The Kid’s Camera That Saved My Wallet
Looking for the perfect first camera for your kid that doesn’t give you heart palpitations every time they press the shutter? Let me introduce you to my new parenting hack: the Anchioo Instant Print Camera.
As a mom, photographer, and someone who has definitely winced as my child used up a $1.25 Fuji Instax print to capture a blurry photo of her sock, I knew we needed a better solution.
And we found one.
Meet the Anchioo: A Budget-Friendly, Creativity-Boosting Kids’ Camera
This cute little gadget looks like a toy, but it’s packed with surprising features. It’s an instant print camera, meaning your kid gets the joy of watching their photo print out instantly. But unlike a Fujifilm Instax, it uses thermal roll paper and prints in black and white.
Translation?
No expensive ink. No precious film. No more clenched cheeks when they decide to photograph the dog’s tail from five different angles.
What Makes It Better Than an Instax for Young Kids?
Let’s break it down:
Cost Per Print: A pack of Instax film costs around $20 for 20 photos. With the Anchioo, you get 3 rolls of print paper (about 372 photos) for a fraction of that.
Creative Freedom: Because prints aren’t precious, kids feel free to experiment. Take a photo of the couch? Go for it. Selfie with a grape? Yes, queen.
Color It In: Every camera comes with 6 colorful pens to doodle on their prints.
More Than a Camera: It’s also got video, music, games, and even a selfie mirror. Think of it as a screen-free entertainment station disguised as a camera.
Key Features Parents Will Actually Care About
Instant Black and White Printing
No ink, no toner, no drama. Just press the shutter and out pops a photo in one second.
Kid-Friendly Design
Lightweight, includes a lanyard, and has a 2.4 inch screen. Even toddlers can use it without needing a tutorial.
Creative Add-ons
15 scene filters, 16 sticker overlays, and those 6 pens? Endless fun.
Video and Zoom
HD 1080p video recording and 16X digital zoom. More fun, more memories.
Rechargeable Battery
1000mAh battery lasts for over 2 hours of continuous video. Charge it with a USB-C (included).
32GB Memory Card Included
Store hundreds of photos and videos. No extra accessories needed.
Real Talk: Is It Actually Good?
I bought this because my mom friend got it and recommended. That helped, because all I think about with cheaper cameras is whether or not they will fall apart within a week. Months later, not only has it held up beautifully, but it’s become a go-to activity for my daughter. Whether she’s documenting her stuffed animal zoo or making “photo invitations” to her imaginary parties, this camera has sparked hours of creative play.
I love that it supports her independence while giving her a sense of ownership over her memories. And as a photographer, I can’t help but appreciate a tool that nurtures storytelling in a screen-lite, tangible way.
Who Is This Camera Best For?
Kids aged 3 to 8 (though older kids will still love the instant print novelty)
Budding artists who love to draw or color
Mini documentarians who want to “make a book” or “start a newspaper”
Parents who are tired of wasting Instax film on close-ups of a banana
Final Verdict
The Anchioo Instant Print Camera is fun, affordable, surprisingly well-built, and offers way more freedom for creative expression than its more expensive competitors.
If you’re looking for a gift that encourages creativity without breaking the bank or your nerves, this one’s a no-brainer.
Where to Buy It
Honestly, I’ve deeply stepped back from purchasing from Amazon any longer. I did search for direct purchase from the manufacturer, but they said it was sold out. So it’s linked below, but if you find another source, let me know and I will update it here.
P.S. No, this isn’t sponsored. I just like it. And if you’re on the fence about buying another kid gadget, let me reassure you: this one actually gets used.
Want more parenting product reviews from a creative mom who’s already tested it in the chaos of real life? DM on IG and let me know.
I’m so glad you are here.
