A student suggestion has turned a modern selfie project into an an old-school affair in the Johnny Carson Center for Emerging Media Arts on Aug. 27.

Gathered for their first Ignite colloquium of the fall semester, more than 90 student had directory photos taken using Polaroid instant cameras. When complete, the directory will be used to help the students get to know each other.

“It’s like old school Facebook,” said Jeff O’Brien, director of technology for the Carson Center. “We were considering a digital photo directory for the students’ iPads, but they wanted something different.”

Craig Chandler | University Communication

Olivia Jenkins, a sophomore from Lincoln, poses as Sean Strough, equipment and technology associate for Carson Center, takes her photo.

The Carson Center team — which included O’Brien, Ben Strough and Carly Liggett — developed multiple 10-packs of the Polaroid film type, which was first introduced with the SX-70 camera in 1972.

“It’s outdated and vintage at the same time,” said Caleb Kirilov, a second-year student. “It’s almost a breath of fresh air since everything is digital now.”

Craig Chandler | University Communication

Jeff O’Brien, director of technology for the Johnny Carson Center for Emerging Media Arts, takes a student’s photo using a Polaroid instant camera. The project came about after a request from students.

S. Vladimir, a sophomore emerging arts and broadcasting major, said they liked the whole vibe of the project.

“Digital is everywhere,” Vladimir said. “But, when you have a Polaroid, it’s more of a tangible memory. Plus, it’s fun.”

Craig Chandler | University Communication

Johnny Carson Center for Emerging Media Arts students gathered outside the building on Aug. 27 for picture day.