We indeed love small cameras. For instance, the 1-inch sensors in phones have led to the resurgence of digital cameras and Micro Four Thirds, and we even rely on instant devices that chronicle our cherished memories. While there have been introductions of unusual-looking cameras over the years, none have featured a design that lacks buttons and is so small that it could fit into your palm. At least, that’s what we thought. At CP+ Show, Escura, who has been creating cameras since 1996, has introduced a new instant camera that is only a viewfinder.
The lead image is a screenshot from DC Watch’s website.
According to DC Watch and Photo Rumors, the instant camera is called Insta Snap, and the entire design is simply made of a viewfinder. This means you can see what you are composing right away, but there is no way to have much control over exposure, ISO, and so on. Here is an image below:
As you can see above, the camera has no controls other than a large viewfinder, possibly made of plastic, and a thumb impression from which you release the shutter. The initial idea of the device was seen on Escura’s Instagram page, but there were no details about how what it offers.
However, at the CP+ Show, the instant camera is a digital toy camera that will cost about 7,000 yen (approximately $46). It is extremely lightweight, weighing just 28g. The instant card-like camera lacks any LCD screen and features a few buttons for minimal control. For instance, on the side of the device is a USB-C connection, which will allow you to see the photographs on your smartphone or computer. There is also a switch with markings “off, 1, 2, 4.” Per reports, 1 is for normal photography mode, 2 is for effects, and 3 will record videos. In addition, there is also a microSD card to record stills and videos. Lastly, the camera uses a 1.3MP sensor and a fixed 1/125-second shutter.
The design certainly seems plastic, and one should not purchase this thinking about longevity. However, it is something that will certainly entice casual shooters, especially those who want a distinct design. Escura also created the first 60s-style Instant Camera called Instant60s. These devices are rectangular in shape and come in varied colors. It is natural that the company would want to create something that is different from the last, and with many interested in smaller cameras, this could certainly kick off a new trend.
The images will certainly be grainy, as seen in the image above, and you will get low contrast. However, this Instant camera can function like an analog camera in a digital body, allowing you to shoot without really looking at the results. It can also be great for practice despite it being a toy camera. In fact, sometimes, we get so hung up on quality and megapixels that we forget about the image itself. This device can bring “fun” back to photography. Its price point is low at the moment, but it may increase with shipping costs by a few dollars. Either way, the device could be something that will help more people practice photography with a present mind and an open heart.
