Seattle-based photographer Michelle Bates has released, "Plastic Cameras: Toying with Creativity, 2nd edition."

This volume brings together the world of toy camera photography, including the history of their use, exhaustive instructions, tips and tricks for getting the most out of Holga and other choice "plastic" cameras, advanced camera modifications, darkroom and...

A Seattle photographer embraces imperfection and pushes the limits of her beloved $30 Holga camera.

For many photographers, their first experience with a camera is with a cheap point-and-shoot, such as an old Kodak Instamatic or a Polaroid. Once hooked, the photographer usually moves on to newer, more advanced models with greater capabilities. For others, however, first impressions are often lasting ones. Such is the case for Seattle photographer Michelle Bates. For nearly two decades, she has held a soft spot in her heart for her first camera: a $30 Holga. While she also uses today's advanced DSLRs for images that require more precision, Bates has continued using the Holga, embracing the format's many flaws and limitations.Mass-produced in China since the early 1980s, the Holga is a study in simplicity: fixed 60mm plastic lens; spring-loaded, nonadjustable shutter; medium-format 120 film; rugged aesthetic. The camera was made to take quick family portraits for the Chinese...

Michelle Bates, a photographer living in Seattle, has chronicled her experiences working with and teaching about Holga cameras in her new book, "Plastic Cameras: Toying with Creativity," published by Focal Press.

Her work and the book were featured in an article on www.imaginginfo.com. Bates also presented an exhibition and lecture at the Creative Center for Photography in Los Angeles in February.