The Holga 120 is not your typical medium format camera — and that’s the point. This plastic-bodied, cult-favorite toy camera has become a beloved tool for photographers who crave imperfection, character, and creative freedom. If you're drawn to soft focus, dreamy light leaks, and unpredictability, the Holga was made for you.
Here’s a quick, no-fuss guide to help you get started shooting 120 film with this iconic little toy camera that packs a PUNCH!
1. What is a Holga, Exactly?
The Holga 120 is a medium format film camera made almost entirely of plastic — lens and all. It's known for:
- Vignetting and blur around the edges
- Light leaks (sometimes accidental, sometimes intentional)
- Square images (usually 6x6 format, but some versions also shoot 6x4.5)
- Simple controls: one shutter speed (~1/100s), two aperture options (f/8 or f/11-ish), and fixed focus zones
This is a camera that embraces imperfection. And if you do the same, it’ll reward you with raw, moody, and beautiful frames.
2. Load It With the Right Film
The Holga shoots 120 format (medium format) roll film. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Film stocks: Try Kodak Portra for soft pastels, Ilford HP5 for classic B&W, or Lomography Color 100/400 for fun tones.
- ISO choice: Stick with ISO 400 film if you're unsure — it gives flexibility in varied lighting with Holga's fixed settings.
- Framing mask: Your Holga might come with a plastic mask insert — 6x6 gives square images, 6x4.5 gives rectangular ones. Make sure the film counter matches the format you choose.
3. Set It Up (Simply)
The Holga has only a few settings:
- Focus zones: Twist the lens to select focus distance. It uses symbols (one person, a group, mountains) to indicate 1m, 2m, 6m, and infinity. Guessing is part of the fun.
- Aperture switch: Usually labeled as “sunny” and “cloudy” — around f/11 and f/8, respectively. On some models, the aperture doesn’t even function, so don’t sweat it.
- Shutter: Press the red shutter button. That's it! (Be careful — it’s easy to double-expose if you forget to wind forward.)
4. Let Go of Control and Embrace the Fun
The magic of the Holga is in the unknown. You won’t get perfect sharpness or precision exposure — but you will get soulful, one-of-a-kind frames.
- Expect light leaks — or tape the seams with gaffer tape to prevent them.
- Frame loosely — there’s parallax and some viewfinder misalignment.
- Shoot in good daylight unless you’re using flash or long exposure (holding the shutter open for longer while setting the camera on a tripod or still surface for complete stability).
And yes — double exposures are easy and encouraged. Just don’t advance the film, and shoot again.
5. Develop, Scan & Enjoy
You can get Holga film developed and scanned at any lab that handles medium format. When scanning Here's Some Tips:
- Ask for full-frame scans to preserve the quirky edges and vignetting.
- Consider scanning with a flatbed film scanner (like Epson V600) at home if you want to digitize and tweak your own files.
Bonus Tip: Holga 120N vs. Holga 120FN
- 120N – No flash included. You’ll need to add an external flash or shoot in daylight.
- 120FN – Has a built-in flash. Basic, very weak, and most photographers choose to add an additional light source
Want More Help Mastering the Holga?
This quick guide just scratches the surface. Our full Holga + Toy Camera Film Guide goes deeper into:
- Choosing the right film stocks and light situations
- Customizing your Holga for better (or weirder) results
- Preventing common mistakes like frame overlap or film jamming
- Creative techniques like taping for light leaks, lens mods, and double exposures
- How to scan your medium format film at home or work with a lab
