But its massively let down by its overbearing vignette effect, plasticky build, unpredictable results and awkward handling.
The Diana Instant Square is very unpredictable, and the photos dont always develop fully.
They also have a vignette around the frame, and the camera itself feels very plasticky.
The non-ergonomic handling and awkward shutter lever make it uncomfortable to use too.
Compared to thebest instant cameras, it falls way short.
For the complete breakdown, read my full Lomography Diana Instant Square review.
This instant camera has a black body with a wraparound textured pattern, and a teal top.
It resembles the cameras of old, just like theLomography LomoInstant Square Glass($149).
Youll need a backpack to carry it around.
I did so and with the camera in my bag, I didnt feel weighed down.
However, the Diana Instant Squares uber cool looks are massively let down by its overtly plasticky build quality.
The textured pattern isnt nice to touch and tapping the teal part with my nail revealed a hollow sound.
All of this makes me question the cameras durability.
You get a separate viewfinder attachment that slots in at the top of the camera.
This means that you cant always properly frame your subject.
I had to extend my index finger to reach it which proved fatiguing over time.
The Lomography Diana Instant Square has a few controls youll need to familiarize yourself with.
The shutter button is more of a lever, located on the right-hand side of the lens.
It makes a satisfyingclicksound when used, but I have to say, using it isnoteasy.
I had to extend my index finger to reach it which proved fatiguing over time.
It was also very awkward to use when taking selfies as I had to use my thumb.
This is the same issue I had while testing theFujifilm Instax Wide Evo($349).
I would have much preferred a regular shutter button.
The lens is detachable all it’s crucial that you do is twist it to remove it.
A focus range pointer sits on the lens, allowing you to choose between three ranges.
Last but not least, the lens also houses the aperture lever.
Overall, the Diana Instant Square has a straightforward control scheme.
I only wish the shutter lever was better placed and it was a button instead.
Focusing proved to be a challenge in my testing.
I burnt through so much film trying to get the shot I wanted and itjust didnt work.Imagine my frustration.
you’re free to see examples of the vignette effect above.
you’re free to see an example above.
My face isnt in focus either, even though I had the range set to 1-2m.
This isnt to say Ive hated every photo the Diana Instant Square has taken.
Above are a few examples of the photos I really like.
Basically, a very small hole lets the light in and hits the negative (or film).
The Diana Instant Square has been more unpredictable than any of the other analog instant cameras Ive tested.
Some of the photos are good but most of them are a flop, sadly.
To do so, I set the aperture to f/150 and swapped to bulb mode.
you might see the results above.
This means that one shot costs approximately $1.6.
This isnt particularly cheap.
Since theres no battery indicator, theres no way to tell either.
But I wish the Diana Instant Square wasnt so unpredictable.
I had many failed shots some that came out fully black.
I know theres a certain degree of risk involved in instant photography butthismuch doesnt seem right.
The camera itself is very plasticky and handling is awkward, which takes the fun out of it.
The Diana Instant Square, unfortunately, fails to meet expectations.
