If you have old video footage that you would like to convert to a digital format, you are probably trying to protect the quality of your footage for future generations. The process is different depending on the type of film you have, and one of the most popular types of old footage is 8 mm film, also called Super 8 film. This is one of the most common formats for home videos during decades past. At the same time, this film is becoming less common because it deteriorates over time. It is prone to scratches, which develop each time the film is played. After a certain point, the entire movie could be lost. If you are looking for a way to convert 8 mm film to digital, there are several steps you need to go through.
Record the Film Through Your Digital Camera
The easiest way for you to convert your 8mm film to digital is to record your film using a digital camera. In order to make sure this happens cleanly, you need to have a smooth white wall, your film, a table, and a digital camera. You also need to have something that can keep the camera still during the recording process, such as a tripod. Ideally, you are doing this in an area that has low light, as this will give you the best quality.
When you start the process, try to set up the projector about four to six feet from the wall. You also need to think about the type of projector you are using, as this will impact the quality of the film as well.
After all of these items have been deployed, turn on the projector. Make sure the digital camera can see the entire frame. You might need to adjust the camera or the projector to make this happen; however, try to minimize using the zoom function, as this could make the quality appear blurry. Then, you can start recording the video.
Import the Film to a Computer
After you are done recording the video, the next step is to import it to your computer. If you have this on a digital camera, the process is relatively simple; however, there are plenty of software programs you can use to make the process easier. Find a software program that supports the type of video file you have. There are a few options you have in front of you to complete the process, which include:
- Import and Edit: When the recording is done, you can take the video footage and import it to your computer. Then, you can edit the film if you would like. You can insert the memory card and move the footage to the right folder. Then, use the software program to access the file, open it, and edit it. You might have to convert the file before you can actually edit it.
- Select the Output: Once you are done editing the video file, you need to pick your output format. There are plenty of options from which to choose, so you might want to take a closer look at the options and find the right one to meet your needs.
- Finish the Conversion: After you have made the changes you want to make and chosen the file; you can convert the video to a digital file all by yourself. Once the video footage is done, you should be able to play it back to make sure you are happy with the results. If you are happy, move the video to its final resting place.
These are a few of the most important steps you will need to complete regardless of the type of software you are using.
Common Problems Experienced During the Conversion Process
You can do this problem by yourself; however, there are a few common problems that people tend to run into during these steps. They include:
- Blurry Footage: A lot of people have blurry footage if they try to do the process on their own. For example, they might have set up the projector too far away from the wall. Or the camera might be zoomed in too far.
- The Video Footage Is Cut Off: Sometimes, the frame might be cut off. If this is the case, the camera might be too close to the wall. This is a problem that could force people to start the process over again.
- The Video and Audio Are Off: There is also a chance that the video and audio could be off. Light travels faster than sound, so this could be a side effect of the recording process. Or there could be an issue with the software program itself.
- The File Is Not Compatible: There is also a chance that you might have trouble converting the video footage to the desired file type. If that is the case, you might need to get a different software program.
These are just a few of the most common issues people tend to have when they try to do the process on their own. This can require a lot of expensive equipment and IT expertise. It also requires experience to carry out the process correctly. If you want to make sure this process is finished properly the first time around, you can also rely on professionals to convert your film
