How to Fake the Super 16 Film Look

Let’s try a cinematic 16mm film look with a digital camera.
License the music: musicvine.net/music/summer-me...
Producer - Alexa Rodrigues
Camera Assistant - Natalie Kerr
BTS Filming - Anastasia Pyrovolaki
Film & Processing - www.kodak.com/corp/default.htm
Creator & Host - Simon Cade
Graded with FilmConvert - 10% off: bit.ly/2HGEzB0
(I earn a commission from purchases ^^)
Gear I film with: kit.co/DSLRguide/indie-filmma...
WEBSITE: dslrguide.tv
TWITTER: / dslrguidance
INSTAGRAM: / cadevisuals
CONTACT: [e-mail]

[@DSLRguide]

here's the flicker overlay file in case you want to use it: www.dropbox.com/s/kbgumcease5wdzu/flicker.mov?dl=0

[@Electromanx3]

Thank you, Simon!

[@RinuchristoManuel]

Thank you😊

[@JimineyBob]

Cool! Thanks for the extra help

[@factsverse9957]

DSLRguide I just got my full frame stills film today.

[@flapdance]

Side comparison was a bit short in this movie of the flicker filter. Tumbs up for the rest. THX for the download. :)

[@76boromir]

Wait about 30 years on, and you will watch tutorials a la "How to fake DSLR look":...."close down 3d holographic mode, turn on 2 dimensional image filter, sharpen the image, downsize image to ridiculously small 4K, add some of that good old stylish digital noise in shadows,..."

[@lrave17]

76boromir wtf so true

[@jtwestt]

dead lmao

[@DannyTaddei]

No one will ever collect a 1975 toyota corola or crave the sound of a 1980s CD player but which is about what you are suggesting. I get the point and you have one. I'm just saying that harsh has few uses.

[@JohnSmith-wj2wd]

Uhm, where I live, the 97 corolla actually is a collectors item. At some point everything becomes a collectors item or nostalgia piece. The reason not that many classic cars survived is because people back then thought the exact same thing and had it sent to the crusher, not knowing that many years later, the same car could be highly sought after.

[@eduardopascoal7893]

Danny Taddei nobody will ever collect a 1975 corolla? That is simply not true

[@BramNaus]

I loved the perspective to mimic not only the technical details but also the perks of working with film, like waiting to watch the footage, not being able to preview footage, etc. really interesting way of approaching digital film!!

[@CharmingNewSociety]

I have to say, that's the one aspect of this video I don't really entirely agree with, forgoing certain features like playback or card capacity. I'd rather just discipline myself not to overly rely on them as opposed tricking myself into it by eliminating them. Focus on the shot at hand whether you have playback or not. Minimize the amount of takes you do regardless if you are able to shoot hours and hours of footage. Seems silly to actually "cut your hand off" by depriving yourself of the options, like for example only bringing a small capacity SD card. I'd rather have the option and try not to over-depend on them. At least if you run into trouble you have those tools available. I enjoy shooting on film when I'm able to. But if I'm shooting digital, whether or not I'm emulating film, I don't see the point in giving yourself all the same restrictions as if you were actually shooting film.

[@BramNaus]

Jacky Lawrence I agree with you! I would not try this at all if I had an inportant shoot. However, with this approach you have no other choice and it will get you thinking about the decisions you make while filming. So emulating ‘shooting on film’ will develop those techniques, even when shooting digital...

[@samvalentine9243]

Bram Naus or you could just shoot on film several times to gain respect for the process. If what you learn doesn't carry over to your normal practices, then you didn't learn anything and it's time to go back. Simulating the process with digital must make the fallen filmmakers of the 20th century turn in their graves...people should learn to appreciate the luxuries of digital without taking them for granted. Intentionally limiting yourself in that way seems like shooting yourself in the foot before you start.

[@CharmingNewSociety]

+Same Valentine, exactly. That said, when I can't shoot film I'm always going to at least simulate the aesthetic. Sometimes much more subtly than shown here, but enough to look more filmic than that clean digital gloss.

[@k3super16mm]

check out this guy's instagram @k3super16mm. he seems crazy

[@ZTalks]

You are a genius. Its only because of you, I am not upgrading my canon T3i :)

[@SaImanKayani]

Hello from the future!

[@jeremydulac5920]

That flicker takes everything to the next level! Many thanks for this!

[@DSLRguide]

#teamflicker

[@allirogorilla]

I find it amazing that back in the days before digital, filmmakers wished there was a away to see the footage immediately - wished they could make as many takes as they wanted without wasting film - and now that we have (that) through the digital medium, we've become spoiled. - most of us want to return to the "good ole' days" and yes, I agree there was something "magical" about it that has now dissipated. It somehow reflects so, in many modern films shot digitally. as silly as it sounds, that "magic" is strangely gone, even when simulated. I like digital because of it's convenience - it does look good now - it's been perfected alright - but yet, oddly, it lacks soul. Sounds dumb, but those of us who love film . . . really love film, and wish we could afford it - 'know" it's magic and miss it on that screen. Maybe because deep down we know that analogue medium can be used forever - we really don' t need electricity for it, or special programs or additional electronics - just light and shadow and chemicals to react to it, and a mechanical machine that takes it all in.

[@DmitriFilms]

One final detail you could also throw in, just to get it to that extra level. 16mm has a slight wobble/shake when it is playing due to the actual film running by. Adding a very small digital camera shake into your footage on the Y-axis can introduce that rolling film effect.

[@isaaccarlton]

I just watched City Of God for the first time. The cinematography is incredible. I really love the imperfections of Super 16.

[@nukliozz]

Isaac Carlton I know it’s a year later but there’s a great interview done to César Charlone on how he approached the filmmaking of that film. He used a specific oil on the actors skin to give it a distinct effect. He is now an advocate of digital filmmaking and thinks filming on film is incredibly bad for the environment. And by the way he shot “American Made” and you can clearly see his filming style.

[@masterwerneck]

Yeah, i'm brazilian and Fernando Meireles it's a great director, nowadays he shots only in digital.

[@Jonny51982]

Simon, I just wanted to say that I appreciate your work. I’ve been crap at getting myself started on KZbin, but you’ve been helping to get me over the hump a bit. I think this is one of my favorite videos of yours, partly because I’m a still film shooter and partly because I enjoy and respect the clear, concise breakdown and the amount of thought that you obviously put into all of this.

[@2MuchSwag4Funzies]

I love how you go through the right details thoroughly and then go beyond what's expected. You have such a feel for this media my man.

[@ColinBloodworth]

Simon, I'm constantly blown away by your productions, man. So, so inspiring. Thank you for continuing to make YT content.

[@nik3727]

there's something calming and relieving and nostalgic about super 16. just learned the team but glad I did!

[@guyjclark]

I'm very impressed with your analysis of the differences between digital imaging and motion picture film imaging, and then your figuring out how to replicate the film look on DSLR! Bravo and Thank You!!!

[@BassPlayerAvailable]

You really do think outside of the box with your KZbin videos Simon. When everyone else is doing the same old tutorials/reviews your actually creating new content that really make you think. Great stuff.

[@MicahAtkinson]

I've been adjusting my film-simulation techniques for years-- this is by far the best tutorial I've ever seen. Concise, specific, and the side by side comparisons are perfect.

[@matterofchanceprod]

I love that you took this thought experiment past camera settings and to the most absurd extreme (small SD cards, no previews, holding the footage for days). Really interesting to think about the possibilities.

[@KawatraProductions]

You're a Great KZbinr as well as a Film maker!

[@stevensong8784]

@Aman Tech Tips Mm-hmm

[@stylestep111]

He's a good person too, the world needs more people like him

[@egemenozan5641]

But why does he sound so sad

[@CameraMystique]

He's one of the most mature youtube photo/videographers. Integrity and quality. Bravo!

[@samvalentine9243]

He has yet to make a great film so I'm not sure what you mean. This video was just more camera tests.

[@MichaelColeman]

Your analysis of detail is far beyond my inexperienced ability. This was extremely enlightening and I thank you very much for doing this.

[@DigitalGenki]

Dude, this video is amazing! The content, the way you are passionate about being authentic to Super 16, this video is a poem. Thank you

[@mangeshmahajan4445]

I love 'Just carry on', Simon! Everything you create is so perfect!

[@MrJackx1014]

I am in love with this video, the background music with your small and rustic voice, combined with something I have a passion for is a guarantueed long time favorite

[@MattWileyArt]

I love how calm and informative your videos are.

[@sumedhshinde7733]

Whenever I loose focus, I watch your videos, you always have a precious statement. Loved this video too,, can't wait for the super 16 video.

[@jessestarks3128]

I like the end result and I also like your points on being focused when having a shooting on film mentality.

[@carldiamond4234]

I love this. Thanks for putting out, not only a well crafted video, but also one that is clear and to the point. I especially appreciate that you did not bring up 8-bit, 10 bit or raw as far as the DSLR goes. Excuse me while I got test this out with my EOS R.

[@matheusmauad1868]

Your videos are ALWAYS more than a simple tutorial. It's all about how to feel the things as humans. That's what i like you the most.

[@Kashtin577]

This was a fantastic watch. Extraordinarily relaxing, and engaging throughout. Thank you for creating this

[@ZinniaRAWR]

Watching your videos, listening to your voice, your background music choice. It feels like i'm watching a film. Really intriguing.

[@ArjunPillai]

Falling in love with the super 16mm look after this video. even though its very soft I like the whole feel of the super 16. Thanks Simon for this good video. keep it coming.

[@robertbrazier2558]

Amazing video, im doing colour grading for a film at the moment and ive wanted to give it a subtle film look just to make it look more cinematic and this video has really helped with that!

[@DoktorPlay]

I love the idea of reducing possibilities and coming back to the core of filmmaking. Something that even the greatest in filmmaking have forgotten these days.

[@CarsonAllred]

This is the greatest film look video ever made

[@hannaseedur]

I love your voice so much it’s so calming

[@tarasshevchenko8917]

FilmConvert are the best! There are a lot more factors to consider than just adding a plugin, and once it's done correctly, it provides amazing results.

[@chipbrandstetter]

I grew up using reg and super 8 and am quite thankful for digital. Your videos are great and keep up the tremendous work.

[@timefilm]

at 2:51 you've made a small error. that's not flickering in the waveform, it's the movement of the film rolling through the gate. It's called film slack. Flicker can definitely add effect though. But it can get annoying when random and not a filmend.

[@ArsenyKa]

Man, you are so poetic! Really enjoying watching your videos! And your music is so good for the mood you inspire! Keep up the good work!

[@julienborghino4517]

Thanks for that! I'm glad you re-used that music again, I loved it the first time 😊

[@bobbybray]

Nice headspace to be in. I remember the days of waiting and then viewing in the viewing theatre or on the Steinbeck. Sometimes you need to take a breath and think about the creativity instead of having everything instantly and being able to 'perfect' everything. Imperfection and accidents are what makes something individual. Analog and chemicals is a 'live' organic precess and once it's 'born' it lives as an individual! Thnx for all the great vids

[@Nydus85]

I was doing similar experiments with my gh1 to mimic the 16mm look, but your results are way better! I'll try the magenta shift thank you so much (and flickering too). The best dslr channel on youtube

[@SAMoralesTP]

Seriously reminded me why I love film so much

[@AW_eta80]

u still tha goat Simon. appreciate your work man. -a very long time fan.

[@avalanwa]

Your color-matching skill is impeccable.

[@zeys1073]

I just love it. i love everything what you do. Please don't stop.

[@Raumweiter]

this is such great artistic advice and i think it applies to other creative areas, such as music production, as well.

[@dianachamomile]

Ugh you simply just know what to post! I hadn't realized I was familiar with the look of the super 16 but now, I want to experiment!! Thank you for inspiring ☺️

[@DSLRguide]

+Diana Chamomile welcome :)

[@monfrancaisaccount69monfra8]

your passion for filmmaking is infectious

[@papitasloup2119]

This is perfect! I hate seeing tutorials that only focus on post production to make dslr look like film when it's really important that you actually mimic it while filming, it's not just a filter

[@brentpolk2431]

Awesome! Just awesome! THX a bunch for this. In a world of gaming and 4k tutorials this was a need breath of new air.

[@Syko3000]

Great video! Always have great insights on what I need

[@ed6164]

This was great idea! And thank you for the specifics on how to achieve it - especially pointing out that flicker is also part of the film look...that was a good insight.

[@DSLRguide]

thanks Edward, it's a remarkably simple effect, but makes quite a big difference I reckon!

[@nerdchrist8671]

Man, this is an awesome tutorial! Thank you very much for this, I will definitely try this soon. Love the old film looks :)

[@s.storumus8620]

The music is so soothing

[@fiev]

I'm waiting for this!

[@Gunarman]

Well Simon, I was watching this video in a light hearted wide smile. I buy some vintage fast lenses to get cinematic image as close as possible and you are right. We have to get rid some of that digital convenients to be 100% focus on how to frame our story. Thanks for such a sweet video!

[@christribelhorn]

Thank you so much for this very helpful, philosophical and entertaining tutorial! When I started out with photography there was no digital, kind of miss that sometimes!:)

[@PPP1986]

Yeah, boi. I've been waiting for that kind of tutorial. You're great!

[@ricomichel]

Thoroughly brilliant video, simple but deep ideas! Bravo

[@sampierce1012]

This is a awesome tutorial i have a film coming up and i decided i wanted to create a more 70s or 80s film look and this is gonna help me do it thank you

[@Jason-td9jw]

That's insane, I was looking for a video just like this a few days ago and boom a perfect video just uploaded

[@johnrenierasok468]

I've listened to this background music for months now ever since the fake super 8 video ❤️

[@REOSGaming]

These shots are beautiful!

[@diyrecordingstudio]

I like your idea of taking away options on your dslr. I find the same old school approaches useful in audio as well. Awesome vid as usual, will definitely borrow some of these ideas for the future. Cheers Simon.

[@yodgetfit]

IVE BEEN WAITING SO LONG FOR A VIDEO

[@danieltehrani9237]

I was just about to shoot a short with a super 16 look... it’s like you knew!!!! Thank you so much for this, super helpful video as always

[@nichtanklicken_official]

Your videos are soo relaxing! Great work! Thank you! :)

[@LSJMediaProductions]

Thank you for the overlay and information here...awesome channel!

[@bvCREATIONSMCR]

Great video nice to see you back sharing you interesting thoughts on filmmaking

[@jrnapoli97]

Love the shot at 2:57 . Great work!

[@konradskilainen]

Great video, I feel inspired to move closer to film now! Very helpful

[@JomToons]

Beautiful video Simon. Thank you 🙏

[@fostej99]

The return of the best DSLRguide soundtrack haha

[@VideosMakeTyler]

This guy still repping that T3i... Gotta love it.

[@MatthewHyatt]

Thoroughly enjoyed this!

[@mikeinthemiddle]

Love the 16mm cameras! I recommend anyone who's into filmmaking to test out the 16mm - it's definitely not for everyone, but it gives lovely results. Thanks Simon, for yet another great video!

[@mikeinthemiddle]

The Filmmaker's Notebook yeah totally understand! It’s not the most affordable option when starting out haha but yeah definitely try it if you ever get the chance :) Good luck with your filmmaking :)

[@CryptoProphet]

Film is absolutely more magical, in all it's forms.

[@jakubs.6817]

I have a 8mm camera with a nice electric zoom lens and even slow motion mode. Just wondering where I can buy 8mm color film?

[@mikeydal8460]

Mike Handschin I absolutely love 16mm film cameras

[@vazzufree]

You've grown, great to see you after a long time

[@uweinhamburg]

I'm not into real film nor video but i watched this to the end :) Very good explanations and side by side comparisons. That's the way YT guides should be made!

[@guillermosanchez9656]

muy bueno, Simoncillo, gracias so much.

[@OliverJHughes]

Great thoughts, Simon - loved the piece on intentional shooting.

[@PaulTheillusionist]

Loved this video Simon.

[@PhazedAU]

love the music

[@IslandsOfFun]

Your videos are very informative and help me with the way i present my videos.

[@babybluebabyblue]

Loveee this 💕💕

[@theryaner]

The grading you did on this was excellent. nice work!

[@texasjustice63]

Great video. Lots of information. Keep them coming.

[@helpsloan]

Really great video Simon!

[@septonovic]

Always love your vids.

[@tselinsky6452]

Very nice analysis. I'd agree that not looking at playback and not overdoing it on takes can move things faster on a shoot, but that's really all about attitude. As someone who has shot a lot of film back in the day, things like heavy cameras, frequent mag changes, and looking out for gate hairs/base scratches are things I don't miss. Not to mention taking the film to the lab, negotiating with the lab every time they bill me for something extra or screw it up, worrying about negative matching, etc. So some things are best not replicated :D One more thing to point out: using old lenses helps get the film look as well.

[@roadrunna.]

most dope video ever on film look, especially the post magic. thanks

[@mackjacobs3580]

When I got the notification I thought I'd already watched it... oh boy I was shocked it was 16 not 8. Great video as always

[@_-_-_-_-_-_617]

This is great, I've always liked the look of older film compared to the newer film. Not sure why but this helps me to understand a little bit better.

[@OzinNital]

Your videos are helping me alot bro!!! Thank you so much, blessings from Aruba!

[@KandidReviews]

wonderful ! loved this method.

[@user-xi7bu1um5i]

Hey, that's impressive how thoughtfully you did this matching process. You even taped preview button! Respect and subscribe from Russia.

[@issacdhan]

Everything you said make sense. Thank God I really don't know how I came to this video, Superb really superb.

[@takenae]

Nice tricks! Deactivating the automatic stabilization (IS) and using manual focus or reducing its response can also help a more organic (chemical/mechanical) touch. Even synthesizing some lens flaws helps.

[@paintyourselfwhite]

i am losing words to say how much i love the song that you used in this video. anyway, thanks for sharing

[@DannyPops]

I think you really nailed some of the differences. I'm sure there are more to be noticed when shooting in different scenarios but it turned out well! Coming from a large format guy.

[@loisli1338]

Stunning bg music!

[@dotty4422]

Wonderful vid. Thanks, Simon.