What is the Difference between Digital and Film Cameras?
Filmmakers have a lot of choices to make when taking on a film project. Things such as script choice and what team to put together are very important. However, another crucial decision that must be made is whether to use a film camera such as a High 8 or a digital camera that uses a hard drive or SD memory card.
Either one is perfectly fine to use and each have their own advantages and disadvantages. Here are just a few of the differences between each.
Film Cameras
As you would suspect, a film camera requires film. The most recognized film camera is the High 8. This cameras film quality is very similar to that of a digital camera. Additional models include the 16mm and the Super 8 which are the old reel to reel cameras invented way before VCR’s.
Film cameras offer filmmaker’s a much richer looking film. However, the disadvantage to this is that you will need to have the film processed. While this process only takes a day or two, it is very difficult to find a center willing to work with a filmmaker on a budget. But, if you do you will end up with a clear, more engaging film.
A camcorder that uses VCR tapes is another option. The tapes needed are very inexpensive and generally readily available. However, the disadvantages to this method are the fact that you must rewind in order to see the scenes you have already shot. If you find a scene you are not satisfied with your options are to tape over it or use a new tape. Furthermore, VCR tapes tend to wear down over time which will give your film a choppy, poor quality look.
Film and tape have an additional downfall, they most often appear dark. In order to prevent this, your goal is to provide adequate light while maintaining a natural feel.
Digital
Digital cameras are easier to find new, as they are phasing out the old tape camcorders. With the abundance of effects and editing options on a digital camera, you can make a professional looking film much faster than with film or tape.
Digital cameras have a disadvantage of the picture looking too bright or clear, with no depth to the scene. If you have ever looked at a picture on an old 35mm and compared it to a digital camera you will know what I mean.
While digital cameras are very clear, it is very difficult to get the same shading and lighting unless you are an expert at lighting and editing programs.
Digital cameras allow you to check your shots right away, by simply clicking on the play button or connecting the camera to a computer and watching it. It’s much easier to erase too, just click the delete button and it’s gone. You don’t have to worry about re-using tapes and having them wear out on you.
Another advantage to using a digital camcorder is it’s much easier to upload your film to your computer for editing. All you have to do is connect the camera, upload the files and open your editing program. With a tape camcorder, you will need a convertor to connect to the computer.
Special effects are a breeze with a digital camcorder as well. All you need is to open the files already loaded on your computer and simply add the effects you desire.
The final flaw to using a digital camcorder is the fact that ones that use a hard drive can be fairly expensive. Oftentimes, they run anywhere from $400 and up. However, there are camcorders available that use an SD or XD memory card just like your still camera. These are usually much cheaper, but their quality is just the same as the expensive ones.
When looking for a camera, it’s always best to know what you need it for. What types of films will you be making? Do you want the ease and convenience of digital? Or would you prefer the look and feel of film or tape cameras?
Once you decide this, it will make the choices much easier to make.
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