1. Introduction
The Lomography Lomo'Instant Camera is a compact and versatile instant film camera designed for creative photography. It allows users to capture and share instant photos with various shooting modes and experimental options. This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, and maintaining your Lomo'Instant Camera.
2. Package Contents
Please verify that all items listed below are included in your package:
- Lomo’Instant Camera
- Lens Cap
- Colored Gel Filters
- Shooting Technique Cards
- Instruction Manual (this document)
Note: Fuji Instax Mini Film and four AAA batteries are not included and must be purchased separately.
3. Camera Overview
Familiarize yourself with the main components of your Lomo'Instant Camera.
Figure 3.1: Front view of the Lomo'Instant Camera. This image displays the camera's front, highlighting the lens, flash unit, and viewfinder. The "LOMO'INSTANT" branding is visible on the left side.
Figure 3.2: Angled view of the Lomo'Instant Camera. This perspective shows the camera's side, revealing various control switches and the film ejection slot, providing a better understanding of its ergonomic design.
Key components include the lens, flash, viewfinder, shutter button, film ejection slot, and various mode switches for creative control.
4. Setup
4.1 Battery Installation
- Locate the battery compartment cover, typically on the side or bottom of the camera.
- Open the cover and insert four (4) AAA batteries, ensuring correct polarity (+/-).
- Close the battery compartment cover securely.
4.2 Film Loading
The Lomo'Instant Camera uses Fuji Instax Mini Film. Handle film in low light conditions to prevent exposure.
- Open the film compartment door on the back of the camera.
- Align the yellow mark on the film cartridge with the yellow mark inside the camera's film compartment.
- Insert the film cartridge gently, ensuring it sits flat. Do not press on the film surface.
- Close the film compartment door firmly until it clicks. The camera will automatically eject the dark slide.
- The film counter will display "10" (or the number of exposures remaining).
5. Operating the Camera
5.1 Powering On/Off
To power on the camera, slide the power switch to the ON position. To power off, slide it to OFF.
5.2 Shooting Modes
The Lomo'Instant offers three distinct shooting modes:
- Auto Flash Mode: The camera automatically determines the flash output for optimal exposure. Ideal for most situations.
- Manual B Mode (Bulb): Allows for unlimited long exposures. The shutter remains open as long as the shutter button is pressed. Useful for light painting or capturing ambient light in dark environments.
- Manual N Mode (Normal): Provides a fixed shutter speed (typically 1/125s) for standard exposures without flash.
5.3 Aperture Settings
Adjust the aperture to control the amount of light entering the lens and the depth of field.
- f/8 (Largest Aperture): Allows more light, resulting in brighter photos and a shallower depth of field (blurry background).
- f/22 (Smallest Aperture): Allows less light, resulting in darker photos and a greater depth of field (more of the scene in focus).
5.4 Multiple Exposures
The Lomo'Instant supports unlimited multiple exposures. To create a multiple exposure, take your first shot, then press the MX (Multiple Exposure) button before taking subsequent shots on the same frame. Press the MX button again to reset for a new frame.
5.5 Using Colored Gel Filters
Attach the included colored gel filters to the flash unit to add creative color effects to your instant photos.
6. Maintenance
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the camera body. For the lens, use a specialized lens cleaning cloth and solution. Avoid abrasive materials.
- Storage: Store the camera in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Remove batteries if the camera will not be used for an extended period.
- Film Handling: Keep film cartridges sealed in their original packaging until ready to use. Avoid exposing film to high temperatures or direct light.
7. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Camera does not power on. | Dead or incorrectly inserted batteries. | Check battery polarity. Replace with fresh AAA batteries. |
| Film does not eject. | Film compartment not closed properly; film cartridge empty or jammed. | Ensure film door is securely closed. Replace film cartridge if empty. Do not force film. |
| Photos are too dark/underexposed. | Insufficient light; incorrect aperture setting; flash off in dark conditions. | Use Auto Flash mode. Ensure adequate lighting. Use f/8 aperture for brighter results. |
| Photos are too bright/overexposed. | Too much light; incorrect aperture setting. | Use f/22 aperture for darker results. Avoid very bright direct light. |
| Blurry images. | Camera shake; subject too close or too far; focus issues. | Hold camera steady. Ensure subject is within recommended focus range. |
8. Specifications
- Model Name: Lomo'Instant
- Model Number: LI100B
- Film Format: Fuji Instax Mini Film
- Lens: Built-in wide-angle lens (27mm equivalent)
- Aperture: f/8, f/22
- Shutter Speed: 1/125s (Manual N), Bulb (Manual B)
- Flash: Built-in flash with auto mode
- Multiple Exposures: Unlimited
- Power Source: 4 x AAA batteries (not included)
- Product Dimensions: 8.35 x 5.51 x 2.99 inches (21.2 x 14 x 7.6 cm)
- Item Weight: 1.63 pounds (0.74 kg)
- Included Components: Camera, Lens Cap, Colored Gel Filters, Shooting Technique Cards, Instruction Manual
9. Warranty and Support
For detailed warranty information, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Lomography website. For technical support, spare parts, or service inquiries, please contact Lomography customer service through their official channels.
Official Website: www.lomography.com
