Rediscovering the craft of instant photography: Magnum and Polaroid set new benchmark in instant

Polaroid and Magnum, two icons of photography, announce their first ever partnership. Along with renowned Magnum photographers, they are celebrating the storytelling power of black-and-white photography and the new level of craft, detail and mastery made possible by the Polaroid I-2 Instant Camera. Their combined expertise—including tips on overcoming perfection—will be shared with photographers worldwide via an open call.  

The partnership features the photographic approach and craft of renowned Magnum photographers known for their deep, empathetic storytelling and commitment to capturing real life in all its complexity: Jim Goldberg, Newsha Tavakolian and Enri Canaj. Their works aim to inspire the next wave of instant photography storytellers. “Photographing with the Polaroid I-2 is a unique experience. Its slow process requires time to interact with the subject, light, and angle before pressing the button, making it special to me”, says Enri Canaj who explores the cultural, societal and economic shift in his “Albania Homecoming” project. Newsha Tavakolian captures a small region and the people unknown to most, in her “Mount Damavand community” project, while “two Arkansas Delta communities” by Jim Goldberg uncovers the hidden spirit of America. 

This movement seeks to reconnect us with our subjects, and lives, through instant photography. “There’s no such thing as a perfect life, nor a perfect image," says Newsha Tavakolian "Analog and instant photography evoke that feeling because they can’t be photoshopped or filtered.” Imperfectionism is an obsession with the craft of instant photography. It champions the idea that real experiences, mistakes, and authenticity are more valuable than polished perfection. This movement is what inspired the brand to launch the Polaroid I-2 Instant Camera – the first-ever instant camera with built-in manual controls.    

The open call invites all photographers worldwide to submit their photography portfolio (digital, analogue or Polaroid photography) and an idea for an empathy inspired story via polaroid.com until August 12, 2024. Selected photographers will be contacted by Magnum and can win a Polaroid I-2 Camera, Polaroid Film, and mentorship from Magnum photographers to capture real life in all shades of gray. Winners will be announced on August 26.

About Imperfectionism

More open call details

About Magnum

Magnum Photos is a cooperative of acclaimed, independent photographers who share an ongoing commitment to documenting world events. Founded in 1947, Magnum Photos has been telling stories of the past, defining the present, and shaping the future through photography for over 77 years.