Instant Camera Recommendations
Instant Camera, Bluetooth Printer or Hybrid?
Dad Certified is not yet stocking instant cameras or Bluetooth printers, however, below are a few options which we recommend for use with your Dadventure Diary.
We recommend choosing an option based on your preferences and budget. The summary below the table provides specific usage considerations for use with your Dadventure Diary.
If you have any questions, please feel free to ask them below.
Please note Dad Certified earns a small commission on items purchased on Amazon using the links below. Thank you for your support.
| Instax Mini 11 | Instax Mini Link 2 | Instax Mini LiPlay | Instax Mini EVO | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Image |  |
 |
 |
 |
| Type | Instant Camera | Bluetooth Printer | Hybrid Camera & Bluetooth Printer | Hybrid Camera & Bluetooth Printer |
| Cost* | $98 AUD (RRP: (Ice White) |
$152 AUD (RRP: (Space Blue) |
$189 AUD (RRP: (Stone White) |
$279 AUD (RRP: (Black) |
| Film | Instax Mini | Instax Mini | Instax Mini | Instax Mini |
| Pros | + Relatively low initial cost + Simple to use + Kids can even use it to take photos |
+ Use your smartphone camera for higher quality photos + Don't need to take an extra device with you + Only print your favourite photos |
+ Option to use your smartphone camera for higher quality photos + Only print your favourite photos (after you get home) + Not too difficult to use + Ability to record sound |
+ Better Looking + More functionality + Highest quality camera + Option to use smartphone camera for even higher quality photos + Only print your favourite photos (after you get home) |
| Cons | - Less control over image quality - Uses film every time you take a photo - Printed photos need to be looked after during the Dadventure - Extra (bulky) device to take with you |
- Must take and use your smartphone for photos (extra distraction) - Can't be used by the kids to take photos |
- Higher initial cost - Design might be too glamorous for you - If using as a camera it is an extra device to take with you |
- More complex features - Might be difficult for young kids to use - Highest initial cost - If using as a camera it is an extra device to take with you |
| Link | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price |
*Prices and links current as of 6th February 2023. (Check prices using links)
So, Which One Should I Get?
That depends on you...
If you would rather not have to worry about taking an extra device on your Dadventures with you then we highly recommend the Instax Mini Link 2 Bluetooth Printer. Easy photo printing at home on high quality film which will last as long as you need it to.
If you're on a budget or if you want your kids to be taking the photos, the Instax Mini 11 is a simple, kid friendly device. Just be aware that every photo taken (whether it turns out well or not) will cost you a piece of film. To ensure your photos are turning out the best they can make sure no fingers are covering the sensors when a photo is taken otherwise the lighting will be off.
Or, if you'd love to keep you Dadventures smartphone (and distraction) free, but don't want to be spending every time you snap a photo, then either the Instax Mini LiPlay or Evo are for you. The Evo is more expensive but is generally considered to produce higher quality photos as a camera and comes with more (complex) features. One thing the LiPlay does have that the Evo doesn't (possibly a gimmicky feature) is the ability to record sound which can be played back when a QR code printed in the corner of a photo is scanned.
Why Instax film?
Our above recommendations all use Fujifilm's Instax Mini film.
Instax film is our preferred film for use with the Dadventure Diary due to it's superior archival properties. We want your photos to last. The reason we recommend the Mini version of the film is due to it being more cost effective as well as allowing more space in your dairy for more photos or drawings.
You may find other film options out there such as the relatively new Zink (zero ink) film technology, and although Zink film is generally cheaper, unfortunately it is known to have poor archival properties and fade considerably over time.
Don't forget to pickup some film
The best price we've found for Instax Mini film is on Amazon for about $0.79 AUD per piece when purchased as a pack of 60. You can find this deal here:
Check Instax Mini Film Price
I hope you have found these recommendations helpful. If you have any questions please feel free to ask below.