Black & White Polaroids and the Pacific
It’s a simple combo: early morning, the Pacific Ocean, coffee, a camera, and no agenda. It would’ve been better if my dog, Pinto, had been there with me—but it was a long drive from Colorado to San Diego. Next time.
There’s something about the ocean in the morning. I grew up about a mile from the Huntington Beach Pier, close enough that the salty air and early morning fog felt like part of my DNA. Now that I live landlocked, every chance to be by the water feels even more significant—like I’m reclaiming a memory from childhood.
Lately, I’ve been shooting with a new-ish favorite: the Polaroid I-2. It came out a little over a year ago, and I jumped on it early. I’m not a gearhead, but I love trying new cameras—especially ones that tap into the nostalgia of my first: a 1970s Polaroid OneStep. There’s something about shooting one image at a time that just feels right.
I like slowing down.
Polaroids are special. Even with all the advancements—better lenses, multiple exposures, long exposures—they’re still unpredictable. You get eight shots in a pack. Not great odds, but you shoot anyway, hoping for at least one solid keeper.
To be fair, I usually end up with more than that—maybe because I embrace the imperfections. That’s what draws me to them. They remind me that the best things aren’t always perfect—they’re just real.
And that’s the thing. Even when a Polaroid isn’t technically good, it’s still perfect in its own way. Shooting with one isn’t for everyone. But I love them.
For just a moment, you’re not capturing a photo—you’re capturing a memory. A single, irreplaceable instant.
And that’s cool.
You can see more polaroids over on IG @juanjuanston