My GOLDEN HALF – a Camera Review

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The following pictures are mostly from my first roll – actually colour film developed in black and white chemicals. Hence the eerie feel. I’ve got some others coming up on Flickr shortly.

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If you like the look of harsh grain and super 8 movies, this one’s for you. Add to that the small and lightweight size, paired with a huge arsenal of pictures you can take, add in some unpredictability (as is awlays a good ingredient with plastic cameras), and have fun.

I think the Golden Half, like the Holga 135 BC, is going to be a key part of my 35mm work from now on, especially in black and white. I’ve shot some stuff on colour too, and will post it in my newly created Flickr Golden Half Collection if and when it’s scanned. Keep an eye out.

Conclusion

If you’re into alternative photogrpahy and find odd formats fascinating, this is for you. If you’re looking for a cheap plastic camera and want to cut down on processing costs – understandable in the current financial climate – go and invest.

Films can be processed on the high street, although you’ll see two pictures side by side rather than singles (as shown in these examples). If you’re not into that, order larger prints and cut them in half. If you’re scanning your results like I do, be prepared for some long sessions – after all, you’re creating dozens of images per roll.

Where to get it from

  • eBay (of course)
  • Photographer’s Gallery in London
  • Holga Magic (very slow server)


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74 thoughts on “My GOLDEN HALF – a Camera Review”

  1. hi, do you turn the knob until it stops each time you press the shutter? or you press the shutter 2 times for double frames and then turn the knob? Thank you

    Reply
    • Itā€™s been a while since Iā€™ve handled my Golden Half, but from what I remember the film transport and shutter are not connected. You can press the shutter as many times as you like, which creates an exposure every time you click. So for two exposures, wins the film, the press the shutter twice (or more time). Hope this helps!

      Reply

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