Instant cameras have been enjoying a surge in popularity, largely thanks to Fujifilm’s budget-friendly Instax series, and this trend shows no signs of slowing down. Numerous brands continue to introduce new models to the market. The latest entrant is Lomography, which has unveiled the Lomo’Instant Wide Glass. The camera's name highlights its use of the larger Fuji Instax Wide film, while the ‘Glass’ element signifies a noteworthy improvement that distinguishes it from other cameras in the range.
Enhanced Lens Technology
With a 90 mm lens (equivalent to 35 mm format), the Lomo’Instant Wide Glass opts for high-quality multi-coated glass instead of inexpensive plastic. This upgrade minimizes optical and chromatic aberrations, resulting in sharper and more vibrant images. This shift is particularly intriguing because Lomography is usually known for producing charmingly imperfect photos characterized by vignetting, blur, light leaks, and various distortions.
User-Friendly Features
This camera is marketed as being “optimised for studio and fashion photography,” although its manual control options are somewhat limited. In auto mode, it can adjust the shutter speed from 1/125 to 8 seconds, and a Bulb mode extends this duration to 30 seconds. The auto mode also automatically selects between two apertures—f/8 and f/22, with the latter being adjustable in manual mode.
For challenging lighting situations, users can set a ±1 EV exposure compensation. The 90 mm lens features zone-focusing options of 0.3 m, 0.6 m, 1–2 m, and infinity. It also includes an in-built flash and a PC sync port for external lighting, along with colored gel filters for creative effects.
Creative Photography Possibilities
Creative options are essential for instant cameras, and the Lomo'Instant Wide Glass excels here too. It features a multiple exposure mode, which has become quite popular in instant photography. The camera comes with a Splitzer lens attachment that divides the frame into sections, allowing for endless multiple exposures that can lead to fascinating or whimsically chaotic results.
The camera is also equipped with a smart lens cap that functions as a remote-controlled shutter release. Additionally, a timer switch is included. The Instax Wide film used in this camera is relatively affordable and can easily be found on Amazon and other retailers.
Cost and Competitors
The Lomo’Instant Wide Glass is currently available on the official website for $279 or £249. In terms of rivals, it competes with the Fujifilm Instax Wide 400, the Instax Mini 99, and the ever-popular hybrid Instax Mini Evo. For those looking for premium options, the Polaroid I-2 Type and the Leica Sofort 2 provide excellent alternatives.
Sample images from Lomography showcase the creative potential of this new instant camera.
