrounds, Mini 11 knows how to work with it, now only you and the background will be in the frame.

Cost: from 6490 to 6550 rubles.

Fujifilm Instax Mini 11 instant camera

Advantages

• 5 bright colors (blue, pink, lavender, black, white);
• automatic flash;
• automatic focusing;
• brightness and clarity of cards.

Flaws

• not found.

One of the unique features of this camera model is that the built-in flash automatically controls shutter speed and ensures the brightness of the subject. You just need to point the turned on camera at your subject and press the shutter button. A photograph measuring 62x46 mm is fully developed within 60-90 seconds. The maximum flash distance is 2.7 meters. If you, like me, love photography, want to capture an important moment and keep the memory of it in the form of a photo card, have a love for Polaroids, then I definitely recommend this cute camera with instant photo printing.

Fujifilm Instax Mini 9

The Instax instant camera has smooth body lines and soft color tones. The gadget is available in pink, blue, green, light blue and white colors. The minimalistic design is complemented by its light weight - 307 g without battery, film and strap.

Compared to other members of the mini 9 line, it looks like a bright, simple camera for shooting for fun. Thanks to a small number of settings and the help of auto-correctors, any user will quickly learn how to shoot with a mini 9 camera. The gadget is suitable as a companion at parties and while traveling.

Cost: from 6000 to 7800 rubles.

Fujifilm Instax Mini 9 instant camera

Advantages

• Hi-Key function (allows you to control brightness and contrast by dispersing the flash);
• additional macro lens (the Fujifilm Instax mini 9 has a small view, but with a special lens that comes with the camera, you can shoot small objects at a distance of up to 30 cm);
• selfie mirror (allows you to optimally compose your frame and take high-quality self-portraits the first time, which is especially important).

Flaws

• not found.

The design of the Polaroid is quite durable, and thanks to its barrel-shaped (chubby) shape, it is comfortable to hold in your hands. Don't worry, your Instax mini 9 will definitely not slip out of your hands. There are only two buttons on a Polaroid: open the lens and take a photo. It is also possible to choose one of five modes. Namely: indoor photos, in cloudy weather, on a sunny day, in bright light and hi key mode if the room is poorly lit. But the light ice indicator will always tell you which mode is best to choose. I don’t always like the quality of the photos, it all depends on the weather and lighting, but I will definitely recommend them, these photos are definitely not comparable to phone ones.

Fujifilm Instax Mini 90

This model is one of the most popular in the line, in particular due to its stylish “retro” design. The device is available in two colors: black and brown. With its body, the gadget resembles the old film “Smena”, but at the same time it contains modern technical filling.

The device uses Fujifilm mini-format photographic film; the size of the cards is 54x86 mm, approximately the same as business cards. Photos obtained using Instax 90 can be collected, given to friends, carried in a wallet or sent by mail.

Price: from 11,490 to 12,300 rubles.

Fujifilm Instax Mini 90 instant camera

Advantages

• automatic and manual exposure control allows you to take good quality photographs in daylight and at night;
• programmable flash in automatic mode takes into account distance to the subject and lighting to optimize exposure;
• the camera has a built-in self-timer;
• The LCD screen on the back shows the number of shots remaining, battery charge and settings.

Flaws

• not detected.

The appearance of the camera is magnificent - this is where the designers and engineers did a great job! The case is plastic, but it feels quite rigid to the touch and there is no doubt about its strength. The controls on the rear panel are located quite conveniently. The buttons are pseudo-touch, they are easy to operate, but accidental pressing is excluded. The base has a standard 1/4″ thread for mounting the camera on a tripod. Due to the small size of the image, for the best results you should choose close-ups and do not count on adequate detailing of small details. In general, the fewer details the scene contains, the more adequate the resulting picture will be to expectations. Overall, the device is good, the pictures come out special, although not always clear, but the atmosphere of creating cards cannot be compared with anything else. I recommend.

Canon Zoemini S

In front of you is the most compact camera that produces ready-made prints, comparable in size to a smartphone: the width of a large smartphone, but a few centimeters shorter. The only difference is that the thickness with the lens is 21 mm, which, nevertheless, allows you to put this camera in almost any pocket, something that other similar cameras on the market could not boast of.

The camera is equipped with a ring fill LED flash, as well as one additional LED. The corresponding lever allows you to select the mode of using the flash - off, on, auto. Another button allows you to choose between image formats – 2×3 or 2×2. And the last button allows you to resend the last frame for printing.

The camera has a microSD card slot. If you have a memory card, pictures are not only printed, but also saved. The function of reprinting the last photograph becomes available if multiple copies are required. However, the camera will not take pictures without paper.

Price: from 11990 to 12000 rub.

Canon Zoemini S instant camera

Advantages

• minimum size – width 121 mm;
• matrix resolution – 8 megapixels;
• connection possible via microUSB and Bluetooth;
• Includes strap, USB cable, pack of CANON ZIN photo paper (10 sheets).

Flaws

• not detected.

A great camera with insanely simple controls, but with a lot of cool stuff. I have long wanted such a device, but there was no way to buy it. And as soon as this opportunity arose, I ordered it without further hesitation. It looks very cool, expensive and stylish. There is an instant printing function, now you don’t need to go anywhere to print, just press the button and you’re done! I like that it has a mirror and a light, now you can take excellent and high-quality selfies. Also, thanks to the flash, photographs can be taken even at night and they turn out clear and not blurry. I recommend.

Fujifilm Instax Mini LiPlay Bundle Hard

You may be interested in: TOP 10 best gopro action camera: rating, how to choose, characteristics, reviews, pros and cons

Mini LiPlay is a completely new product in the Instax line. The main feature of the camera was the ability to record sound and attach it to a photo with a QR code. Just like previous SQUARE models, the gadget saves pictures in a gallery: you can take many frames and print the best one. Moreover, the new product has its own application and the ability to print photos from a smartphone - this has never been done before in any Instax.

LiPay also features a larger set of frames and an updated design. The paper format remained the same as for the first models - rectangular INSTAX mini cards. Externally, LiPlay is already more reminiscent of conventional cameras than previous models - perhaps due to the classic arrangement of the matrix and rectangular shape.

The design is designed for right-handed grip and vertical shooting - left-handers will have to put up with this or hold the camera upside down. Right-handers will have no problems: the keys are located quite conveniently.

Price tag: from 14600 to 15800 rub.

Fujifilm Instax Mini LiPlay Bundle Hard instant camera

Advantages

• the ability to record sound and attach it to a photo with a QR code;
• the ability to print photos from a smartphone;
• the gadget saves pictures in the gallery: you can take many frames and print the best one;
• Includes case and lanyard.

Flaws

• not found.

When shooting, the device records several seconds of audio using the built-in microphone, after which it sends the file to its server. You can listen to it using the link encrypted in the generated QR code. The thing is funny, but, in my opinion, no one will use it. Mini LiPlay works with the app of the same name for iOS and Android. In it you can see the battery charge and the number of frames remaining in the cartridge, as well as use four functions. You can place the camera anywhere within Bluetooth coverage and press the shutter on the app. This way you will be in the same frame with all your friends. Comfortable. Ideal as a gift for travelers because memories in the form of cards hanging on the refrigerator or in your wallet are great.

Fujifilm Instax Mini 70

Fujifilm instant camera attracts with its bright design, compactness, light weight and affordable price. The camera is equipped with everything necessary to create interesting and high-quality photographs.

The model is one of the most popular in the family; the kit includes a comfortable hand strap, a ring for fastening, batteries and an instruction manual. The instant camera is great for taking selfies, landscapes and travel reports.

The ultra-light and functional model, available on the market in 7 different colors, has rich functionality. The device is capable of accurately conveying landscapes, as well as photographing one person or a group of people. Young people will appreciate the ability to create selfie shots.

Price category: from 9355 to 9390 rubles.

Fujifilm Instax Mini 70 instant camera

Advantages

• different focusing modes: normal mode, macro mode, landscape mode;
• high-performance flash that can operate in fill mode;
• automatic exposure adjustment and optimal shutter speed setting;
• selfie mode and a special mirror, with which composing the frame will not cause difficulties;
• auto start timer.

Flaws

• not detected.

I have several cameras from the Instax series. The most favorite camera is the Instax 70. Firstly, it is compact, secondly, it has easy controls, and thirdly, it is comfortable to hold in your hands and is designed for shooting self-portraits. Ever since black and white film became available, I have fallen in love with instant photography even more. There are, of course, disadvantages, but for me they are insignificant. Initially, you need to get used to the camera. It does not have an LCD display, only a viewfinder. That is why at first the photographs do not correspond to the idea. Also, the cost of one photo is higher than the cost of printing from a digital camera. Considering that for me the process of taking and developing a photograph is a real pleasure, I have to turn a blind eye to the cost. However, the shooting process itself is a lot of fun. After pressing the shutter button, a photograph appears from the camera with a characteristic buzzing sound. Initially the photo is completely white, but after a couple of seconds the image appears. I love this camera, I recommend it.

Fujifilm Instax SQ 20

The instant camera is designed for those who value time and enjoy every second of life. New functions of the device allow you to edit the resulting image in real time or immediately after pressing the shutter button and then develop it.

The device is equipped with the following functions: frame capture (selecting the ideal moment from a video that lasts 15 seconds); collage with time shift (allows you to combine 4 photographs taken with a pause of 0.2 to 2 seconds); afterimage (in the photo the object appears itself, and an imitation of its location, which was a few moments before, is also added); new processing capabilities (additional effects and filters have appeared). An instant camera is the perfect assistant for storing the happy moments of our lives!

Price tag: from 15990 to 17000 rub.

Fujifilm Instax SQ 20 instant camera

Advantages

• frame capture (selecting the ideal moment from a video that lasts 15 seconds);
• collage with time shift (allows you to combine 4 photographs taken with a pause of 0.2 to 2 seconds);
• the ability to edit photos;
• image clarity.

Flaws

• not found.

A huge plus is that there is a monitor for viewing captured photos. The camera looks more solid than the mini version, not so toy-like. It is comfortable to hold in your hand. Connectors for charging and memory cards are hidden on the side under the covers (dust will not get clogged in them). It is important that the camera is powered by a battery. It doesn't come out. You just need to charge the camera by connecting it via a regular mini-USB to your computer. Another plus is that you can first play enough, learn all the functions and modes, take a bunch of photos and not waste expensive paper. Print only later. In standard mode, the photos are of very high quality (although they are also excellent in other modes). Frame size 1920×1920. This is excellent for such a camera. Not all mobile phones can take pictures like this. I recommend purchasing.

Lumicube DK04

The LUMICUBE digital camera is a bright, compact device that will be an ideal gift for children aged 7 years and older. The plastic body of the camera is protected by a silicone case with funny ears. You can attach a lanyard to the case.

You may be interested in: TOP 15 best wireless noise-cancelling headphones: rating, which ones to choose and buy, characteristics, reviews, pros and cons

The device not only takes photographs and videos, but also immediately prints the selected images. Before printing, you can process the photo directly in the camera: add photo frames, light filters and special effects.

The device is equipped with a microphone, speaker, timer and selfie camera. Save photos to a memory card, print the best ones, sign them, decorate them, and share them with friends. Includes: 16 GB memory card, micro USB cable, cartridge and thermal paper for 100 photos, stickers (4 sheets), neck lanyard.

Cost: from 5990 to 6700 rubles.

instant camera Lumicube DK04

Advantages

• The set includes thermal paper for 100 pictures;
• image size – 50×100 mm;
• minimum shooting distance – 600 mm;
• bright colors, ideal for children - yellow, blue, black and white, pink.

Flaws

• not found.

Lumicube has a whole line of Lumicam cameras for children with different functions. I was lucky enough to get acquainted with the Lumicam DK-04 “I’ll Print You” model. When I opened the box and held this baby in my hands for the first time, I was filled with genuine childish delight! How cool everything is done and thought out to the smallest detail. The Lumicam DK-04 camera can shoot FullHD video and take photographs, including using masks, frames and color effects. The built-in 16 GB memory card holds about 6,000 memorable frames. Photos are saved in JPG format, videos in AVI format. Lumicam DK-04 does not require batteries; it is powered by a 1800mAh battery. You can charge the camera in any way convenient for you - from a computer or from the network. A full battery lasts for 240 minutes of use. The camera has both a 12 MP main camera and a front camera with the ability to take selfies. My child is delighted with this gift, we go for a walk every day and, of course, take wonderful photos.

Fujifilm Instax Square SQ6

Square format photo printing will appeal most to the Instagram generation.

Specifications:

• Lens: 65.75mm f/12.6
• Focus: Macro, normal and landscape
• Flash: Built-in (can be turned off)
• Self-timer: Yes

Advantages:

• Built-in selfie mirror
• Relatively compact camera

Flaws:

• The film is a little expensive
• the price of the camera is higher than that of competitors

Unlike the original instax SQUARE, namely the analog-digital hybrid square SQ10, the SQ6 has a different idea in mind. Shaped like the Instagram logo and very much aimed at young users who share their creations on the platform, the camera runs on a pair of CR2 batteries and prints photos measuring 6.2 x 6.2 cm. A selfie mirror is built into the front of the camera, allowing you to take more easy pictures.

Square Instax prints feel like more serious photographs because their larger size gives your subject more room to be creative. This Fujifilm camera uses orange, purple and green flash filters to ensure an instant infusion of color into images, and since the body is nowhere near as bulky as some of the other options here, it ends up being as convenient to carry as it is fun to use .

This is another great gift option.

Canon Ivy Cliq+ / Zoemini S

The camera combines digital and analogue features in a pocket-friendly way.

Specifications:

• Lens: 25.4mm
• Focus: Normal and Landscape
• Flash: Built-in ring flash
• Self-timer: Via smartphone app

Advantages:

• Flexibility to create digital and printed photos
• Useful application
• Compact design

Flaws:

• Photo printing speed may be slightly slower than competitors

Canon's model is actually more of a hybrid, combining analogue film with digital technology. The Zink (zero ink) paper it uses doesn't need lighting like regular instant film, so the camera can be much smaller. The Ivy Cliq+ / Zoemini S is truly pocket-sized, surpassing even Fujifilm's Instax Mini LiPlay in portability.

The built-in LED ring flash helps create sweet portraits, the mirror lens is specially designed for selfies, and the focusing is automatic, making this a great party camera. However, the snapshot process can be slow, with the image taking about 10 seconds to print - much slower than our current favorite, the Fujifilm Instax Mini 9. The credit card-sized photos it produces are much more detailed, although the colors are more similar on traditional 35mm film than the dream-like Lomographic effects seen on other instant films.

The camera's battery life is usually enough to print two 10-packs of images, but even with an SD card installed, it won't take any more pictures once you run out of film. The 8-megapixel sensor is on par with today's entry-level smartphones, and without a built-in screen, you'll need a computer to view your digital photos.

This camera seems much simpler than other hybrid cameras, but built-in Bluetooth support allows it to do double duty as a portable printer. The ability to turn your smartphone snaps into printed photos gives it an edge over bulkier instant cameras, as well as a reasonable price.

Kodak Mini Shot

The stylish and very light weight camera is available in five different colors. It can take photos with 10 megapixel resolution. The display has a diagonal of 1.7 inches, which is quite good. It is used as a viewfinder. The model can be connected to a smartphone via Bluetooth and print pictures from the gallery. Photos can be edited before printing, which is very convenient. There are a lot of different effects that can be applied to a photo. It is possible to remotely control the camera. The model produces pictures measuring 2.1*2.1 or 2.1*3.4 inches.

Pros:

1. There is a choice of body color;
2. Built-in photo editor application;
3. The kit includes a cartridge for 8 shots;
4. You can print photos directly from your smartphone;
5. Powerful battery;
6. It is possible to shoot video;
7. Durable plastic housing.

Minuses:

1. No flash or selfie mirror.

Which is better - analogue or digital?

Analog cameras are better suited for those who like to create photos in a retro style. They can be customized to suit your photography preferences. Also, pictures created on an analog device come out completely white and begin to develop after a couple of minutes.

Instant digital cameras are more versatile.

They can shoot video, process photos before printing using various tools, send photos to a memory card, as well as to another device via a USB cable or a proprietary application.

Which company should you choose?

The purchase of instant cameras should be made only from reliable manufacturers, since these devices are quite expensive.

The most modern and technologically advanced instant cameras will be produced by three companies in 2021:

1. Fujifilm . The Japanese company produces instant cameras in a separate Instax line. Such devices have a stylish design, extensive functionality and simple operation.
2. Polaroid . This American company became famous in the 80-90s. 20th century production of instant cameras. In the 21st century, the manufacturer continues to produce analog cameras with more extensive functionality and high-quality images.
3. Canon . The Japanese manufacturer produces models with instant printing in the Zoemini line. These cameras are paired with a smartphone for convenient use and have all the necessary functions for creating and printing pictures.