How to Tell the Difference between Film and Digital Cameras
Posted by Marcy Burlock on 21st August 2009
Filmmakers have a lot of choices to make when taking on a film project. Things such as script choice and what team to put together are very important. However, another crucial decision that must be made is whether to use a film camera such as a High 8 or a digital camera that uses a hard drive or SD memory card.
Whether film or digital is your choice, both are perfectly fine. However, each one has its own list of advantages and disadvantages. Listed below are just a few for both methods.
Film Cameras
A film camera is just that, a camera that uses film. Some of the better known film cameras are the High 8, which is a camera whose images are very clear; fairly close to digital. There are also 16mm cameras and of course super 8 cameras, these are the old reel to reel cameras created before VCR’s.
Film cameras offer a richer looking film. However, this form does require the need for processing. While this task usually only takes a day or two, it is very difficult to find a processing center willing to work with a filmmaker on a budget. If you do in fact find one, your reward will be a clear and engaging film.
Camcorders are another option and these use VCR tapes. These tapes are readily available and usually very inexpensive. However, the disadvantages to using a tape camcorder are the fact that you must rewind the tape in order to see what you have shot. If you are not satisfied with the scene, you must either tape over it or use another tape. In addition, these tapes tend to wear down over time which can lead to poor film quality.
You will also have to light your scene well. There are times with film or tape the scene will appear very dark and you can’t make out anything. Light the scene so you know what’s happening, but that it looks natural.
The Digital Camera
Digital cameras are easier to find new, as they are phasing out the old tape camcorders. With the abundance of effects and editing options on a digital camera, you can make a professional looking film much faster than with film or tape.
Digital does have a disadvantage. If you compare a photo taken with an old 35mm camera to one taken with a digital camera, you will see that the digital photo is excessively bright and clear and contains no depth.
A digital camera is very clear, however it is very difficult to capture the same shading and lighting every time unless you are an expert at editing programs and lighting.
Digital cameras allow you to check your shots right away, by simply clicking on the play button or connecting the camera to a computer and watching it. It’s much easier to erase too, just click the delete button and it’s gone. You don’t have to worry about re-using tapes and having them wear out on you.
An additional advantage to a digital camcorder is that it only requires a quick hook up to your computer, uploading of your files and opening your editing program. With a tape camcorder a converter is required in order to connect to your computer.
Adding special effects to a digital film is easier too; it just takes using your files already uploaded on your computer and adding whatever effects you need to.
The final flaw to using a digital camcorder is the fact that ones that use a hard drive can be fairly expensive. Oftentimes, they run anywhere from $400 and up. However, there are camcorders available that use an SD or XD memory card just like your still camera. These are usually much cheaper, but their quality is just the same as the expensive ones.
Before choosing the camera that is right for you, you must first ask yourself some questions. Do you want the ease and convenience of a digital camera? Or, do you prefer look and feel of the old school film and tape cameras?
Once you know your preference, the rest of the decisions will be a piece of cake.
Posted in Cameras | No Comments »