The Fujifilm Instax Mini 12 is the latest iteration in the popular Instax Mini series and promises to combine the analog charm of instant photography with modern conveniences. It follows the Instax Mini 11 and is aimed primarily at beginners. We took a closer look at the camera.
Fujifilm Instax Mini 12: Retro charm that inspires?
The Instax Mini 12 has an attractive design that combines retro elements with modern accents. The rounded edges and compact size ensure comfortable handling. If you have slightly larger hands, it can almost be a bit too small.
The camera is available in various pastel colors. One negative point here is that the plastic is quite sensitive to dirt. Such dirt is of course immediately noticeable in the white version.
The housing is made of plastic and is quite light. The quality is somewhat lost here, especially when you compare the camera with models such as the Instax Mini 99 or Instax Mini 90. However, these models are also in a different price range.
As with almost all cameras, I would be a little worried about damage if the camera were to fall. Because the casing is very smooth, it can slip out of your hands, especially when you use it at parties or weddings. That’s why you should always use the camera strap.
Batteries and film for the instant camera
The camera strap, a set of batteries, instructions and the camera are included in the delivery. For the batteries, Fujifilm uses the simple AA batteries (eBay / Amazon*) that you can get in most shops for this model. Which is of course very practical when you are out and about with the camera. Since there is no display or other power-hungry electronics, one set of batteries is enough for a longer time.
The Instax Mini 12 obviously needs instant film. This is where the more popular Instax Mini films (eBay / Amazon*) come into play. There are ten pictures in a cassette. One picture is about the size of a credit card. The films are freshly produced. Polaroid brand films cannot be used.
The image quality of the Instax Mini 12 is typical of instant cameras. The pictures have a nostalgic charm with slightly washed-out colors and a soft focus.
User-friendliness: Just start snapping?
The Instax Mini 12 was clearly developed with user-friendliness in mind, like its predecessors.
It is switched on and activated by simply turning the lens ring. This is also where you select the close-up focus. In this mode, you can get up to 30 cm close to your subject. Estimating this distance can be a bit tricky, as the viewfinder does not directly show the end result.
Other than that, there are no settings options on the camera. You press the shutter button and the camera does the rest itself. This of course makes it ideal for parties, weddings or in the hands of children.
There is a small mirror on the front for selfies. The camera does not have a tripod thread or self-timer. A counter on the back shows the remaining number of photos.
Comparison with previous models
The differences to the previous models are minimal. Especially if you have an Instax Mini 11, it is not worth buying the 12 as well.
Conclusion: Is it worth buying the Instax Mini 12?
The Fujifilm Instax Mini 12 is a solid instant camera that is characterized by its user-friendliness and attractive design.
But is it the right camera for you? If you are looking for a straightforward and fun way to capture unique memories, the Instax Mini 12 could be a good choice. It cuts a fine figure, especially for events or as a vacation companion.
However, if you want more setting options and more experimental functions, other models from Fujifilm, Polaroid or Lomography are the better option.
This review was super helpful! I’m really drawn to the retro look and the simplicity for parties, but the part about the plastic being sensitive to dirt and potentially slipping out of hands makes me a bit hesitant. Has anyone who owns it found a good clear case or cover that helps with this without adding too much bulk? I’d love to protect it if I’m going to carry it around a lot.