Quality telecines can range from over $1,000 to over $8,000.
There are two basic ways to convert 8mm film into another format, such as MiniDV, DVD or computer video files. The first is as simple as buying an 8mm telecine machine that mounts a video camera and records a projected film image. These machines provide crisp, high-detail transfers but may be expensive. Quality telecines can range from over $1,000 to over $8,000. There are companies that provide transfer services but the cost can accumulate if there are multiple reels to convert.
The second method is an inexpensive do-it-yourself process if you already have the materials needed. This method still provides a good quality transfer.
Instructions
Using a Camera to Transfer 8mm Film
1. Set up the projector screen in a room with no windows or any uncontrollable light source. If you do not have a projector, a clean white sheet of paper or even an untextured white wall will suffice. Have a clean surface that won't interfere with the projected 8mm film image.
2. Set up the 8mm projector on a table or other flat surface that you can position approximately 4 or 5 feet from the screen. Keep the image small and bright, if the projector is further back the image will increase in size and may lose brightness and detail.
3. Thread the 8mm reels into the projector. Run the projector to make sure the image is in focus and to adjust the projection angle. Face the projector towards the screen as straight as possible, otherwise the image may become skewed.
4. Set up the video camera onto the tripod and position it as close to the projector as possible, making sure it is also facing straight towards the screen. If a tripod is not available, use a small table or other stable surface that can be positioned and is stable enough to hold the camera.
5. Run the projector again and use the projected image as a guide to adjust camera settings. Make sure the camera can see a clear, focused image and position or zoom in close enough so that the entire projected image fills the camera viewfinder.
6. Rewind the film you used to adjust the settings with and shut off the lights in the room so that it is completely dark. Use a flashlight or other portable source of light to make sure you can navigate around the room safely. Run the projector and hit "record" on the camera. The camera will now record the projected image in real-time. Do not touch either the camera or projector during this process.
7. Stop recording on the camera when the film ends and turn the lights back on. The first reel is now converted to the format of your camera. Once your reel or reels are recorded you can import the footage into computer editing software for optional editing and delivery.
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