As the saying goes, the best camera is the one you have on you. If you believe that, then that camera is most likely the one built into our phone. But if the ever-growing popularity of Fujifilm’s INSTAX cameras series is any indication of photography trends, alongside the resurgence of vintage digital point and shoot models, the most fun camera might be the $200 Fujifilm INSTAX MINI 99.
Equipped with a dial wheel control, two shutter buttons, and traditional texture of an analog shooter – the all-black, square-ish instant film camera shares some of the retro-modern design language that has made the Fujifilm X100VI digital camera one of the, if not most, coveted digital cameras today. This is a device designed to be thrown into a backpack or coat pocket before heading off to a social event, or in a carry-on bag for documenting moments of rest and relaxation during a vacation.
Like the X100VI, part of the INSTAX MINI 99’s appeal is its simplicity and easy-to-carry design. The small LCD screen sticks to displaying the bare necessities, showing how many shots are remaining, the photo mode the camera is set to, and remaining battery life.
Keeping in theme with the tactile, powering-on the INSTAX MINI 99 is executed with a satisfying twist of the camera’s ribbed lens dial. Once on, turning the dial further allows users to switch modes from landscape for distance shots, macro for close-ups, or standard for normal photos including portraits.
Fujifilm is prioritizing a beginner-friendly experience, which invites anyone to pick up and use the camera, while incorporating a few options parallel to shooting with our phones. Thus, the MINI 99 includes things to alter photos prior to printing like a brightness control dial for exposure as well as color-changing LEDs situated in the four corners allowing users to add one of six analog-style filters to their shot. And there’s even a manual vignette switch to darken edges, mimicking film cameras of yore.
As a longtime INSTAX MINI 90 user my – ahem – instant reaction was wondering whether the MINI 99 offered enough to distinguish itself from its similarly designed and more affordable predecessor. But those few thoughtfully added options give users a means to literally dial-in customization effects, making for a convincing argument. Fujifilm understands instant film cameras are all about capturing a vibe over anything else.
To learn which INSTAX is right for you visit instax.com.
