The Holga 135 is the 35mm version of the Holga 120. Like the medium format camera, the 135 is almost completely made of plastic.
The 47 mm lens of the 35 mm camera is also made of plastic and offers a maximum aperture of f/8. By moving a small slider, the user can adjust the exposure settings and choose between two aperture values: f/8 for cloudy weather and f/11 for sunny weather.
Like the 120, the Holga 135 is a zone focus camera. Instead of meters, there are small pictograms around the lens. The single person stands for 1 meter, the small group for 2 meters, the large group for 6 meters and the mountain for infinity.
Exposure times there are only two options to choose from. “N” (1/125 sec) and “B” for a Bulb mode where the shutter is open as long as the shutter button is pressed. For long exposures, it has a connection for a tripod and a cable release.
A flash can be connected to the hot shoe. Multiple exposures can be created simply by releasing the shutter multiple times without rewinding.
Unlike the Diana Mini or the Holga 120, for example, it does not expose a square format, but instead captures a normal 2:3 image on the film.
Any type of 35 mm film can be used in the Holga 135. For starters and on rather cloudy days, ISO 400 colour negative film is a good choice. A nice ISO 400 film is the Kodak Ultramax 400*. Of course, there are many more films that can be used with the Asian camera. Development is offered by many photo labs.
The Holga 135 does not need batteries. It works completely mechanically. This means that it can be used flexibly.
In addition to the 135, there are also the Holga 135 BC, 135 PC and a few 35mm Holgas more.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Viewfinder camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Manual |
| Film transport mechanism | Thumbwheel |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Focal length | 47 mm |
| Widest aperture | f/8 |
| Minimum focus distance | 100 cm / 3.28 ft |
| Focus | Manual |
| Exposure times | 1/125 second, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Date imprinting | No |
| Double and/or multiple exposure function | Yes |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | Hot Shoe |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | Yes |
| Self-timer | No |
| Power supply | Not necessary |
| Estimated value / Used price | 82,45 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 5 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 53,00 Euro (57.37 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 87,05 Euro (94.17 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 76,28 Euro (82.26 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Holga 135
How do I adjust the focus on this plastic camera?
The Holga 135 uses zone focusing. Instead of numbers, there are symbols near the lens: a person (1 meter), a small group (2 meters), a large group (6 meters), and a mountain (infinity). Choose the symbol that best fits your subject.
What kind of film does the Holga 135 use?
It uses standard 35mm film. Any type of 35mm film will work, but ISO 400 color negative film is a good starting point, especially on cloudy days.
Does this camera need batteries?
No, the Holga 135 is completely mechanical and doesn't require batteries. This makes it very convenient for any situation.
How do I control the exposure on this small camera?
There's a small slider that lets you choose between two apertures: f/8 (for cloudy conditions) and f/11 (for sunny conditions).
Can I take multiple exposures with the camera?
Yes, you can easily create multiple exposures by pressing the shutter button multiple times without advancing the film.