The Holga Darkroom

Holga Week Winners

noreply@blogger.com (Jen) — Thu, 01 Feb 2018 18:28:00 +0000

Did you all get a chance to see the Holga Week 2017 winners? If not, head over to the Holgaweek website and check it out!

"Stop Right Here" By J.M. Golding

YOUR Favorite Holga Photo - 2016 Edition

noreply@blogger.com (Jen) — Sat, 07 Jan 2017 02:46:00 +0000

Well, this post is late so let's get right down to it, shall we? 😀

YOUR Favorite Holga Photo - 2016 Edition

Name: Kristian Day
Location: Des Moines, Iowa
Title Of Image: A Beer On Sunday
Holga 120N w/ Ilford HP5 400ASA 120 Black and White (stock film that came with camera)
Links: www.kristianday.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kristianday/
I read online back in fall of 2015 that Holga's were being discontinued so when my girlfriend asked what I wanted for Christmas I told her I wanted the Holga 120N. I had I never used one before. So on Christmas day sure enough she had gotten me a Holga! I loaded it with the Ilford 120 b/w stock that was inside the box. I didn't really understand how to use it as I had only used SLR film cameras minus one 127 film camera I had. I took the camera with me everywhere but was very picky on what I shot. One Sunday in January I took my girlfriend and her parents to Firetrucker Brewery to treat them to a couple beer flights. Her dad's health had been slowly failing and he was not doing well that day but he and I always bonded over beers. I took this photo of him and it turned out to be one two photos in that first roll that I would consider good. In fact it was the only photograph from that first roll that was in focus. July of this year he had a stroke and passed away in hospice a week later.

Name: Adrian Stock (host of the Sunny16 podcast on film photography)
Location: UK
Title: Beach colour
Holga products: Holga 120GN
Film: Kodak Ektar 100
Website: @sunny16podcast on both Twitter and Instagram
I took my holga on holiday to Croatia in the summer and captured some great colour images in sunshine much brighter than we usually get in the UK. This is my favourite because it captures for me the memory of that trip.

Anthony Felipe, Edison, NJ
"Come On, You Can Get It".
https://www.flickr.com/photos/polyfez/
Taken from a Holga GTLR using Ultrafine Xtreme Black & White ISO 100 film. Developed and scanned by the Darkroom. The photograph was taken during a family trip down at the Round Vally Reservoir. My dog King was very excited to play in the clear lake. While there, my sister threw the ball near the water and King rushed to go and get it. That was when I decide to capture that moment of my dog at his best time. I love this picture so much since not only did I caught and sealed a beautiful photo of my dog. It kicked off my creativity on using the Holga more often and expand my mind in photography. As well as motivating me a lot.

Dave Wilkinson
Brancaster Staithe North Norfolk
The Crab hut
Holga 120N
Ilford HP5 home dev Ilfosol
https://www.flickr.com/photos/davewilkinson5/
This is the crab hut on the car park at Brancaster Staithe in North Norfolk, they do absolutely fantastic seafood sandwiches. It also happens to be our favourite holiday location which we try and get to twice a year. I have only been using the Holga for about 18 months, but absolutely love the images that I get from her. There is just something special about developing your own negatives and the look you get from the final print. It has really opened my eyes and made me think a lot more about the final image before you take the shot and slowing you down compared to digital.
Website for the most important photo work I've ever done: www.domesticviolencearoundus.com

Name: Earle Thompson (a.k.a. Takgyver or @Takgyver01)
Location: Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
Title: "Need a Harp"
Holga products: Holga GFN
Film: Ilford HP5+ at 1200 in Rodinal
Website: http://www.pbase.com/takgyver
"Missing the Blues" - This young fellow was funny, very polite, and knew the game he was playing. We had a great chat he was happy to be photographed.

Name: Dustin Veitch
Location: Rural south Saskatchewan
Title: Prairie Skyline
Holga: CFN 120
Film: Fuji Velvia 100 (Expired; unknown date)
This is my favorite Holga shot. I won a Holga 120 CFN in a photo contest in February but it wasn’t until July before I got around to shoot it. The camera came loaded with a roll of film that was kept secret from me until I finished and later developed it. Without any instruction or direction, other than it being color film, I just went and shot it not expecting much only to find that it was one of my favorite film stocks. Not bad for my first roll with the Holga.

Name: J. M. Golding
Location: Peak District National Park, UK
Title: A vortex in the path
Holga products and film: Holga 120N, Kodak Tri-X
My website: http://www.jmgolding.com
This year I had the amazing experience of visiting a landscape that I'd known only through the photographs of Al Brydon (http://www.al-brydon.com/), whose work has inspired me for a long time and with whom I've worked collaboratively for several years. Of the photographs I made there, this one seems to me to most convey the sense of magic that I felt in being there.

Name: Lorraine Healy
Location of the image: Wenatchee, Washington
Title: Wally’s House of Booze
Holga camera: Helga N camo
Film used: Kodak 160 expired
website: www.Lorrainehealy.com
I love old storefronts and old signs. I was on a weekend road trip in the Palouse area of WA, shooting with my goddaughter, who was visiting from Argentina. We spent the night in Wenatchee, WA, and on Sunday morning early we drove down the old downtown where we found this sign. It’s my favorite because of the vivid colors, the wacky name of the place, the ghost sign behind it, and because I had Fía at my side shooting like crazy

Melissa Federowicz
Black Rock City, Nevada
"And the Sun Sets Again"
Shot with 135 Holga & Agfa 400
unboredhands.blogspot.com
I've been going to Burning Man for years, shooting with my 120 & 135 Holgas in the harsh, dusty conditions. I've had the opportunities to grow as a photographer, artist and person throughout my experiences and challenges around this unique event & I am forever grateful for that. This photo was shot shortly before the man (in the background) was burned in 2016.

Alex Purcell
Swansea, Wales UK.
'Keep going'
Holga120N
HP5+ developed in Rodinal.
Instagram @grainyblur
I took this on Sunday, while trying to do most of my Christmas shopping in one day, without completely losing the plot. It's my favorite of the year, partly because it's my first intentional double exposure, and also because for me it captures how I was feeling about being held in a big city bursting with people, while wanting nothing more that to get out into open countryside. It was a successful shopping trip though, so i won't have to go back for a while

Name: David Perry
Location: Sydney, Australia
Camera: Holga 120 Pan
Film: Kodak Portra 400
This is one photo of a series on early-morning swimmers at a rock pool in Maroubra, Sydney, using 6x6 and 6x12 Holgas. I could only shoot this by holding the camera at arm's length over the water, so had no idea exactly where the camera was pointing. Part of shooting film, especially with a Holga, is the frisson engendered by having to wait a few days to get the film back from the lab. When I got this roll back I was amazed at how this shot turned out - the light, focus, composition and water dripping off the elbow all came together. The Muse of Holgas must have been smiling that morning.

Dave Wolanski
Dover, DE, USA
My Blog: www.davidwolanski.com
Picking my favorite photo from the year is nearly impossible, so I'll submit this one. I like it because its an interior of a church I've been going to in the Mississippi Delta for several years. It's flooded several times up to the windows, so, time will certainly take it's toll. The photo seems ageless too me, and I like the light and dark. I especially like the tendrils of the vine that are creeping in the one window. Nature will abide.

Name : Maki Tabusa
location : Tokyo Japan
title of image : a man looking out over the sea
Holga products : Holga 120 CFN
film used : Fuji Acros 100
my website : https://www.flickr.com/photos/136473385@N04/
I found the nice scenery when I walked with my dog on the beach in the evening, None but Holga can make this image.

Name: Martin Lealan
Location of photo: Castle Howard, Yorkshire, England
Title: Mrs Lealan goes on holiday (and the sun comes out).
Holga 120N
Ilford HP5 Plus 400
Five days of a blanket of cloud and mist. At 3:30 pm on the sixth day, the sun came out. I am not a photographer and this image explained to me what I do and don't like about my previous photos.

Name: Rachel Winslow
Location: Chicago, IL
Title: Magic Morning
Camera: Holga 120 Pinhole
Film: Lomo Xpro 200
Website: rachelwinslow.tumblr.com
I took this photo one winter morning in early 2016. I kept the shutter open the entire time it took me to drink my morning cup of tea.

Name: Randy Jennings
http://www.facebook.com/EverydayPeoplePolaroids/
http://www.facebook.com/HolgART
www.facebook.com/CapturedLivePhotography/
http://holgarts-world.BlogSpot.com
I have stepped away from my usual subject matter in 2016. Still shooting some Holga, but more Polaroid and 35mm, and yes even the dreaded "D" format. Unfortunately a necessary evil with the people I shoot. However this is my image for submission. I wanted to shoot a vampire themed shoot during October. My main concept was still with the Polaroid Big Shot. Of course, I had a Holga loaded and close at hand. I only shot a few frames with the Holga. After I applied the blood I had to work quickly to get my Polaroids shot. This is "Mistress of the Dark" Why is my favorite? I'm not going to lie to you, I like to photograph attractive women. :-)

Thank you everyone for your submissions! Happy New Year! Wishing you and your Holgas all the best for 2017. 💜

- Jen

Call for Entry; YOUR Favorite Holga Photo - 2016 Edition

noreply@blogger.com (Jen) — Thu, 08 Dec 2016 18:44:00 +0000

Send me your one Favorite Holga shot that you took in 2016 and at the end of the year I will publish a post here with everyone's photos.

Requirements:

Send only ONE Holga photo, at 700 pixels on the longest edge, 72dpi, jpg format that you shot in 2016
Send to jen@holgajen.com with "Holga 2016" as the subject line
In the body of the email list your name, location, title of image, Holga products and film used, and your website (optional) and a short caption of the story behind the photo and why it is your Favorite.
Title the file with firstname_lastname.jpg
Deadline for submissions is December 22, 2016 at midnight EST

I look forward to seeing everyone's work and sharing them with you all! The post will be published on December 30. All photos will be published!

Holga Week Winners and Upcoming Events

noreply@blogger.com (Jen) — Fri, 04 Nov 2016 17:55:00 +0000

Did you all get a chance to check out the winners of this year's Holga Week contest?

Melissa Federowicz "The Universes Below"

If not, head over to the Holga Week blog to check all of them out!! Huge thank you to our sponsors for this event!! Please show them some love as well :)

I currently have a stock pile of film that I've shot this year with my Holga and I haven't had a chance to get it developed yet. Who knows when that will happen but in the mean time I am also posting over on my personal blog with non-Holga work and updates on my shop and local shows. If you are interested in following along with me over there you can visit the blog here: Jennifer Henriksen Photography

Upcoming Events:

2017 International Krappy Kamera® Competition

Submission Deadline: January 8, 2017
Exhibition: March 8–April 1, 2017
Reception: March 7,2017 6–8pm

This year’s juror, Russell Joslin, is the sole editor and publisher of SHOTS Magazine, an independent, reader-supported quarterly journal of fine art photography that reaches an international audience.

Holga Week Update and Pinhole/Plastic Camera Contest from B&W Mag

noreply@blogger.com (Jen) — Tue, 13 Sep 2016 16:45:00 +0000

Hey Guys!

I know it's been a while since I updated this blog, and I apologize. I wanted to quickly update that the Holga Week contest is closed and winners will be announced in the upcoming weeks. The photos will also be uploaded to the website in the same time frame. Stay tuned!

There is also an upcoming entry opportunity for plastic camera and pinhole camera shooters from Black and White Magazine.

Pinhole/Plastic Camera Imagery: When it comes to analog photography, there’s nothing quite as much fun as going lo-fi with pinhole cameras and plastic cameras like the Holga, Diana and Lomo. The supposed “defects” of these cameras — light leaks, soft focus, vignetting, diffraction — open up a whole new level of creative possibilities for the adventurous photographer. Submit your best pinhole/plastic camera photo and share your vision with the world.
Entry Specifications: Open to black-and-white images made with any type of plastic or pinhole camera.

See this link for more details

I hope you all had a wonderful summer and shot a lot of Holga images! I look forward to seeing all of the ones submitted to Holga Week!

Jen

Holga Feature Photographer Kathi Bondzio

noreply@blogger.com (Jen) — Wed, 18 May 2016 18:17:00 +0000

Kathi's image "Apple" was the image that I chose as my 'winner' back during the first Holga Week of 2014. Kathi is a graphic designer and she lives in a small city close to Cologne, Germany. She graciously accepted my request for an interview, and I am finally getting it out for everyone to see! Check out her lovely images below and find out why she loves the Holga so much.

How did you get introduced to your first Holga and how long have you been shooting?

I've been into photography from a very young age, but it was always the "serious technical approach" with a SLR and I enjoyed it, but I wasn't really passionate about it. I decided to study graphic design. At university I took a course that focussed on the different styles of photography, which is where I first learned about all sorts of low-fi and experimental techniques and also discovered Lomography, which at that time was basically just LC-A and Samplers -- this was in 2002. I was intrigued, but I didn't know anyone (except my professor) who had ever heard about it. So I went off into the internet and tried to find more about all this and that's where I stumbled across the first Holga shots. I fell in love with the square format, the dreamy look, the sharp center and soft edges, the vignette... So I had to have one!

What is it about the Holga that draws you to it? Why do you shoot with it?

I still love shooting with a Holga for the very same reasons I fell in love all those years ago. I'm still a big fan of the square format. I love that with a Holga, you can put your subject just plain in the centre and it never gets boring. I love the vignette and the distortion, the softness and the very special atmosphere that all Holga photos seem to have.

What are some of your biggest challenges shooting with a Holga and do you have any tips for over coming them?

To be honest, I find shooting with a Holga pretty straight-forward. As you can't change any settings on the camera except the distance, you can fully concentrate on your subject matter. Of course at the beginning there's also questions like "is there enough light?" or "did I estimate/set the distance right?", but this is just a matter of practice and experience -- so keep shooting!

What is your biggest piece of advice for someone just starting out with a Holga?

When I got my first Holga (which was actually a "Woca") I was really nervous and worried I'd mess up the film, since I'd never shot medium format before. But I soon found out it's really easy, so my first tip is: don't worry so much, just go for it. Anything else... well, I'm not a big fan of taping the camera, but I'll admit a bit of tape or a rubber band comes in handy because all those stories you heard about the the back just falling off -- it really happens.

What do you consider "must-haves" when shooting with your Holga and why?

Film :) And to be honest I prefer shooting on sunny days with the Holga, it adds more contrast and colours to the images and I like it better that way.

What other cameras do you have in your arsenal?

Over the past years I have accumulated a rather large collection of cameras (I think around 30, maybe more, I don't really know), but apart from my Holgas my all-time favourites are my LC-A, Lubitel and SX-70. But I like to try "new" and different cameras every now and then.

Favourite photo film(s)?

This is really hard to tell because there are phases when I like one or the other film better, and sometimes I chose the film depending on the subject or my mood. But when it comes to shooting with my Holga, a fail-proof choice for me is the Lomo X-Pro 200 (cross-processed, as the name suggests). I really like the colours and it's rather forgiving when it comes to under- or overexposure.

What inspires you?

So many things! I try to keep my eyes open when I'm out and about, I usually always carry a camera with me and there's a lot to discover even in your usual everyday-routines. I enjoy looking at works of other artists too, not just photography, but also fine art, illustration, design, architecture...

You can find more of Kathi's photos here:
Website: http://somekeepsakes.com/
Flickr: https://www.flickr.com/photos/some-keepsakes/

Thanks for stopping by!

Jen

Current Holga and Toy Camera Submission Opportunities

noreply@blogger.com (Jen) — Mon, 25 Apr 2016 18:46:00 +0000

If you are looking for some great submission opportunities for your Holga or other toy camera images, consider submitting to these two shows below. Both have been running annual events for many years now and are great ways to get exposure for your work, support the galleries, and learn about other artists who are doing the same!

Lightbox Photographic Gallery
Plastic Fantastic Show VII
Juror: Susan Burnstine
Deadline: May 8, 2016
Click Here for more information

Nave Gallery
2016 Somerville Toy Camera Festival
Juror: Christopher James
Deadline: June 15, 2016
Click Here for more information

TCC Photo Gallery
6th Annual Holga & Friends Out of the Box
Juror: Harvey Stein
Deadline: July 28, 2016
Click Here for more information

Holga Feature Photographer Johan Larsson

noreply@blogger.com (Jen) — Tue, 05 Apr 2016 19:00:00 +0000

Sit back and enjoy the wonderful Holga work of Johan Larsson from Jönköping, Sweden! The series of images below is entitled JKPG and are of the city that he lives in. I love the way he uses multiple exposures (and sometimes panoramas) to create dreamy and dramatic cityscapes!

How did you get introduced to your first Holga and how long have you been shooting?
I think I bought my first Holga in 2008. To be honest, it was not a love at first sight. I took only two or maybe three rolls of film before the shutter broke. 2010-2011 I got a new Holga, as a Christmas gift from my wife. In 2011, me and my Holga finally worked things out and I came to realize what the fuzz was all about.

I have five Holgas (three Holga 120N, one Holga 120CFN and one beautiful, bright yellow Holga 135). I use different films for different situations, so I really need them all. I don't know why, but I do not like the Holga 135. I think I prefer medium format when I shoot toycam and that's why the Holga 135 always stays at home when I go out.

What is it about the Holga that draws you to it? Why do you shoot with it?

I like the simplicity. It is extremely easy to use. Two apertures and one shutter speed (+bulb), that's all I need. And, of course, it is a really beautiful camera and also quite a conversation starter.

Please tell me a bit about your series in which you use a Holga:

I use my Holgas for two series (Barndomsbyn and JKPG). Barndomsbyn (swedish for the childhood village) is a story about the village where I grew up. JKPG (short for Jönköping) is about the city where I live. The photos in JKPG are all multi exposures (up to 100 exposures on each frame). The attached photos are from my JKPG series.

What are some of your biggest challenges shooting with a Holga and do you have any tips for over coming them?

I like light leaks, but sometimes it gets too much. Tape solves the problem easily. I always carry duct tape around, in every jacket and every bag.

What is your biggest piece of advice for someone just starting out with a Holga?

Have fun! Enjoy its simplicity and use it! Don't think too much about composition and light and that stuff, just shoot!

What other cameras do you have in your arsenal?

I have to many cameras (50+) but I only use a couple of them. My favorite camera is an old Leica M2 from the the early 60's.

Favourite photo film(s)?

I shoot primarily with expired Kodak films. Kodak Tmax400 and Tmax100 are the films I use most. They are predictable and tolerant, and I like that.

What inspires you?

Music inspires me. I used to play in a garage band. And I read a lot, mostly Swedish authors like Stig Dagerman.

Visit him at the following links:

Website: www.mudride.com
Flickr: https://www.flickr.com/photos/sonicinfusion/

Holga Book Review: Tricks With A Plastic Wonder by Lorraine Healy

noreply@blogger.com (Jen) — Wed, 16 Mar 2016 15:25:00 +0000

Title: Tricks with a Plastic Wonder
Author: Lorraine Healy
Genre: Photography
Price: $6.25 on Kindle at Amazon

An in-depth exploration of the Holga plastic camera, this comprehensive guide by long-time analog photographer Lorraine Healy cuts down on anyone's learning curve on mastering the secrets of "toy" camera photography. For the digital photographer wanting to discover the magic of film as well as for "plastic wonder" fanatics looking for detailed techniques to produce experimental, wacky or ethereal masterpieces.

Biography

Lorraine Healy is an award-winning Argentinean poet who has been published extensively. Nominated for a Pushcart in 2004, she has a M.F.A from the New England College and a post-MFA from Antioch University Los Angeles. She is the first poet to have received a green card solely on the merits of her work. The 2009 winner of the Patricia Libby First Book Award, her book "The Habit of Buenos Aires" was published by Tebot Bach in 2010. Her new collection, "Mostly Luck", is forthcoming from Tebot Bach in 2014. "Abraham's Voices," her newest chapbook has just been published by WorldEnoughWriters.

As a photographer, she has been shooting plastic cameras, primarily the traditional Holgas S and N, since 2002. She describes these cheap, idiosyncratic cameras as the perfect vehicle for her way of seeing the world. Lorraine was the winner of the Street Photography 1st Prize of the Holgapalooza 2009 contest, and has been featured in the Krappy Kamera, Holga Out of the Box, Plastic Fantastic, Somerville Toy Show, and Toyed With Plastic contests and shows.

She has long made her home in an island on Puget Sound, Washington.

www.Lorrainehealy.com

My Thoughts

If you are reading this, you probably love the Holga. Maybe you've used one for years, like myself, or maybe you just bought one and you are trying to educate yourself as best you can on the subject! Education is definitely worth the investment, as it can spare you wasted rolls of film which are getting expensive to develop these days!

I recently had the opportunity to read Tricks with a Plastic Wonder and I found it to be a very good summation of the Holga camera, from deciding which model to use, what film to use, and how all of the various tricks, techniques and accessories affect your final image.

Even though I've been using the Holga for over 10 years, there are still some techniques I have not yet tried. I really enjoyed reading the sections on the various ways to make panoramas, and also the tricks that can be used in post developing to maximize your images.

Lorraine uses many comparison images to show examples of how one scene will look when using various lenses and filters. There are also examples of other artists work to further enhance the lessons! I feel like these sections are great for someone who is just starting out and may not be able to buy all of the lenses or accessories all at once. This helps you decide what look you are going for and what you want to experiment with first.

The bibliography and resources section at the end of the book is very thorough and provides you with lots of extra reading and links to look at.

If this all sounds like something you are interested in then go check out Lorraine's book and let me know what you think in the comments section. Holga-On!

"I love everything about it: the square format, the heavy vignetting, the lack of pristine focus, and its general lack of perfection. Its sheer imperfection opens doors to be free and play."

The Day My Holga Met Some Owls

noreply@blogger.com (Jen) — Wed, 02 Mar 2016 15:41:00 +0000

If you follow me on Twitter, you might remember a few posts about owls back in the fall.

Me with a Holga TLR, and a very unimpressed owl

I attended a photography event that was sponsored by some of the big names in the business (Canon, Nikon, Fujifilm) where you could try out equipment and all of the latest gadgets. We had the opportunity to get up close and personal with some birds of prey, and a few other creatures. Well, because I'm me, instead of trying out the gear, I brought along my Holga and tried to see how close I could get to these magnificent creatures!

I have been sitting on these photos for a few weeks now, so I thought I should share a few.

I got pretty close with this one!

Being ignored again.....

It was a challenging experience because I knew that in order to get any half decent shots, I needed to get close! Closer than you would expect, because as we all know, the Holga takes pictures a bit farther away than what you see in the viewfinder. There was also a ton of people there shooting with lenses bigger than my head. I am a huge animal lover and really loved having the chance to get so close to these beautiful and intimidating animals!

It was a good experience and I never regret taking my Holga along to these types of events! I did bring my Nikon DSLR as well, but was too preoccupied with the animals to worry about trying out lenses. I just shot with what I had (a kit lens).

And I got to visit a few other creatures as well!

Yup, thats right, I did this.

Big thanks to my friend and fellow photographer Sylvia for taking the photos of me! Check out her work here!

Up next, I am working on a post about Lorraine Healy's book Tricks With a Plastic Wonder. Come back in a few days for that.

Thanks for stopping by!

Jen

Holga Tips : Creating Close Up Photos with Your Holga 120

noreply@blogger.com (Jen) — Fri, 22 Jan 2016 19:17:00 +0000

Have you ever wanted to create close up photos with your Holga? Have you tried using the single person icon on the lens dial, and found that you still can't get as close as you'd like? Well, I've got a few great tips for you on how to master this technique (as much as you can "master" anything with a Holga)! For additional Holga related tips see the articles at the end of this post.

For starters you will need either a Holga brand close up filter, or a Macro filter attachment (these are both fairly inexpensive items). If you go with the generic macro filter you will also need a 46-49mm step up ring in order to attach it to your Holga.

Holga with close up lens attachment

Holga Close up lens attachment

Holga with step up ring and macro lens above

Macro lens attachment (glass)

I have used both and generally I prefer the glass macro filter that I have over the Holga brand. It depends what look you are going for. The Holga close up lens is, like its camera counterpart, inconsistent from piece to piece and gives you a more unfocused look since it is also made from plastic.

Holga close up lens

Holga close up lens, double exposure

Macro lens plus long exposure

When I get close, I like to see at least some details and know that I will get a consistently sharper image (as long as I get the distance correct!). I know that some have had great success with the Holga close up lenses as well, so I think it maybe comes down to the fact that they are all slightly different.

Macro lens

Whichever one you choose, you can get nice and close to your subject and get some pretty cool shots. I like to pick an area that has a bit of 'give' or depth to it in the subject so that if your distance is off, you know that at least something will be in focus! I like to get right down to the subjects level and shoot from that perspective. The Holga viewfinder, as most of you know is also slightly inaccurate so make sure you take this into account when you are shooting. Yes, it is helpful but also take note of where your lens is actually positioned in relation to your subject. You might just need to move it a tiny bit to get your composition the way you want it on film.

Macro lens

I've also been known to use the close up lenses on myself with some pretty cool results paired with a long exposure...

Macro lens and long exposure

The other lens that I've used in the past, and one of my absolute favorites, is the Lomography Tunnel Vision Lens attachment. I purchased this probably 10+ years ago and it does not look like they make the one I have anymore. They do have this version on their website but it appears to be out of stock. It allows you to get close up as well, with a motion blur effect around the edges.

Tunnel vision lens

I hope you found this article helpful! Feel free to comment below if you have any questions, or if you have any further tips from your own experience!

Other Holga Tip Articles:

Getting Holga Lens Flare

8 Tips for Holga Newbies

Using a Cable Release with your Holga

Think First, Then Shoot

(Please note this article contains a few Amazon Associate links and I make a very small percentage of anything you choose to purchase using these links.)

Your Top Holga Photos of 2015! (part two)

noreply@blogger.com (Jen) — Wed, 30 Dec 2015 15:04:00 +0000

Part two... because you are all so awesome!! (See Part One here)

MJ Idzerda
London, Ontario, Canada
"Ruby"
Holga 120N
Ruby was the official Store Dog at a local pet store in London Ontario's Wortley Village. The Holga was my first foray into toy cameras... leading me to become a local supporter of all things film and plastic camera!

Heather Harkins

Los Angeles, California,

"Lunch With Nancy Jean"

Holga 120N "Sunset Boulevard", Ilford HP5 Plus

I love this shot partly because it documents a really fun visit with my friend Nancy Jean, and also because the magic of a double exposure let us share the frame just like we shared a laugh over lunch.

Inge van Leipsig

Rotterdam, the Netherlands

"Rotterdam"

Holga 120WPC and Rollei RPX 25

www.light-camera-inga.com

This year, due to some personal and family stuff, I didn't have much time for photography. I did join a project called The Next Best Thing Pinhole Project (http://www.nextbestthingpinhole.com/), for which I had to shoot two pinholes every three months. This was one of the images for the project and I was very happy with how it turned out. It captures my hometown Rotterdam perfectly: old versus new architecture. It has the first European skyscraper on it, but also the new and experimental architecture Rotterdam is known for these days. It also shows one of the many harbours Rotterdam has.

Lorraine Healy
Freeland, WA
"Roy's , Amboy, California"
Holgapan 120 with 35mm insert, way, way expired Kodak film
www.Lorrainehealy.com

I took this on early February, during a Route 66 workshop with Dave Wyman. The reason why it's my favorite this year is I wasn't expecting much of putting old film through the Holgapan with the 35 mm, and this was the one good shot I got. I love how the shot matches the subject matter, Route 66.

Cynthia Lee
Nambour, Queensland Australia
"Back Streets of Nambour"
Holga 120N, Lomography Color Negative 120 film 800
www.cynthialee.com.au
There are local spots I like to walk around with my camera - because there is always something interesting. This image is at the back of PSYC gym and street artist are free to paint the walls. This day there wasn't a lot of great work, looked like young kids that found spray cans in mum and dads shed and a random school chair also been tagged.

Greg Calvert
Liberty Island, New York City
"Lower Manhattan from Liberty Island"
Holga 120N on Portra 400, processed & scanned by North Coast Photo
gregcalvert.com
Lower Manhattan glistens on a brisk winter morning as I played tourist with visiting parents and in-laws, preparing to move to the west coast. Although it's only a year old and far from remarkable, it feels nostalgic.

Csaba Kovacs
Budapest, Hungary
Moon above the Hungarian Parliament (Lunargraphy)
Holga WPC 120 (pinhole), Kodak Tmax 100
csaba-kovacs.com
I am pinhole photographer and I like the long exposures. My favorite Holga photo is a lunargraph. This photo made about 4.5 hours in this year's spring from the famous Hungarian Parliament. I try to show the place's an other face in the night with the move Moon. I love my Holga pinhole camera and enjoy the photography with it!

Pablo Jones

Chicago, IL

Fly a Kite

Holga 120S with Kodak Ektar 100, developed by www.oldschoolphotolab.com

https://www.flickr.com/photos/7767960@N02/

Taken at a spring Kite Festival in Chicago. I love the way the composition turned out; I have the 6x4.5 mask which makes framing with the square viewfinder notoriously difficult.

Michael Sturgess

London, UK
Photo location: Dolo, Italy"The Fisherman"

Holga 135BC + Fuji C200
www.michaelsturgess.com
Whilst on holiday in Venice Italy I went to Padova for a day. On the way back to Venice my friend and stopped off at Dolo for some ice cream. We wandered down to the old mill and saw a man fishing. I took one photo with the Holga and I was about to get my compact digital camera out of my pocket to take a photo but the fisherman had walked back up the mill. We then went and had some lovely ice cream before the drive back to Venice. It's my favorite I've taken this year because it was of the moment.

Armin Oehmke

Location: my bathroom

"Quell"

Holga CNF on Rollei RPX400,

Developed in HC110. Lithprint on Agfa Brovira -Speed BS310RC

http://eskalationsfotografie.de/

Craig Coss

Arrowhead Junction, California

"Desert Rail"

Deluxe Stealth Waist Level Holga loaded with Fuji Pro 400H

I purchased my first Holga in the spring of 2015 and by December I owned four. This image is the third picture from my very first roll and is the reason I am now hooked.

Naomi Goggin
London
Untitled
Holga 120N, Kodak Trix 400
www.naomigoggin.com
Amy, the bride, had just said this was her favourite time of day, in the late afternoon light. This is one of so many favourites from my first year with this camera. An unpredictable and magical beast.

Ale Di Gangi
Florence (Italy)
"There still is life on this planet"
Holga 120GN + Lomography Turquoise
http://aledigangi.com
After a couple of years of mobile and instant only, I finally resumed Holga and Lc-a shooting this last summer, in occasion of a vacation in Sicily. When I had the rolls developed, I realized all the harm that digital shooting has done to me, mainly due to absent-mindedness brought by "automated shooting". This photograph of three people on a beach is my favourite of this year because it comprehends all the flaws that I so dearly missed - and that I have learned to never want to miss again. These are what I call "natural" flaws (as opposed to "artificial" ones you can build on a mobile device): the warmth of the film, the distortion of the lens, the precariousness of film.
Let's Holga on.

Lisa Shea

Blithewold Mansion, Bristol RI

"Sailboat"

Holga 120N with black and white film

http://www.lisashea.com

I enjoy shooting Holga in a variety of styles – color, black and white, 35mm, redscale, and more. It’s always hard to choose just one favorite, but I love the shadows and serenity of this image.

David Wolanski

Dover, DE (photo taken in Mississippi)

"Delta Rainbow"

Holga 120 N, Modified by Randy Smith, Holgamods, Portra film

This is one of my favorites because I was driving past this site in the Mississippi Delta and saw the colors and light and quickly backed up to park and do some photos. The light lasted barely a few minutes and was gone as quickly as it came. I drove back by the location a day later and it was just a drab mess.

Todd Schlemmer
Seattle, WA
"Captain Twilight"
Holga 120N, Velvia 50, el cheepo flash
https://www.flickr.com/photos/theschlem/albums
I had promised that I would take a photo of the engine captain at station 5. We had been busy all day, but some time after dinner we had time to go outside and snap this before we were dispatched to a house fire. Velvia 50 is a daylight film, but I had my Holga loaded with it. I had the flash in my bag and stuck it on the Holga as an experiment. This is one of my favorite portraits.

Howard T. Calb
Somewhere between Amersfoort and Apeldoorn (highway A1 in Holland)
"Following the truck for 280 meters in 10 seconds"
Holga 120PC, Audi A4, Fuji NPC160 (expired 2004)
http://thetoadmen.blogspot.nl
I shot this image on Worldwide Pinhole Photography Day (WPPD-2015) on April 26th, 2015.
I like to use (expired) Fuji NPC 160 film for my colour pinhole photography. I use several home build pinhole cameras, but also often just carry my two Holga Pinhole cameras for 6x6 and 6x12 format. These are fine cameras and easy to use.
On my way home, I placed the pinhole camera on the dashboard of my car, tripped the shutter while driving 100 kmh and kept it open for about ten seconds.

Martina Kettner
Linz, Austria
"Death Valley"
Holga 120 GFN, Ilford 100 Delta Pro

www.martinakettner.at

I took this picture in February 2015 at the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes in Death Valley - which is one of my favorite places on earth. I was surprised that the picture turned out well because of the slow film speed and the fact that I took the picture in the late afternoon. The light was quite dim already.

Katie Mollon
Michigan, USA
"Shores of Lake Superior"
Holga 120FN - Portra 400
www.analogdreamer.com
Every summer we meet up with our Minnesota & Wisconsin cousins somewhere between us: this year was Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. It was my first time playing in Lake Superior. I loved the way the colors of the tourists & rusting dock were playing off of the swirling waters, so I double-exposed that with a shot of driftwood, which is always one of my favorite subjects. I love the way my Holga always leaks in just the right amount of light along the edges!

Gary LeBouton
Wautoma WI
"At The Fair"
Holga 120S, Ilford HP5 developed in Pyro
It was created this past summer at the Waushara County Fair. Every year I try to create at least 12 images with Holga 120 S.

Daniel Rock
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
"Imagine Peace"
Holga WPC 120, Lomo XR 50/200
https://www.flickr.com/photos/rockpowered/
I was inspired by the table top placed outside the building that had Imagine Peace painted in bold lettering. It's my favourite not just because of the striking composition, as indeed it was my first image captured on my first Holga purchased some few months ago. It's sad to see that I caught the wave so late, awesome I get to ride it.

(And finally, mine. Which I have shared already but figured it would be a good way to close off the post. I shot a lot more film in 2015 but for various reasons did not have time to get it developed. I should have some more work to share in a few weeks!)

Thanks for stopping by and thank you to everyone who submitted. I was truly blown away by the number of submissions, and the quality of the work.

Long live the Holga!

Your Top Holga Photos of 2015! (Part One)

noreply@blogger.com (Jen) — Wed, 30 Dec 2015 14:41:00 +0000

What a year it's been!

With the Holga factory closing its doors just a few short weeks ago, I felt that now more than ever we should show how strong the Holga community is by celebrating the photos we create using this simple plastic wonder. It's no secret that I have been a huge Holga fan for over 10 years now, and I am honored that all of you stop by my blog and share your work with me!

Holga Week had a record turn out this year and so many great images were received! I plan to continue this tradition as an annual event for as long as I can, and for as long as our Holgas continue to take photos for us!

And now without any further rambling....

Your TOP Holga Photos of 2015 (Part One)

Sam Lee
Los Angeles, California
Title of Image: Salton Sea, 2015
Holga 120GN
Ilford HP5 400 ISO
I was driving home from Salton Sea and noticed a train coming towards our direction. As passenger, I quickly reached for my Holga (it is always in close proximity), rolled down the car window, and photographed the passing train, as it passed us going the opposite direction. It happened so quickly and in a matter of about 15 seconds. I really didn't know what I captured and was really surprised that the train was in focus. The image is my favorite because through luck and chance, I just let go of the control and allowed the Holga camera to just capture the subject.

Jonas Lundström
Sweden
Attack of the alien yellyfish from space!
Holga 120CFN + Holga close up lens 120mm
https://www.flickr.com/photos/jonasfx/
This is really my favorite not just because I happened to nail the exposure and focus for once with the close up lens but because that I never could have imagined that the pciture would come out like this. it was really a nice surprise with the XPRO'd roll and that's what the Holga is all about, right?

Kendra Laflin
Austin, TX
Vines and Stone
Holga 120N, Ilford HP5
www.thistlecloud.com
I took this photo in south Austin when I wasn't even really out to take photos. It was in a neighborhood, the stone is part of a wall for fence between houses. I really like the texture and the pattern the leaves in comparison to the cracks in the stone. Plus I'm having a love affair with Ilford HP5 right now.

Debashish "Dev" Samaddar

Phoenix, Arizona USA

"Double Star"

Holga 120 Wide Pinhole Camera, Kodak Portra 400

www.devsamaddar.com

This wide pinhole camera shoots 6x12. I wanted to shoot a few panoramas at and after sundown to capture streaks of light from traffic with the last light in the sky. Since it is a panorama camera, I had to wind the film to every odd number. two 6x6 frames at a time. But I forgot to do that. Instead I went forward one 6x6 frame, resulting in overlapped, multiple exposure photos. The lab that developed and scanned also couldn't scan 6x12, so they scanned only 6x9. Overall, multiple glitches. But as a result I got some astounding photos. I have several favorites from the roll, but I chose this one as it shows two suns/stars in our sky (and the frames blend pretty nicely too, some of the others aren't so smooth).

Patrick J. Clarke

Temecula, CA

"Watching Over You"

Holga 120N

Telex Rangefinder, 46-49 Stepup ring, Red Filter

Ilford XP2 Super, Jobo C-41 Dev Kit

I had finally gotten my kit just right. A new 120N that had been calibrated to a Telex Rangefinder, a red filter and using XP2. I had been playing with different combos for years, but I was finally narrowing in on the vision of what I wanted to create with the Holga.

So this trip to the beach was nothing about camera and setup, it was all about finding the right image. When I walked up to this scene, I knew how it was going to look even before I snapped the shutter. It was the first time the Holga got out of my way and was just a tool to create an image...enough experimenting, I was creating with a unique tool.

Mr. Holga

Globe Life Park in Arlington, Texas

Ryan 34

Holga 120GCF, Kodak TMAX 100

mrholga.com

The statue of Nolan Rayan at Globe Life Park in Arlington has its back to the sun during most of the baseball season. Visitors to the park take their photos from the front, which gives an awful backlighting effect. I took mine from the rear and my nearsighted plastic buddy did the rest. This photo has everything I love about Holga photographs: sweet-spot focus, vignetting and a slight double-exposure in the lower right corner.

Sheila McKinney

London, UK

'Lake Louise Selfies' - 3 second exposure

Holga 120 Wide Pinhole Camera, Kodak Ektar 100

sheilamckinney.zenfolio.com

This image was made in the summer of 2015 at Lake Louise, Alberta, Canada. It is a stunningly beautiful place, much photographed by the many, many visitors. Most of these people spend but a few moments here so that they can capture their image, or a selfie, to be posted to FaceBook, which is the ultimate way of proving you were there!

This photo is my favourite because I continue to be amazed at what can be captured by a simple plastic box, film and a pinhole.

Dennis Stein

Medfield, Ma.

"Crooked Tree”

Holga 120s, Lomography film ISO 400

http://www.djsfineartphotography.com

I walk the dogs every day in the fields near my house. This tree is at the beginning of the walk, among shrubs and other trees. Just very simple in how it all comes together.

Craig Pindell
Cheyenne Wyoming
Bicycle on the Pier, Georgetown South Carolina
Holga Panorama 120, Ilford HP5+ Film
I made this image one evening after work while strolling on the pier, waiting for co workers to meet for dinner. I wanted to photograph the benches, Light was right and by chance as I was composing the image, someone rode up and parked the bicycle in this spot - without a care about the composition of my photograph. In the end the bicycle helped the image. All's well that ends well.

Melissa Federowicz

Los Angeles, CA

untitled

Holga 135 & Kodak Ultramax 400 & Holga Close up filter

unboredhands.blogspot.com

While walking to the grocery store one day this past spring, I noticed this butterfly flitting around. The butterfly was undisturbed by the Holga and so I giddily shot around it while it continued eating from the Lantana flowers. I love this photo because it conveys perfectly why I enjoy the Holga: unobtrusive and easy to carry and use, so it's there for spontaneous moments, allowing me to capture some of the small, beautiful details of life.

Judy Boyle

Hanover, PA

HolgaGlo 120n, Shanghai GP3 100 Pan film

judymboyle.com

This is my first ever Holga photograph, an accidental double exposure that I shot last week in Mount Vernon, Baltimore. I was using a green HolgaGlo 120n that I just purchased and received upon hearing of the closure of the Holga factory. Getting a Holga has been on my list of cameras to get for a while and I decided now was the time. This is my favorite photograph, because it reminds me that even though I may carefully compose a photo, it might not turn out like I expect it to. Film used was Shanghai GP3 100 Pan film, processed in my kitchen with Caffenol, and scanned on Epson V500 Photo.

Rogelio Camargo
Sevilla, Andalucía (España).

"Doble cura". "Double recovers"

Holga 120 N, Kodak Tri-X 400.
www.rogeliocamargo.com

History: This image is caught in my former neighborhood of the infancy, and for my already he supposes an importance for the place in if. The motive, they are two brothers who are priests and twins, slightly curiously, and almost always they go together, because of it of the singular thing. In one of my walks for the neighborhood to re-live through the moments of the childhood, I met these two persons, for my so singularly, and slightly usually.

Ross Togashi
Honolulu, Hawai‘i
“Remembering Japan Faraway”
Self-made PinHolgaRoid pinhole camera
Polaroid 600 instant integral film (expired)
https://www.flickr.com/people/36exposures/
Shortly after the closure of the Holga factory, I went out with my PinHolgaRoid loaded with a pack of Polaroid 600 instant film. I thought it appropriate to use this no-longer-made film with my Holga. This image is my favorite of that day, as it reminds me of fleeting and fading memories of my visits to Japan, now long ago and faraway; and the transience of all things

James Arnold
Lower Town, Fishguard
"Lower Town, Fishguard"
Holga GCFN, Kodak Portra 400

Chuck Baker, aka: The Brownie Camera Guy
Nijmegen, The Netherlands
Take a Seat 3
Holga 120 CFN (€1 flea market find), Rollei IR400 Infrared
www.chuckbakerphotography.com
There is a massive meat processing factory, called the Honig, along the river in Nijmegen that is earmarked for total destruction within 10-15 years. The buildings have been cleared out and cleaned. In the meantime restaurants, small businesses, galleries...etc...have been given the space and the area has become a wonderful place to go to. Some of the original fixtures have not been removed, including this pit. I go back often to shoot it, when the light is right.

Andrew Janjigian/Melissa Rivard
Kyotocat in Mossachusetts, September, 2015
Holga 120N, X-ray machine fogged Kodak Tri-X, tinted in Lightroomhttp://www.alveoliphotography.com
This is one of my favorite holga shots this year because though we shot on many different formats and stocks that day, the Holga shots captured the dreamlike nature of the location best.

J. M. Golding

Yosemite National Park and greater San Francisco Bay area (double exposure)

"From darkness we find each other"
Holga 120N (with Holga CL-250 close-up filter for one of the two exposures) and Kodak Tri-X
http://FallingThroughTheLens.blogspot.com/
This photograph is from the series, "Where you are," which explores the integration of closeness and distance using double exposure. I made the first exposure at a city park near San Francisco, using a Holga CL-250 close-up filter. I made the second exposure, focused at infinity, at Yosemite National Park. In the double exposure, near and far are joined. I chose this photo both because I'm happy with its visual qualities and because it feels to me expressive of the theme of the series.

Melanie Hilliard

Jackson, Michigan

The Old Rail Yard in Spring

Holga 120S ($5 Thrift shop find), Lomo Lady Grey 120 film (400 ISO)

https://flic.kr/s/aHsk26nEmg

My grandfather worked his entire adult life on these railroad tracks which now lay mostly in a state of disrepair; this is my favorite photo of the year because it simply captures that small town rust belt mood.

Daniel J. Schneider

Civic Center Park, Denver, Colorado

(untitled)

Holga 120 CFN, Kodak Ektar 100 film.

http://schneidan.com

Though it's against the rules, technically, kids play in the Seal Fountain at the Voorhies Memorial in Denver’s Civic Center Park on a hot afternoon, July 24, 2015. Though I've decided I am not in love with the Holga, this image captures the documentary style I like, the super-saturated Ektar colors, and really makes the best of the Holga's quirks. I particularly like how the lens's softness toward the edges adds motion the cyclist, and the vignetting allows the near edge of the pool to expand behind the viewer as far as their imagination can take it. The crossed streams of the fountains frame the done of the Colorado State Capitol and another family stepping out of the water.

George Bernstein.
Cleveland, OH
"Fall Day at Case Western."
Holgamod Deluxe Holga 120N, Kodak Portra 160.
I ran out on this clear, sunny fall afternoon and wanted to record some of the beautiful light and colors before the shadows took over. I had three cameras with me--the Holgamod Holga 120N, an FPP Debonair 120 with T-MAX 100 as a test roll, and a Leica M6 with 35mm Zeiss lens with Kodak Ultramax 400 (roll not finished yet). I took some of the same pictures with the Leica, but I doubt the sharp Leica images will be more beautiful than this one.

Paul Taylor

Inverurie

"The Clock in Harlaw Road"

Holga 120GCFN, Expired Kodak Portra 400 NC

It was one of the last really sunny days of the summer, and I saw this clock and just snapped it with my Holga. When I got the picture back, I really loved the blue sky, the vignette, the soft granite and the sharp, sharp detail of the clock. The Holga done good!

Helene Barrette
Quebec, Canada
"Passing By"
Holga (normal) + Fish Eye lens attachment w/ Tri-x film
http://eleniphotos.ca
It reminds me of the trip where I took the photo.

See Part Two Here

Call for Entry: Your Favorite Holga Photo of 2015

noreply@blogger.com (Jen) — Mon, 30 Nov 2015 15:53:00 +0000

With the sad news of the Holga factory closure last week, I wanted to do something to lift everyone's spirits, including mine, and celebrate the Holga camera and those that love it! Let's send this year off on a good note by sharing our Favorite Holga photo from this past year

Send me your one Favorite Holga shot that you took in 2015 and at the end of the year I will publish a post here with everyone's photos.

Requirements:

Send only ONE Holga photo, at 700 pixels on the longest edge, 72dpi, jpg format that you shot in 2015
Send to jen@holgajen.com with "Holga 2015" as the subject line
In the body of the email list your name, location, title of image, Holga products and film used, and your website (optional) and a short caption of the story behind the photo and why it is your Favorite.
Title the file with firstname_lastname.jpg
Deadline for submissions is December 17, 2015 at midnight EST

I look forward to seeing everyone's work and sharing them with you all! The post will be published on December 30. All photos will be published!

~ HolgaJen

Breaking News: Holga Factory Closure

noreply@blogger.com (Jen) — Thu, 26 Nov 2015 15:29:00 +0000

It's a sad time for Holga fans (including myself) as we received notice this week of the Holga factory closing its doors. I have heard from a few different sources of this news and it doesn't sound promising. Here are some links and information about the factory closure news.

From Freestyle Photographic Supplies

"Freestyle Photographic announced today that the factory that produces Holga Cameras has ceased operations and will no longer be producing these Cameras and accessories...
According the factory spokesperson in China, “…all Holga tooling has already been thrown away and there is nothing available for sale.” Inventory is still available throughout the United States and around the world, but as units sell out, they will be no longer available."

From HolgaMods Facebook Page

"... they have now confirmed that, before giving us an opportunity to save them, they have sent all of the tooling and molds to the scrapyard.
If Holga is ever reborn, it will be from scratch; and, as the company with the most knowledge on the sales trends of these cameras, we just don't see that happening..."

I've heard that it wasn't just Holga that shut down, other factories by the same maker were also shut down in that location, so it is probably not due to lack of sales or popularity, but due to some other reasons beyond their control. In any case, I'm sorry I had to post this.

My blog will continue to spread the Holga love, as Holgas now become more precious than ever and we can cherish them and their quirkiness even more! If you own one, take good care of it, and if you don't now is the time to get one before they all sell out!

The Holga was my intro into the film and fine art world of photography and it will always hold a very special place in my heart. I have been using one for over 10 years, and I will continue to do so for as long as I possibly can!

I will update this post if any further information becomes available.

HolgaJen

World Toy Camera Day 2015!

noreply@blogger.com (Jen) — Wed, 14 Oct 2015 13:53:00 +0000

I'm a little late to the blog with this but this Saturday is World Toy Camera Day! As die hard fans will know, it is always the third Saturday in October.

So, gather your toys, bust out the film and pray that it doesn't rain! Share your photos in the Flickr and Facebook groups below!

Join the Flickr Group here

Join the Facebook Group here

Happy Shooting!!

Holga Feature Photographer Ryan Duffy

noreply@blogger.com (Jen) — Wed, 30 Sep 2015 14:43:00 +0000

It's been a while but today I'm back with another great interview with a Holga photographer!

Trinity

Ryan Duffy is a fine art photographer and graduate from Webster University with two Bachelor's degrees in Photography and Business Management. Ryan’s photographs have been featured in over 20 exhibits, from the Regional Arts Commission in St. Louis to the Soho Photo Gallery in New York City. He was the winner of the Nancy Underwood Photography Scholarship in 2012 and in 2013 was the first Webster undergraduate to have a solo exhibit at the Sheldon Art Galleries. Ryan currently teaches photography at Ranken Technical College. In addition to being a photographer Ryan is also a writer and musician.

How did you get introduced to your first Holga and how long have you been shooting?

I've been shooting for seven years (Holga for five). I first learned of the Holga during my freshman year of college when another student mentioned an upcoming toy camera contest in class. I had no idea what a toy camera was, so I looked up this contest and was first introduced to the Holga and plastic cameras. The next day I bought my first Holga.

Aaron

What is it about the Holga that draws you to it? Why do you shoot with it?

What draws me to shooting with the Holga is its dreamy, mysterious look; it captures on film how I feel when I see something special. It makes the strange beautiful, ordinary moments unique and unexpected. Instead of presenting the viewer a glance into a clearly defined scene, images from a Holga allow you become part of it, for you to fill in whats blurred and connect with it in a personal way, like fleeting memory from something in your past where the names are forgotten but some feelings linger on.

Flare Trail

Please tell me a bit about your series in which you use a Holga

One series that I'm using the Holga with is OFF Color. For this project I use the plastic Holga and color film to capture relics and symbols of the Midwest; objects that tell of its past, its secrets, and its drama. I wanted color to tell the story with as much precision, tonality, and creative control as with black and white, to explore the relationship of color to the subject, and use it to drive the narrative. The Holga's dreamy blur, dark corners, aged look, and unique rendition of color compliment the unusual subject matter.

Car Wash

Blue Chair

I'm also working on a series that uses the Holga to take an unusual approach to nature photography. Instead of the typical ultra sharp, carefully composed photographs of grand landscapes, I wanted to use the idiosyncrasies of the Holga to make photographs of nature that were blurred, unclear, and fragile. Instead of the grandiose I capture the quiet and personal scenes in nature missed by most, and using the Holga's blur, light leaks, and optical distortions to further emphasis the expressiveness of these fleeting scenes lost amongst the woods.

The Tree

Sam

What are some of your biggest challenges shooting with a Holga and do you have any tips for over coming them?

The biggest problems I have with the Holga is that how quickly their plastic bodies break down. I usually only get a year out of a Holga before the plastic breaks down and the light leaks (the bad kind) become too obtrusive and ruin most of a roll of film. I've gone through about seven Holga's, but with one Holga I found its lens to be particularly good (in a Holga way), and so I've kept that lens and just keep putting it on new bodies; the body dies, but the lens lives on!

A tip for this problem is to tape up the edges of the Holga, that will keep some of the unwanted light leaks out, as well as prevent accidentally opening the back and exposing the film.

Flamingo

What is your biggest piece of advice for someone just starting out with a Holga?

My biggest piece of advice for those starting out with the holga is look up as much about the camera as possible; watch videos on loading and unloading film, decipher the mysterious focus symbols, understand light leaks (maybe you want them), look at the work of other photographers using the Holga, and most of all keep shooting! Your first roll will probably be a dud, but after a few you'll start to see what makes the Holga so special. Another thing I do is write a cheat sheet (focus symbols, aperture, shutter speed) and tape it onto the back, I find it quite helpful, especially if you haven't shot the Holga in awhile.

Nest

What other cameras do you have in your arsenal?

Some other cameras I use are a vintage Diana, a Zero Image 6x9 pinhole, a no name plastic 35mm "Panorama" camera, a Mamiya C330 TLR, an old 4x5 Speed Graphic, a digital toy camera called the Joco VX5, a Canon AE-1 Program, and a Canon 6D.

Serve

Favourite photo film(s)?

My favorite color film is the Kodak NEW Portra 400 and my favorite black and white film is the Ilford Delta 400. The portra has an incredibly forgiving exposure latitude, perfect for imprecise toy camera exposures, and a really lovely, soft color palette. I love the Ilford Delta for its long tonal range, sharpness, and soft grain. I find iso 400 films to be best with toy cameras, as it offers the most room for exposure, from sunny days with color film or b&w filters, overcast, to indoors with a flash.

Toy

What inspires you?

I'm inspired by strange and wonderful things; objects. people, and places that may seem mundane, but in the right light become extraordinary. I'm inspired by things that can tell a story, even though its up to you to make up most of it.

Tree Among Others

Find out more about Ryan at the following links:

Website: http://www.ryanduffyphotographs.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Ryan-Duffy-Photography/241181524966

Instagram: https://instagram.com/ryanduffy98/

Holga Feature Photographer Inge Van Leipsig

noreply@blogger.com (Jen) — Wed, 29 Jul 2015 18:28:00 +0000

I am pleased to bring you another from my Holga Feature Photographer Series. This week I'm featuring the work of Inge van Leipsig. Inge was one of the winners from last year's Holga Week contest. Her winning image "The love locks horseman" was a great example of a perfectly executed double exposure Holga photograph.

The love locks horseman

How did you get introduced to your first Holga and how long have you been shooting?

A few years ago I bought a Diana F+ and got back into film photography after a long time of not shooting film. A friend of mine then showed me his Holga 120GN, and I liked it so much I decided to buy one too. It has been one of my favourite cameras ever since. A while ago I also bought the Holga 120PC and 120WPC because I also like pinhole photography.

Mourning

Poulnabrone Dolmen (pinhole)

What is it about the Holga that draws you to it? Why do you shoot with it?

I enjoy the look of the camera itself. It looks sturdy and toy-like at the same time. The glass lens on my 120GN gives my photos a look I like very much, with soft corners and a very sharp center. Nine out of ten times, if I go somewhere I have my Holga with me. Besides that, it's a very lightweight camera, and it doesn't mind getting a bit wet when it rains (and it can be quite rainy in the Netherlands).

No title

Please tell me a bit about your series in which you use a Holga

I keep taking pictures of statues on cemeteries. Cemeteries have always fascinated me, especially old ones. I really like the big statues of angels and mourning women. Although I didn't plan it, I now have a whole series of statue photos. Another subject that I photograph a lot is street art. It started with just local graffiti, but now I try to look for interesting pieces when I'm on holiday or visiting other places.

Silver flow (pinhole)

What are some of your biggest challenges shooting with a Holga and do you have any tips for over coming them?

A Holga needs quite an amount of light and I'm not very comfortable using a flash. It can be quite difficult to take low light or indoor pictures. I usually end up taking those pictures with a different camera, like an SLR. Occasionally I will use a tripod and do long exposures to get a nice low light picture. Also, don't forget to take the lens cap off and focus.

Dream man

Ferris wheel

What is your biggest piece of advice for someone just starting out with a Holga?

Take time to get to know your Holga. It looks like a simple toy camera (and it is), but you do need to learn how to shoot with it. Experiment with it: do double exposures, try different types of film and different variations of ISO (like 100 for sunny days and 400 for cloudy weather) and see what fits you. Don't toss your Holga aside after just one roll. I've shot loads of rolls, and I still end up with bad rolls and bad pictures. It also might help to look at other people's Holga shots at Flickr or other sites to get some inspiration.

Lined up (pinhole)

What do you consider "must-haves" when shooting with your Holga and why?

Different types of film. I usually have plenty of film with me, both colour and black and white. If you plan to do low light photography, a tripod is recommended. Lots of people have problems with light leaks or with the back falling off. I only had that once or twice, but a roll of tape (painters tape or black tape) can be very useful too to avoid these problems.

Astronomical clock (HQME)

Foxglove (macro)

What other cameras do you have in your arsenal?

Plenty! I have several pinhole cameras, a few SLRs that I really like (the Olympus OM-1n is my favourite) and a few small cameras that are easy to take with you, like the Olympus XA or the LC-A+. The Diana F+ is a fun camera as well, but for some reason I prefer the Holga.

Friendly ghost

Favourite photo film(s)?

Fomapan or Tri-X for black and white and Kodak Ektar or Fuji Provia 400 cross processed for colour.

Angel

What inspires you?

Usually I get inspired by what I see, I guess. Cemeteries and street art are always inspiring, but it can also be small things in the street, or a really nice photo book. I'm not the kind of person who thinks up projects and then executes them. It's more a "let's go somewhere and see what we come up with" thing that works for me.

Radio Kootwijk (pinhole)

Links:
Twitter: @Frau_Inga
Facebook: inge.vanleipsig
Flickr: https://www.flickr.com/photos/frau_inga/
Website: www.light-camera.inga.com

Holga Feature Photographer Ross Togashi

noreply@blogger.com (Jen) — Thu, 09 Jul 2015 14:24:00 +0000

I am pleased to bring you (finally!) another Holga Feature Photographer in my interview series. Ross was one of the winners of Holga Week last year and I think all of us were blown away by his lovely Holga images! With Holga Week coming up in a couple of weeks, I thought this would be a perfect time to feature his awesome work.

Self-portrait, from the series Homebound Pinholes

Ross's winning image from Holga Week 2014 entitled "Paradise Seat"

I was born in Kea‘au on the island of Hawai‘i, and spent my early years wandering about Pearl City, O‘ahu. I've photographed since I was a youngster, documenting my family life and travels with a Kodak Instamatic.

I've enrolled in a number of photography workshops and classes that have broadened my view of photography. Through my education at the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa Art Department, I've discovered that photography can be an evocative and powerful means of expressing ideas. My artworks often reflect themes pertaining to the human condition, identity, history, and geography.

I recently retired after working nearly 30 years for the University of Hawai‘i Library, and the last 24 years as the Map and Aerial Photograph Technician. I am looking forward to continuing my exploration of toy cameras and pinhole photography in my new found spare time.

Engulfed, from the series Pinhole Trees

How did you get introduced to your first Holga and how long have you been shooting?
I was introduced to the fun and sometimes unpredictable world of Holgas and toy cameras about 10 years ago while taking photography classes at the University of Hawai‘i. Several advanced photo students were doing compelling work with their Holgas and Dianas. It was during this time that I also learned about pinhole photography. I purchased a 3rd party over-the-counter PinHolga shortly after, although it arrived with a fatal shutter defect.

Self-modified PinHolga and PinHolgaroid

What is it about the Holga that draws you to it? Why do you shoot with it?

The defective PinHolga turned out to be a blessing in disguise. It gave me the opportunity to take a screwdriver and fix it - something I wouldn’t have attempted with a more complex or expensive camera. The Holga’s simple design and plastic parts enticed me to “hack and glue” and create an even better and more reliable PinHolga. I’ve been making pinhole cameras ever since! I continue to use and modify PinHolgas because their ease in customizing encourages and helps satisfy my need to build new things. Also, the Pin-Holga’s potential to record images with a unique feel and look continues to enchant me.

Destiny, from the series Pinhole Trees

Please tell me a bit about your series in which you use a Holga

My pinhole photography is theme-based. I create images that frequently fall into one of five or six different series. I customarily use a variety of pinhole cameras, and there is no one series that is PinHolga-specific.

Japanese Glass Net Floater, from the series Pinholes at High-tide

Toy Car and Lighter, from the series Pinholes at High-tide

What are some of your biggest challenges shooting with a Holga and do you have any tips for over coming them?

Aside from the usual mechanical shortcomings that can be fixed if so desired (loose sponges, light-leaks, etc.), the greatest challenge for me is creating artwork that is meaningful and unique. I still struggle with this, but I hope that persistence and hard work will eventually lead us on the path towards fulfilling our artistic goals.

Treehouse, from the series Pinhole Chairs

Mānoa Stream, from the series Pinhole Chairs

What is your biggest piece of advice for someone just starting out with a Holga?

My advice for anyone with a new piece of equipment, and not just Holgas: “Use it a lot, and use it often”. With familiarity, perseverance, and a bit of luck, comes successful images. Too frequently we are enticed by the next piece of new gear without even giving what we already own a good trial. I speak from experience, being a former “gear-head”!

Library, from the series Homebound Pinholes

What do you consider "must-haves" when shooting with your Holga and why?

There are three things that I consider essential when I use my PinHolgas. First, a sturdy and easy-to-use tripod is crucial for long pinhole exposures. Secondly, good metering technique is required for proper exposures. If possible, I don’t leave exposures up to chance. A reliable light-meter takes up very little space in my camera bag. Thirdly, and most important of all is keeping an open mind. Only with an open mind can one be receptive to new possibilities!

Stifled, from the series Homebound Pinholes

What other cameras do you have in your arsenal?

I use regularly a handful of home-made pinhole cameras. Each camera was created for a specific purpose, different types of film, and/or focal length. I also own a few other non-pinhole cameras, but these are less frequently used in my artwork now.

Favourite photo film(s)?

I particularly like Kodak Ektar 100 (120 roll film) for outdoors/sunlight, and I am also enjoying Impossible Project’s instant integral films for indoor still-lifes.

Aiea Cemetery, O‘ahu, from the series Pinholes at Sacred Places

What inspires you?

One source of inspiration is my own life and personal experiences. I may not live a very exciting life, or see the most incredible scenes, but if I have a statement to make with my artwork, it usually comes from deep within. I think it is vitally important to photograph a subject that is close to heart. I also find the work of other established photographers and artists to be influential. I enjoy looking through photography books, visiting art museums and exhibitions, and also watching artfully done films. I strive to keep an open eye and open mind, and to also carefully examine the works of many different artists.

Circle Dance, Byodo-in Temple, O‘ahu, from the series Pinholes at Sacred Places

You can find out more about Ross and his work at the following links:
Flickr: https://www.flickr.com/people/36exposures/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/artyfotos
Email: rtogashi@gmail.com

The London Fringe Festival

noreply@blogger.com (Jen) — Thu, 28 May 2015 18:45:00 +0000

Select pieces of my work will be available for viewing and purchase at the 2015 London Fringe Festival in London, Ontario. The Visual Fringe is displayed at The Arts Project and the opening reception is June 3 from 7-9 pm! I hope you will stop by and check it out if you are in the area!

Holga Week 2015 is Coming!

noreply@blogger.com (Jen) — Thu, 19 Mar 2015 17:09:00 +0000

Now that things are starting to thaw and spring is just around the corner (yay!) it's time to start thinking about HOLGA WEEK! (watch for the big announcement on the site coming soon!)

I had so much fun doing Holga Week last year that I'm ready to do it all again! How about you? Well, I'd like your input on a few things...

Do you think we should have a theme?
Or categories? If so, what would be your suggestions? (Visit the Holga Week blog to cast your votes!)
Who would you like to see as one of the judges for Holga Week?

Leave your answers in the comments, or Tweet me @HolgaWeek (and use #HolgaWeek), Facebook me, or Email me.

Let me know your thoughts!

**ps: I would really appreciate donations to help keep the site up and running! The link to donate is in the right column of my blog. Or on the Holga Week About Page. Thank you in advance!**

Current Toy Camera Calls For Entry

noreply@blogger.com (Jen) — Mon, 16 Mar 2015 15:24:00 +0000

Don't forget to enter these two well known shows for a chance to have your toy camera work shown in one of these great galleries!

Plastic Fantastic
Lightbox Photographic Gallery
Deadline: May 11, 2015

LightBox is pleased to announce the call for submissions for the 6th annual Plastic Fantastic Show. We wish to stay true to pure film photography using plastic, pinhole, box or homemade cameras. No digital photography will be considered. LightBox appreciates photographic images made with plastic “toy” cameras and established this show to celebrate the gallery’s anniversary every year.

LightBox is very honored to have Susan Burnstine as juror once again for the Plastic Fantastic Show. Susan is an award winning professional fine art photographer based in Los Angeles who builds homemade cameras and lenses primarily made out of plastic, vintage camera parts and random household objects. Susan is represented in galleries across the world, her images are mesmerizing and dreamlike, using film with the purity of the process as a vital element, without relying on digital processing.

Click here for more information

Curious Camera
ArtsEye Gallery / Photographic Works
Deadline: April 5, 2015

The Curious Camera Event is a friendly competition calling on artists worldwide to embrace the unpredictability and fascination of photography using their favorite cameras. 1st, 2nd & 3rd place winners will receive a camera, film and a trophy they can proudly display. Winners will be featured in our gallery exhibition.

Click here for more information

Ilford Film Survey and New Call for Entries

noreply@blogger.com (Jen) — Tue, 28 Oct 2014 13:34:00 +0000

Hey Everyone! Ilford Photo is running a survey for those who use film. Please follow this link and help them out if you shoot film!

Ilford It's All About Film Survey

As well, two of the biggest and most well known international toy camera shows are now open and accepting entries. Follow the links below for more information and to enter your best work!

Soho Photo 2015 Krappy Kamera Competition

Deadline: December 4, 2014

This year’s juror, Miriam Leuchter, is the editor-in-chief of Popular Photography Magazine and is responsible for the magazine’s expansion into digital editions, mobile apps, books and DVDs. Leuchter is also the editor-in-chief of American Photo Magazine and serves as a board member of the Josephine Herrick Project. During her career as a journalist and photographer, she has had work published and exhibited in newspapers, magazines and galleries in the United States and Europe. She has also juried many international competitions.

http://www.sohophoto.com/participate/competitions/krappy-kamera/

Rayko Photo 8th Annual International Juried Plastic Camera Show

Deadline: January 10, 2015

Juror: Ann Jastrab is currently the Gallery Director at RayKo Photo Center. The RayKo Gallery offers over 1600 square feet of exhibition space and presents eight to ten shows annually featuring many nationally recognized artists. Ann regularly participates as a juror and reviewer for a multitude of organizations: the Seoul International Photo Festival, GuatePhoto, Fotofest, Photolucida, Review Santa Fe, Review LA, PhotoAlliance, Palm Springs Photo Festival, SPE, Filter, Medium, the Center for Fine Art Photography, the SFAC, the Academy of Art in SF, Artspan, SFAI, Click646, and Critical Mass. She has also been teaching at the Maine Photographic Workshops (now Maine Media Workshops) since 1994.

http://raykophotocenter.com/call-for-entry-b/

And I leave you with a new, but not so new, Holga photo that I discovered this weekend in my archives and realized I hadn't shared it anywhere.

"Abandoned Memories" - Holga double exposure.

Thanks for stopping by!

Holga Feature Photographer Aline Smithson

noreply@blogger.com (Jen) — Thu, 09 Oct 2014 14:48:00 +0000

I am really excited to bring you this month's Holga feature photographer. I am a huge fan of Aline's work, as well as her blog, Lenscratch. Thank you so much for taking the time to speak about your Holga and toy camera work Aline!

After a career as a New York Fashion Editor, Aline Smithson is currently represented by galleries in the U.S. and Europe and published throughout the world. Aline founded the blogzine, LENSCRATCH, has been the Gallery Editor for Light Leaks Magazine, and a contributing writer for numerous publications. She reviews and teaches workshops at photography festivals across the United States, is a juror for a various organizations, and has been teaching at the Los Angeles Center of Photography since 2001. In 2012, she received the Rising Star Award from the Griffin Museum of Photography for her contributions to the photographic community. She lives and works in Los Angeles.

How did you get introduced to your first Holga and how long have you been shooting?

I was first exposed to the world of toy cameras around 1997-1998. One of my teachers worked almost exclusively with the Diana Camera and I soon became hooked on the kind of effects that toy cameras produced and the sense of memory and nostalgia they created. I bought my first Holga in 1999 and was truly inspired by the camera.

In 2001, I began teaching classes in the Toy Camera, specifically the Holga—at that time, there were only one or two websites that were dedicated to toy camera imagery, places where to learn how to alter the Holga and demonstrations on how to create a variety of effects. I am really grateful to those early adoptees as they taught me a lot. Over the years, the whole Holga landscape changed, with books, a ton of different models and options and a new community of toy camera lovers came into being. I worked as a Gallery Editor for Light Leaks Magazine, a publication dedicated to toy camera imagery, and loved being part of that community.

Skipping Stones, from Regarding Henry

What is it about the Holga that draws you to it? Why do you shoot with it?

What I love about the Holga is the simplicity. There aren’t a lot of bells and whistles and it allows you to really consider the subject in front of you. I also like that the results are always a surprise—sometimes successful and unexpected and sometimes disappointing, but that’s part of the process.

I started shooting with toy cameras because I wanted to create work that had a sense of nostalgia and were artful, but it also the camera fit with my lifestyle, allowing me to carry it with me wherever I went.

John in Longpond, from Paradise

The Tallest, from Paradise

Please tell me a bit about your series in which you use a toy camera

For my series, Shadow and Stains, I use both Holga and Diana imagery. It’s a series where in response to the closure of my community darkroom, I wanted to make a series that shifted how we see the “perfect” darkroom print—I cut negatives, overlapped images, added text in the darkroom, and finished it with washes of oil paint. It was completely liberating and exciting to be creating something different.

On a recent trip to China, I shot a lot with toy cameras, hoping to do a series similar to Shadows and Stains in approach, but with a different intent. I still haven’t had time to get going on that project.

Owned by Stieglitz, from Shadows and Stains

Not as Interesting, from Shadows and Stains

Moving Through, from Shadows and Stains

Look Both Ways, from Shadows and Stains

What are some of your biggest challenges shooting with a Holga and do you have any tips for over coming them?

Well, obviously the biggest challenge is to remember to remove the lens cap! And that took me awhile to learn! I was once at Dodger Stadium, shooting my daughter in the middle of a baseball game wearing a gold hat from Thailand and as I ran around the bleachers thinking I was so cool, a man tugged on my sleeve to tell me that I still had the lens cap on! I slinked back to my seat and that was a mistake I never made again.

But probably the biggest challenge is not know exactly what you are getting, especially when you are trying out things like double exposure or overlapping images. I think if you go into the process knowing that perfection is out the window, you will be less frustrated by the various results.

Girl, from Inside out

Mother, from Inside Out

What is your biggest piece of advice for someone just starting out with a Holga?
Expect to be surprised! Also, if you have never shot film, there is a learning curve to loading and unloading film and to realizing that what’s on the negative is only half of the creativity…the darkroom print can really shift from the original negative.

Lego Hollywood, from Unreal Reality

Lego Rhino, from Unreal Reality

What other cameras do you have in your arsenal?

I have a gazillion Holgas, several Dianas, two Hassleblads, 4 twin lens Rolleiflexs’s (not all are operational), a Mamiya 6, a Mamiya 7, and my old friend, a Pentax K1000.

I still only shoot film.

Favorite photo film(s)?

For black and white, Ilford HP5…for color, Kodak Portra 400.

Lego Lipstick Building, from Unreal Reality

What inspires you?

In a word, everything. My family, my life, the world around me, movies and more movies, the poignancy of every day life—the loss and joy that we live with on a daily basis. I look more to paintings for inspiration than photography, but I am plenty inspired by how photographic image-makers are interpreting the world.

Links:

Website: http://www.alinesmithson.com
Lenscratch Blog: http://lenscratch.com
Aline's Collective, Six Shooters: http://www.sixshootersonline.com

World Toy Camera Day Is...

noreply@blogger.com (Jen) — Wed, 01 Oct 2014 13:25:00 +0000

Hey Everyone!

World Toy Camera Day is fast approaching! Typically it is held annually on the third Saturday of October. This year it will be October 18, 2014. So stock up on film and dust off your toys!

Join in on the fun and share your photos in the following ways:

WTCD Facebook Group

WTCD Flickr Group

Tag your photos with #WTCD2014 on Twitter.

Happy shooting!

Jen