Holga Magic with Plastic
My Favorite Clicks – Episode 3
In this installment of ‘My Favorite Clicks’, I delve into the unique charms and quirks of Holga cameras. From their vignettes to their light leaks and soft focus, I share my experiences and appreciation for this fantastic (some would say “craptastic”) plastic wonder.
I take you through various projects including sports events and weddings, capturing different perspectives using the Holga’s characteristics. I also showcase images made with a Holga and a much “sharper” camera/lens combination at the same location, and share some of my favorite images created with this camera. Join me as I explore creativity through the dreamy lens of the Holga. And don’t miss the ending for a fun surprise!
The Holga Creed
With apologies to US Marine Corps’ “Rifleman’s Creed”
This is my Holga.
There are many cameras like it, but this one is mine.
My Holga is my companion. It is my creative spark. I must master it as I master my vision.
Without me, my Holga is just plastic.
Without my Holga, my art is just an idea.
I must wield it with intention, I must see deeper than others who disparage it as junk.
I must create beauty where they see imperfection.
Create, I shall.
My Holga and I know that what counts in photography is not sharpness, megapixels or pristine optics. We know that it is light, shadow and story that matter. We will tell those stories.
My Holga is imperfect as I am imperfect, and that is why it is mine.
Thus, I will embrace its quirks.
I will know its vignettes, its light leaks, its soft focus, and its unpredictable charm. I will cherish its flaws, even as I cherish my own. We will become part of each other.
My Holga and I are partners in creativity. We are explorers of wonder. We are the makers of magic and multiple exposures.
So be it.
Until the last frame is exposed and the world is seen through a dreamy lens.
-David J. Toman
November 2024
Let’s Work Together
To learn more about my services or book an appointment, please send me an email, call, or fill out the form.
david(at)davidjtoman.com
(510) 435-3881
