Instant Film Development Units

Find answers to frequently asked questions about your Instant Film Development Unit, including assembly, usage tips, and troubleshooting.

  • What is the difference between the Mini, Square, and Wide Instant Film Development Units?

    Each unit is designed for a different instant film size:

    • Instant Mini Film Development Unit – for Instax Mini film (62 × 46 mm / 2.4 × 1.8 in). Credit Card Size Photo, perfect for compact DIY cameras or backs.
    • Instant Square Film Development Unit – for Instax Square film (62 × 62 mm / 2.4 × 2.4 in). Square prints, great for creative projects and balanced display.
    • Instant Wide Film Development Unit – compatible with Instax Wide film (approx. 108 × 86 mm / 4.3 × 3.4 in). Wider format, ideal for bigger or landscape-style images.
    Instant Film Formats
  • Are the units manual or electronic?

    All units are fully mechanical and hand-cranked. No batteries or electricity are needed.

  • How to develop the photo properly?

    Since the development is done manually, we highly recommend spinning the crank slowly and evenly, especially as you reach the final stages when the film comes out.

    Proper spinning speed
  • How do I set up the Instant Film Development Unit for my custom camera project?

    There’s no strict assembly guide, as every project is unique and depends on your camera setup.

    Since cameras vary greatly, each user typically builds their own custom back. Here are the key points to keep in mind:

    • Light-proofing: Make sure no stray light can reach the paper.
    • Handle clearance: Ensure that the screws and lever are positioned so the handle can turn freely without obstruction.
    • Light protection: A dark slide or light-tight door can help protect the paper between shots.
    • Focusing: Use a ground glass at the same distance as the paper plane to confirm focus. The key measurement is the distance from the lens to the film plane, which depends on your lens’s focal length.

    Other photographers have built amazing custom backs using our Instant SQUARE Development Unit:

    If you encounter any issues, feel free to email us at hello@jollylook.com, we’ll be happy to help!

  • How does the Jollylook Development Unit work?

    Watch this short video to see the unit in action and learn how to use it step by step:

    Watch the video