Fujifilm Instax Mini 40

The Fujifilm Instax Mini 40 is an instant camera. This model was introduced by the Japanese company in April 2021. Its design is based on the Instax Mini 90, but it offers less functionality. However, the price is a bit lower in return.

One of the outstanding features of the Fujifilm Instax Mini 40 is its uncomplicated handling. The vast majority of setting options found on other types of cameras have been omitted. Because of this low entry level, the camera can be controlled by anyone and is good for numerous occasions. It is very suitable for parties and is also a lot of fun at weddings. However, it can also be a lot of fun on vacation.

The basic settings are fixed on the camera. The shutter speed and aperture value cannot be freely selected. The lens has a focal length of 60 mm and is composed of two lens elements. The maximum aperture is specified as f/12.7. For the exposure time, the camera has a choice of values from 1/250 second to 1/2 second.

A zoom, as found in smartphones, is not available on this model. Instead of pressing the zoom button, you have to get closer to the subject for close-ups. There is a special mode for selfies. Here, the focus is reduced to 0.3 to 0.5 meters. A small mirror next to the lens allows you to pose perfectly.

A built-in flash is of course also included in this camera. It turns on automatically during shooting and has a range of up to 2.7 meters. The flash is a real bright spot, especially in low-light conditions. The charging time is around 6 seconds.

There is no connection for a tripod on the camera. An automatic self-timer is not available.

The Instax Mini 40 is quite compact for an instant camera. The compactness is of course limited by the size of the picture format. According to the manual, the camera measures 10.4 x 12.1 x 6.5 cm. At the same time it weighs 330 grams, this is relatively light for the size.

Films for the Fujifilm Instax Mini 40

Of course, films are also needed for the Fujifilm Instax Mini 40. The camera manufacturer Fujifilm also produces the appropriate film material for the instant camera.

There is both a color film and a black and white film available for the camera. The Instax Mini Film* is the film for color images. If you prefer black and white images, it is recommended to choose the Instax Mini Monochrome*. Both films can give good results in tests and very easy to handle. The development time is a few minutes.

One box of film contains ten photos. Under no circumstances should the light-sensitive material come into contact with light. For storage of unused film material one should look for a cool and dry place.

Following the standard, an image is 8.6 cm by 5.4 cm. The captured image is rectangular, on edge, and 6.2 by 4.6 cm. The remaining area of the instant picture is filled by a white area. The size is equivalent to a credit card.

Batteries

Do I need batteries for the instant camera? Yes, additional batteries are needed for this camera. For the Instax Mini 40 you need two AA batteries. AA batteries are usually already in your house or you can buy them anywhere (eBay / Amazon*).

If the camera is on and not being used, it will turn itself off after five minutes.

Instructions for the Fujifilm Instax Mini 40

How to use the instant camera? A little guide on how to use the photo camera.

The first step is to insert the instant film. To do this, the slider on the back must be pressed down. Now the cassette with the film material can be inserted. The yellow bar on the plastic cassette must match the bar on the camera. After that, the flap can be locked again. The next step is done automatically by the camera. It removes the protective film from the film.

Now it is possible to start taking pictures. By pressing the release button on the side of the housing, the photo is taken. After the picture is taken, it is ejected immediately. It passes through two metal rollers that distribute the developing chemicals homogeneously on the image. Within a few minutes, the development is complete and you can look at the picture.

Alternative options

Of course, there are alternatives to the instant camera, you can resort to alternatives. For the mini format, popular alternative models include the Instax Mini 9* or the Instax Mini 90*.

Other options include the Polaroid One600* and Polaroid OneStep Flash*. But the Instax Wide 300* is also a good choice. Fresh film stock can still be purchased for these cameras as well.