How To Shoot Super 8 - Cameras, Film, Processing, & Scanning Guide for Beginners

[@whoismatt]

►►FREE Super 8 Filmmaking Guide: get.whoismatt.com/super8guide P.S. This video was colored with my WhoisMatt LUTs! Get them here: whoismatt.com/luts

[@robertmcglinchey3347]

Hello Matt - film the new vinyl. I want to have old films scanned in 10K - an hour film is a terra byte. I’ll edit on a MacM1Ultra, 48core 64G/RAM. Comment appreciated.

[@alessandrovalentino3406]

Thank you so much! Looking forward to getting started on shooting Super 8!

[@justcarryonnow]

Hey Matt! At Nicki page, it has an option to Process and Scan. Is process the same as develop? Is she one stop shop now? Can I send the film roll directly to her after shooting on my camera and skipping the other developing company in the middle?

[@whoismatt]

@@justcarryonnow looks like Nicki is working on adding processing which is great! Currently it looks like she sends the film off for processing and then scans it but soon it will all be in house. Pretty cool!

[@JohnAWeaver]

I've worked with Nicki Coyle on a 16mm project and highly recommend her services. VERY responsive, very professional and very knowledgeable. Also, she now bundles processing and scanning so one-stop post production shopping!

[@noahmartinez5002]

if I had a nickel for every filmmaker named Matt Johnson working on an 8mm format I'd have two nickels, which isn't a lot but it's weird that it happened twice

[@stephenchurch1784]

I became an electrical engineer because I got so tired of "tested working" vintage audio and photography gear turning into expensive paperweights. Added benefit is that you can turn gear acquisition into a money maker by flipping vintage gear after fixing it

[@maryfaithtomlinson]

The bride is cracking me up. Love her energy. Thank you for the informative video!

[@TheVFXbyArt]

You should see her at 18fps!

[@artykohl1118]

No offense, but I'm so glad that before my life was through, digital video became so awesome and that as much as I used to want 8mm equipment when I was a kid, I'm glad I waited until the affordable HD digital age we came into 15 years ago. Although I think I would have been a better filmmaker starting with film, I have enough fun today with the new stuff. I did use 35mm cameras, from the 80s on. No through the lens viewing, and developed my own pictures and received many congrats so I didn't completely miss out. I was so happy when digital cameras hit the market. I had been asking about them in computer stores years before. I was so ready.

[@RobertRyda]

Lol DUDE! I tried to not blink as long as you in the intro that my eyes went so dry I almost started crying :))))))))

[@craigdvance]

Fun video, my kid wanted to get in to super 8 and this was a great place to point her. I used to shoot 35mm, and 16mm. One thing I will say that you didn't mention about cameras, it absolutely matters what type of camera you get if only for the lens. The glass on the camera is the only thing that matters in terms of providing better quality. Cheap lens is gonna look cheap, nice glass is going to provide less contrast and a crisper image.

[@seemoris]

Great video. Thank you so much!

[@AustinWestbro]

Man this is so cool! My best friend has a vintage feeling country band and I think shooting a music video for them in super 8 would be awesome. Thanks Matt!

[@OaklynMediaLLC]

Just inherited my grandfather in-law's super 8 camera and my sister in-law is getting married in a couple months. Thought it'd be super cool since I shoot weddings occasionally to shoot her some film and convert it using her grandfather's camera as a gift. Who better to learn from than the wedding legend himself.

[@alexlandherr]

One other worthwhile thing if one is getting something like a ProRes 422 HQ scan is to ask to have color correction and/or color grading as the negative stocks tend to have a blue-ish tint/hue when not corrected. I learned this the hard way as my local transfer place does not offer correction and grading. This is to my knowledge not a problem when Vision3 stocks are printed for big movies as the print stocks account for this.

[@pressia.c]

You're so awesome, thank you for this! Can you make a video on switching out film while shooting safely? Going on a trip and am shooting two entirely different film videos / one B&W indoors, and one in colour used outdoors!

[@zarmindrow5831]

I'm going to wait for Super 9.

[@brandonsmith4403]

This was extremely helpful. Seriously, thanks for all the steps and great insight!

[@jaimeliebermann3365]

Super 8 is great (as well as Regular 8 and 16). Been using it for many years and nowadays is much ciller being able to scan the films. Film + adobe premier is fun. I've been following your Premiere tutorials for long time and I find now that you also like Super8, how cool!

[@oscaryin4503]

This video deserves way more views, great guide.

[@charlottelee6425]

Hello! Love your video! May I ask a question please? For night time, outdoor setting with Edison lightbulbs strings (36watt total) overhead, is 500T film the only way to go? Would 50D work at all? I brought a roll of 50D and wasn't expecting to have to shoot at night time. I should be able to add more light source - would that help at all? Thank you!!

[@maikolverasson1735]

The coolest video out here for beginner, thank you so much!

[@kelseroo1]

Thank you for this guide, it was just what I’ve been looking for!

[@heroinrock]

Nicholas Coyle does killer scanning work for the best damn price!

[@yo_itsjw]

great video. i just bought some film from pro8mm and already paid for the processing and digital scan...but it's just a test roll for my camera i'm testing. if camera is working and i start shooting more film, I'll be using nick as recommended.

[@serliminar7419]

thanks guy! this made me slightly less intimidated to learn about film.

[@antoniablunt5866]

This is such a clear and helpful guide, thank you!

[@artstories5828]

Awesome info. Thanks very much for the video!

[@Mariellednalino]

Hey Matt! Any instructions on setting the diopter?

[@DoctorNumen]

Sir i have a question. You have mentioned when going indoor to outdoor, you can just use a switch to use the filteer. But what if that filter is not available. What if you need to place a separate filter on the lens? Like say for example pro814 camera which they dont have operating switch. thank you

[@KRAFTWERK2K6]

I've been thinking about going back to shooting Super 8 for 5 years now after i had experimented with it for a bit in 2006 (was lucky enough to witness firsthand the last time you could get fresh K40 stock and ship it to Kodak themself for processing) and then again in 2012 when i tested the Ektachrome 160D. And i always wanted to try the new negative stock for a filmproject. However... looking at how the costs for Super 8 have exploded over the years it really is absolutely no cheaper budget choice anymore compared to 16mm. In fact it is basically even with 16mm now. So as much as i'd love to do some Super 8 stuff again, i might as well just sell my Super 8 cameras and jump onto 16mm entirely. Especially seeing how Kodak's plans for the Super 8 market has been nothing but empty promises and vaporware for the past 6 years now. Especially regarding their "brand new" Super 8 camera with that electric viewfinder. However Super 8 really was a great entrydrug to get a feeling for how it is to shoot something on film instead of video. You learn a lot to really only shoot when you are absolutely sure because of the actual money that is rushing through the filmgate. Learning to shoot a little film and basically editing it right inside the camera, is a really creatively rewarding challenge that is so much fun to do.

[@lauracommisso8261]

Hi Matt! How do you test if a light meter is working or not? Thanks!! :)

[@swm1978525]

I would like to ask, How to solve the problem of using Kodak 100D super8 indoors or in places with insufficient light, and how to convert negative films such as 500T to positive films in the computer without color cast?

[@Errys]

best beginning vid i've seen

[@rileyconnell]

Thank you so much for this video! So dang helpful as someone who is new to super 8!

[@andrewloh3124]

I was 30 sec in and knew this video was going to be top tier. thank you

[@minarimon3106]

What do you think about the new Kodak super 8 camera??

[@MyAddictedLife]

Where were you a few years ago? I was searching the web for best resources for scanning super 8 mm. Thanks for the link to Nick, going to refer a few buddies to him. Great content!

[@bauerfilms4832]

Just bought a kodak automatic 8. Is there a way I can test whether my electronic light meter works?

[@wilshippy3542]

Thank you so much for the informative video! You rock!

[@youngle9381]

you just saved me so much money. THANK YOU!

[@SaxSpy]

i knew id been collecting super 8 for a reason... thank you!

[@gregrebuck3585]

I shot one roll of Super 8, back in...1978? Still have some regular 8mm reels as well. Then, 10 days ago I shot 16mm (on an old Bolex Rex 1) for the first time and sent it off a week ago. Waiting nervously to see if the patient is still alive or not. I just ordered an Elmo 614s-xl eBay-n-pray special today from Japan. One thing I'm learning is that while doing home processing seems to be a recipe for disaster with even the most advanced setups, you can get some really good scans from film scanners and telecines, including DIY. It may not be the highest quality as compared to a Blackmagic Cintel but I think for most scans it's "good enough". Opinions?

[@graysonwebster]

I was not ready for the tongue wrestling at about the 12:25 mark 😂😂

[@motorlibro]

some cameras have manual override for exposure (or manual only like some Kodaks) not the problem you might think,,,, also most important, check the battery compartment, many cameras have been ruined by battery leakage (by their AA's not the meter battery)

[@GoViral980]

hello matt.. im prifty from Ghana and i super love your content man...bigups

[@MarcianoMolina]

A few years ago I got a Bell and Howell brand, inside it has a Kodak G160 cartridge... only the cartridge is forced...

[@ebbensaunders4105]

Awesome Vieo thanks Matt!

[@aliceksipes6015]

Thank you sooo much for making this video. I liked and subscribed. Instant fan

[@g1e15]

This was an amazing video!

[@stephanielynn2104]

You are an ANGEL!! Thank you for the info

[@kagray23]

Have you ever considered getting your own converter from Amazon? I’m interested in hearing more about how they work

[@forabis]

youre a godsend. incredible video

[@pitmanfilms3007]

So helpful. Everything I needed to know. Well done!

[@joseangel4428]

I love the cinematic color of your videos, this last one included. Wonderful lut.

[@mrgurulittle7000]

You were very helpful! Thanks!

[@yoced1468]

no thank you, mc donalds guy

[@mrgurulittle7000]

@@yoced1468Eh, shut up lightning guy.

[@4WordsMediaNorth]

Thanks for heads up on 8mm.

[@allymako]

Hi Matt! This video is incredibly helpful, but I have some questions. I shot my first three roles of super 8 and am ready to get them processed and scanned! You mention having Spectra send the film straight to Nicki Coyle, so my question is when do you fill out the form on Nicki's website? How will they know that it is your film that arrived? Will spectra repackage the processed film in the same packaging I originally sent it in? I know this video is older, but hope you see this :)

[@libracordial]

Very helpful video! How does the Canon 1014 xl-s differ from the 514 xl-s? I can’t seem to find direct video comparisons. I just want to be sure that the 1014 is worth the price jump. Thanks!

[@rosyaugust7095]

Super 8 cinematic old film is one of my favourite style. With grain is super cool. Great tips as always

[@johnsilver4765]

Still waiting on uncle Greg. Very relatable lol

Just got a Canon 514XL-S for 30 bucks at a flea market, everything seems to work but let’s see… need to check my options in Germany for development etc

[@BärenmarkeScotch]

Hi, is there any similar alternative to Super-8 that is not so terribly expensive for hobbyists (film material, development, digitization)? What I like about it is the authentic analog film look. It doesn't have to be so grainy or pastel-colored. But also not as home video-like as VHS.

[@minarimon3106]

I have the new Kodak super 8 camera Any idea how to expose the film in it ??

[@whoismatt]

Haven't tested it unfortunately :(

[@MaxintoshMinus]

Let's say I'm using my Super 8 to record an indoor show, could I put 200 and 500 instead, and use that to distinguish between brighter and darker indoor sets, or would I be better off sticking with one outdoor film to account for lasers, pyrotechnics, etc?

[@BikesAndSnacks]

"Super" helpful... thanks man.

[@riccihull5875]

Excellent video, great work!

[@WheezyLiam]

Are you still in New Braunfels? Have you found anyone in the central TX area that can process or scan super 8?

[@mattiapalombi1597]

That looked like A wild wedding 😆

[@CarlosDeSousa1992]

Is there any way or chance that like I could use a super 8 camera in the clubs for like videography work?

[@whoismatt]

If you bring a light yes

[@yayforLOL1234]

Its been about a year since i come back to this video, from first being interested to finally devoloping my second roll of film soon currently :). Thank you for this video. I'm fortunate to live in the Los Angeles area so Pro8mm and Spectra are just a drive away even so, I still need to try Nicki's service cus its so budeget friendly and getting an overscan of a Super 8 starts at 60 locally!

[@cherylross2718]

How do I find out what battery type I need for my light meter?

[@enricomontanari2670]

Hey! Interesting video!! How does the exposure works on your camera?

[@TheVFXbyArt]

If I recall, the isos of super 8 film was set by ASA (cartridge notches) 40/25 100/60 and 160/100. If you have a 500 asa neg film, how do you set your asa?

[@madskdz]

Holy hell brother 🙌 wish I would have found this video sooner, but what an amazing video. Thank you so much

[@ivar_oslo-hr3mc]

Eh, the film you showed is negative. I always used Kodachrome 64 positive. How do you project it?

[@yoced1468]

thanks guy amazing info

[@b6983832]

I strongly disagree with you suggesting only color negative films for Super8. Reason being that they cannot be projected, as there is no print film available in this format. You should choose your film stock according to your needs. If you want to project your film, you have to use a reversal film.

[@bullshitter905]

Andec Film im Germany copies them to projectable rolls

[@LifeOfMikey1]

very good video! so what is the process of processing it and then sending it to nick? do you let him know before hand or how does it work

[@whoismatt]

Yes you will fill out a form on their site and tell them you want to have you film scanned

[@TheAlleycatboy]

thank you! this is amazing! we need a tutorial about 16mm too)

[@DarkJesterHead]

do you usually shoot on 18 or 24 fps?

[@ninjateam9751]

Super 8 is a very insane type of camera

[@thetransformentor]

Is there anyone here who can recommend a scanner in the UK who will work like Matt does in the US? It's so expensive in the UK. Also wondering if there will be a noticeable difference between 2k and 3k and 4k?

[@Chrismith]

Serious question - For the light meter, online it reads, "Measuring range of 0 to 19.9 EV at ISO 100". Does this mean it can't meter light at 50 iso? If so, why would you recommend this Matt?

[@ReelTimeFilms]

I just got the canon 310XL! So stoked to get started!! Thanks for the vid!

[@FranzettiVideography]

Are you enjoying your 310xl? I have a 814 but I want a super small one for more personal travel and such and the 310 looks perfect!

[@ggbb8758]

Where to go to see the full super 8 cameras wedding footage!!

[@OAlhassan]

Thank you Matt You have provided a very useful and comprehensive topic

[@junebug9320]

cool video, and very cool beard!

[@powerbeam08]

I would like to shoot Super 8 and then process it and then edit the film and finally, when I’m satisfied with it, project it onto a Super 8 projector. Any tips and tricks about those steps?

[@godspeedyouyoungstreetsoldier]

this is a great video boss. thank you very much for your help

[@jaycekeilphotographyfilm]

If it records at 18 fps how does that work if your wedding video timeline is 24 or 30 fps?

[@melindaschneider2006]

What film gives you the black and white look?

[@whoismatt]

I would just use one of the color films and turn it black and white when editing :)

[@melindaschneider2006]

@@whoismatt great idea thank you! Do you have a video of editing the films?

[@Chrismith]

What about light meter apps instead of a physical light meter?? anyone recommend a good light meter app for super 8 specifically?

[@MaxRussel-m7t]

Couldn't you use a digital camera as a sort of light meter?

[@BoneSkull94]

I have my Hanimex Loadmatic CBM 53 I bought from the flee market in 2014 It worked fine and I can't afford any 8mm Cartridges. About eight years later when I put new batteries in and I was afraid it didn't work again and I lost my hope. About minute or two, It started to work again like and charm.

[@artoflifefilmsuk]

Hi Matt! I'm in the UK and going to be testing out a 514XL in a stately home/castle in the North of England - think wood panelling, staircases, but then huge grounds outside. I'm really after black and white - do you think I should by b/w film or buy 500T and then change it to b/w in post? I was just wondering what film you choose when you know indoors could be quite low light, UK outside is usually pretty cloudy as well! I can only buy one film at the moment!

[@humanonearf]

Bless ya soul man

[@Webrisernl]

Hi Matt it looks like my kodak vision 3 film won't roll, like it is stuck. Is there a way to solve this? The motor of my Canon 512xl does spin round though. I hope you can help I have a wedding today all the best from the netherlands Holland.

[@sonijam]

In the past I've always opted for the "basic scan" of my Super 8 film and was happy with the results, but recently I decided to order a high resolution scan thinking it would look even better but it turned out looking very dull and without much contrast. A real disappointment. I asked them why it looked so bad and they said I needed to edit it with "post production tools" to make it look good. This sounds complicated and I don't even know what these "tools" are that I need. Do you have a video explaining how to do this? Thank you.

[@whoismatt]

They probably scanned it flat so you can color grade it yourself. Look up my color grading log video for premiere to.

[@sonijam]

@@whoismatt It was black & white film, but I'll still look up that video of yours.

[@pinktore1355]

Wow man! Wondering video

[@larryroyovitz7829]

I have a Canon 1014 in great shape but not working. Is it worth repairing?

[@favoritemattmg]

Can someone help me real quick! I’m filming a band tonight and I’m using 500T do I need to mess with the switch I get confused light bulb or sun. I’m nervous ha

[@whoismatt]

Light bulb!

[@haydenpryor2494]

Very informative. Yea too much work and patients for me to do a cool retro video just to get it to a digital format...when I can just take video at a higher frame rate, better image quality and already digital format lol. But I do see the appeal in super 8