instax mini 99 REVIEW: Fujifilm's BEST instant camera!

[@cameralabs]

My instax 99 review: Fujifilm's best analogue instant camera! Order the instax mini 99 from B&H: bhpho.to/494Dn46 or WEX UK: tidd.ly/3vaP5ML Sell your used gear to MPB at: bit.ly/3ULU9yL Buy used gear from MPB at: prf.hn/l/YLqwRAP Buy Gordon a coffee: www.paypal.me/cameralabs Gordon's In Camera book: amzn.to/2n61PfI / Amazon uk: amzn.to/2mBqRVZ Cameralabs merchandise: redbubble.com/people/cameralabs/shop Gordon’s retro gear channel: kzbin.info Equipment used for producing my videos DJI Osmo Pocket 3: click.dji.com/AIOhqT-LWUFDq-bGk8hD4Q?pm=link Panasonic Lumix S5 II: amzn.to/3Hf5IcI Sony A6400: prf.hn/l/pRO0wp5 Sony e 24mm f1.8: amzn.to/2TqWNzk Rode NT USB mic: amzn.to/3AdHcUp Rode Wireless Go II mic: amzn.to/3xkCvGo Rode Lavalier Go mic: amzn.to/3ygzzKY Godox UL150 light: amzn.to/2VpVbXE Godox QR-P70 softbox: amzn.to/3yQfGdF MacBook Pro 14in (16GB / 1TB): amzn.to/3PrKbPV Music: www.davidcuttermusic.com / @dcuttermusic As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases

[@POVwithRC]

THIS is the one Leica ought to have put its badge on. Also, it does not feel like a cynical product. The designers should be proud of some of its unique attributes and problem solving.

[@cameralabs]

I agree, it's a really solid product.

[@lelandfitz1762]

They dropped the ball when not taking the opportunity of adding a really good lens to the Sofort 2 and really making it their own camera instead of a "designed by Leica" one. The design stops working at the leaver, that makes sense on the retro style of the Evo yet not on the Sofort 2. AFAIK Leica partners with Xiamoi for their smartphones and their lenses. That could've been an opportunity. But I guess the Sofort 2 is just Leica's version of a gift shop buy for the common man when visiting a Leica store

[@manandfather]

If Fuji would build a Instax square 99 or Wide 99 I would buy one. I have issues with the mini format. Thanks for the great review, Gordon.

[@michaelbell75]

Thanks! This is easily the best Instax camera Fuji has released in years. Just ordered it, I didnt expect it to sell out so quickly and it just got back in stock recently. Im REALLY hoping they release a square version and dare to dream, a wide!

[@cameralabs]

We can wish!

[@ganon8835]

Now we need a new advanced square or wide variant. Baffled as to why they discontinued the sq6.

[@MrBtodd2]

Good review as always. I love the look of the camera, but I really dislike the filters on the dial. I would have rather seen Fuji place flash or mode control on the dial and filter controls with an LCD control button. But to each his own. Thanks for the thorough review.

[@funtaril]

Your review is much more compelling than some, thank you. Interesting to note the difference in sharpness between particular examples - Chris and Jordan got much softer images, for example.

[@cameralabs]

They may not have been holding steady enough or have the right focus zone.

[@JayCatterson]

I just got my mini 99 yesterday and WOW is this a beautiful camera! Can’t wait to put it through its paces (although my wallet will definitely hate me for it haha!).

[@mariecrevette]

Thank you for a complete review! Just got myself one and this video is way better than reading the notice about how to use it :)

[@cameralabs]

Happy to have helped!

[@ILPROVACOSE]

Great video as always! I'm trying this Instax too and it's a breath of fresh air. I would have added a multi exposure (similar to lomo' systems) instead of the usual double exposure, and I would have liked to be able to use it in combination with the bulb mode. Having said that, it's a great analogue machine, really fun and functional. For me too, the best filter is the LL.

[@NotAnotherChannel_Channel]

You are so excellent at these reviews, Gordon. Great captures, too!

[@cameralabs]

Thanks, and glad you liked the pictures! More chance of success with this one

[@Mike0193Azul]

So awesome! Hopefully they make a new Instax Wide camera

[@michaelbell75]

It’s been 9 years. Fuji clearly has no desire to make a new Wide camera. It just doesn’t sell well enough. Probably because the film is too expensive. I love Wide but Mini is king for sales.

[@cameralabs]

I really really hope so

[@jonnyboy8000]

​@@michaelbell75The millions they are making they can take a punt on a wide version,how much research do they need to do to scale up the wide version

[@jonnyboy8000]

When are we going to see this on the instax wide?

[@cameralabs]

If we all collectively pray at the same time...

[@simonapopa9675]

Thank you for the review! What would you get between the mini evo and the mini 99? Thank you! *I also have an instax sq6

[@cameralabs]

Depends if you want a digital instant or an advanced analogue

[@PhotoReactionVideos]

Fantastic as always, thank you Gordon 😊

[@cameralabs]

You're very welcome!

[@patrickwilson1440]

Good review Gordon but a question.I have a Mini 90 and the camera selects the focus distance for whatever mode you choose. So when using action/kids mode(kiddie symbol) the camera automatically defaults to 0.6-3mtrs focusing range. With the Mini99 because you select the focus manually with the ring around the lens can you select 3mtrs- infinity when using action/sport mode for subjects more than 3 metres away?

[@cameralabs]

I'm not 100% sure, sorry. I don't have the camera anymore to check

[@islander5901]

I want all/most of these features but on an instax wide. Do fuji make a wide like this? The mini are just too... Mini for what I want. Brilliant review by the way. Thanks

[@cameralabs]

No they don't, and that's why I asked for it at the end!

[@michaelbruchas6663]

I like the price but want more “real camera” controls with a faster lens. I wouldn’t be color flashing film. I like the vignette feature. Have a 40 and still like it.

[@BardzoPowaznyUzytkownik]

Awesome results! i just got mini 90 last year😩

[@tygrysor90]

I've got mini 90 myself and I'm thinking is it worth to upgrade it for this model?

[@cameralabs]

Probably not

[@kayumochi]

What does it mean to "underexpose" the shot when using the color effects? Non-photographer asking.

[@amigospeaker]

It means limiting or diminishing the amount of light entering the camera (thus, hitting the film). Since the LED lights inside the camera are adding color effects by adding light, a way to compensate for that extra light is to limit the amount of light coming through the lens - by using the wheel light on the side.

[@joachimvandenheuvel507]

Is it indeed rubberised? I saw many reviewers calling other instax models rubberised while the only rubber was around the lens area. I'm not too fond of rubber hence the question.

[@cameralabs]

It's only rubbery around the lens barrel

[@fjphoto23]

Another excellent review! Just cuts to the chase. 💯 👍

[@cameralabs]

Thanks!

[@gaxmarshall2265]

Can you please recommend me a instax camera with flash control and selfie mirror?

[@cameralabs]

Do you mean being able to switch the flash off?

[@gaxmarshall2265]

@@cameralabs Yes! Sorry English isn't my first language

[@pwolkowicki]

Is there an option to merge those instax films with a good quality MF lens?

[@cameralabs]

There are lots of third parties who make cameras that use instax film. Have a look at NONS - I reviewed one recently.

[@aidanjarosgrilli]

my brother 3d printed an adaptor to use an instax square on a linhof technika 70

[@phototristan]

It looks way cool even though it's a plastic camera body.

[@wha-TN-ot]

Wonderful, wonderful video!!! As a total beginner to the world of these "instant cameras," I would love your input and recommendations for my own purchase. I am considering the Instax Mini Evo as my first camera, a step into this new hobby. I absolutely love the digital + printable film features it provides. However, ever since this new camera came out recently, I have been reconsidering my thoughts. I don't completely understand the intricate differences between the two cameras so I would appreciate your insight on what I should purchase first. This video was very helpful to I , and many others, and I respect the effort you put into your videos! Cheers!

[@cameralabs]

Digital models like the evo let you compose with a screen, playback images and only print what you want. The mini 99 is fully analogue, so no sensor, screen or memory, like an old film camera.

[@wha-TN-ot]

@@cameralabs Okay, I see now. That’s a great way to put it. Thank you for your helpful reply!

[@adriennnn2809]

Hi! I am wondering if you have made your purchase yet? Which camera have you chosen? I am in the same situation now, i like the printable and digital aspect of the cameras.. Still i don't know which one to pick 😅

[@wha-TN-ot]

@@adriennnn2809 Hi! I ended up going with the Instax Mini Evo! I’ve been using it for a bit, and I’m very glad I chose this one over the Mini 99, solely for the fact that the Instax Mini Evo has a memory (allowing me to see my taken photos again). The photos itself aren’t the about greatest of quality, but if you fiddle around with the settings and know what you’re doing, I’m sure that you can end up with a satisfied result. I’m no expert when it comes to photography, and I just got this camera for fun, lol. Overall, I think it comes down to whether you want an actual digital camera with a memory so you can look back at your taken photos, or if you want to stick with the “retro” feel of just an analog camera that prints your taken photos straight away, which is very similar to a Polaroid camera. Hope this helps!

[@benjamindover4337]

Very clever design

[@lelandfitz1762]

Thanks for this through review. I also think the lack of Selfie Mirror is unfortunate. I can only assume they did it on purpose, not to cannibalize their product line. Like, get your daughter a Mini 12 and a 99 for yourself lol Overall I love that Instax is keeping this alive as I myself don't see Polaroid as a valid alternative as it is way pricier. I just wish Fuji would insert the double exposure feature into their other models (other Mini but *also* other Instax format cameras). But I don't think they plan on doing that anytime soon as this is a unique selling point for the 200$ 99

[@cameralabs]

I think double exposure will only be on these pricier models BUT I will fight and fight for a square and wide version too!

[@DaveMeuleman]

I love my mini 90, and I can't wait to get my hands on this badboy! 🤩

[@cameralabs]

What are looking forward to most about the 99? The biggest differences are the LEDs and the vignette

[@ganon8835]

Interesting, so if i dont care much about those two features it is indistinguishable from the 90? Cheers​@@cameralabs

[@cameralabs]

@@ganon8835 pretty much

[@MoroccanTelephoto]

Looks good, well done. Nice review !!

[@cameralabs]

Thanks!

[@loudogg3367]

looks way cool. I want one.

[@9Mtikcus]

I'm a Fuji X Shooter and have had the Share SP2 printer for many years, it was fun printing straight from the camera when out and about, Although more recently, I've been transferring the images on the Fuji X app from the camera, to an Android phone then using the Instax Mini app to print as it allows for better framing etc. Because of this, I'm tempted to buy the Instax Mini Evo, as is best of both worlds? can act as a printer from the smartphone and can print direct from the camera itself, and it is a similar price to this Instax 99, as the SP2 is getting old (and battery is not great) and I believe the EVO prints at 2x the resolution, just random thoughts, great video though :)

[@lackoliver55]

I have one of the Instax Mini printers and the Square printer. Both claim they can print direct from camera, and I see the option for it on the X-Pro3. But have not been able to make it work a single time.

[@9Mtikcus]

@@lackoliver55 I believe only the XP1 and XP2 Instax printers can print from every X camera, some of the others were limited to the X-S cameras. I have had no issues with the Instax SP2 and multiple X mounts cameras. But it is better quality to print from the phone and using the App (in my opinion) To setup the SP2 on the X-pro 3 in connection settings, instax printer, then put in its serial number (which I can't remember where it is on the printer) then from playback mode menu, on page 3 (i think) select instax printer print. RAW files need to be converted in camera to Jpeg to print. Hope this helps

[@lackoliver55]

@@9Mtikcus Yes, I had the SP2. I tried all the connection troubleshooting on their website and forums. Perhaps there is just a bug in my printer or camera. I just wanted to try it, figured it was more of a novelty. I found for the sake of sharing, it was always quick and good enough to just take the photo on my phone and then print the photo multiple times for everyone in the group. Could get out 10 in less than a minute.

[@cameralabs]

@@lackoliver55 hmmm, it should work on the old SP2 and SP3, in fact I think they're the only ones it did work on. It certainly does not work with the latest Bluetooth printers - they're for your phone only.

[@REMY.C.]

​@@lackoliver55 Fuji bluetooth implementation is a real pita. It's a shame on such expensive cameras. I have the xpro3 and xt4 (and others) and just gave up on seeing any of those cameras connect to anything.

[@lackoliver55]

Another thoughtful review. I have seen all your Instax reviews, but it has been years since certain ones. Did you ever compare any noticeable difference in quality between the digital conversion of the Evo (or printer) to the analog result from the previous minis? Perhaps in your Evo review or printer review?

[@cameralabs]

It's more that the digital models are more consistent, maybe a bit sharper and have a certain look to them. I wouldn't say they're better or worse, just different. I prefer the fully analogue ones as it feels more old school to me, more of a challenge and more satisfying when it works.

[@lackoliver55]

@cameralabs I completely agree. I also have both, but haven't attempted testing them side by side before. The Mini 90 was always fun for me. Same with Polaroids. I moved residences and didn't unpack an old Polaroid 600 for a few months. It had 3 shots left. I took it to a friend's wedding. Took a test shot before the ceremony, and half the photo was blue. I decided to risk it. Jumped up right at the kiss, took a shot. Other than a rather pleasing (in my opinion) magenta hue, the photo turned out perfect. The next shot later that evening was also blue. You dont get that rewarding emotional roller coaster shooting digital.

[@cameralabs]

@@lackoliver55 ha ha, exactly!

[@conrad4094]

A nice comprehensive review. Looks like a good little instant camera although the lights inside it , while clever do not appeal to me . I’m unlikely to buy one for myself though because i have a Lomo Instant Automat Glass lens version which I find very nice to use . Have you ever used one ?

[@cameralabs]

I've not tried any of the Lomo instants, but I do now have a contact there since my 110 review.

[@conrad4094]

@@cameralabs The automat “glass “ is a nice one it has a glass lens and bulb, multiple exposure mode as well as + or - exposure compensation and the flash can be turned off . Uses Instax mini film

[@arkzgamer26]

Instax mini Evo or instax mini 99?

[@cameralabs]

Do you want digital or analogue

[@olig1851]

​@cameralabs what would you recommended for taking pictures of groups etc at events?

[@annabelle.112]

I love your samples pictures! This camera looks so great!! A bit like the mini evo but with the full analog experience! I think I'd prefer this one. Would love it even more if they launch a square format :D

[@cameralabs]

Amen to the Square - I'd LOVE this camera in that format. Glad you liked the pictures!

[@smith507]

Gordon delivering quality reviews, as always! This one looks like a fun little camera to compliment a film camera collection.

[@cameralabs]

Thanks! Yes, it's the most practical and consistent analogie instant I've used.

[@jasperborst3388]

i still don't fully get why fuji would make this camera. making the camera more like a standard film camera is fine but no actual aperture control or shutter speed control in one camera (wich is litterly aimed at more advanced users) seems bunkers to me. just make it so you can set the aperture to ''auto'' wich will be the same diameter as with all other instax mini camera's. and the shutterspeed make that like what they are doing now, with exposure plus and minus. only if they built this camera would it make a lot of sense. i have been using an instax mini 11 a few years now and the results are not to great (because a lot of images are out of focus) due to the set aperture but variable shutterspeed. a few weeks ago i gor myself a instax mini 8 with aperture control an so far the results are a bit more in focus than the mini 11. i thought going up in the lineup would mean better images but apperently not 😅

[@cameralabs]

Are your images blurred because of focus or slow shutter speed? The focus is the same on all the ones I've tested - you just manually twist the lens barrel out to the required range. Make sure it's twisted all the way out for closeups or selfies, or use that clip on accessory for the older models.

[@ourhouseuk]

Ridiculous print size at an absurd film price.

[@cameralabs]

Yeah, that'll be why it's their most successful product, responsible for the largest portion of their imaging business, and in turn allowing development of the X and GFX series. In all seriousness though, film and printing is expensive. Have you bought and developed a roll of 110 or 35mm recently? It's also about a pound a print or more.

[@ourhouseuk]

@@cameralabs I understand it’s their most popular product but an appeal to the masses doesn’t change the value proposition, it simply says the masses don’t need much. I can’t envision how I would do anything with these other than put them in an album, I’ve seen the multi print wall hangs - not a fan. Yes printing is expensive across the board but you’re left with a great deal more options and you can get unique quality from very old cameras and lenses, so cost of entry is low. Suorrised thst the x100 line isn’t the main profit maker for them. But then we discussed the price of the film.

[@patrickwilson1440]

As Gordon says Instax is the most profitable part of their imaging division. If it wasn't for Instax Fuji probably wouldn't even bother with film, it's Instax that keeps the film side going. Besides you can always scan the Instax photo to get a larger print if you need one. Providing you stick within the camera's limitations you can get a perfectly acceptable larger print. With my Mini 90 i've managed to get an acceptable 10" x 7.5" print from a properly exposed Instax photo with one or two slight tweaks and scanning the target/intended print size at the correct resolution i.e 300 dpi. But the accent is on fun with this type of camera and getting an instant print rather than serious photography.

[@video-carl]

loved this "physical" review

[@cameralabs]

Thanks!

[@thevoiceman6192]

Still expensive at $200. No . The mini 90 neo classic still goes for crazy money. I guess you did not research prices.

[@cameralabs]

I did actually research prices, this is my job. The Mini 90 can be bought for around $150 or £135 where stock is still available. But it is 10 years old now, so there aren't many around. So if stock is an issue, just pony up $200 or £175 for the 99. It's not expensive for what it does compared to the Mini 12 at half the price. But it's all subjective. If you think it's worth, say $100, then yes, it's too expensive for you so move along.

[@thevoiceman6192]

@@cameralabs $214 on Adorama. $193 on Amazon.

[@thevoiceman6192]

@@cameralabs ok. Just saying. I saw a neo classic 90 listed on Amazon for $193 and $214 on adaorama.

[@RichardFraser-y9t]

Hello Gordon, interesting review but not really my kind of thing. If i print then i prefer a dye sub printer and a 'proper' camera.