16mm was first brought out by Eastman Kodak in the early nineteen twenties, as a cheaper alternative to 35mm. The format enabled amateurs to create their own work, and so 16mm film production was born. People could also buy or rent movies, and this was another key element which lead to the increase in popularity of the new stock.
Originally, 16mm was shunned by commercial filmmakers, later however, they accepted the new format. Many famous films have been made using it, Clerks, The History Boys and The Constant Gardener, to name a few. Television production companies were attracted to using it because the technology was not as heavy as 35mm, and this made recording documentaries or news easier.
There are three main formats. Standard leaves space for a soundtrack because it only has perforations on one side. The more expensive format is Super 16, which creates a much broader frame than Standard. Super 16 can be blown up into 35mm when projecting the imagery. Lastly, there is Ultra 16, and this camera can be made into Super 16 using cost effective, non-professional techniques.
You'll get about 11 minutes of play from 16mm stock, but 35mm will only give you around four minutes. However, 35mm does have a broader aspect ratio, and this means there is more room for the imagery, resulting in superior picture quality. Nowadays, most people watch movies on television rather than a giant cinema screen, this has lead many people to question whether 35mm has any advantages.
The primary suppliers of stock are Fuji and Kodak. When shooting, the camera needs to be loaded with film. Then a light reading needs to be taken to find out the exposure levels. This helps to work out which f-stop setting to employ, and therefore how much light to allow on to the lens. If you get that right, then you will have a clear image.
Most 16mm cameras are old now, so when buying one, make sure it is in good working order. Reputable brands include Bolex, Bell And Howell, Krasnogorsk and Arriflex. An operators's manual is very useful, and if it doesn't come with the camera then you should be able to find one on the internet.
It's also important to know that film stock can be expensive. With a digital camera, you can let it run and run, or do the scene over and over again, and it doesn't cost anything. With film, you need to prepare in advance, and only shoot exactly what you require. Also, with digital, you can record sound directly to camera. Film does not have this capability, sound must be added later in post production.
When directing a fiction movie, finish the script before you go into production. Hire good quality actors, or use friends and family if you think that will work. Make an effort to find great locations because this can add value to your movie and ensure a smooth shoot. If you prepare meticulously, then you will create a magnificent 16mm film production.
Originally, 16mm was shunned by commercial filmmakers, later however, they accepted the new format. Many famous films have been made using it, Clerks, The History Boys and The Constant Gardener, to name a few. Television production companies were attracted to using it because the technology was not as heavy as 35mm, and this made recording documentaries or news easier.
There are three main formats. Standard leaves space for a soundtrack because it only has perforations on one side. The more expensive format is Super 16, which creates a much broader frame than Standard. Super 16 can be blown up into 35mm when projecting the imagery. Lastly, there is Ultra 16, and this camera can be made into Super 16 using cost effective, non-professional techniques.
You'll get about 11 minutes of play from 16mm stock, but 35mm will only give you around four minutes. However, 35mm does have a broader aspect ratio, and this means there is more room for the imagery, resulting in superior picture quality. Nowadays, most people watch movies on television rather than a giant cinema screen, this has lead many people to question whether 35mm has any advantages.
The primary suppliers of stock are Fuji and Kodak. When shooting, the camera needs to be loaded with film. Then a light reading needs to be taken to find out the exposure levels. This helps to work out which f-stop setting to employ, and therefore how much light to allow on to the lens. If you get that right, then you will have a clear image.
Most 16mm cameras are old now, so when buying one, make sure it is in good working order. Reputable brands include Bolex, Bell And Howell, Krasnogorsk and Arriflex. An operators's manual is very useful, and if it doesn't come with the camera then you should be able to find one on the internet.
It's also important to know that film stock can be expensive. With a digital camera, you can let it run and run, or do the scene over and over again, and it doesn't cost anything. With film, you need to prepare in advance, and only shoot exactly what you require. Also, with digital, you can record sound directly to camera. Film does not have this capability, sound must be added later in post production.
When directing a fiction movie, finish the script before you go into production. Hire good quality actors, or use friends and family if you think that will work. Make an effort to find great locations because this can add value to your movie and ensure a smooth shoot. If you prepare meticulously, then you will create a magnificent 16mm film production.
About the Author:
You can visit the website www.mikascreations.com for more helpful information about Ensure You Get The Most From Your 16mm Film Production
No comments:
Post a Comment