Fujifilm is refreshing its square-format instant camera range with the Instax Square 2, a new analogue model that lets shooters use physical filters to change the colour tone of their photographs, rather than relying on digital effects. 

Announced in October, the Instax Square 2 has a redesigned body, warm and cool colour settings to choose from, and a new instant film option for those photographers after softer and more atmospheric images.

The camera is scheduled to launch from 28 October, with US pricing starting at US$119.95. Australian pricing and availability have not yet been confirmed.

Unlike hybrid instant cameras that combine digital photography with printing, the Square 2 has a fully analogue shooting experience. Users compose their images through an optical viewfinder, take the photograph and get a physical instant print on the Instax Square film.

The biggest addition to the new model is Fujifilm’s Mood Filter Switch, which allows photographers to choose between Warm, Cool and Off settings before taking a picture.

Warm adds a subtle golden hue, while Cool adds a bluer tone. Switching the filters off keeps the standard Instax film look.

The filters sit in front of the lens, meaning the colour effect is physically applied during capture and not through software after the photo has been taken.

It’s an approach that gives the Square 2 a different appeal from smartphone photography, where filters are typically applied digitally and images can be edited extensively before sharing.

The camera also features automatic exposure and flash adjustment, as well as a rotating lens ring that selects Standard, Close-up or Landscape shooting modes, and a built-in selfie mirror.

Fujifilm has redesigned the camera with a rounded body. It will be available in three colours: Slate Blue, Misty White and Brick Red.

Alongside the launch of the Square 2 is the release of a new film option, the Instax Square Soft Haze, which delivers lower colour saturation and contrast, glowing highlights and warm, diffused shadows.

The film is intended to create a softer appearance, free from digital manipulation. Each pack contains 10 exposures, with US pricing set at US$18.99.

Soft Haze is compatible with existing Instax Square cameras, so owners of earlier models can experiment with the new film without buying the Square 2.

The standard Square format produces square photographs measuring approximately 62mm by 62mm within the film’s larger frame.

Instant cameras continue to appeal to travellers, younger photographers and people who prefer physical keepsakes to digital photo libraries.

However, film costs are an important consideration. With 10 exposures per Soft Haze pack, each photograph represents a consumable expense, which arguably is part of the appeal. It invites photographers to slow down, be more creative and be more conscious of what and how they shoot. 

Fujifilm has not yet confirmed Australian pricing or a local release date for either of the new products.Â