One Day Holga Photography Workshop

Table of Contents

1. Introduction

  • Overview of the Holga camera and its unique features
  • Goals for the one day workshop
  • Check: Ensure all participants have a Holga camera and required materials

2. Morning Session (9am-12pm)

2.1. Holga Camera Basics

  • Basic features and operation of the Holga 120N model
  • Loading 120 film into the camera
    • Check: Confirm all participants have successfully loaded their film
  • Sunny/cloudy aperture settings
    • Check: Participants understand how to change aperture settings
  • Focus settings - 1 meter to infinity
    • Check: Participants practice adjusting focus
  • Shutter settings - Normal (N) vs Bulb (B) mode
    • Validation: Participants demonstrate understanding of shutter modes
  • Using the 6x4.5cm and 6x6cm format masks
    • Check: Masks are properly inserted for desired format

2.2. First Photos

  • Taking your first photos with the Holga
    • Check: All participants have taken at least one photo
  • Creative exercise: Emphasizing the unique Holga look
    • Vignetting
    • Soft focus
    • Light leaks
    • Validation: Review photos to ensure understanding of Holga aesthetics

3. Lunch Break (12-1pm)

4. Afternoon Session (1-4pm)

4.1. Creative Techniques

  • Multiple exposures using the MX switch
    • Check: Participants successfully create a multiple exposure image
  • Long exposures using Bulb (B) mode and a tripod
    • Validation: Long exposure photos are properly exposed
  • Light painting with small lights during long exposures
    • Check: Light painting is visible in the long exposure images
  • Using color flash gels
    • Check: Color gels are properly attached and flash is functional
  • Shooting pinhole images
    • Validation: Pinhole images have infinite depth of field
  • Modifying the Holga
    • Taping up light leaks
    • Adding a filter holder
    • Check: Modifications are done safely and don't damage the camera
  • Using 35mm film for sprocket hole panoramic images
    • Check: 35mm film is loaded correctly for sprocket hole effect
  • Close-up/macro photography with lens attachments
    • Validation: Close-up photos are in focus at the correct distance

4.2. Hands-On Experimentation

  • Creative exercise: Picking 1-2 techniques to experiment with
    • Check: Each participant has chosen their experimental techniques

5. Late Afternoon (4-5pm)

5.1. Review and Wrap-Up

  • Downloading and processing the day's film
    • Check: All participants' film is properly processed
  • Reviewing images and discussing results
    • Validation: Constructive feedback is provided on photos
  • Q&A
    • Holga techniques
    • Troubleshooting
    • Film choices
    • Check: All participant questions are addressed
  • Exploring the Holga community online
    • Websites
    • Forums
    • Galleries
    • Check: Participants have resources for further learning
  • Inspiration for further Holga experimentation
    • Validation: Participants are excited to continue using their Holgas

6. Resources

  • List of recommended films
  • Suggested Holga accessories and modifications
  • Online Holga communities and resources
  • Check: All participants have access to the resource list