Toy Cameras and “Happy Accidents” with Jody Miller

Class Overview

Date: Saturday, October 24, 2026

Vintage Toy Cameras are made with plastic with a plastic lens, a single shutter speed and a fixed aperture. Many of these cameras were sent to young kids of the 50’s and 60’s in return for cereal box tops and they were spread around the globe. The use of these cameras, ie: Diana, Holga, and many others, became popular as photographic artists discovered the beauty of the less than perfect images that often resulted. Toy camera imperfections allow the photographer to create one-of-a-kind artwork that is truly original and set apart from typical photographic art. The “Happy Accidents” created within a toy camera give each image a unique and very personal stamp of creativity.

This two hour class begins with a lesson on camera functions, capabilities, and the serendipitous style of shooting. Jody Miller, Our class leader will lead a group around Astoria with various Toy Cameras in all hands. You will capture a roll of film, and the results will be viewed in an online gallery the following week. A digital contact sheet will be sent to you the week after the workshop, with possibility of further individual image scans or prints.

The cost for the class is $99, with all materials provided!
LightBox members receive a 10% discount.

Contact grace@lightbox-photographic.com to sign up!