instax started out with its mini prints but it only made sense that they offer something that’s closer to the quintessential polaroid look and shape — thus the birth of the instax wide format.
It’s been quite some time though — 10 years to be exact — since we last saw a new instax Wide camera. Given that there’s little to improve on the format, it’s not surprising but for we do finally have a new one this 2024 and its even cuter and easier to use than before.
Unboxing and walk-through
The Fujifilm Instax Wide 400, released in June 2024, is the first new wide-format camera in a decade. This model features a 95mm f/14 lens and an automatic metering system. Apart from the redesign, new on the Wide 400 is a ticking self-timer
When you open the box, you’ll find everything you need to get started: the camera, warranty cards, a manual, quick start guides, a neck strap, a snap-on close-up lens accessory, and four AAA batteries.
There’s also a new camera angle adjustment accessory that attaches to the side of the camera. This neat little add-on gives the Instax Wide 400 a slight lift, offering better angles for your shots. It includes plastic blocks at different heights, adding some shooting versatility.
Unlike the dual-tone options of the Wide 300, the instax Wide 400 is all about that sleek Sage Green monotone.
The design keeps the retro charm but is now more compact and boxy, making it comfier to hold and easier to pack. The viewfinder has been moved to line up with the shutter button, which should help with more accurate framing. There’s also a tripod mount on the bottom for those steady shots.
A fun new feature is the self-timer switch. You can set it from 4 to 10 seconds by twisting a toggle, with little lights indicating the countdown. To cancel, just rotate it back to the start position before hitting the shutter.
On the sides, you’ll find attachment points for the neck strap and the new camera angle adjustment accessory. The back of the camera is super simple, with no manual controls, emphasizing its fully automatic nature. This is also where the film chamber is located, along with the film counter.
Using the Instax Wide 400 is a breeze if you’re familiar with Instax cameras. Just twist the lens ring to power it on. It has a 2-range focusing system with normal and landscape modes, and the lens has focusing guides to help you out. For close-ups, the snap-on accessory with a mirror is perfect for framing those arm’s length shots.
The Instax Wide 400 is priced at $149.95 in the United States. There are also bundles available on Amazon that come with a 40-pack of film and a camera bag, too. In the Philippines, the instax Wide 400 is now available for PhP 9,999 at retailers and online.
Beginner tips
- Frame Wisely: When you’re close to your subject, slightly shift the framing toward the upper right corner for a more accurate print.
- Avoid Obstructions: Hold the camera on its side to avoid covering the flash or sensors.
- Learn the Signals: Familiarize yourself with the camera’s light indicators. Slow blinking means the flash is charging, fast and slow blinking means low battery, and fast blinking suggests an error.
- Use Accessories: Utilize the close-up attachment for shots within 1 meter, and the camera angle accessory for better stability if a tripod isn’t handy.
- Develop in the Dark: Place prints face down or in a dark place during development to prevent overexposure.
- Clean Your Lens: Regularly clean the lens to ensure clear, sharp photos.
Beginner tips
One of the joys of instax cameras is that it’s easy to use with barely a learning curve involved. But that doesn’t mean there aren’t a few things you can do to make your photos look better.
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- The closer you are to your subject, the less accurate the viewfinder becomes
- If your subject is further away, it is easier to frame and center using the viewfinder but if you do go in closer, a helpful tip is to shift your framing or composition slightly towards the upper right corner to get a more accurate frame when printed
- Watch your fingers
- Make sure to hold the camera on its side because you run the risk of covering the flash or the sensors located on the front of the camera
- Learn your light signals
- The instax wide 400 wide has lights to indicate certain things. Slow blinking lights mean the flash is charging, fast and slow blinking means that your battery is low, and fast blinking means there’s an error like film jamming or the lens isn’t turned correctly or all the way.
- The accessories are useful
- If you’re taking photos at arm’s length or less than 1m, it’s best to use the close-up attachement. The camera angle accessory is also useful if you don’t have a tripod around since it lifts the camera just enough so you don’t see the surface below it. in the photo.
- Develop in the dark
- While not a strict rule, it is scientifically sound and suggested by instax. Once you get your instax print, it’ll take about 90 seconds to develop. During this time, the ideal thing to do is place them face down, away from the sun or somewhere dark. One of the easiest ways to do this is to press the film in between the pages of 0a book or notebook while it’s developing.
- Clean your lens
- Dirt-free lenses are always better at taking photos
Additional accessories for the instax Wide 400
What’s the next logical step after buying a new thing? Buy accessories for it! Here are a few we recommend if you’re thinking about picking up or have picked up the instax Wide 400
READ: Guide on ordering from Amazon US from the Philippines
1. instax Wide 400 monochrome film
Always a crowd favorite, a black and white instax Wide photo never ceases to amuse people, and it’s a fun way to add more drama or creativity to your photos, too! Alternatively, our staple is the instad Wide 400 black frame
2. Camera bag
The instax Wide 400 is a chunky camera and, being made of plastic, is more prone to damage. Protect it with a hard case while keeping that Sage Green look with this particular case.
Have a photo you’re proud of and want to show off? This frame is a minimalist and elegant way to do so. Grab a handful and you can make a little gallery for yourself at home.
4. Album
To extend the life of your prints, instax does suggest keeping them in an album. If you deal with mostly wide prints, then this is a simple solution to do just that.
