Instant film gives you a physical photo shortly after you press the shutter. Unlike regular camera film, each pack is made for a specific instant camera family, so choosing the right format matters.
Whether you need Instax film for your Fujifilm camera or film for a compatible Polaroid, check your camera model before buying. Instant film formats are not interchangeable.
Match the Film to Your Instant Camera
Start with the name printed on your camera or check its manual. Fujifilm Instax cameras use Mini, Square or Wide Instax camera film depending on the model, while Polaroid cameras use compatible Polaroid formats.
A Mini pack will not fit an Instax Square or Wide camera, even though they come from the same range. Browse instant cameras if you are choosing a camera and film together.
Compare Instant Film Sizes
The format changes both the overall print size and the area available for your photo.
Instax Mini
Instax Mini prints measure 86 x 54mm with a 62 x 46mm image area. Their compact size suits everyday photos, parties and sharing with friends.
Instax Square
Instax Square measures 86 x 72mm with a 62 x 62mm image area. The square image gives you more room for portraits, groups and balanced compositions.
Instax Wide
Instax Wide prints measure 86 x 108mm with a 62 x 99mm image area. The larger format works well for groups, landscapes and scenes where you want more in the frame.
Polaroid Film
Polaroid offers several formats for compatible cameras, including i-Type, 600, SX-70 and Go film. Print dimensions and compatibility vary, so match the pack to your exact camera model.
How Does Instant Film Develop?
Each sheet contains layers of light-sensitive material and developing chemistry. After the photo leaves the camera, rollers spread the chemistry across the film and the image gradually appears.
Most Instax packs contain 10 exposures. Polaroid packs commonly contain eight, depending on the format. Polaroid 600 and SX-70 packs include a battery to power compatible cameras, while i-Type packs do not.
The dark slide on a new pack protects the film from light and is automatically ejected after loading.
Store and Handle Instant Film Properly
Keep unopened film somewhere cool and dry and check the date on the pack before use. If refrigerated, let it return to room temperature before loading it into your camera.
Do not open the film door partway through a pack, as this can expose the remaining sheets to light. Protect freshly ejected photos from strong light while they develop and follow the film manufacturer's handling instructions.
Shop Instant Film at digiDirect
digiDirect stocks instant film across compatible formats, including single packs, multipacks and selected colour or specialty border editions. You can also explore film, darkroom & video tapes, 35mm film and film cameras.
Shop Australian stock with applicable warranty coverage and Click & Collect options depending on availability. Browse photo accessories for more ways to store and display your photos.
Instant Film FAQs
Is instant film cheaper to buy in multipacks?
It can be. Multipacks may offer a lower cost per photo than buying individual packs, depending on the product and current price. They make sense if you shoot instant film regularly.
Can instant film go through airport security scanners?
Airport X-ray and CT scanners can affect undeveloped film. Keep instant film in your carry-on luggage and ask whether a hand inspection is available. Check airport requirements before travelling.
Why do my instant photos come out with a blue or milky tint?
A blue or milky appearance can occur while the photo is still developing. Temperature, film age and exposure to strong light during development can also affect the result. Give the photo the recommended development time before judging the final image.
Does instant film work properly in cold or very hot weather?
Extreme temperatures can affect how instant film develops and how colours appear. Keep film within the manufacturer's recommended temperature range where possible. Avoid leaving packs in a hot car or other extreme conditions.
Can an instant photo be scanned or digitised?
Yes. Once fully developed, an instant photo can be scanned like another photographic print. A suitable scanner can create a digital copy for editing, backup or sharing.
