- Summary
- Safe and Easy Method: Online Professional Transfer Services
- Professional Transfer Service Comparison Table
- Buying or Renting Old 16mm Projector
- DIY 16mm Film to Digital Conversion Via Camcorder
- Best DIY Methods to Convert VHS to Digital Format
You stumble on some old 16mm films, and you are curious about what treasures they hide. So you decide to watch, but then you realize you don’t have a film projector. Because of that, we set out to find solutions that may help you save footage from these old films by transferring them to digital format.
We discovered a few possible solutions that may work for you, so if you’re interested, continue reading to see which solution works best for you.
Summary
Embarking on the journey of converting your precious 16mm film to digital can seem challenging at first glance. Yet, with the right resources in hand such as a trustworthy professional service, or even a do-it-yourself spirit, it can turn into an effective means of safeguarding your invaluable memories.
A professional conversion service like iMemories, highly recommended for its reliable, cost-efficient, and quality-driven digitizing process, is the best route to ensure optimal results and the safekeeping of your film. If you have a knack for tech and prefer a hands-on approach, DIY methods using a camcorder can be a feasible choice. Nevertheless, it’s crucial to inspect the condition of your film prior to beginning any conversion activity.
In addition, check out our comprehensive buyer’s guide on the best old film transfer services for an informed decision. So gear up and delve into the excitement of rediscovering those cherished moments now comfortably viewable on your computer or TV.
Safe and Easy Method: Online Professional Transfer Services
Editor’s pick
They provide their customers with a free quote, free image enhancements, professional splices of broken films and videotapes without losing footage, and free UPS shipping.
RUNNER UP
They take their digitizing process very seriously and each item is hand-digitized by a team of technicians.
RUNNER UP
As the name suggests they specialize in scanning photos, but they also do a great work of digitizing 8mm and 16mm films.
Utilizing Professional Online Services for 16mm Film Conversion to Digital
Opting for a professional digitization service to convert your 16mm films and other media types eliminates the complexities of the conversion process. This service is handled by skilled technicians who ensure the preservation of your cherished memories. From videotapes to photos, slides, negatives, audio tapes, reels, and more, these services cater to a wide range of media formats.
These services deliver superior-quality digital conversion of your 16mm films, leveraging professional staff and professional equipment. They strive to not just meet, but surpass your expectations. While this service comes at a cost, the pricing can be quite reasonable depending on the service provider you select.
- Physical film inspection, cleaning, and repairs if needed (without losing footage) from skilled technicians
- Film scene edits
- They use high-quality equipment which gives you clear film footage
- Film speed adjustments
You may get more or fewer features depending on the service.
Best 16mm Film To Digital Services
Service | Editors Choice iMemories  | Legacybox  | Southtree  | Costco Digitizing  | ScanMyPhotos  | Memory Fortress  | DigMyPics MemoryBox  | Kodak Digitizing  |
Website Link | ||||||||
Shipping kit (box) | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | No | Yes | Yes |
Free repairs (splicing) | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No | Yes | Yes |
Average turnaround time | 2-3 weeks | 10-12 weeks | 10-12 weeks | 3-4 weeks | 4-8 weeks | 1-2 weeks | 2-4 weeks | 10-12 weeks |
Expedited turnaround time | n/a | 3-4 weeks | n/a | n/a | 2-4 weeks | n/a | n/a | n/a |
ONLINE REVIEWS | ||||||||
 | 4.6 | 4.0 | n/a | n/a | n/a | n/a | n/a | n/a |
 | 4.7 | 3.5 | 3.6 | n/a | 2.3 | n/a | 5.0 | n/a |
 | 4.0 | n/a | 2.6 | 2.0 | 3.5 | 4.0 | n/a | n/a |
 | 4.4 | n/a | n/a | n/a | n/a | 5.0 | 4.1 | 2.0 |
WHAT FORMATS THEY CONVERT | ||||||||
Film | 8mm, 16mm, Super 8 | 16mm, 8mm, Super 8, Regular 8 | 16mm, 8mm, Super 8 | 8mm, Super 8mm, 16mm | 8mm, 16mm, Super8 | 8mm | 8mm, Super 8, 16mm | 8mm, 16mm |
Video tapes | Betamax, VHS, VHS-C, 8mm, Hi8, Digital 8, MiniDV, MicroMini, DVDs, MiniDVDs | VHS, VHS-C, Mini-DV, Hi8, Digital 8, MicroMV, Betamax, 8mm Video Cassette | VHS, VHS-C, MiniDV, Hi8, Digital 8, MicroMV, Beta, PAL to NTSC | VHS, S-VHS, Betamax, VHS-C, S-VHS-C, Video8, Hi8, Digital 8, DV, DVCAM, MiniDV, DVC | VHS, mini VHS, VHS-C, Hi8 NTSC format tapes | VHS, VHS-C, Betamax, Hi8, Digital 8, 8mm, MiniDV, MicroMV | VHS, VHS-C, Hi8, Video 8, Digital 8, MiniDV, Betamax | VHS, VHS-C, Hi8, Video 8, MiniDV, Betamax, MicroMV, PAL, Digital 8 |
Photos | Photos, Negatives, Slides | Prints, 35mm Negatives, 35mm/126 slides | Prints, Slides, Negatives | Prints from 2" x 2" to 8" x 12" | Photos, slides, negatives | Photos, negatives, slides | Prints, negatives, slides | 35mm/126 slides, Prints, Negatives |
Audio | N/A | Reel to Reel, Audio Cassette, Micro-Cassette | Cassette, Reel to Reel | N/A | N/A | N/A | Cassette tape, reel to reel tape | Audio Cassette, Reel-to-Reel |
PRICING | ||||||||
Film Conversion Price | $14.99 per 50ft. | $59.99 for 2 films $279.99 for 10 films $559.99 for 20 films $1099.99 for 40 films | $25 per film | Starting at $19.99 | Starting at 19¢ per foot for 8mm, and 25¢ for 16mm | $0.29 per foot | $65 - $600 (depends on the package size) | $69.99 for 2 films $299.99 for 10 films $599.99 for 20 films $1199.99 for 40 films |
Video Conversion Price | $14.99 per tape | $59.99 for 2 tapes $279.99 for 10 tapes $559.99 for 20 tapes $1099.99 for 40 tapes | $15 per tape | Starting at $19.99 | $19.95 per tape | Starts at $20 per tape but gets cheaper the more you add | $65 - $600 (depends on the package size) | $69.99 for 2 tapes $299.99 for 10 tapes $599.99 for 20 tapes $1199.99 for 40 tapes |
Photo Conversion Price | $0.49 per photo | $59.99 for 2 sets of 25 pictures $279.99 for 10 sets of 25 pictures $559.99 for 20 sets of 25 pictures $1099.99 for 40 sets of 25 pictures | $0.25 per photo | Starting at $19.99 | Starting at 13¢ per scan ($25 minimum) | Starts at $0.38 per photo but gets cheaper the more you add | $65 - $600 (depends on the package size) | $69.99 for 2 sets of 25 pictures $299.99 for 10 sets of 25 pictures $599.99 for 20 sets of 25 pictures $1199.99 for 40 sets of 25 pictures |
Audio Conversion Price | N/A | $59.99 for 2 audio items $279.99 for 10 audio items $559.99 for 20 audio items $1099.99 for 40 audio items | $15 per audio | N/A | N/A | N/A | $65 - $600 (depends on the package size) | $69.99 for 2 audio items $299.99 for 10 audio items $599.99 for 20 audio items $1199.99 for 40 audio items |
Benefits of Using a Professional 16mm Transfer Service
| Benefits of Professional 16mm Film Conversion Service |
|---|
| Eliminates the need for sourcing and investing in costly and unreliable vintage 16mm film equipment |
| Saves you from the hassle of acquiring specialized film conversion equipment or software and learning how to use them effectively |
| Spares you the trouble of troubleshooting issues related to outdated or malfunctioning film equipment |
| Significantly reduces the risk of inadvertently damaging or destroying your valuable 16mm films during the conversion process |
| Ensures your 16mm films are not compromised due to DIY conversion methods |
| Saves you time, allowing you to focus on your daily activities while professionals handle the conversion of your 16mm films |
| Your 16mm films are handled and converted with the utmost care by industry professionals who are experienced in film digitization |
| You have the flexibility to select the format of the digital file for your converted 16mm films |
| Your 16mm films can be repaired and enhanced during the conversion process to improve their appearance and quality |
| Physical film inspection, cleaning, and repairs if needed (without losing footage) from skilled technicians |
| Film scene edits |
| Use of high-quality equipment which gives you clear film footage |
| Film speed adjustments |
How They Work
The process is typically seamless from beginning to end. After placing your order, you’re required to mail the film reels. You have the option of sending it in a shipping kit (if provided by the service) or your personal package.
If opting to use your own box for mailing films, it’s advised to choose a sturdy, preferably crush-proof box. If a shipping kit is offered by your chosen service, it’s recommended to use it.
Upon receiving your 16mm films at the facility, they will notify you. From this point, you can monitor the conversion process of your films to a digital format. During this process, your films may undergo repairs and enhancements to improve video quality. Some services might charge an additional fee for this feature, whereas others, like iMemories, offer this complimentary with every conversion.
Converted films can be transferred onto:
- DVD
- Blu-ray
- USB
- Digital file download
- External hard drive
- Cloud
The usual processing time is around 3-4 weeks, though this can vary based on the service chosen and the quantity of films to be converted.
The cost may also fluctuate depending on the service. For film transfers, the price can be anywhere between $.22 to $.50 per foot, plus the cost of a digital copy of your choice.
In a relatively short duration, you can expect your 16mm films to be converted into digital with improved video quality than anticipated. Plus, you have the peace of mind that your precious films are handled with care and expertly digitized and enhanced. It seems more prudent to invest in a service that guarantees professional results, rather than relying on outdated equipment that could potentially damage your films. Take a look at our top-rated transfer services comparison to find the one that best meets your needs.
Check the Condition of the Film Before DIY Conversion
Films and videotapes contain acetate, and with exposure to moisture and heat, film chemical bonds start to break down, which releases a sour smell similar to vinegar, also known as vinegar syndrome. If you notice this smell with your films (videotapes), send them ASAP to the professional service to be converted before they’re gone forever.
The film requires work with skilled technicians and high equipment in this state. If you ignore the film’s condition, it will shrink and become brittle after some time, which won’t be playable on the projector anymore. This will lead to the permanent loss of the footage.
Buying or Renting Old 16mm Projector
If you decide to go with the old 16mm projector, you first need to get one because they are not as common as VHS camcorders and VCR players. However, because it’s difficult to find a 16mm projector doesn’t mean it’s not impossible.
There are two reasonable ways in which you can get a 16mm projector, which are renting or buying one.
Rent a 16mm Projector
You probably did not think that you could rent an old projector. However, some movie theaters still use 16mm movie projectors for educational purposes and for viewing old films before they are converted to digital format. Besides that, they also offer projectors for rent, which is a great solution if you can find an offer like this where you live. You get a preserved and fully functional projector without the risk of your film being damaged or, in the worst case, destroyed. So, that’s why it’s worth taking some time and researching if there is a projector nearby for rent.
Another place where you can probably rent a 16mm project is in the local library or online from some companies. Projector rental prices from these companies can range from $45 to $100 per day.
Buy a Used 16mm Projector
There are still places where you can find and buy old 16mm projectors, especially online. The most accessible place where you can check for one is on eBay, where depending on the state and functionality of the projector, the price can range from $99 up to $2500. Also, most of these projectors are from top manufacturers of that time.
There are several factors to consider to ensure that you purchase the right projector for your film:
- Perforations – Film perforations, also known as sprocket holes, are a simple way to know your film type. If your film has perforations on one side, it’s a single-perf film; if it has both sides, it’s double-perf.
- Film type – Your Film might be standard, super, or ultra. Each type has its own image size or aspect ratio.
- Sound – Home movies have mostly been shot without sound, but how can you tell if your film has one? If a 16mm Film has perforations or sprocket holes on both sides, that film is silent. If a film has perforations only on one side and on another copper or rust-colored strip which runs on the edge of the film, that is an indicator that the film has sound.
DIY 16mm Film Conversion to Digital Format
If you have a working projector and want to transfer 16mm film to digital format yourself, follow these steps for the best possible transfer:
- Check your projector and see what type of light bulb it’s using. Then, if possible, replace it with a new one. If you are replacing the bulb, ensure you don’t touch it with your bare fingers because it can leave greasy stains, which may lead to the light bulb burning out.
- Inside the projector, clean the gates and sprockets from dust.
- Use the photographer’s negative brush for safe film cleaning and dust removal.
- Manually clean the short reels by unwinding the film from the original reel, then use a microfiber cloth (for cleaning glasses) to clean the film when winding the film onto an empty reel.
- While cleaning, check for broken or bad splices which need to be replaced or removed.
- It would be best if you placed the projector close to a projection screen. Use a projector screen for the best experience; use a white foam core board if you don’t have it. Even a bed sheet can do the job, but make sure it doesn’t have wrinkles.
Use this procedure only if the projector is yours.
Converting Projected Footage to Digital Format Via Camcorder
Place your camcorder on a projector or camera stand so that you can record footage at the right angle. If the footage is not on the camcorder screen, correct the position of the camcorder stand or the viewing options on the camcorder itself.
During this type of conversion to digital, you will get flickering footage. But it can be almost eliminated if your projector has speed control which you can then match with a camcorder shutter speed.
If you followed all the steps above, you should end up with recorded digital footage on your camcorder. From this point, your film is stored in digital form, which can now be transferred to a computer and then shared online with others.
The Best Solution For Converting 16mm Film to Digital
Converting 16mm film to digital can seem daunting, but with the right professional service or a DIY approach, it can be an affordable way to preserve your memories.
For the best possible result and safety of your film, convert your 16mm film with a professional service. However, if you have experience with technical devices and don’t mind doing some of the work yourself, DIY methods like using a camcorder can be a viable option. Make sure to check the condition of your film before you begin any conversion process, and have fun reliving those memories by watching them on your computer or TV.
Abdo is a Zoopy writer who loves spending his free time outdoors, camping, and enjoying the peace that nature brings. He also enjoys fixing things - he's particularly good with electronics. His favorite movie is I Am Legend, and he's fascinated by survival gear and safety.