Get More Light Leaks From Your Holga

The Holga is sought after, because of its dreamy characteristics such as its light leaks and its vignetting.

The good news is that getting more light leaks from your Holga is very easy, and there are a number of key things that you can do to your camera in order to get a huge increase in leaks.

1. Remove Mask

Firstly, ditch any mask that you are using inside your Holga. They help to reduce the amount of light bouncing around inside the camera and as a consequence reduce light leaks.

Take it out, shoot again and see the results!

2. Don't tape

If you've been taping the Holga seams, then don't! You need as much light to get through those little gaps as possible. Use as little tape as you can and let that light burn your film!

3. Use The Holga Spool

Always use the spool that comes with the Holga camera. Its slightly too long for 120 film, and as a result the round plastic ends don't protect the film like the better 120 spools do.

If you take yours to a lab then make sure you ask them for the same spool back. Maybe but a label on the top or something.

EDIT: apparently this is no longer the case with new Holga cameras.

4. Don't Cover the Advance Window

Despite what people say, I believe that there is the chance of light getting through the advance window (The little red window on the back.) If intense sunlight hits the back of your Holga, there is a huge chance it will seep through. Leave it uncovered and this may increase light leaks.

5. Don't 'Flock' Your Holga Camera

Flocking your Holga camera means that you spray the inside of the camera matte black to stop light bouncing around. Light likes shiny surfaces you see! Leave this unpainted if you want to increase the amount of light leaks on your Holga pictures.

That's all for now. If you have any more tips then maybe you could share them in a comment below!

Durkin

Labels: Light Leaks, Tutorials