Alongside the exciting reveal of the X-T4 Fujifilm has also released an update to it’s instant camera line. The Instax Mini 11 is the successor to the immensely popular Mini 9 and bears much the same form factor and design. It does, however, come with some new features and capabilities. Let’s have a look!
Automatic Exposure
The first and probably most significant innovation in the Mini 11 is the new Automatic Exposure mode. This is the first ever Instax entry camera with such capability. Earlier Instax cameras require the user to manually select a preset based on the scene. The Instax Mini 11 automatically optimizes the shutter speed and flash output to match the lighting conditions, resulting in perfect exposures every time.
You don’t need to do anything to activate the automatic exposure mode. Simply turn on the camera and you’re ready to go. The new mode will not only streamline photography, it’s bound to improve image quality in challenging conditions too.
Selfie Mode / Close Up Photography
The second new feature of the Instax Mini 11 is the Selfie Mode that is activated by pulling out the front edge of the lens once the camera is on (see illustration above). All this does is to bring the focusing of the camera in the 30 to 50 centimeter range, allowing you to capture sharp, beautiful selfies. The camera also features a small convex mirror next to the lens like the one we’ve seen on the Mini 9.
The Selfie Mode can also be used for close up photography, provided the same subject distance (30-50cm/12″-20″) is maintained. This is good news for those pretty flower shots that always ended up blurry in the past. Thanks to the automatic exposure, no corrections are required.
Body and Design
The Instax Mini 11 follows the natural progression of the Instax line, with smoother lines and sophisticated color options. Both thinner and lighter than the Mini 9, the new camera comes in five colors: Bluish Pink, Ice White, Sky Blue, Lilac Purple and Charcoal Gray. For additional personalization, the Instax Mini 11 features replaceable shutter buttons, just like your Leica. You can opt for a jewel styled button color-matched to the camera body, or a glow-in-the-dark version.
Specs
| Film | FUJIFILM Instax Mini instant film |
| Lens | 2 components, 2 elements, f = 60 mm, 1:12.7 |
| Viewfinder | Real image finder, 0.37×, with target spot |
| Shooting range | 0.3 m and beyond (use selfie mode for 0.3 m to 0.5 m) |
| Shutter | Programmed electronic shutter 1/2 to 1/250 sec. Slow synchro for low light |
| Exposure control | Automatic, Lv 5.0 to 14.5 (ISO 800) |
| Film ejection | Automatic |
| Film dev time | Approx. 90 seconds (varies depending on the ambient temperature) for Fujifilm Instax Mini |
| Flash | Constant firing flash (automatic light adjustment), Recycle time: 6.5 seconds or less (when using new batteries), Effective flash range: 0.3 to 2.7 m |
| Power | Two AA-size alkaline batteries (LR6) included, Capacity: approx. 10 instax mini film packs of 10 exposures each Auto power off after 5 minutes of inactivity |
| Dimensions / weight | 107.6mm×121.2mm×67.3mm 293g (without batteries, strap, and film) |
Fujifilm Instax Mini 11 Film Options
Coming from the popular Instax Mini line, the Mini 11 can use all Fujifilm Instax Mini film packs on the market. The Fujifilm Instax Mini Film is a credit card size, 800 ISO color film with each sheet measuring 5. 4 x 8. 6 cm. The images within those sheets measure 6.2 x 4.6 cm or 2.44” x 1.81” and there are 10 sheets per pack. The film is daylight (5500K) balanced and the resulting print has a durable glossy surface. For best value, get the 5 pack 50 sheet bundle or the 100 shot mega pack.
You can also use any of the various specialty frame films like the Instax Mini Stripe Film, the Candy Pop Film, the Sky Blue or the stylish Black verison. All of them use the exact same 800 ISO emulsion and produce the exact same pictures, just framed differently. If you are feeling artsy you can also try the cool black and white film Fuji offers. You can opt for one of many variety packs on offer that allow you to try a bunch of fun frames.
Although not officially supported, the Fujifilm Instax Mini 11 camera also works with Polaroid PIF300 film. There is no reason why it shouldn’t, the film is designed for use with all Fujifilm Instax Mini Cameras. Despite the 300 in the name the film has the same 800ISO sensitivity as the Fujifilm Instax Mini, therefore no setting adjustment is necessary. The image quality if comparable, as is image permanence and durability.
Fujifilm Unveils Its next Generation Instant Camera: The New Instax Mini 11 Is Here!
Valhalla, N.Y., February 25, 2020 – FUJIFILM North America Corporation is pleased to announce the launch of INSTAX® Mini 11 (Mini 11), the latest innovation in its long line of popular INSTAX instant cameras and Smartphone printers.
The INSTAX® Mini 11 has been designed for optimal portability along with a fresh, trendy look. Available in five new colors, the Mini 11 boasts the following new features and benefits:
Automatic Exposure function for better pictures day or night
The “Automatic Exposure” function automatically senses the level of ambient light when the shutter button is pressed, and optimizes the shutter speed and flash output according to the condition. It allows even novice INSTAX® users to take photos that are automatically properly exposed regardless of conditions, producing high-quality instant photo prints on the spot.
Selfie Mode for quick and easy selfies
Users can activate the Selfie Mode, perfect for taking selfies and close-up shots, by simply pulling out the front end edge of the lens after powering the camera on. This makes it super easy to take selfies and close-up pictures.
Custom, interchangeable shutter buttons for style and personalization
The Mini 11comes with two replaceable and stylish shutter button stickers; a fun and easy way to change the button’s look and to personalize the camera.
Updated design with attention to detail
Mini 11’s rounder, softer, modern look is a direct homage to its Mini 9 predecessor. Contrasting design elements on the Mini 11 are achieved by using a different material around the lens from the rest of the camera body. The Mini 11 is available in five pastel, pale-tone colors – Blush Pink, Sky Blue, Charcoal Gray, Ice White, and Lilac Purple.
Also accompanying the launch of this exciting new instant camera are two new INSTAX instant film varieties; INSTAX® Mini Blue Marble film and INSTAX® Square White Marble film. Both have marble-patterned print frames transforming everyday photos into unique, fun keepsakes.
Fujifilm’s INSTAX® Mini 11 instant camera will be available at a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $69.95 USD ($89.99 CDN) and is expected to be available for purchase mid-March, 2020.
