1st 16mm camera
I will be purchasing my first 16mm camera, and I had some questions. I have a budget of $15,000 through American Express Equipment Financing,
and I am interested in getting the best package I can for the purpose of making 16 mm (or Super 16mm) indie films.
I own a recording studio, so I knowledge about recording
sound just not in terms of cameras (sync etc.)
I know Arriflex, but I have little experience with the 16S, 16BL, and SR3.
I have even less knowledge about Bolex.
So ultimately my question is this ... can you suggest the best set up with these budget requirements?
>>
Read the KB
Buying Rawstock
I was looking for a good source for 16mm raw stock. I found your site but am not sure as to whether you sell raw stock or just have general
information. Ordering information was mentioned on the production page, but I didn't see any additional information on how to order. Do you sell raw stock and if you do how do I order it?
>>
Read the KB
Film Camera for Shorts
My questions for you are...
A). What is a good, user friendly 16mm camera to start on for independant[sic] short films? I am interested in something flexible...
variable speeds, attachment options, ect...
B). Is it worth while to purchace editing equip. or should I just use
rental suites?
C). Is 16mm still a good format to use or is it going to become the
dinosaur that 8mm has become?
I hope you can help me out with my novice questions, I am anxious to get
started on using film cameras rather than video. From what little I know
your prices look pretty good and maybe you have something I could use.
>>
Read the KB
C-mount focus
It dawned on me recently that if a C-mount lens is screwed in too far or
not far enough, even by a hair, the focus will probably be off. How can
I optimize focus in a non-reflex 16mm camera?
>>
Read the KB
Eclair ACLs are great cameras, real work horses that will continue shooting and shooting and shooting. The only things to be careful of are:
The older camera motors sometimes have a hard time pulling a full 400ft magazine. If they've seen a lot of hours, they may only be able to work correctly with a 200ft load, especially when overcranking. When you shoot your test footage, look for flickering in the neutral tones, especially white.
Also, be sure you form large enough loops with the film...you can easily hear the difference in between improperly formed ones and good ones. If you don't get good loops, your film will be black as the night.
Good luck, the ACL is a great camera and easy to work with.