There are pros and cons to using 120 film in a Holga 120. On the upside, 120 film has a paper backing to prevent light exposure. Numbered paper allows you to keep track of exposures. The downside is that there are only 12 exposures. 220 film is a smart alternative. With no paper backing, it offers double the shots. A few tweaks will make your Holga ready for 220 use.
Instructions
Loading 220 Film Into Your Holga
1. Slide down the metal clamps on either side of the Holga and remove the back cover.
2. Load the 220 film into the Holga the same way 120 film is loaded. The film is placed in the compartment on the left side of the camera. Place the film lead into the slot of the take-up spool on the right. If it has trouble winding on, just take the take-up spool out of the camera and wind the film lead onto it that way.
3. Make sure the film and take-up spools are securely in place before replacing the Holga's back cover. Slide the metal clamps back into place, securing them with tape if necessary.
4. Turn the film advance knob slowly. Advance the film until the black portion appears in the red frame counter window. Advancing any further will result in light being exposed to your film.
5. Use the opaque tape to completely cover the frame counter window on the back of the Holga.
Shooting With 220 Film in Your Holga
6. Use the "click counting" technique to advance your film after each shot. The "clicks" refer to the small clicks heard while turning the film advance knob. If shooting in the 6x6 format, count 34 clicks on the knob after each shot. If using the 4.5x6 mask,the click count is 26.
7. Keep track of the number of shots. There will be an average of 24 exposures when shooting in the 6x6 format, 32 exposures for 4.5x6. When the roll is finished, advance the film around the take-up spool until you hear the paper end turning around it.
8. Do not remove the back of the camera until you are ready to wind up and secure the roll of film.
Unloading the 220 Film From Your Holga
9. Find an area with subdued lighting, such as a closet.
10. Remove the back cover of the Holga.
11. Wind the film onto the take-up spool. Use the paper ends to protect the film from exposure. You can secure the roll with a rubber band. If you want further light protection, place the film in a light-tight container or bag until processing.
Tags: take-up spool, back cover, Your Holga, advance knob, after each, after each shot, counter window