With the developing mistake still fresh in my mind, I’ve just processed a film I’ve put through my Holga 120N.
And I’m happy to say, I’ve got photos.
For the uninitiated, the Holga is a cheap plastic toy camera, made in China, and has a reputation for low-quality results. These cameras are renowned for light-leaks, as well as internal reflections. Add an aperture switch that does nothing, and one shutter speed or “B”. No exposure control at all, unless you’re counting the double-exposure capability. Welcome to the world of low-tech.
Masking tape, or gaffer tape, or insulation tape is required to prevent light-leaks. Yep, the camera gets its film loaded, then it’s taped up. The basic model has a plastic lens that… well… sharpness and clarity isn’t an option… at all. And at the edges of the frame, any hint of sharpness that was in the photo… well, that vanishes.
I loaded the camera with Ilford HP5+, sealed the camera up, and set off. 16 exposures later (I bought a Holga 120N with a 16 exposure mask), the film was developed. The film was developed with a film rating of 800ASA. So…
Rodinal, 1+50, Ilford HP5+, 800ASA… 16 minutes development time. And I made damn sure I got the developer dilutions correct this time.
2 hours for drying… I have useable photos. But, if you’re one that demands pinsharp photos, taken with £100’s worth of image-stabiliser lenses and equipment, you’d best look away now.
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