The Fujifilm Instax Mini 40 brings nostalgia vibes with its classic appeal and instant photography features. The camera channels a toy-like construction yet offer a familiar experience of shoot-and-print photography.
Fujifilm Instax Mini 40 Review
We took this camera for a spin over the weekend; and we have some things to share about the camera in this Fujifilm Instax Mini 40 review.
Key Specifications:
- Film: FUJIFILM instax mini instant film
- Photo Picture Size: 62 mm × 46 mm
- Lens: 2 components, 2 elements, f = 60 mm, 1:12.7
- Viewfinder: Real image finder, 0.37×, with target spot
- Shooting Range: 0.3 m and beyond (use selfie mode for 0.3 m to 0.5 m)
- Shutter: Programmed electronic shutter 1/2 to 1/250 sec. Slow synchro for low light
- Exposure Control: Automatic, Lv 5.0 to 14.5 (ISO 800)
- Film Ejection: Automatic
- Film Developing Time: Approx. 90 seconds
- Flash: Constant firing flash (automatic light adjustment)
- Power Supply: Two AA-size alkaline batteries
- Auto Power Off Time: After 5 minutes
- Dimensions: 104 mm × 121 mm × 65 mm
- Weight: 330 g (without batteries, strap, and film)
- Other: Includes film counter and film pack confirmation window
- ₱5,499 at Instax Official Shopee Store
Design, Functions
In an era of camera phones, the Fujifilm Instax Mini 40 definitely catches attention when seen on the wild. Its retro appeal makes it even more attractive to those who are finding an escape from the usual point-and-shoot designs that we've seen in cameras today. Its body has a faux leather finish with silver accents which exudes a premium-looking appeal. This impression ends when you try to hold the camera; it is boxy but it settles on the lighter side.
The camera comes with great handling, especially when you use it vertically. On the flipside, it may be a challenge when getting pictures in landscape mode; there are chances that your hands will cover the viewfinder. However, I would say that the Instax Mini 40 is simple to use, there's no need to deal with complicated interface since the camera only has two buttons - one for the power button or lens activation and the other one is for the actual shutter button.
At the back, there's a flip-up door which reveals the film cushion where you'll insert the films. There's also a view finder on the upper right section. Likewise, a conspicuous film counter can be found besides the flip-up door. Of course, this shows how many shots you have left on your film packs.
On the front, there's a barrel that pops up when you activate (or turn on) the camera which is done by pressing the release button. Pulling this barrel further will activate the selfie mode. Lastly, there's a small convex mirror on the barrel which serves as your framing guide when taking a selfie.
The Camera
We have a f/12.7 lens with 60mm focal length. The camera can take passable shots which is quite understandable for a point-and-shoot camera. The images register okay with high contrast. Color accuracy is also okay. Likewise, details are okay. The highlights could easily be overblown; but what's good about this camera is that I have never experienced a light leak.
As expected with non-digital cameras, it struggles to expose subjects in dark areas especially when you're shooting against the light. Knowing that this is a fixed focus lens, subjects become soft when the shot is taken further from the subject. This effect could also be a good thing if you're preserving the ethereal effect of instant cameras.
In terms of printing, the slit on the top of the camera auto-ejects the prints. Also, the prints took an ample amount of time to be developed, about 90 seconds.
The camera is capable to adopt in any lighting conditions by automatically adjusting its shutter speed. For low-light environment, the camera makes use of the flash to brighten dim scenarios. In fact, the flash is always activated even when you're shooting in well-lit rooms or outdoors.
As for the battery, the Instax Mini 40 is powered by two double A batteries which is a good thing since this battery type is very common. You won't have the burden of finding proprietary battery packs like with other competing brands. With this pack, you can get up to 100 shots before the batteries are dead.
Should You Buy The Fujifilm Instax Mini 40?
The Fujifilm Instax Mini 40 is a must-have for instant photography enthusiasts. Its toy-like and leatherette design makes it even more appealing for users who prefers nostalgia over photo quality.
The camera is also very easy to use. In fact, there are just a number of buttons to master; even kids can use this camera for their scrapbooks or mosaic and collage projects. All in all, the Fujifilm Instax Mini 40 is a joy to have especially if you love to collect memories in printed photos.