Super 8 is a format of analog videography that was popular throughout the 60s and 70s. Super 8 film is shot on 50ft spools of 8mm wide photographic film, which is mechanically rotated in the camera and exposed to light as it passes the lens of the camera. Super 8 was largely phased out upon the arrival of video tape in the 80s, but Kodak continues to produce the film for a select few users who remain passionate about this special form of videography.Â
I have extensive experience shooting super 8 on my 1971 hanimex camera, in a range of lighting conditions. It is important to note that analog videography comes with more challenges than digital, and produces quirkier film that may be at times too dark, too light, overly grainy and contain flecks or artefacts. Many, myself included, find these additions to add much welcome character to footage that we are so accustomed to being pixel perfect.