There’s no denying that instant film has made a major comeback in recent years. And while we talk a lot about Polaroid cameras and Impossible Project film here at Mortal Muses, I thought today we’d take a look at a different instant film camera, the Fuji Instax Mini 7S. This cute little novelty camera was given to me by a friend last year–she works in media and gets all kinds of perks and gadgets from clients (she’s given me iPods and cameras, has taken me to countless sporting events and even on some amazing trips!…but I digress…). I’ll admit I haven’t paid this little guy much mind, but recently decided to take him for a little spin.
Although not tiny, it’s relatively compact and easy to handle. Weighing in at only 11 ounces, it’s smaller than most Polaroid cameras. And what’s really kind of cool is that it shoots out 2″ x 3″ instant prints about the size of a credit card.
{My scanner didn’t really want to cooperate for this post, so please excuse the less than fabulous scanned images!}
The Instax Mini 7S uses ISO 800 speed film, has a fixed focus 60mm lens, a 1/60-sec electronic shutter and an automatic built-in flash (nice for low-light shooting, but kind of annoying that it can’t be turned off). Now, we’re not talking major works of art here, but this is a fun camera if you just want to play around or you’re feeling nostalgic and want to watch a photo develop in your hand. I thought since we’re celebrating diptychs on the blog this month that I’d give it a whirl with my Instax Mini.
There are several different Fuji Instax cameras out there–different models, colors and prices depending on your needs. The one I have–the Instax Mini 7S–can be purchased for about $60.oo these days. You can find the cameras and the film on Amazon, Photojojo or at Urban Outfitters. At $20.00 or less for a 2-pack of 10, that’s $1.00 or less per frame. Much cheaper than Impossible Film for sure. And this film develops quickly (about a minute or 2), does not need to be shielded from the light while developing and is not affected by the air temperature. Am I saying that I like this camera better than a good old-fashioned Polaroid because the film is a little cheaper and more stable? Absolutely not, that’d be like comparing apples and oranges. I think they both have their place in my camera bag 🙂
One final note about the camera settings. There are four manual exposure settings that allow you a bit of control over the final image. Using the dial on the back of the camera you can set it depending on your indoor or natural lighting conditions: “indoor/dark”; “cloudy/shady”; “fine”; or “clear”. Below is an example of 2 shots taken a few seconds apart on a bright cloudy day earlier this week–the left image shot on the “cloudy” setting and the right image taken on the “fine” setting.
Overall I did find that, even with the 4 exposure settings, the images were a little inconsistent. But for the very first photo in this post, most times the skies were a little blown out no matter what setting I used on the camera. I think this camera is best used on a cloudy day–in bright sun the photos were definitely over-exposed.
All in all, the Fuji Instax Mini is a unique and quirky little camera to have in any collection. I think it would be especially fun to bring to a party or out to dinner with friends. I’d also guess that it would be a nice distraction for your children to play with (you know, a diversion tactic, to keep their hands off of your vintage Polaroid cameras!)
As you can see, the photos aren’t stellar–but sometimes it’s just about having a little fun.
See you soon!
Christy | Urban Muser
love this post, christy, and thanks for showing the mini instax some love! i just recently got the instax 25, for the sole purpose of just having a little fun, and it has not disappointed.
thanks meegan! the instax 25 looks pretty cool–maybe a few additional features.
Christy I think I have quite become the camera nerd, as I have the instax mini and recently got a 210, I’m still in the experimental stages, but having fun with them both. Now I’m more inspired to use them both!!
I love that you have 2 of them! Keep experimenting…
My 9-year-old son has the similar Polaroid 300. It’s fun seeing images from his perspective. He loves to take photos of his friends and relatives and then give them the image. Also, I always know what to give him for Christmas/birthday presents, more film!
Sounds fun to be able to see the images your son takes. Uh oh, a 9 year old film addict!!
Christy, thanks for the info on the Mini Instax. I’ve wondered about it. Love that first tree shot!
Thanks Anna. That first tree shot came out with the best colors. As I said, the images were a little inconsistent no matter what I did with the exposure settings. Part of the fun of film!
Thank you for helping with my camera addiction; I’ve been tempted by one of these for a while. I particularly love all the diptychs! x
Hmm, maybe you’ll have to pick one up!
Makes me want to go grab my neglected Instax! Fun post, Christy!
Thanks Meghan!
i was JUST looking at these again this week, like Kirstin, and glad to see the prices have gone down. thanks for all the info!
Yes, the older models, like mine, are definitely cheaper. I’m sure you can find one for less than $60.
It does seem like a fun toy – I’ve seen them in the local Urban Outfitters and always wondered what the quality would be like. I might pick one up!
Thanks for stopping by Shirley, let us know if you pick one up!
oh i love these shots christy! so much fun…and willow’s ear! Audrey has one of these and I cherish the shot she gave me of Maj…just makes me so happy. And of course…I want one now too!
Ha, yes Willow’s ear was flopping in the wind that day. It is a fun little camera 🙂
I have seen these at our local grocery store in the electronics dept and wondered how well they work. Thanks for the review! Might just need to pick one up with a gallon of milk soon 🙂
Who know you could add a camera to your grocery list? Thx for stopping by Barbara!