| The Difference Between Film and Digital Camera |
|
|
|
| Written by MarcyBurlock | |
| Sunday, 16 August 2009 | |
|
For filmmakers, it's hard enough to decide what script to produce and what team to put together to create each film. One of these decisions that you will have to make will be what camera to use. Do you use a camera that utilizes film; for example a High 8 camera? Or do you use a digital camera that either uses its own Hard drive, or you can use an SD memory card?
For filmmakers, it's hard enough to decide what script to produce and what team to put together to create each film. One of these decisions that you will have to make will be what camera to use. Do you use a camera that utilizes film; for example a High 8 camera? Or do you use a digital camera that either uses its own Hard drive, or you can use an SD memory card? Whether you choose film or digital, they both provide excellent films. However, when making your choice, there are a few advantages and disadvantages for both. Here are just a few. The Film Camera A film camera is just that, a camera that uses film. Some of the better known film cameras are the High 8, which is a camera whose images are very clear; fairly close to digital. There are also 16mm cameras and of course super 8 cameras, these are the old reel to reel cameras created before VCR's. If you choose a film camera, you will find you will have a richer look to your film. Disadvantages to using film are, having to have the film sent out to be processed before seeing what you shot. It takes about a day or so to have the film processed and it's not easy to find a center who will take filmmakers on a budget. If you do, you can have an engaging and professional looking 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. The other downfall with film or tape is lighting. Oftentimes, film and tape productions will appear dark, which does not allow for anything to be seen. Your goal is to provide adequate light while still maintaining a natural look. Digital Camera Today's advances in technology have made digital cameras popular, moderately priced and easy to use. With digital, you are able to implement more effects and editing programs allowing you to produce a more professional looking film than you would with tape or film. If you have ever looked at a photo taken with an old 35mm camera and compared with digital, you will see that the disadvantage is that digital produces a picture that is often too bright and clear and contains no depth. A digital camera is very clear, however it is very difficult to capture the same shading and lighting every time unless you are an expert at editing programs and lighting. 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 fabulous advantage to a digital camcorder is the fact that all you have to do is connect it to your computer, upload your files and open your editing program. With a tape camcorder, a converter is needed in order to connect to your 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. One disadvantage to digital cameras, they are more expensive. A hard drive camcorder can run you upwards of $400 or a bit more. You can also get one that uses SD and XD memory cards, the same ones your still digital camera uses. These cameras tend to be a bit cheaper, but no less useful than the more 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 know your preference, the rest of the decisions will be a piece of cake. About the Author: Marcy Burlock is a keen filmmaking enthusiast and featured writer on Clivir.com where she shares her filmmaking knowledge about Filmmaking For Beginners and Voice Over Work Filmmaking. From the Webmaster: "Having the opportunity to share my hobbies and interests with so many people around the world gives me great satisfaction. As a bonus, I blog and produce websites about topics that interest me and receive ad revenue from the websites and Blogs."
|