The words ‘Instax’ and ‘Cinema’ don’t exactly belong together, but now Fujifilm is hoping to challenge that ideology with the release of the Instax mini Evo Cinema. Like 1965’s Single-8 it’s inspired by, this is a proper video-shooting machine. Instax hasn’t forgotten its roots, however, with the Evo Cinema still pumping out prints whenever you ask it to. The difference being that you’ll have to work a little harder to get your hands on ’em here.
Video-first, print-later
Instead of snapping a picture and calling it a day, the camera “converts captured video data into a QR code and creates an Instax print together with a still image cut out from the video.” In other words, it means printing out a screenshot and a lot of fumbling about with QR codes. It isn’t a terrible solution, however, as it leaves room for the Evo Cinema to do what it does best: shoot video.
It’ll do so with the help of a vertical grip design, LCD monitor fixed to the rear, and what Fujifilm calls an ‘Eras Dial’. The dial offers ten “eras” like “1960” that are inspired by the 8mm film cameras of the time — and incorporates effects like noise and tape flutter to help sell the vibe. How the camera captures audio can be adjusted with the Eras Dial, too, like adding the whir of film reels, for example.
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Like the rest of the Evo lineup, this one isn’t averse to just printing out the images you send its way via the dedicated app Fujifilm will drop alongside the camera. It’ll cost you, mind — Fuji’s print packs aren’t exactly cheap. Better to make friends with the app, where users can edit their videos before sending them out.
Unfortunately, Fujifilm is keeping this one as a Japan-only release for now, with no word on pricing. We don’t doubt that it’ll make its way to South Africa eventually, considering the brand’s local presence. We’ve reached out to Fujifilm South Africa to determine a local launch and pricing, and will update this article if we hear back.
