Holga Polaroid 120S

Any one have any experiences with the Polaroid Holga 120s,

particularly and "street" or "people" photography? If I buy one, is

there anything in particular I should look out for?

 

So I was considering taking a Holga Polaroid 120S on a trip involving

a lot of people portraits in a developing country, where getting a

photograph of yourself isn't something that's commonly affordable. I

want to be able to give my subject a picture of themselves after the

shot, but I don't want to haul my other (expensive, delicate)

polaroid-capable cameras with me. I assume this camera is light, easy

and quick to use, not fussy, and produces an instant picture for the

delight of the subject whilst also giving me the negative to use in

my darkroom back at home. I know the quality will suffer greatly but

not quite sure what to expect. I undertand that they take Polaroid 85

film. I have no experience using polaroid film, or a holga.

Try posting this in the Alternative Forum... I think you'll get more feedback... Lots of Holga users in there...

If a mod could move this to the Alternative Camera forum that would eliminate duplicate threads.

 

Aslan, I have about 10 packs worth of experience with the 120S and the Polaroid back (aka "Holgaroid") but none with Type 85. I've avoided Type 85 simply because of the added bulk and complexity of fixing the negs. However, prior to the Holgaroid, I did not have any experience with polaroid instant film (in particular pack film) so your experience may help you considerably.

 

I've shot with Type 84 and 89 and have been pleased with the results. It's been a fun learning experience and I shoot for my own enjoyment.

 

If you're going to buy the polaroid back online, make sure you research it first. Polaroid actually produced two versions of the back. The original produced an image on only 2/3 of the frame. Shortly after that, Polaroid released a "full-frame" back. I learned the hard way and own both a non-full-frame and full-frame back.

 

You may also want to consider purchasing the newer Holga 120N which is the same as the 120S but features a Bulb Mode built in. I'd highly recommend buying from http://www.holgamods.com as you get two usable apertures, closer focusing, and interior flocking.

 

You may also wish to contact this photo.net user:

http://www.photo.net/shared/community-member?user_id=407444

 

He has direct experience with Type 85 film and sold me his full-frame back.

 

Best of luck.

Even more Type 85 info from this photo.net user:

 

http://www.photo.net/shared/community-member?user_id=16020

Just started using the type 85 with my Holgaroid. Wissh I could offer some more tips. There is definitely some trial and error involved. I would also agree with the previous post and wish I had purchased the Holga with a bulb setting. I purchased my Holgaroid directly from the Polaroid web site and they were running a special at the time that got me a free pack of film. Dig in and have fun!