Summary
Fujifilm unveiled the instax SQUARE 2 on October 14, 2026, keeping its analogue instant-camera approach while introducing two physical color filters and more control over focusing distance.
The new camera succeeds the 2020 instax SQUARE SQ1 and uses 1:1 instax SQUARE film. Unlike the digital instax Pal 2 with an optical viewfinder, the SQUARE 2 exposes film directly, producing a physical photograph without a digital capture or editing stage.
Physical Warm and Cool filters in front of the lens
The biggest addition is Mood Filters. A switch beside the lens moves a physical filter into the optical path. Warm lends the scene golden tones; Cool introduces cooler blue tones; Off retains the usual appearance of instax film.
This choice happens at exposure, not afterward. Once the photograph develops, the color treatment cannot be removed or adjusted like a filter on a digital file.
Three focusing zones, from 30 cm to infinity
Turning the lens ring selects the focusing zone for the subject distance. Landscape is a new setting compared with the SQ1.
| Mode | Distance | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| Close-up | 0.3–0.5 m | Selfies and close subjects |
| Standard | 0.5–3 m | Portraits and everyday scenes |
| Landscape | 3 m to infinity | Landscapes and distant subjects |
The photographer chooses a zone rather than relying on subject-detection autofocus. Automatic exposure adjusts shutter speed and flash output, and the small mirror beside the lens helps frame selfies.
Three colors and no menu-based operation
The Misty White, Slate Blue and Brick Red versions feature rounded body panels and textured lines on the grip and lens area. Turning the lens powers the camera on and changes shooting modes, while the color filters have a dedicated switch.
New SOFT HAZE film is different from the lens filters
Fujifilm also introduced instax SQUARE SOFT HAZE, which uses a newly developed light-sensitive emulsion to create softer light and warmer color tones. The company presents it as a creative choice for portraits and everyday scenes.
Warm and Cool alter light in front of the lens; SOFT HAZE changes the rendering through the film emulsion itself. Standard instax SQUARE film remains compatible, so SOFT HAZE is optional.
Price and availability
The announced launch begins on October 28, 2026, with availability varying by market. US suggested prices are $119.95 for the camera and $18.99 for SOFT HAZE film. No confirmed official Greek or wider European price was found.
A matching case in three colors and an acrylic display frame for SQUARE prints were also announced. More information is available on the official instax SQUARE 2 product page.
What we think
Fujifilm has added control without making the camera digital. Physical color filters suit the instant format: the photographer decides on the look before exposure, and that choice becomes part of the one-off print.
The third focusing zone may be an even more useful improvement in everyday shooting. Landscapes and more distant group pictures now have a dedicated setting, addressing a practical limitation of the simpler SQ1 without adding complicated controls.
There is still a cost attached to every frame, and trying again always means exposing another sheet. This camera makes most sense for people who appreciate that deliberate process rather than unlimited experimentation.
Frequently asked questions
Is the instax SQUARE 2 digital or analogue?
It is an analogue instant camera that exposes instax SQUARE film directly and produces a physical print.
Does it require SOFT HAZE film?
No. Regular instax SQUARE film works; SOFT HAZE is an optional creative alternative.
Can Warm and Cool be changed after shooting?
No. The physical filters affect light before exposure and their effect is permanently captured on film.
