Imagine going on a family trip with your Instax Mini 11, ready to capture beautiful moments together, but alas, as you eagerly press the shutter button, the camera starts flashing light but is not taking pictures. Talk about a major letdown, right? It can ruin a memorable outing for you. Many Instax users have faced this issue. In this blog, we will list out solutions to stop the orange blinking light and make sure your memories can always be photographed!
How to Fix Instax Mini 11 Flashing Solid Orange Light and Not Taking Pictures
Whenever your camera is charging or getting ready to take a picture, the Instax Mini will always blink orange or red light. However, a constant blinking suggests possible camera malfunction resulting from dead batteries, problems with the lens or cartridge, stuck film, or other device-related problems.
- Replace the old AA batteries with new ones. Additionally, always use high-quality alkaline batteries as suggested by Fujifilm.
- Check if the batteries are inserted correctly in their compartments according to the polarity signs (+) and (-)
- Put the batteries or charge
- Clean the lens properly with a lint-free microfibre cloth.
Method 1: Check Cartridge
If the cartridge is not aligned, the camera cannot print the film and the cartridge won’t fit nicely in your Mini 11 if the rear door isn’t set correctly. So, check if the cartridge is placed properly. Press the back cover firmly till it locks in place after lining up the colored tab with the matching tab within the camera. You should hear a clicking sound. Once done, check if the blinking lights issue is resolved.
Method 2: Inspect Instax Film
When the film cartridge becomes lodged in the film compartment of the Instax 11 Mini camera, it can also flash orange light. Gently remove the stuck film and re-insert the batteries. Next, press the shutter button on the camera and attempt to take pictures. Remember if you leave the film cartridge exposed to heat or direct sunlight, you will need to use a new film pack.
Also Read: Canon vs Nikon Cameras: Which is Better for Beginners?
Method 3: Check for Damage to New Battery
If your Instax Mini 11 camera is still blinking a solid orange light even after battery replacement, check if the new ones are working properly. In case you have accidentally mishandled opening the new batteries from the package, or for any other reason they are damaged, the camera won’t work. So, replace these and check if that helps. Make sure that the batteries are from the same manufacturer and not from different brands.
Method 4: Extend Camera Lens
Check if your lens is stuck to the camera due to sticky dust particles collected over time around it. Press the power button on the side and when the camera turns on, the lens should be fully extended. If it is not, there is something wrong with it. You can gently wiggle the camera and if the lens comes out, clean it, and see if that helps. Do not try to pull out the lens forcefully as doing so can damage the camera.
Also Read: 12 Effective Tips to Make Camera Quality Better for Your Android Phone
Method 5: Factory Reset
If none of the methods work out for you, you can factory reset your Instax Mini 11 to bring back all settings to normal and see if your flashing light problem is fixed and you can click pictures.
1. Push the power button to turn the camera off.
2. Proceed to the camera battery compartment and open the lid.
3. Gently press and hold the photo buttons for a duration of 5 to 10 seconds.
4. Ensure that the lid is closed properly and switch on the camera.
Your camera will be reset and ready to take a picture without the orange light blinking.
Method 6: Contact Instax Support for Software or Hardware Upgrade
Your last resort can be to contact Instax Support and complain about your issue if the orange flashing light on Instax is ongoing. If you have a warranty on your camera, you can get it repaired by skilled technicians.
What Does Solid Orange Light in Instax Mini Mean?
The orange light in Mini 11 shows your camera’s performance. Your camera is in ideal standby mode if you see a solid orange light. All you have to do to take pictures is push the shutter button. However, if the orange light is blinking, it indicates functional issues that need to be corrected.
Also Read: 15 Best Android Camera Apps
Tips to Maintain Your Instax Mini 11
Just like any other gadget, you need to take special care of your Instax Mini to work properly for a long time. Here are some tips you can follow to ensure that your camera is always maintained:
- Avoid direct sunlight on your film while it is loading.
- Instax photos can fade if not kept properly, therefore, store polaroids in an album or box.
- Avoid water on films.
- Clean your lens with a lint-free cloth to remove dust and fingerprints.
- Avoid keeping the camera on harsh surfaces so the lens or back door is not damaged.
- Use a protective case for your camera especially while traveling.
Refer to the official manual for Instax Mini 11 given by Fujifilm for more help.
How to Reset Instax Mini 11
Follow the steps Method 5: Factory Reset under How to Fix Instax Mini 11 Flashing Solid Orange Light and Not Taking Pictures.
Now that you’ve fixed your Instax Mini 11 flashing light and not taking pictures issue, it’s time to click your heart out and frame your best memories. If you have any queries or suggestions, feel free to drop them in the comments section. Stay tuned to TechCult for more such tech-related guides.