Top Things For New Holga Users To Be Aware Of

When you are new to the Holga, its good to know all the main things that could possibly go wrong.

I by no means have named absolutely all of them here, but I think these are the main problems that you need to prepare for.

If you have any ideas of your own then please share them in the comment section.

1. Your Back Could Fly Off

Be aware that the back of your Holga is prone to flying off, so make sure you add some sort of security.

The metal clips are now much better on the newer Holgas but personally I would also add a little bit of tape on the sides just to make sure.

You might also be interested to read my post, My Holga Back Flew Off. Will My Film Be Ok?

2. Your Focusing Could be Off

Make sure you always check your focusing before you shoot. I got into the habit of always having it on infinity. That way I always know where it is when I go to take a shot. Then if the subject is closer I know to move it, and if its not I know not to bother.

Off-focusing can cause blurry subjects, and although we want a blurry element, we want to keep that to the edges and not the main focus of the shot.

3. You Might Have The Shutter On B And Not N

This is a killer! make sure that your Holga shutter is AT N and not AT B. B is for long exposures only, and if you use it without a tripod your camera will shake and make a strange photo.

Most likely something like this:



4. Your Film May Not Be Advancing

Check the back window on a few frames and make sure the film is advancing. You should see it moving across the screen. If not you have not wrapped it properly around the spool, and you need to take it out and start again.

I tend to wrap the film around the advance spool a few times just to make sure.

5. You Will Get More Light Leaks if You Don't Tape Your Holga.

If you want those light leaks that the Holga gives so well, then you need to use as little tape as possible. The starter kits and common misconception suggest that light leaks come from elsewhere and that the tape is needed.

Tape as little as possible around the back of your Holga and let the light bleed in!

Thanks for reading, and like usual you are free to leave comments and ask questions!

Labels: Newbies, Preparation, Tips