Recently I wrote on how I used my favorite 35mm Black and White film, Ilford HP5 Plus, in a modified Holga 120S Medium Format Camera. Many have commented (On Flickr) and I really appreciate that. I did receive some inquiries on how I loaded the film in the camera and kept it in place. Before I show how I did it here is a video on Youtube showing how others have done it:
Unfortunately for me I did not have pieces of foam lying around so I improvised. Instead of foam pieces I used a Bic ballpoint pen. I cut two pieces (you will have to experiment just a little to get the right size) and made notches on one end of each piece to fit into each end of the 35mm film spool. Make sure that the film is centered while you experiment, you will just have to eye ball it.
I then inserted the pieces of Bic pen on either side of the film spool and loaded it into the camera.
Make sure you absolutely remember to do this: I made sure that the film counter window is tapped up on the outside and inside with black electrical tape. You will have to do this because unlike 120 film which has a paper backing 35mm film does not have one. If you do not cover the counter window the film will be exposed to outside light – which could be very bad.
Once you have the lid closed tape up areas (Like in the photo above) to make sure that there are no more light leaks or eliminate any accidents.
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Tags: Analog Photography, Black and White, Film, Film Photography, Holga, Holga 120S, Ilford HP5 Plus, IMA, Indiana, Indianapolis, Indianapolis Museum of Art, lomography, Sprocket Holes, Toy Camera
