Fujifilm Instax printers are my favorite. The Instax cameras are great too. However, they have very limited uses and I don't like to take it with me. I prefer to use my phone or a mirrorless camera and print the images on an Instax printer.
Instax prints are my favorite, but the original format measures only 1.8 by 2.4 inches. It's not a Polaroid, but it is small. Although the square Instax format film measures 2.4 inches square, you would need a camera to get Fujifilm's largest-format Instax prints (3.9 by 2.4 inches).
This was before now. Fujifilm Instax Link Wide smartphones printer makes it possible to print the largest instant film on the market.
Instax for the People
Fujifilm Photograph
Although it was an expensive purchase, my first Instax printer has become an integral part in how I interact with people while I travel. It also inspired my children to take up photography. Although it's not perfect, there is something magical about instant prints that transcends their limitations. These prints are not gallery-worthy, but they are certainly fun.
My old Instax SP-1 printer is still in use. Prints are a small, thoughtful gift that can also be used as a conversation starter. Although I enjoy photographing people, it is difficult for me to ask someone to take their picture. It is especially difficult when everyone assumes that you will post your image on Instagram. You can often have a completely different conversation if you tell someone that you aren't interested in social media, and then offer them a printed copy of the image.
Even if you don't want to travel or photograph strangers it doesn't matter if physical prints make it easier to connect view and image. It's not enough to scroll on to the next image. Don't forget to make prints. You'll be glad you did.
This is why I love the Instax Link Wide printer. The Instax Link Wide printer produces the same amazing prints as before, but larger. Prints measuring 3.9 x 2.4 inches are landscape-oriented. The white border at the bottom of each long edge is the largest. However, you can print portrait-oriented images if you wish.
The Instax Link Wide printer looks very similar to Fujifilm's Mini Link. The box is about the same size as three CD cases when stacked together. It measures 5.25 by 4.75 inches and is an inch thick if you are under 30. The top has a button that turns it on. This allows you to print the last image once more. The back of the printer has a USB-A charging port (USB-C would be nice). The app connects to your printer via Bluetooth. You simply load the film in the bottom and close it up.
The Instax Wide App
Fujifilm Photograph
The heart of Instax Wide is the new Instax Link Wide app, available for Android and iOS. Fujifilm apps can be confusing, but Instax has been steadily improving its offerings. The Wide app functions very similarly to the Mini Link app, which is included with the latest Mini printer. The layout is completely different and I find it much easier and cleaner to use.
