Ektachrome 64T film stock.

[vealy64]

Hi all. I'm new to s8 and have just purchased a Canon 514 XL-S for It's 24 fps (and good price). I now understand that E64 is read incorrectly by the cam. Any suggestions as to an alternative stock or how to correct this. Many Thanks.


(Moderator corrected the title post to read Ektachrome instead of Kodachrome and changed K64 to E64).

<font color="#FFFF00" size="1">[ September 15, 2006 07:03 PM: Message edited by: Alex ]</font>

[vealy64]

Replying to my own post to rectify my mistake - how sad - should read Ektachrome 64T. The rest of the enquiry remains the same. Ta.

[Alex]

Spectra Film and Video currently sells Fuji Velvia rated at 50 ASA daylight which should work perfectly in your camera.

Although the EXTENSIVE camera report published in issue 2 of Small Format Magazine (a MUST HAVE MAGAZINE for all super-8 fans) makes the claim that at present time Kodak does not make a stock to use in conjunction with this camera, I would still try my own test just to see.

Shoot one cartridge of Ektachrome 64 in the manner in which you plan on using the camera and then study the results. There are several factors that could work in your favor. It's possible that the light meter has become less responsive over time, which could mean the meter either accidentally compensates for the 2/3's of a stop mismatch, or if it is off the other way than the camera will be severely overexposed. Which one, who knows?

Secondly, you could have the Ektachrome film "pulled" during processing by one full f-stop. Normally labs charge a premium for this service but perhaps they would be willing to set aside one day a week for offering pull processing services, or, when they have built up enough "pull" processing orders, they would not charge any more than the regular price.

I hope this information helps and thanks for being a part of this forum!

[Alex]

I noticed you are from Europe, if you prefer to buy from a European company you also have Wittner (in Germany), and Jake Ashbury's company (in England) if you prefer to buy your film in Europe.

[vealy64]

Thanks. (for the info and the correction) I'm looking to shoot my first short in B & W, now, if kodak say they are no longer producing stock that would be suitable for my camera what are the available alternatives? I've read some good things about the Canon 514 XL-S and I don't really want to shell out foe a new camera just yet. And to think I was just getting excited about shooting film instead of dull DV.

[Alex]

Small Format Magazine did an excellent review of a lot of Super-8 cameras and what film stocks they can and cannot read.

Keep in mind that most automatic only super-8 cameras tend to limit not only your film stock choices but your ability to learn as well.

The Plus-X BW may overexpose in your Canon 514XL, Tri-X Black and White may work fine, and Velvia Color should work as well.