Obviously the key feature of the Instax Square Link is that it prints square-format pictures on Instax Square film, which makes it distinct from the Mini Link and Link Wide in terms of aspect ratio. It does, of course, share a similar format to the Polaroid Lab (though Polaroids are slightly larger, but also slightly more expensive). Designed to keep up with life, the INSTAX mini 12 is ready to go with a simple twist of the lens. Twist again and you’re in Close-up mode, perfect for selfies. Combined with the perfectly positioned selfie mirror, automatic flash control and cheery mini prints, the mini 12 is a selfie moment-grabbing extraordinaire. Like the other members of the Link family, the Square has its own bespoke (and free) app for smart devices. Where other models have their own unique app features (such as light painting on the Mini Link 2), here there are two exclusive features: AR Print and Instax Connect. The super bubbly INSTAX mini 12 is bursting with joy, creativity and colour. Not only is this iconic instant camera available in five eye-poppingly pleasing tones – Pastel Blue, Mint Green, Blossom Pink, Lilac Purple and Clay White – it’s fully loaded with easy-to-use modes and controls.

By printing a QR code onto your image (which can be repositioned), AR effects and messages can be experienced (Image credit: James Artaius) Instax Square Link: Build and handling The Instax Square Link app now applies Instax Rich mode as standard, which produces superior colors on virtually every shot – though this can be disabled if you prefer the original, more natural look (where colors are slightly less vibrant / more washed out).Instax has clearly done a bit of spring cleaning with its Square products when it comes to their design. Much as the Instax Square SQ1 instant camera ditched the more dramatic look of the Instax Square SQ6 that it replaced, so the Instax Square Link foregoes the striking art deco design of the discontinued Instax Share SP-3 in favor of a more unified look that's more in line with the other Link printers. Constant firing flash (automatic light adjustment), recycle time: 6.5 seconds or less (when using new batteries), effective flash range: 0.3 to 2.7 m But that’s not all the Close-up mode is good at. When activated, the adjustable viewfinder neatly pairs up with the lens, so what you see if what you get. (FYI the fancy term for this is parallax correction.) Because when you’re this close, there’s no room for error. Another welcome difference from the other Links is the addition of a function button that enables you to instantly reprint a picture, making this an ideal party printer for when five people all say, "Can I have one too!" While the apps for other Links enable you to print the last picture, and the Mini Link enabled you to turn the printer upside-down to perform a reprint, having an on-body button is much better. From left to right: Instax Mini Link, Instax Square Link, Instax Link Wide (Image credit: James Artaius) Instax Square Link: Performance

The quality of the prints on the Square Link –as with the Mini Link and Link Wide – is excellent. The nature of the printing / developing process means that you are inherently getting a more contrasty look, but the "Instax look" is a brilliant one that complements virtually any scene or subject you print out.