Hipstamatic Launches a Social Experiment

The random results you get from leaving a disposable camera where many people can snap photos with it appeals to a wide range of people, from brides and grooms to community chroniclers. Now the software company that created the Hipstamatic iPhone app is trying to replicate that experience with a new app called Hipstamatic Disposable. It will run on iPhones, iPads, and iPod touches.
The idea is to start a roll of “film” and invite other people who’ve downloaded Hipstamatic Disposable to also take shots. None of you are able to view any of the shots until the roll is full, but once it is, all of the participants can see all of the photos.
The app is free, and you get one free “camera” if you connect via Facebook. After that, you have to buy cameras for $0.99 each via in-app purchase. You also have to pay for “film”: a pack of 9 frames is $0.99, a pack of 36 is $1.99, and a pack of 99 is $4.00.

It will be interesting to see how iPhone photographers react to this unusual fee structure. I’m too much of a skinflint to pay for the privilege of “developing” nonexistent “film”, but other people may feel differently. If you want to try it out — remember, you do get one free camera — download Hipstamatic Disposable from the App Store.