The Holga 120 WPC’s name actually tells you pretty much what you can do with it. It is a medium format camera (120), takes wide-angle pictures (W) and does it all with a pinhole or pinhole (PC) instead of a lens.
From the design, you could call it a long black plastic box. It may not look like anything special at first glance, but great shots can be taken. For example, you can play with the long exposures possible through the pinhole and the wide angle.
The Holga 120 WPC’s adjustment options are rather limited. It has a small hole with a diameter of 0.3 mm, which corresponds to an aperture of f/135, through which the light falls.
How long light falls on the 120 film is determined by keeping the shutter release button pressed (Bulb). You can either estimate the correct exposure time with a table on the back or use an external light meter.
It can expose two different formats, depending on the mask in the camera. Either choose 6×9 or go for more panoramic with 6×12. On a roll of 120 medium format film, the WPC can capture eight (6×9) or six (6×12) images.
Of course, any type of medium format film can be used, black and white or color doesn’t matter. A good film for taking pictures with the camera is Kodak Portra 400*. For black and white pictures you can buy the Ilford Delta 100*. Both films are made by manufacturers with a good reputation.
It can be mounted on a tripod and used with a cable release.
Batteries are not required by the fully manual camera. Instead of a viewfinder, the stereo camera has a hinged frame for sighting the subject. In addition, a spirit level on the top allows the camera to be perfectly aligned.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Pinhole camera |
| Film format | 120 |
| Film transport | Manual |
| Picture format | 60 mm x 120 mm |
| Widest aperture | f/135 |
| Focus | Fixed |
| Exposure times | Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Date imprinting | No |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | Yes |
| Self-timer | No |
| Power supply | Not necessary |
| Estimated value / Used price | 96,82 Euro 1671519376281156221065105 Estimate based on used prices of 3 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of February 24, 2025 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 159,00 Euro (172.10 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 94,40 Euro (101.75 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 99,17 Euro (107.16 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Holga 120 WPC
What kind of lens does this camera have?
It uses a pinhole, or 'Lochblende' in German, instead of a traditional lens. This creates a unique, soft-focus effect and requires longer exposure times.
How do I control the exposure time?
The Holga 120 WPC uses a bulb setting, meaning you hold down the shutter button to control how long the film is exposed to light. You can estimate exposure with a chart on the camera or use a light meter.
What film formats can I use with this camera?
It can shoot 6x9 or 6x12 format using different masks inside. A roll of 120 film will give you either eight (6x9) or six (6x12) images.
Does the camera need batteries?
No, the Holga 120 WPC is fully manual and doesn't require any batteries. This makes it very simple to use.
How do I frame my shots?
Instead of a viewfinder, this camera has a simple open frame for composing your shots. A level on top helps keep the camera straight.