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How to Modify a Holga Aperture

Holga cameras are known for their lack of precision in lighting, but have gathered a following among both amateur and professional photographers. They are often used to create surrealistic urban and landscape images, although the Holgas are not as versatile as other film cameras. Modifying the aperture of your Holga, however, will help make your Holga experience more enjoyable. Consider modifying your aperture to enjoy taking photos in low-light settings or on a bright, sunny day. Modifying a Holga is simple and cost-effective.

Things You'll Need

Screwdriver
Box cutters
CD case
Drill
Tape

Instructions

- 1
  Remove the back from your Holga camera. Locate the screws that attach the lens and shutter piece to the main camera body and unscrew them.
- 2
  Remove the small arm where your secondary aperture should be and set this piece aside. This is where you will be installing your secondary aperture.
- 3
  Locate the ring on the cloud aperture. Remove this ring to receive a little more light from this setting.
- 4
  Cut a small square out from the back side of a CD case (make sure the CD case you're using is made of black plastic on the back). Trim it down to the size of the square opening in the secondary aperture arm.
- 5
  Drill a small hole through the center of your new aperture square. Use an 1/8-inch drill bit if you're not sure what size you want your aperture, but the size may vary depending on your needs.
- 6
  Tape this secondary aperture square into the opening in the small arm, making sure the tape is facing the inside of the camera. Screw the lens back to the Holga camera body, load your film, and start shooting.

Photography