The Holga: 5 Things I Wish I'd Known From The Start

Like almost everything in life, the Holga experience is something that you can sit back and reflect on, evaluate and see what mistakes you made in the past.

Some of us aren't fortunate enough to have this priceless experience, but said people are fortunate in the sense that I'm going to share with them, 5 things I wish I'd known when I started using my Holga camera.

I wish I'd known....

1. ...How Rewarding Experimentation Is

It can be a little daunting getting your first Holga. There is a lot of hype about experimenting but you don't really even understand how to load the film yet. You need to learn this quickly, because experimenting is definitely the one thing that I have not done enough of.

Only recently have I started to really see what I can do with the Holga and only recently have I learned how easy it is to experiment with and get promising results.

Experimenting with the Holga is extremely rewarding and its something that you should do as much as possible!

2. ...How Easy Home Developing Is

This is something that I really need to cover in great detail, but home developing is so damn easy once you get the hang of it. It opens up your photography to all kinds of new experimentation.

Its also a lot faster and can save you a lot of money. The basic chemicals include Developer, Stop Bath, Fixer and a Wetting Agent. You will also need running water, a developing tank and somewhere to hang your negatives to dry. Learn how to develop B&W film as soon as you can. You Won't regret it one bit.

3. ...How USING a Holga is The Best Experience

Reading around a subject is always good, but doing it for yourself is the best way to learn. OK you may make some mistakes along the way, but you really won't learn a great deal from just sitting and reading about Holga cameras. You learn more from your mistakes than anything else. Go out and use the camera as much as you can because its the ultimate way to learn all about it. Every Holga is different and you need to find out just how yours works.

4. ...That you really don't need the 16 Mask

Keeping the 12 mask is stretching it, but the 16 mask? I don't even know why that's included with a Holga! We all want the square format so if any, use the 12 mask. I prefer to go naked and use none at all! I wasted a good few films playing with the 16 mask and didn't get the results I wanted at all.

5. ...That Being Friendly With Your Lab Pays

If your lab is struggling with your Holga negatives don't be an ass! Be polite and approachable. Talk to your lab as much as you can and get them to understand what it is you are looking for. Ask them questions and get answers. If all else fails try somewhere else.

I've been going to the same lab for about 4 years now and the same guy still works there. We have only recently started talking about my negatives and prints, and since I have received a much better service. Developing is an expensive business now so make sure you get your money's worth. It really does pay to be friends with them, and not enemies.


If you can think of any more then please add a comment.

Thanks for reading!

Labels: Developing, Holga, Newbies, Tips