FUJIFILM INSTAX MINI 40

SOMETIMES STEPPING BACK and going a bit retro can be fun, especially with photography. Fujifilm has launched the Instax Mini 40 instant camera into its burgeoning Instax range.

In spite of how this camera might look and feel – and it really does have that wonderful old-school appearance – it includes a number of useful contemporary features, such as the Automatic Exposure function that automatically takes into account the overall shooting conditions and then optimises the shutter speed, flash strength and various other settings to deliver better image results.

When activated, Selfie Mode – used in conjunction with the selfie mirror (no, there is no swivelling LCD on this device) – sets the camera up for close-up shots of, well, yourself. We’re talking a focal range of 30–50 cm remaining in focus.

It’s powered by two included AA batteries, and at only 330 g (excluding batteries, strap and film), it’s not very heavy to lug around with you. Speaking of film … yes, there’s no memory card in sight – it uses Fujifilm’s Mini Film, which provides photos 62 mm × 46 mm in size. It’s simple to load, and the camera prints beautiful photos in about 90 seconds.

Sure, it’s a bit quirky, and probably won’t win you too many wildlife photography awards, but it’s an endearing device that grows on you the more you use it.

RRP R1 399 instaxsa.co.za/wheretobuy