Fuji Responds to Inflated Prices of Instant Film Amidst Photography Trend

This situation has arisen amidst a unique photographic trend that has taken the internet by storm, with "instant film" rapidly gaining popularity within the photography community. The surge in interest can be attributed to the "same-style effect" of numerous celebrities, including Chinese stars, who have all been spotted using instant film cameras. The distinct "ambiance" of instant film has also contributed to its appeal, with many enthusiasts willing to pay a premium for the experience. Despite the high cost of a single shot, which can reach over 300 yuan, the demand for instant film remains high.

The primary manufacturers of instant film, Polaroid and Fuji, announced their decision to stop production in 2008 and 2016, respectively, leading to a shortage of new film. Currently, the majority of instant film available on the market is outdated, with prices skyrocketing to 2000 yuan for a single box of 10 sheets on second-hand platforms. This is a significant increase from the pre-discontinuation price of 70 yuan per box, representing a nearly 30-fold rise.

A representative from Fuji Film (China) Investment Co., Ltd. revealed that the company's instant film products were discontinued due to high production costs and the bulkiness of the equipment. The representative emphasized that all Fuji instant film available on the market is from existing inventory, with no official sales channels. Some collectors may be selling outdated film at inflated prices to attract attention, while the quality and imaging capabilities of the outdated film are compromised. The market has given rise to two consumption models: one where consumers pay for the experience, regardless of whether the film produces an image, and another where merchants guarantee that the film will produce an image, but not its quality.

Fujifilm staff suggest that some collectors are selling expired film rolls at high prices, possibly to attract attention and generate buzz. They also mention that due to the expiration of the film, the resulting images may have quality issues. Consumers are advised to approach this trend with a rational attitude, considering both the unique experience of using expired film and the potential quality issues. They should avoid blindly following the trend and make informed purchasing decisions.

The trend may be driven by a desire for unique and exclusive experiences, as well as the potential for social media attention. However, it also raises questions about the value and quality of the products being sold, and the potential for consumers to be taken advantage of. The frenzy surrounding the instant film has sparked a reevaluation of the value of instant imaging experiences. It appears that consumers are not merely purchasing film, but rather a tangible, physical memory that is created instantly, along with the satisfaction of handmade craftsmanship. However, consumers should also exercise caution, avoiding being swayed by exorbitant prices and the pressure to follow the crowd. The emotional premium associated with this unique experience has led some individuals to willingly pay far beyond the actual cost, highlighting the importance of respecting personal financial decisions and not judging others for their willingness to invest in intangible, yet meaningful, experiences.