Fujifilm Instax SQ40 review

Fujifilm's retro Instax line of instant print cameras gets a square-format retro design to match

Fujifilm Instax SQ40 instant film camera
(Image: © Gareth Bevan / Digital Camera World)

Digital Camera World Verdict

I already love shooting with Instax cameras, it is a really fun way to capture unique moments with friends or family and Instax Square film has also always been my go to film size as (mostly thanks to Polaroid) in my head that's the size instant photos are. The SQ40 takes great looking Instax Square prints, sure they are still Instax so won’t rival a modern camera, but that is part of the charm. One issue I've always had with Fuji's only other current Square camera – the SQ1, is the design, it's cute, it's fun, but it's also very noticeable. The Instax SQ40 rights all my design wrongs and gives me the suave stylish Instax Square camera I've been wanting without compromising on the fun.

Pros

  • +

    Retro design

  • +

    Larger Instax Square film

  • +

    Auto exposure has been spot on

Cons

  • -

    Increased price tag

  • -

    A lot of plastic waste

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Fujifilm's Instax line of cameras are seemingly unstoppable, surely almost everyone now must have the best instant cameras sitting on a shelf somewhere. But that is not stopping Fujifilm from releasing new models though, hoping to win over the few remaining people who haven't at some point become enamored with Instax's unique and fun instant film prints. 

The SQ40 is Fujifilm's latest entry in the Instax lineup, offering a new retro design in the style of classic film rangefinders, it gives Instax shooters and different option from the bright and colorful Instax SQ1, Fujfilm's only other in-production camera that shoots on Instax Square film. 

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Gareth Bevan
Reviews Editor

Gareth is a photographer based in London, working as a freelance photographer and videographer for the past several years, having the privilege to shoot for some household names. With work focusing on fashion, portrait and lifestyle content creation, he has developed a range of skills covering everything from editorial shoots to social media videos. Outside of work, he has a personal passion for travel and nature photography, with a devotion to sustainability and environmental causes.