Did you know this is Polaroid week? I didn’t either until last night but I thought it appropriate to pay homage to this incredible invention so here is a very brief history adapted from savepolaroid.com

In 1929 Edwin Land gains notoriety by solving one of science’s long-standing unsolvable problems – polarizing light without needing a large crystal of an esoteric mineral. (I have no idea what that means either, but stick with me, it gets more interesting, I promise).

Polaroid Foundation is established in 1937 and his inventions and instruments manufactured by his foundation go on to play a major part in World War 2. For instance, he develops the first guided missile system and polarized goggles for airmen. (See, I told you it would get more interesting. Try bringing up this little factoid at your next cocktail party, you’ll come off as knowledgeable and slightly nerdy, an adorable combination).

In 1944 a simple question asked by his young daughter changes the face of photography forever. That question was, “why can’t I see my pictures now?” Land begins researching this possibility and the SX-70 project begins.

Two years later a Boston camera store sells the very first instant photography camera, the Polaroid Model 95 with Type 40 film. The camera is named for its $95 price tag (the equivalent of $850 today). After quickly selling out, the store began taking back orders for up to $150 or about $1350!

By 1962 four million cameras had been produced and sold all over the world. For many decades after that, a Polaroid camera and film could just as easily make an appearance on a typical family’s vacation as in the studio of a world famous photographer.

Sadly, on February 8th, 2008 Polaroid announces all instant film production will cease by 2009 causing many Polaroid fans like myself to go into hoarding mode.

So there you have it, a very brief history of Polaroid film. For a more fleshed out version check out savepolaroid.com