The Instax Wide 300 instant camera from Fujifilm is the official successor of the successful Wide 210. We explain whether this alone is enough for a purchase, for which type of buyer it is suitable and what the attachable close-up lens is all about.
In short:
- Picture size: 2.4 x 3.9 inches (height x width)
- Film: Instax Wide
- Clip-on macro lens incl. self-focusing mirror
- Batteries: 4 x AA
- Auto flash (cannot be switched off)
- Over- or underexposure mode
Instax Wide 300 image format – bigger is better?
At the latest when unpacking the Fujifilm Instax Wide 300, it becomes clear that this is not exactly a pocket camera. With dimensions of 6.6 x 4.8 x 3.8 (W/H/D) and a weight of approximately 21.1 oz, the Wide 300 is anything but a lightweight. One of the reasons for its impressive size is the image size of 2.4 x 3.9 inches, which is twice as large as the popular Instax Mini 90. The format that gives the camera its name is probably one of the reasons for buying this Instax camera.
While the narrow image format of the Mini cuts a fine figure at parties and for quickshots, the Instax Wide 300 instant camera takes you into another world of instant photography. The pictures look more mature, motifs can be captured in their entirety and the individual photo looks much more valuable. This also allows the camera’s considerable size to be concealed.
The details of the Instax Wide 300
Despite its size, the Instax Wide instant camera sits comfortably and securely in the hand thanks to the right-hand grip handle. The design is a matter of taste, with opinions ranging from retro to clunky to professional. The truth lies here, as so often, in the eye of the beholder. The camera has a flash that triggers automatically as soon as the sensor detects poor lighting conditions. Although the flash can be switched on manually, the button for this is located at the top right on the back within thumb range. But it cannot be permanently deactivated.
Also annoying: as long as the flash is charging no photo is possible, this is indicated by a small red LED next to the viewfinder. As usual, the optical viewfinder is located on the right side and a small display provides information about the remaining photos or the currently active mode. A tripod thread is also available.
Over- or underexposure
In addition to the automatic functions of the Instax Wide, a button on the rear panel allows you to adjust the exposure. One press of the L/D (Lighten/Darken) button produces brighter images, another press darkens the subject. This function is especially useful for very dark backgrounds. In general, these settings can be used to adjust the mood of the images a little.
Distance settings
The Fujifilm Instax Wide 300 has two distance settings. One for the range from 3 to 9.8 feet and one for 9.8 feet to infinity. The distance mode can be switched by turning the lens. Those who value sharp photos will do well to familiarize themselves with these distances.
The macro lens
Unlike the usual switchable macro mode, the Instax Wide 300 instant camera has a clip-on macro lens. As soon as the camera is switched on and the lens is extended, the lens can be mounted with one click. This reduces the distance range from 2.6 to 1.3 feet (Important: for this the photo distance must be set to close-up range – 3 – 9.8 feet). For the correct focus range, the close-up lens has a telescopic “feeler”, which helps to bring the desired detail onto the photo when looking through the viewfinder.
As usual for a modern instant picture camera, a selfie mirror is also included. This is attached to the macro lens and helps to capture the right motifs when you are doing a selfie.
Tech Specs of the Instax Wide 300:
- Image size: 2.4 x 3.9 inches (HxW)
- Film: Instax Wide
- Weight: 21.1 oz (without film, batteries)
- Carrying strap included
- Dimensions: 6.6 x 4.8 x 3.8 (W/H/D)
- Colours: black
- Lens: 2 groups, 2 elements f = 95mm, aperture 1: 14
- Recording range: 3 feet to infinity
- Shutter speed: program controlled: 1/64 – 1/200 sec
- Automatic flash: flash range from 3 – 9.8 feet
- Batteries: 4 x 1.5V (AA)
- Macro lens
- Selfie mirror
- Tripod thread
Source: https://www.fujifilm.com/products/instant_photo/cameras/instax_300/#specifications
Click here for the Fujifilm Instax Wide 300 Manual.
Conclusion
The Instax Wide 300 from Fujifilm is a classic point-and-shoot instant camera. That means no fancy modes like double or long exposure, not even a self-timer can be found. If you are interested in all this, you should take a look at the Instax Mini 90. But for whom is the Wide 300 really suitable? In short: Instant image purists who want first-class pictures. Because that is the strength of the Instax Wide 300 instant camera. Those who have become friends with the distance modes will get wonderful instant pictures in first-class quality. And that in the brilliant widescreen format (by the way, the only model from Fuji with this format)!
Looking for a bargain? Take a look at the Instax Mini 11!
VIDEO: a watch before you buy video of the Instax Wide 300
