Instax Wide 400 (WIDE 400) Instant Camera Green Review
Introduction
The Fujifilm Instax Wide 400 (WIDE 400) in vibrant green arrived on my desk a few weeks ago, promising a fun and convenient way to capture wide-format instant photos. I’ve been a long-time fan of instant photography, but I was curious to see how this wider-format camera stacked up against its competitors and my expectations. This review covers my experience using the Instax Wide 400 over several weeks, including various shooting scenarios and a detailed look at its performance.
Features
The Instax Wide 400 boasts a range of features designed for ease of use and creative expression. Its retractable 95mm f/14 lens provides a wider field of view compared to standard Instax cameras, making it perfect for capturing landscapes or group shots. The 0.37x optical viewfinder with target spot makes composition straightforward, and the built-in flash ensures well-lit images even in low-light conditions. The self-timer function allows for inclusion in group photos, and the automatic exposure simplifies shooting by handling adjustments automatically. The included angle adjustment accessory provides a bit of creative control.
| Colour Name | Green |
|---|---|
| Product Length | 16.3 cm |
| Product Height | 9.8 cm |
| Product Width/Depth | 12.2 cm |
| Model Number | WIDE 400 |
| Model Name | Instax Wide 400 |
| Item Quantity | 1 |
Performance
The Instax Wide 400 performed admirably in most situations. The wider lens truly captured more of the scene, and I found this particularly useful for capturing scenic views and large group photographs. The automatic exposure generally did a good job of balancing light levels, although I did find that it sometimes struggled in extremely high-contrast situations, resulting in slightly overexposed highlights or underexposed shadows. The self-timer functioned flawlessly, and the flash proved effective in various lighting environments. I found the build quality to be excellent; it feels sturdy and well-constructed.
The film quality is consistent with what you’d expect from Instax Wide film; vibrant colors and good sharpness. However, some images did experience minor inconsistencies in exposure and some softness in the corners, especially in low-light conditions.
Battery life was surprisingly good. I shot over two rolls before needing to change the AA batteries, which is excellent compared to some other cameras.
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Wide-format images, good build quality, easy to use, reliable flash, good battery life, fun factor.
- Cons: Occasional exposure inconsistencies, slight softness in corners, film costs.
Final Verdict
The Fujifilm Instax Wide 400 (WIDE 400) is a fantastic instant camera for anyone wanting to create instant memories with a wider perspective. The convenience and fun factor are undeniable. While it has minor drawbacks in exposure consistency in certain conditions, its ease of use and the joy of instantly producing wide-format prints more than compensate for this. I highly recommend it for those who appreciate instant photography and want a bit more expansive viewfinder.
