FujiFilm is always raising the bar when it comes to instant photography.
Their 2020 release, the Instax Square SQ1 is a camera that is designed for even easier instant photography for those who love square prints.
What I love about these cameras is how fun they are from their look to their feel. They are pleasing to the eye and always become a topic of conversation.
In a world where we take photos on our smartphones and leave them there to die, it's nice to sometimes have the option to print them, instantly, and see that memory posted on your fridge or wall.
There are no hidden tricks to these cameras. You won't have to sit and read a manual to figure out how they work. Fujifilm has done all the hard work for you to be able to just capture your favourite moments as and when you want to.
I reviewed the SQ1 recently. It comes with new features that include Automatic Exposure and One-Touch Selfie Mode.
The auto exposure senses the level of ambient light when the shutter button is pressed, and optimises the shutter speed and flash output according to lighting conditions.
With the older versions, taking images indoors would sometimes come out darker and not as clear as the photos you take outdoors. So this upgrade is great.
The One-Touch Selfie mode is designed specifically for selfies and close-up shots. Users activate this mode by simply rotating the lens from 'On' to 'Selfie' mode.
This sets the best focus and exposure for the shot by changing the position of the lens when activated. I love the neat mirror feature on the camera that lets you make sure you are taking the selfie with everyone who needs to be in it.
The square print is 1.5 times the size of Instax mini prints, making it easier to fit more people into those fun group selfies. The square prints the camera produces are mirrored by the square nature of not only the body, but also the viewfinder and lens glass.
I used the Chalk White SQ1 as an accessory to my outfits because it really is that cool.
The device is also available in Terracotta Orange and Glacier Blue.
Weighing only 390 grams, it can be carried with ease. Additional items like the strap for easier hold can be bought.
The square film packs can range from R170 to R200 for a pack of 10 films depending on where you want to buy them. The camera is 57.5mm slim making it easy to hold as well.
This fun and instant accessory retails for R1 999.
