Fujifilm just dropped the Instax Mini 41 instant camera in South Africa, and honestly? It kind of slaps. Not because it’s wildly different from last year’s Mini 40 (it’s not), or because it’s packed with tech (definitely not), but because it nails the vibe — and that’s all that really matters in 2025’s instant photography scene.
The Mini 41 is analogue through and through. No apps. No Bluetooth. No screens. Press the shutter and out pops a credit-card-sized print that develops in 90 seconds. If that sounds ancient, it’s because it is. But this isn’t about tech specs — it’s about the aesthetic.
This camera leans hard into its street-style ambitions: matte black body, dark silver trim, and a pop of orange that screams “accessory” as much as “camera.” There’s a textured grip that actually makes it easier to hold, and a thumb rest at the back that feels way more intentional than it needs to be. It’s the same vibe as someone who wears New Balances unironically — functional, but with flair.
Under the hood (if you can call it that), the Mini 41 brings two small but useful updates: Automatic Light Adjustment and Close-up Mode. The first one lets the camera read ambient lighting and automatically adjust the shutter and flash so your photos don’t turn out like overexposed disasters. The second kicks in with a quick lens twist and makes close-up shots (30 to 50 cm) actually line up with what you see in the viewfinder. There’s also a tiny mirror on the front for selfie framing, which you will absolutely use and appreciate even if you pretend not to.
Power-wise, the Mini 41 keeps things simple with two AA batteries — Fujifilm says you’ll get through ten film packs before needing a recharge. It weighs 433g with film and batteries loaded, which is light enough to throw in a tote but hefty enough to feel like a Real Thing.
And yes, the prints are still the classic 62 mm × 46 mm size that people use to decorate fridges, notebooks, and emotional support water bottles. If you want to digitise them, the Instax UP! app lets you scan and share high-quality versions with all the frame borders intact. It’s basic, but it works.
The camera ships with a hand strap, and if you’re into the full streetwear-meets-analogue-core lifestyle, there’s a shoulder-strap camera case available too.
The Instax Mini 41 instant camera drops in SA this month at R2,249. It’s not going to change photography. But it might change your outfit.