Decades ago, filters were paper linings used to strain coffee, but in more recent times, filters are more commonly known as a digital effect used to add interest to photos. There are thousands of photo editing applications and softwares on the web today, and a free photo editing app dubbed ‘HUJI’ blew up big time for Instagram users.

HUJI is a retro themed app, with the home screen  that looks similar to a disposable Fujifilm camera. Photos are taken within the app, but with purchases, photos from the device can be loaded in. The app adds randomized light effects and a date to the photo.

The app has some customizations: the choice to turn on/off the light effects, the choice to choose between the date from the photo and a date from the 80-90’s or to turn it off all together. The app even has a classic viewfinder, which can be clicked on to make it easier to see the photo and apply more basic settings. Junior Rachel Phillips shares her insight on the app.

“I really like HUJI because it gives off a retro vibe,” Phillips said. “The flash gives an original look to the photos.”

Each photo is not like the last, and if the effect on the photo isn’t appealing to the eye, reloading the image puts a new effect on the photo. This app is user-friendly and very simple to use. It seems like this app is perfect, but not every app is perfect.

“It does cost money [In Added Purchases], but it’s really not that expensive,” Phillips said. “A lot of other people use it, so I feel like no one is going to use it anymore.”

Trends with photo editing apps tend to die sooner rather than later, but this app is definitely something to try out. Some students believe this app is becoming mainstream, and overused.

“I think the app is slightly over used,” junior Kameron Jones said. “I don’t think the trend will stick around because of how basic it is.”

Photos using this app are flooding social media, and although it is gaining popularity, some people don’t like using the app because other people do, making it seem as overused. On the iTunes Photo and Video chart, this app is at #8, which means it is on the rise. This app is unique from its features to the way it is presented, and the retro style is appealing to many people.

“I would recommend it to other people because it gives a cool look to your photos and a unique touch to your Instagram,” Phillips said.