Getting started with super 8

[upontheroof]

hey,
so, i have been interested in getting started with super 8 filming for awhile now. i was planning on maybe using my tax return to get some equipment. i'm also leaving soon on a trip that will take me all over the u.s. and it seemed like a fitting time to have access to a super 8 camera. so, can people give me some pointers in getting started. good brands of cameras. where to look for cameras. where to buy film and get it developed. what to look out for when buying a camera. all that sort of stuff.

thanks,
allan

[upontheroof]

oh yeah, one other thing, can most cameras shoot both black and white and color film? i think i will probably mostly stick to black and white but would like to be able to shoot color from time to time.

[Alex]

Super-8 cameras can shoot both color and black and white.

If you go on ebay and search for Super-8 cameras you will find decent descriptions of different cameras.
Generally speaking, most Super-8 cameras over 150 dollars are usually well made cameras, the key is to find out if they are properly working before you bid on them.

Spectra Film and Video in North Hollywood California sells certain Super-8 cameras and they try to make sure that those cameras are in good shape when they sell them.

I would most definitely recommend you shoot a cartridge of film or two and get the film processed and transferred to video BEFORE you leave on your trip, so you can learn what type of filming produces the results that make you happiest.

Black and white film perplexes me some times. There have been a few instances when I have shot black and white and then wished I had shot color instead because the color would have added an extra dimension to the image. On the other hand there have been times where the black and white was exactly what was required.

If you get into specific cameras you are interested you are always welcome to ask follow up questions before you actually purchase the camera.

[upontheroof]

Hey,
Thanks for the quick reply. On the Spectra page they have a begginers package and I was wondering if it seems worth the cost and also what sort of film I should get if I do get this package deal. I would probably get two roles of color film and two of black and white.

Thanks!

[Alex]

It's worth it if you aren't using your rent money to pay for the package. I'd probably sample four different film stocks.

The Plus-X Black & White, Vision 200T, Vision 500T, and Velvia.

A fifth choice would be either the Ektachrome 64T (instead of the Velvia) or Tri-X Black and White. The trick is to get your money's worth. I would only shoot one cartridge and then review it somehow to make sure the camera is functioning properly.