16mm Films

Series Summary

16mm film is a popular gauge of film used in motion pictures. Originally introduced as a cheaper alternative to 35 mm film for amateurs, it was used for making home movies. However, after the introduction of sound tracks used in accordance with 16 mm film, this format was used more frequently and not considered sub-standard by the film industry. 16 mm film was often used in television production and is now a popular choice for the commonly budgeted independent film. Kodak and Fujifilm have produced the most 16 mm film in the recent years. There are different formats of 16 mm film including double perforation, single perforation, Super 16, 16 mm Type W and double sprocket 16 mm film.

Collecting 16 mm films is a popular hobby these days. In this series of expert videos, you will learn more about the function, history and format of 16 mm motion picture film. Watch an introduction and learn about the projection equipment as well as the film itself. You can get tips on buying 16 mm film and other equipment needed for viewing a 16 mm picture. Learn how to choose a projection area, set up your projector and view the film. Get special instructions on cutting film, leveling on the screen, and threading up the film. Watch a video on proper storage and handling instruction for 16 mm film, projectors, and screens. You will also get information on the cleaning and maintenance for your film equipment.

Video Transcript

"Hi! I am Grady Johnson with Karma Train Productions and today I am going to talk a little about 16 mm films and I am representing Expert Village.com. 16 mm films are a really fun hobby. It is different than watching television and different than even going to the movies. 16 mm films have a specific sound. A lot of us remember from when we went to school for, some of those who watched 16 mm film back in the day. You need a few things; you need to get yourself a projector. There is all kinds of vintage ones, there are some new ones; you can get real fancy with it. Unless you plan on doing your own film work or telescene stuff, you don’t need anything more than a basic one for $30 or $40. You need to pick up the films now. That’s really the fun part. You can do a lot of collecting with these 16 mm films, you have the little reels, medium and even very large reels that will work. When you pick those up, you sure you pick yourself up a take up reels; good to have a couple of those. This is just to grab the film and to use that for rewinding. We will go over all that a little later on. I like to use a projection screen. You could shoot this up on the wall but a projection screen works a little better and I am going to show you today how to set one of those up as well. You will find these in all different kinds. I found this one at a flea market actually. This one is only 7 bucks I think. You can find these for $15-$20 whatever you want to spend depending on who you are getting it from. Get yourself a good sturdy table that you can work on, something that is going to have a little room, because you’re going to put your stuff on it when you are working. You know 16 mm films could be a heck a lot of fun. I know I have a good time with them they are not just for art houses. You can have them for your little parties and have yourself a movie night, it’s a lot of fun."