- Summary
- Methods of Transfering Super 8 to Digital
- Professional Transfer Service
- Transferring With Film Converter
- Transferring With Film Projector
Super 8 film was once the primary choice for amateur filmmakers and home movies. While it was eventually replaced by videotapes and digital formats, there has been a recent resurgence in its popularity. This is due to the nostalgic image quality, the flexibility of the film, and the fun of using handheld film cameras.
As a result, many people now want to convert Super 8 films into a digital format to preserve them. Fortunately, there are various options and methods available for this conversion process. While it may seem challenging, transferring your old Super 8 films into digital content is actually much easier than you might think.
The fastest and most convenient way to digitize Super 8 and 8mm films is by sending them to a professional service. They have the expertise and equipment to handle the job effectively. However, there are also other options that we will explore further.
So, let’s dive into the different methods and possibilities for converting your Super 8 films to a digital format.
Summary
Transferring Super 8 film to digital may feel complex at the start. However, with the right tools at your disposal, such as a reputable professional service or a bit of DIY enthusiasm, this task transforms into a practical way of preserving your invaluable memories.
We highly recommend using a professional transfer service, known for its trustworthy, cost-effective, and quality-oriented digitizing processes. This is the most certain path to achieving the best results and ensuring your films’ safety. Alternatively, if you’re technologically inclined and enjoy a hands-on method, using a personal film converter can be a viable option. However, the precondition is to thoroughly examine the state of your films before embarking on any conversion process.
Methods of Transfering Super 8 to Digital
Preserving your Super 8 films by transferring them to a digital format has become a popular choice among enthusiasts. There are different methods available, including professional transfer services and DIY options. Let’s explore these options further.
| Method | Description |
|---|---|
| Professional Transfer Service | Offers convenience and expertise with the necessary equipment and knowledge to handle the digitization process effectively. While this option may come at a higher cost, it provides high-quality results comparable to those achieved by motion picture professionals. |
| Super 8 Film Converter (DIY) | This method involves using a Super 8 projector, a surface to project the film onto, and a digital camera to record the projected image. The process can be time-consuming and may require adjusting exposure and contrast settings. The image quality will depend on the recording device used. |
| Super 8 Film Projector (DIY) | Another DIY option is to use a Super 8 film projector to play the film and capture it using a digital camera. Similar to the previous method, the quality of the results will depend on the condition of the Super 8 reel and the recording device used. |
Overall Best Method: Professional Transfer Service
When it comes to the overall best method for converting Super 8 films to a digital format, professional transfer services stand out as the top choice. These online services have gained popularity and positive reviews from satisfied customers. They offer unparalleled quality, expertise, and competitive pricing, especially for larger film collections.
Moreover, these services often provide a wide range of media conversions, including old photos, slides, negatives, and videotapes. This means you can conveniently preserve various types of media that tend to deteriorate over time.
| Benefits of Professional Super 8 Film Conversion Service |
|---|
| Eliminates the need to source and invest in costly and unreliable vintage Super 8 film equipment |
| Saves you the hassle of acquiring specialized film conversion equipment, buying software, and learning how to use them effectively |
| Prevents troubleshooting issues related to outdated or malfunctioning film equipment |
| Significantly reduces the risk of inadvertently damaging or destroying your valuable Super 8 films during the conversion process |
| Ensures DIY conversion methods do not compromise your Super 8 films |
| Saves you time, allowing you to focus on your daily activities while professionals handle the film conversion |
| Guarantees that your Super 8 films are handled and converted with the utmost care by experienced industry professionals |
| Provides flexibility in selecting the format of the digital file for your converted Super 8 films |
| Offers options for film inspection, cleaning, and repairs by skilled technicians without losing any footage |
| Allows for film scene edits and adjustments to film speed, if desired |
| Utilizes high-quality equipment to produce clear and high-resolution film footage |
By choosing a professional transfer service, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that your Super 8 films will be expertly handled, restored, and converted to a digital format with the best possible results.
Best Super 8 Film To Digital Transfer Service
Service | Editors Choice iMemories  | Legacybox  | ScanMyPhotos  | Memory Fortress  | Southtree  | Costco Digitizing  | DigMyPics MemoryBox  | Kodak Digitizing  |
Website Link | ||||||||
Shipping kit (box) | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | No | Yes | Yes |
Free repairs (splicing) | Yes | Yes | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Average turnaround time | 2-3 weeks | 10-12 weeks | 4-8 weeks | 1-2 weeks | 10-12 weeks | 3-4 weeks | 2-4 weeks | 10-12 weeks |
Expedited turnaround time | n/a | 3-4 weeks | 2-4 weeks | n/a | n/a | 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 | 2.3 | n/a | 3.6 | n/a | 5.0 | n/a |
 | 4.0 | n/a | 3.5 | 4.0 | 2.6 | 2.0 | n/a | n/a |
 | 4.4 | n/a | n/a | 5.0 | n/a | n/a | 4.1 | 2.0 |
WHAT FORMATS THEY CONVERT | ||||||||
Film | 8mm, 16mm, Super 8 | 16mm, 8mm, Super 8, Regular 8 | 8mm, 16mm, Super8 | 8mm | 16mm, 8mm, Super 8 | 8mm, Super 8mm, 16mm | 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, mini VHS, VHS-C, Hi8 NTSC format tapes | VHS, VHS-C, Betamax, Hi8, Digital 8, 8mm, MiniDV, MicroMV | 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, 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 | Photos, slides, negatives | Photos, negatives, slides | Prints, Slides, Negatives | Prints from 2" x 2" to 8" x 12" | Prints, negatives, slides | 35mm/126 slides, Prints, Negatives |
Audio | N/A | Reel to Reel, Audio Cassette, Micro-Cassette | N/A | N/A | Cassette, Reel to Reel | 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 | Starting at 19¢ per foot for 8mm, and 25¢ for 16mm | $0.29 per foot | $25 per film | Starting at $19.99 | $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 | $19.95 per tape | Starts at $20 per tape but gets cheaper the more you add | $15 per tape | Starting at $19.99 | $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 | Starting at 13¢ per scan ($25 minimum) | Starts at $0.38 per photo but gets cheaper the more you add | $0.25 per photo | Starting at $19.99 | $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 | N/A | N/A | $15 per audio | 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 |
Process of Transferring Conversion Super 8 With Professional Service
The process of transferring Super 8 films with a professional service involves the following steps:
Ordering and Shipping
Place an order for the service through the provider's website. You will need to provide the necessary details and make payment. Depending on the service, you may be required to send your Super 8 films in your own box or use a provided safe shipping kit. The shipping kit is designed to be crush-proof and includes protective packaging to ensure the safety of your films. Additionally, you will receive a prepaid shipping label to attach to the shipping kit, enabling you to track the shipment and prevent any loss of media.
Arrival and Inspection
Once the media arrives at the service, you will be notified of its arrival. The films are then inspected and counted. If any additional details are required or if there are any questions or concerns, the service's support team will contact you to clarify and address them.
Transfer Process
The films go through the conversion process, which may include enhancements during or after conversion to improve the quality and appearance of the footage. The service may also perform film repairs without any loss of footage and clean the films to remove dust, mold, and other contaminants.
Digital Storage
After the Super 8 films are converted to a digital format, the resulting footage is transferred to the digital storage solution(s) you selected during the order process. This can include options such as a flash drive, DVD, cloud storage, digital download, or an external hard drive, depending on the service.
Timeframe
The duration of the entire process, from start to finish, typically ranges from 2-3 weeks up to 10 weeks or more. The exact timeframe depends on the specific service, their workflow, and the number of orders they are handling. If speed is a primary concern, there are services that offer rush service for an additional charge. This prioritizes your order, expediting the conversion process to deliver your conversion faster.
Pricing
The cost of Super 8 transfer services can be based on the length of the film (charged per foot) or by the film reel. Generally, the price per foot can range from $0.19 to $0.50, while the cost per film reel can range from $15 to $30.
Return of Originals
In most cases, the original Super 8 films (or any other media) will be returned to you in their original state, along with the completed digital conversion. However, it is important to double-check with the service as some may have different policies or additional charges for the return of originals.
Professional services also provide the benefit of process tracking, keeping you informed about each step your films go through. This transparency and the assurance of the return of your originals can be significant factors to consider. Ultimately, you will receive your Super 8 films in a digital format, allowing you to view, share, and preserve them for the future.
DIY Methods of Transfering Super 8 to Digital
If, for some reason, you don’t want to go with professional service, then you can transfer Super 8 films in one of the DIY methods, which include:
- Super 8 film converter/scanner
- Super 8 film projector
Transferring Super 8 With Film Converter
When it comes to transferring Super 8 films without using a professional service, a reel-to-reel film converter or film scanner is an excellent alternative. These devices resemble traditional film projectors but are equipped with a camera and display instead of a projection system. They work by scanning the frames of the film as it plays, allowing for the conversion process to take place.
To begin with this method, you will need to purchase a film scanner or converter that is specifically designed to handle Super 8 films. Here are some good options to consider:
DigitNow Super 8 and 8mm Film Scanner | DigitNow Super 8 and 8mm Movie Maker | DigitNow Film Scanner | |
 |  |  | |
Website Link | |||
Compatible Films | Super 8 and 8mm | Super 8 and 8mm | Super 8 |
Reel Support | Up to 9 inch 3” 4” 5” 7” 9” reels | Only 3 and 5 inch | Up to 9 inch reels |
Scan method | Video | Video | Single photo |
Scan Quality | 3.5MP | 3.53MP | 22/16MP |
Scanning speed | 2 frames per second | 2 frames per second | n/a |
Resolution | 1440*1080 20fps | 1440*1080 20fps | 22/16MP |
Display | 2.4" Color LCD | 2.4" Color TFT LCD | 2.4" Color TFT LCD |
Memory | SD card up to 32GB (Included) | SD card up to 32GB (Included) | SD card up to 32GB |
File Format | MPEG-4 (MP4) | MPEG-4 (MP4) | JPEG |
TV Out | Yes | Yes | Yes |
USB Connection | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Sound capture | No | No | No |
When using a film scanner, the process generally works as follows:
- Mount the Super 8 reel on the scanner and adjust the settings according to your preferences.
- The film scanner scans and captures each frame of the film, recording it with the built-in camera and converting it into a digital format like MP4.
- While the film is being scanned and converted, you can view the footage on the scanner’s display or connect the scanner to a monitor or TV using the provided cable.
- These Super 8 film scanners are capable of capturing footage with exceptional clarity, detail, contrast, and color accuracy, resulting in high-definition 1080P digital video files. Some scanners also offer manual or automatic exposure adjustment options.
Overall, these film scanners or converters are user-friendly and do not require extensive technical knowledge to operate. If you want to convert your Super 8 films by yourself, using a film scanner is a great option that puts you in control of the process.
Measures Before Using DIY Methods
Before embarking on DIY methods, there are important measures to take to ensure a smooth process. These practical exercises will help assess the condition of your Super 8 film and determine the necessary steps for conversion. Let’s explore these measures:
- Film Condition Check: Inspect your Super 8 film to ensure it is suitable for playback and conversion. Look for any signs of decay, such as holes, torn spindles, or rips. If the film is damaged, it may require special handling or restoration before conversion.
- Film Length Measurement: Determine the length of your film to estimate the time and cost involved in the conversion process, particularly if you plan to use a third-party service. Most comon Suiper 8 film reels come in 3,5, and 7-inch reels, but it’s possible that your film is shorter. Measure the film accurately, preferably in feet, to obtain more precise information.
- Film Cleaning: Before conversion, it’s crucial to clean your Super 8 film to remove dust, debris, and other contaminants that can affect the quality of the digitized version. This process can be time-intensive but is essential for optimal results. Look for a dedicated cleaning solution suitable for your location. Starting your search with “Butler’s cine cleaner” can help you find a suitable solution.
Once your film has been checked, cleaned, and measured, you can proceed with the conversion process. There are three options available for converting your Super 8 film to a digital format, whether you choose to do it yourself or utilize a third-party service.
It is important to mention that reputable companies offering digitizing services typically include film cleaning as part of their process. Cleaning the film is an essential step in ensuring optimal results and preserving the quality of the digitized content. Cleaning the film before digitization can safely remove any dust, debris, or contaminants that may have accumulated over time, resulting in improved image and sound quality. Therefore, when considering professional transfer services, it is advisable to choose a provider that includes thorough film cleaning as part of their service.
Transferring Super 8 Film via Film Projector
Transferring Super 8 film via a film projector is listed as a DIY method, but it requires specific skills, time, and equipment to achieve satisfactory results. Here's a closer look at this method:
- Equipment needed: You will require a suitable Super 8 film projector to play the film. Additionally, you'll need a camcorder, digital video camera, DSLR, or even a smartphone camera to record the projected footage.
- Setting up the projector: Set up the film projector in a clean and flat position to ensure optimal results. This step is crucial as it helps minimize any imperfections during the Super 8 film conversion process.
- Recording the footage: Point the camera towards the projector and stabilize it to capture and record the footage. This will allow you to save the recorded footage as digital files on your computer or a DVD.
While this DIY method offers immediate accessibility and doesn't require any additional investment, there are several drawbacks to consider:
- Compromised quality: The quality of the converted footage may be significantly lower compared to the original Super 8 film. The result is often blurry, grainy, and poorly colored footage that may be barely recognizable.
- Risk of damage: Without proper knowledge and technique, there is a risk of damaging the Super 8 film during the conversion process. Mishandling the film or improper projection can result in scratches or other physical damage.
- Inconsistent results: The quality of the converted footage can vary greatly, depending on factors such as the film condition, projection quality, and camera used. It may be challenging to achieve consistent and satisfactory results.
Given these limitations, using a film projector as a last-resort DIY method may not provide the best outcome for preserving and digitizing your Super 8 films. It is recommended to explore other options that offer consistent quality, safety, and reliable results. Professional transfer services or dedicated film converters are often preferred choices for achieving higher-quality digitization of Super 8 films.
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.