This Monday, PBS’s “American Experience” turns its lens on a figure whose invention revolutionized photography and continues to shape how we capture and share memories today: Edwin Land, the man behind the Polaroid camera. In “Mr. Polaroid,” the documentary examines Land’s life, career, and the lasting impact of his instant photography creation.
From his early experiments to the Polaroid’s rise to global popularity (by the 1970s, over a billion Polaroid photos were being snapped annually), the episode traces the arc of a true visionary. Land’s influence extended beyond the world of photography. His inventive approach and particular style of corporate leadership inspired future tech giants like Steve Jobs, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of innovation.
“Mr. Polaroid” airs this Monday, May 19 at 9:00 PM ET on PBS.
