Baby Holga: Small and Incredible
written by bluemie5
on March 14th, 2009
, 7 comments
(9 votes)
Also known as Micro, Mini or Spy Holga, these cameras are made in China (as where the Holga originated) with a length of 3 inches and with a width and height of 1 inch. It can even fit in the palm of your hand! Every purchase comes with a black string that can easily be replaced with any chain. It only uses 110 film with either a 12 or 24 shot cartridge. These kinds of films are cheaper than the ordinary however are not that easily accessible because its not usually available to photo stores. I suggest when you get yourself a great deal online, grab the opportunity and stock some for yourself.
What makes this different from the Big Holga, even if they are both made in plastic,is that it wont produce vignettes nor would it have the much awaited light leaks. But i think the beautiful sprockets can compensate that. This Mini holga if used when the sun is up, can produce magnificent lens flare.
And that’s not all! These babies can also do a multi exposure! How? After pressing the shutter release button, turn the advance wheel in front of the camera, you’ll notice that the “number” appears thrice in the film counter window before it locks. If you want to have a double exposure, don’t wait for the advance wheel to lock. After the first press, shoot again when the number appears for the second or third time before the next number appears. Now isn’t that incredible? (see submitted picture of fountain and motorcycle)
I believe cameras like these are for the action-oriented,traveler and adventurous people who wouldn’t want to miss capturing any moment that comes their way. This is the best camera that lives up to the golden rules of lomo, you can take it literally everywhere you go. And because of its small viewfinder frame, you should try the shot from the hip or better yet approach objects as close as possible. just don’t think, be fast, press that tiny shutter and don’t worry about any rules. Based on my experience, when i looked through the viewfinder and had my subject in the center it didn’t come out as I assumed it would be but the shot still looked great. With my next load of film, I didn’t use the view finder anymore and had it my way.
Tips in using this baby: Better to load it with a film with a greater ISO so you can also use it not only in bright sunlight but also in cloudy weathers. Most photo labs will accept processing of 110 films but find it hard to have it scanned. You just have to tell them to use the scanners for 35mm to achieve the “sprocketacular” effect. (Better inquire first with your photo centers)
When i first saw this online, i immediately bought one for myself and bought several for my friends as well. I’m sure you’ll enjoy using this as much as we do. For whatever your goal is, whether to spy on people or to capture candid moments or take beautiful scenes, this handy and trendy camera is best for you! choose the color that suits you well. Enjoy and take care of your new baby!
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