Disposable cameras, those cheap plastic point-and-shoots you can toss after finishing the roll, used to be a staple of birthdays, vacations, and nights out in the ‘90s and early 2000s. But as digital cameras and then smartphones took over, it seemed like film would go the way of the floppy disk.
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However, in recent years, film photography has been making a surprising comeback. Whether for the retro cool factor, the challenge of getting the perfect shot in one take, or the unique look of film, many people are ditching digital and returning to analog photography. But what does this mean for the fate of the humble disposable camera? And can you still get them developed at your local Target store like in the old days?
The Evolution of Target‘s Photo Services
To find out, let‘s first take a look at how Target‘s photo center offerings have changed over the years. In the film heyday of the ‘80s, ‘90s, and early ‘00s, Target had full-service photo labs that not only developed disposable cameras, but also processed 35mm film, made enlargements, and even rented camcorders.
"Target was the go-to spot for all your photography needs back then," says Lisa Swenson, a former Target Photo Center employee. "We had the best prices in town and even offered double prints for the price of single!"
However, as digital cameras became more affordable and convenient in the mid-2000s, demand for film processing rapidly declined. In fact, camera sales peaked in 2010 and have been falling ever since, according to data from the Camera & Imaging Products Association. By 2011, film photography made up less than 1% of the total US photo industry.
Faced with this shrinking market, Target likely found it inefficient to maintain the expensive machines and chemicals needed to process film. They quietly phased out many photo services in the early 2010s, including developing disposable cameras. "It was a sad day when we packed up that last film processor," Swenson recalls. "But I understand why Target made the tough call to focus solely on digital printing."
What Photo Products Can You Get at Target Now?
Fast forward to today, and Target still has photo centers in most of its stores – but you won‘t find any trace of analog photography there. Instead, Target has pivoted to focus on digital photo products and services via its Target Photo website and in-store kiosks. Customers can order prints, enlargements, and products like photo books, calendars, and gifts using their own digital image files.
"We aim to provide a convenient and creative digital photo experience," says Casey Neilson, a Target spokesperson. "From high-quality prints to personalized home decor, we have a wide variety of products that let you bring your smartphone photos to life."
However, film enthusiasts will have to look elsewhere to get those disposable camera shots or vintage negatives developed. "Unfortunately, we no longer have the equipment to process film of any kind, including disposable cameras," Neilson confirms. "We recommend checking out local drugstores or professional photo labs that still offer those services."
Disposable Camera Developing Options Compared
So where exactly can you get disposable cameras developed these days? Most major retailers with photo centers will still process them, but the prices and specifics vary. Here‘s a breakdown of what you can expect at some of the top photo-developing locations.
| Retailer | Price Per Camera | Developing Time | Negatives Returned? | Notable Extras |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CVS | $12.99 for 12 exp. | 7-10 days | No | Upgrade to 1-hour service for $2 more |
| Walgreens | $14.99 for 12 exp. | 6-9 days | No | Prints made with Fujicolor Superia X-TRA 400 film |
| Walmart | $7.96 for 12 exp. | 1-2 weeks | No | Cheapest major retailer, but may use lower quality film |
| The Darkroom | $17 for 12 exp. | 1-5 days | Yes | Professional online lab, higher quality scans and prints |
| Dwayne‘s Photo | $19 for 12 exp. | 3-5 days | Yes | Specializes in odd & expired film stocks |
As you can see, prices for developing a basic 12-exposure disposable camera range from about $8 to $20, with drugstores like CVS and Walgreens on the higher end and big-box retailers like Walmart on the lower end. However, the cheaper options may use lower-quality film or take longer to process.
Another key difference is that standalone photo labs like The Darkroom and Dwayne‘s Photo will return your negatives to you, while drugstores usually will not. This is important if you want to preserve the original source images or make additional prints later. These specialized labs also offer other services like scanning, restoration, and image recovery for more complex projects.
Tips for Getting the Best Results from Disposable Cameras
Whether you‘re an amateur experimenting with film or a pro looking for a nostalgic effect, here are some tips for getting great shots on a disposable camera:
Pay attention to lighting. Disposable cameras have a fixed-focus lens and a small aperture, so they need a lot of light to expose properly. Shoot outdoors in bright sun for best results, or use the flash indoors.
Keep your subject 4-10 feet away. Any closer and your shot may be blurry since disposables can‘t focus on close-ups. Stand about 5 feet away for a classic portrait or full-body shot.
Hold still! Disposable cameras have a relatively slow shutter speed, so even a slight shake can cause blurriness. Brace your elbows against your body or prop the camera on a stable surface if needed.
Compose creatively. You can‘t zoom or adjust settings, so move your feet to get the framing you want. Try unusual angles, like getting low to the ground or holding the camera above your head.
Embrace the imperfections. Light leaks, graininess, off colors – these "flaws" are part of the charm of disposable cameras. Don‘t expect crystal clear perfection, but rather a dreamy, intimate feel to your photos.
The Psychology of Retro Tech
The resurgence of "dead" technologies like disposable cameras is part of a larger trend of young people seeking out retro products and experiences. Over half of millennials and Gen Z say they like things from past decades, especially the ‘90s and ‘00s. This "newstalgia" could be driven by a desire to slow down and disconnect from 24/7 digital life.
"In our hyper-paced, tech-saturated world, there‘s something undeniably appealing about using an unassuming disposable film camera," says Dr. Christine Gerhart, a social psychologist who studies consumer behavior. "It takes us back to a simpler time before the pressure of social media perfection."
Gerhart notes that the delayed gratification of film is another draw for digital natives. "When you only have 24 shots and have to wait to get them developed, each frame feels more special and intentional compared to the thousands of throw-away digital pics on our phones."
There‘s also the cool factor of doing something different and "authentic." Much like vinyl records, flip phones, and other retro tech, film cameras are novel again for the digital generation. "Shooting on film, whether a vintage camera or a disposable, has an element of hipster cred," Gerhart explains. "It‘s a way to stand out and slow down in an age of smartphone ubiquity and instant everything."
The Kodak Connection
Of course, the company most synonymous with film photography is Kodak, the former behemoth that invented the first disposable camera in 1986. Kodak‘s story over the past few decades is one of stubborn resistance to change – and ultimately, downfall because of it.
"Kodak actually invented the first digital camera in 1975," says Caroline Miller, a photo historian and curator. "But they were so wed to the profitable film business model that they failed to capitalize on their own innovation." Instead, Kodak doubled down on film and traditional prints in the ‘90s and 2000s, even as upstarts like Canon and Nikon released better digital cameras.
By the time Kodak finally got serious about transitioning to digital in the mid-2000s, it was too late. The company filed for bankruptcy in 2012 and has since sold off most of its assets and businesses. "Kodak‘s cautionary tale shows the danger of clinging to the past rather than embracing the future," Miller says. "They went from being synonymous with photography to mostly forgotten, all within a generation."
However, like disposable cameras themselves, the Kodak brand is seeing a mini-revival among analog-loving millennials and Gen Z. In 2019, Kodak reported double-digit growth in film sales for the first time in decades. Kodak film and disposable cameras are now coveted for their retro aesthetic and ties to photography history. Urban Outfitters even sells a Kodak x UO exclusive disposable camera decked out in colorful sun flowers.
"It‘s fascinating to see young people embracing Kodak again as a hip, heritage brand," Miller muses. "In some ways, Kodak was ahead of its time with products like disposable cameras that offered fun and accessible photography for everyone. Those values resonate with today‘s ‘maker‘ generation."
A Disposable Camera How-To
Want to try out a disposable camera for yourself? Here‘s a quick guide to the iconic yellow Kodak FunSaver, one of the most popular models sold at Target and drugstores.
The camera comes pre-loaded with 27-exposure, 800-speed Kodak film and has a built-in flash for low-light situations. To operate:
Remove the yellow Kodak label sticker on the front and pull the tab to extend the lens. This will "turn on" the camera.
Look through the small viewfinder window to compose your shot.
Press the shutter button down fully to take a picture. The flash will automatically fire if needed.
Turn the thumbwheel with ridges on it clockwise until it stops to advance to the next frame.
Repeat steps 1-4 until the film counter on top reads "0" (the starting point is 27).
Rewind the film by holding the film release button on the bottom of the camera and twisting the crank clockwise until all slack is gone.
Flip open the back cover and remove the film canister inside. You‘re now ready to get it developed!
Preserving Disposable Camera Memories in a Digital World
Once you have your precious disposable camera photos in hand, you may want to digitize them so you can edit, share, and save them more easily. You can scan the prints yourself or pay the photo lab a few extra bucks to give you digital files on a CD or flash drive. Just make sure to use a high enough resolution scan (at least 600 dpi) so you don‘t lose detail if you want to re-print them later.
It‘s also a good idea to back up your scans in multiple places, like an external hard drive and a cloud storage service like Google Photos or Dropbox. Unlike the negatives and prints, digital files can be lost forever if your computer crashes or you forget your password!
If you want to take your digitized disposable shots to the next level, consider using an editing app like VSCO or Snapseed to tweak the color, contrast, and clarity. Many of these apps have "film-inspired" filters that can enhance the vintage vibe. You can also get creative with collages, animations, or even printing your photos on objects like mugs, blankets, or phone cases. The possibilities are endless once you‘ve bridged the analog-digital divide.
The Future of Nostalgia Tech
As long as there are young people looking to rebel against the digital status quo, it‘s likely that "outdated" technologies like disposable cameras will continue to have a cultish appeal. But some experts predict that nostalgia tech could move beyond niche hobbies to shape mainstream culture and innovation.
"We‘re already seeing a blend of analog and digital, old and new, in product design and marketing," says tech futurist Brianne Taylor. As an example, she points to the wildly popular Instax instant film cameras, which combine the immediate gratification of a Polaroid with the kawaii cuteness of a Japanese toy. "Gen Z in particular is drawn to these ‘phygital‘ experiences that marry classic aesthetics with modern features."
Taylor envisions a future where more companies resurrect iconic products and brands from the past, but with a 21st century upgrade. Think a Nintendo Game Boy phone case that actually plays games, or a Tamagotchi virtual pet that syncs with your smartwatch. "Nostalgia is a powerful force," she says. "As we rush headlong into an uncertain technological future, familiar objects from our collective past can offer a sense of comfort and continuity."
So while Target no longer develops disposable cameras, the future of film photography looks bright – and pleasingly grainy. As long as there are people who crave a slower, more authentic experience, the humble disposable camera will keep on clicking.
