The Porst Happy is a viewfinder camera for medium format film. It was presented by Photo Porst in the 1950s. It is a variant of the original plastic cameras that were the model for Lomography’s Diana F+, among others.
The lens of the Porst Happy cannot be changed. It is called Plasicion Lens 1:8 and there is no information about the focal length. The lens is fixed and cannot be changed.
On the front of the Porst Happy there is a selenium light meter. However, this is a dummy without any function. A flash can be connected to the camera. The flash unit was included with the camera.
The dimensions of the medium format camera are 12.5 x 10 x 8.5 cm. The weight is 245 grams. The medium format camera does not require batteries.
Films for the Porst Happy
Medium format films are exposed in the Porst Happy. Fresh material for this type of film is still being produced. One possible film for color images is the Fujifilm PRO 400H*. A possibility for B&W images is the Ilford FP4 Plus*.
The development of the black and white film must be done in the appropriate photochemistry. There are a variety of possible products here. Some photo labs offer film development of black and white film, you have more control if you get the right chemistry and develop it yourself. Color film is developed using the C-41 process. This is more common and is possible at the vast majority of photo labs.
The exposure area of the medium format camera is square (6×6). At this size, twelve images usually fit on the film. The photographer must wind the film manually.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Viewfinder camera |
| Film format | 120 |
| Film transport | Manual |
| Focal length | - |
| Widest aperture | f/8 |
| Focus | Fixed |
| Viewfinder | Simple finder |
| Exposure times | 1/50 second |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Tripod mount | No |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | No |
| Power supply | Not necessary |
| Size | 12,5 x 10 x 8,5 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 4.92 x 3.94 x 3.35 inches |
| Weight | 245 Grams |
| Company name of the brand | Photo Porst |
| Manufacturer | Great Wall Plastic Co. Hong Kong |
| Estimated value / Used price | 14,24 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 4 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 11,78 Euro (11.91 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 12,65 Euro (12.99 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 12,21 Euro (12.99 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Porst Happy
Is the Porst Happy a complicated camera to use?
No, the Porst Happy is a very simple camera to operate. It's fully mechanical, meaning no batteries are required. All functions are manual, making it straightforward even for beginners.
What kind of film does this plastic camera take?
The Porst Happy uses 120 film, which is a medium format film. Both color and black and white films are compatible. You can find many brands that will work.
Can I change the lens on the Happy?
No, the lens is fixed; it's a Plasicion Lens 1:8. There's no zoom or interchangeable lenses. This is common with many simple cameras of its era.
Does the light meter on the camera actually work?
Unfortunately, no. The light meter on the front of the camera is just a dummy; it doesn't actually function. You'll need to use alternative methods to determine exposure.
How many pictures can I take on one roll of film?
A standard roll of 120 film will give you twelve 6x6cm square pictures with this medium format camera. You have to wind the film manually after each shot.