Super 8 Movie Cameras
Super 8 movie cameras are a vintage motion picture camera first manufactured by Kodak in 1965, which required the use of its own Super 8-millimeter film, a film stock that had an additional 1.29-inch oxide strip used to record sound. These analog cameras were designed to also work with other types of 8-millimeter film, such as Kodak Super, Super 8 film, Tri-X, Fujifilm, and Kodachrome, and to record at speeds of 18 to 24 frames per second, which were later altered to record slow motion. Known for their home movie quality, what followed was the invention of Super 8 cartridges, diverse film stock, film projectors, and in 2013, its reintroduction into digital technology.
What feature separates film and digital Super 8 cameras?There are several features that distinguish the two.
- Film: Super 8 camera requires the use of film, which can be an obstacle. One roll of the film runs for 15 minutes. Therefore, you must plan and coordinate your scene before shooting. The viewfinder is not sharp, so you must measure the focal distance of your subject in order to ensure your camera is within its focal range. After filming, the film must be developed before you can see it. This may take a few weeks.
- Digital Super 8: Just like a video projector, this Super 8 comes with an LCD screen that allows you to view the scene in order to capture quality results.
If you’re looking for a good Super 8 film camera, check out these possibilities.
- Pro8mm Rhonda Cam: This vintage piece of equipment operates at 18 frames per second and has the capability to shoot single frames. It comes with a manual built-in Canon 8.5-25.5 millimeter zoom lens that has a built-in light meter. It is simple to use.
- Beaulieu Super 8 Pro: This camera loads in a cartridge and is easy to load and unload. Its autofocus is a common feature because it provides a sharp, clear view. It records Tri-x, Kodak, and other brands of Super 8 film.
With the integration of electronic video features, Kodak relaunched its Super 8 model designed with a flip LCD display just like the updated video camcorders, so you can frame your shot. A mini-HDMI port, inputs, and outputs are located on the back of the camera just like you see in video, so you can also plug the camera into a screen or computer. The audio is captured separately via an SD card. The camera comes with a Ricoh 6-millimeter lens that has the ability to manually focus and to swap multiple C-mounts. Moreover, you can shoot at frame rates of 9, 12, 18, 24, and 25.
If you are a movie enthusiast, a Super 8 camera is a must-have. Whether you chose Kodaks Super 8 or another brand, you will capture lifes moments encapsulated in a nostalgic look.
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