The Instax Mini 12 in mint green arrived on my doorstep, promising instant photographic fun. This review covers my extensive experience with this compact instant camera, focusing on its ease of use, image quality, and overall user experience. I’ve used it in various settings, from casual snapshots to more deliberate compositions, to give you a comprehensive assessment.

Key Features

The Instax Mini 12 boasts a remarkably simple yet effective design. The twist-to-turn-on mechanism is intuitive and satisfying, and the automatic exposure and flash handle most lighting situations adequately. The inclusion of a selfie mirror and a dedicated selfie mode is a thoughtful addition for those who frequently capture self-portraits. The Fujinon 60mm lens provides a decent field of view for everyday snaps.

Performance & Image Quality

The automatic features of the Instax Mini 12 are a real plus for beginners. I found that it consistently delivered well-exposed images, even in challenging lighting conditions. While the flash can sometimes be a little overpowering in close-up shots, it’s generally reliable and prevents underexposed images. The image quality is typical for an Instax camera – vibrant colours, and a charmingly retro aesthetic. The images aren’t razor-sharp, but that’s part of their charm. Printing is quick and straightforward. One point to note is that the film itself can be a little pricey over time.

I especially appreciated the ease of use, particularly the dedicated selfie mode, which made taking selfies much easier than with previous Instax models. The camera is lightweight and compact, making it perfect to take on the go. However, I did experience some occasional inconsistencies in exposure in low-light situations, leading to a few slightly underexposed pictures.

Pros & Cons

• Pros: Simple and intuitive design, automatic exposure and flash, dedicated selfie mode, compact and portable, vibrant colours, charming retro aesthetic.
• Cons: Flash can be overpowering in close-ups, film cost can add up, occasional inconsistency in low-light exposure.

Final Verdict

The Instax Mini 12 is a fantastic entry-level instant camera. Its user-friendly design, coupled with reliable automatic functions, makes it perfect for beginners and casual users alike. While it has some minor drawbacks, such as occasional exposure inconsistencies, the overall positive experience outweighs these minor issues. The fun factor of instant photography is undeniable, and the Instax Mini 12 delivers on this front effectively. If you’re looking for a cute, easy-to-use instant camera to capture those special moments, I would definitely recommend the Instax Mini 12.