Reimagining the Iconic Instax Camera
Fujifilm introduces a major upgrade to their popular line of Instax cameras with the launch of the Fujifilm Instax Wide 400. With a price tag of $149.95, this model succeeds the Instax Wide 300, a firm favorite since 2014.
The Instax Wide 400 retains the admired features of its predecessor, including the 95mm f/14 retractable lens, while delighting users with new enhancements specifically designed to capture group photos and selfies effortlessly.
Selfies Made Easier with New Add-Ons
Fujifilm distinguishes the Instax Wide 400 with a specially designed detachable close-up lens. This novel addition is primarily intended to facilitate selfie-taking at arm’s length, promising a focus distance between 15.7″ and 19.7″. It also boasts a tiny mirror, enabling users to preview their shots before clicking the shutter.
In regular shooting mode without the added close-up lens, the camera offers a focus range from 2.9′ to 9.8′, making it an ideal companion for travel, events, and small group photos. Landscape mode extends the focus from 9.8′ to infinity, although it may not be the go-to option for landscape photographers.
Added Convenience for Group Photos
The Wide 400 camera stands out with an updated design that makes capturing group photos less challenging. The addition of a 1/4-20″ threaded hole at the bottom allows for easy mounting on a tripod, a key consideration when the photographer wishes to join the group shot.
A new novelty is the self-timer dial equipped with four different timing options: 4, 6, 8, and 10 seconds, contributing to greater flexibility with group photos and selfies.
The automatic exposure camera with a programmed shutter runs on four AA batteries. Despite the expectation for a lithium-ion USB-C charging feature considering the year 2024, Fujifilm keeps it old-school with the use of AA batteries for this model.
Price and Availability
Priced similarly to the Fujifilm SQ40 at $149, the new Instax Wide 400 offers wider format prints and is now available for pre-order. Shipping for the new camera is foreseen to start later this month. The choice between the SQ40 and the Wide 400 may pose a challenge to some users, but the latter’s new offerings provide strong arguments for consideration.
