Buyer's Guide: Reusable & Disposable Promotional Cameras

Promotional cameras provide a method of promotional item marketing which is somewhat more expensive, but longer-lasting than many other promotional items, like pencils or calendars. It is possible to obtain both disposable or reusable cameras of this type.

DISPOSABLE

Disposable cameras, because they already have the necessary film and batteries installed, are more likely to be used in the short-term than most reusable units. They will also be seen by additional people during the film developing process, giving a bit more exposure to the brand name printed on them.

However, they must be distributed to customers before reaching their expiration date, and don't have the potential to be used for many years. This combination of factors makes disposables best for promoting specific products or events which are expected to eventually come to an end.

Some have a built-in flash (usually more expensive), while others lack this feature, and the number of exposures usually ranges from 24-27. They can be purchased from websites such as epromos.com, usimprints.com, and others.

REUSABLE

Promotional cameras which can be reused have several advantages, although they are somewhat more expensive. These cameras can last for many years, continously promoting your business or organization. They can also provide additional brand exposure if people try to sell them at yard sales or list them on eBay. Another advantage of reusable cameras is their greater value; they can be used to encourage a purchase (or donation), or sold at a low price, unlike some promotional items which usually can only be given away.

Many of these cameras lack a built-in flash, but more of them have a metal slot on the top called a "hot shoe", which allows an external flash unit to be attached. Digital, motorized, or underwater promotional cameras are also available; these are more likely to be used by customers, but are more costly. It is also possible to purchase promotional 35mm panoramic cameras; these are more desirable to customers than regular or disposable units, while remaining relatively inexpensive. Car-shaped and large-viewfinder models are available as well.

Keep in mind that some reusable units may have a manufacturer's brand name printed on them (like "Vivitar" or "Suntone"), while others only feature your promotional brand; you may want to verify this before making a purchase. Another brand name on the camera may give customers confidence of its quality or performance (if they are familiar with the brand), but will distract from the brand of your business or organization. It is possible to purchase them at motivators.com, usimprints.com, and other promotional product websites.

Overall, reusable promotional cameras are somewhat more expensive but better for promoting a brand or organization in general, while disposable units are less costly and preferable for a specific product or event.