super 8 tips

[christopherjbennett]

I usually shoot 16mm, but I've decided to go with super 8 as it's cheaper. I'm going to shoot a short slasher flick over the holidays and I'm in need of some tips. I don't have access to any lights, so i'm going to shoot outside in the daytime. what kind of stock do you recommend? Also, with the bolex I read the f-stop/fps at 1/80 because there is some loss of light from the viewfinder. Where do I read the f-stop on my meter for most super 8 cameras ( i hope i'm wording this right or else no one will understand me)? What's the cheapest to shoot (black and white)? i know some stocks can be processed at home in the tub, do you recommend this or know of any other reasonably cheap way to shoot. thanks .

[Actor]

The absolute cheapest to shoot is K-40 if you buy it direct from Kodak with processing. $13.54 per cart as of two weeks ago. Call 1-800-621-FILM and have your credit card ready. Be sure you get it with processing, CATALOG NO. 505 3335, otherwise it's going to cost you more later.

K-40 is color reversal film. Getting it for $13.54 w/processing is absolutely the sweetest movie film deal in the world. It's even cheaper than reg8. It's cheaper than B&W. A cart of B&W from Kodak is $9.90 and you have to find a lab to process it. The cheapest B&W processing I've found is $7.50 per cart for a total of $17.45. With super8 shooting in B&W is an artistic choice, not an economic one.

[Alex]

Wow. Thanks for the clear, concise info Actor. Some people claim that 16mm is similarly priced to Super-8. However, the Kodachrome deal seems to break that myth.

Christopher, if you have used a 16mm camera, you should have no problem with a super8 camera. You probably will know how to maximize the Super-8 advantage and minimize the disadvantages.

What Super-8 Camera are you planning on using?

[Greg Crawford]

"I usually shoot 16mm, but I've decided to go with super 8 as it's cheaper. I'm going to shoot a short slasher flick over the holidays and I'm in need of some tips. I don't have access to any lights, so i'm going to shoot outside in the daytime. "

I see your from the Toronto area, You should be able to find like minded souls that have a love of film and lighting equipment.

Could you rent for a couple of days , you might even consider getting a few lights...or a lighting kit.

I would think you would need to shoot in dark places or after dark, making a Slasher film.
if you know what your doing you might get away with day for night.