Fujifilm is doubling down on its “analog-meets-digital” philosophy. The company has officially announced the instax mini Evo Cinema, a striking new hybrid instant camera set to launch in Japan on January 30th. Priced at approximately 55,000 yen (around $380 USD), this new member of the Evo family bridges the gap between classic cinematography and modern instant photography.
A Love Letter to 8mm Film Design
While most modern cameras prioritize sleek ergonomics, the mini Evo Cinema is an unapologetic throwback. Its vertical form factor is a direct tribute to the Fujica Single-8, Fujifilm’s iconic 8mm movie camera from 1965. This isn’t just about looks; it’s about the tactile experience.
The camera features a unique vertical grip inspired by 1960s cinema heritage.
The camera introduces the “Eras Dial,” allowing users to toggle through 10 distinct “time-travel” filters—from the grainy, high-contrast aesthetics of the 1930s to the vibrant clarity of the 2020s. When paired with the 10-level “Strength Dial,” photographers have 100 different creative combinations at their fingertips.
The “Eras Dial” for style selection.
The Strength Dial for intensity control.
Adding to the mechanical charm is the physical Print Lever. Pulling the lever mimics the feeling of winding manual film, providing a satisfying sense of “ritual” every time you print a digital frame onto Instax film. For those seeking an even more immersive experience, a new External Viewfinder accessory can be mounted over the rear screen to recreate the feeling of looking through a traditional movie camera eyepiece.
Hybrid Innovation: Printing Your Movies
The standout feature of the “Cinema” edition is its ability to record 15-second video clips. But these aren’t just digital files—Fujifilm has found a way to make them physical. By using the QR Code Print feature, you can print a still frame from your video with a scannable code. When friends scan the photo with their phone, the full video plays back, complete with authentic “film reel” sound effects and grain.
The rear LCD screen helps manage your digital shots and video clips.
A frame from your video can be printed with an embedded QR code.
Scan the physical print to watch the memory come to life.
A Portable Editing Suite
The camera works in tandem with the mini Evo Cinema App. This isn’t just for transferring photos; it’s a mini-production studio. Users can stitch multiple 15-second clips into a 30-second “short film,” complete with cinematic opening and closing credits. The app also features “Movie Poster” templates, letting you turn your snapshots into professional-looking film promos.
The dedicated app offers robust editing and creative poster layouts.
Technical Specifications
- Sensor: 1/5-inch CMOS with primary color filter
- Resolution: 5 Megapixels (Stills: 1920 x 2560)
- Video: 1440 x 1080 at 24 fps (The cinematic standard)
- Lens: 28mm f/2.0 (35mm equivalent)
- ISO Range: 100 to 1600
- Print Quality: 1600 x 600 dots (256 gradations per RGB color)
- Storage: Internal memory + microSDXC card slot
Accessories and Availability
To complete the look, Fujifilm is releasing a dedicated leather-style protective case (approx. $38 USD) and a combination kit featuring the viewfinder and an ergonomic hand grip for enhanced stability during video shoots.
Custom leather-style case for the mini Evo Cinema.
The viewfinder and grip combo for a pro-cine feel.
Using the EVF accessory for an immersive shooting experience.
By blending the tactile joy of 1960s hardware with the shareability of 2025 technology, the instax mini Evo Cinema isn’t just a camera—it’s a creative playground for the next generation of visual storytellers.
