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How to Use A Holga 120N Camera

The Holga toy camera is an inexpensive, medium format camera that is sought after by some photographers, ironically, for the lack of quality and low-fidelity images it produces. Light leaks, blur, and vignetting are prized by Holga aficionados, as no two Holgas produce similar results. The manufacturer's defects are a highly prized commodity. The Holga 120N is an updated version of the original Holga and comes with two film masks: one 6x4.5 and one 6x6.

Things You'll Need

Holga 120N camera
Medium-format film
Matte finish black paint (optional)
Black electrical tape (optional)

Instructions

- 1
  Prepare the camera. This optional step can minimize the effects of light leaks. Open the camera and paint the inner body with matte finish black paint, and allow to dry fully. This step will cut down the bounce of light from any light leaks in the camera.
- 2
  Slide the two metal latches located on each side of the camera and remove the back cover.
- 3
  Insert the film roll into the left-side compartment. Slide the film lock pin into place to secure the roll in the chamber.
- 4
  Insert the tapered end of the film into the slot on the take-up spool and wind a small amount carefully to secure the film.
- 5
  Close the back of the camera by replacing the cover and sliding the metal latches into place. Turn the film advance knob until the film advance counter is set for the first exposure.

Photography