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I Want to Convert My 8Mm Film to DVD

As Alfred Hitchcock said about film making, the hardest part is "making all those holes." Unfortunately, Mr. Hitchcock could not anticipate the sheer number of video formats, codecs and distribution media in the coming half century. Film-makers are plagued by the quandary of how to keep their footage safe, watchable and accessible. There's a simple do-it-yourself method to convert film to DVD that will save time and money when compared to the professional method.

Things You'll Need

  • Film to be transferred
  • 8mm film projector
  • Projection screen (or a blank wall)
  • DV camera
  • Tripod or stable surface
  • DVD player
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Instructions

    • 1
      If the film has degraded too much, capturing it may be a challenge.

      Set up an 8mm projector and watch the film to be transferred. Determine whether the film is in good enough shape to be transferred.

    • 2
      Testing is important to minimize flicker and other problems.

      Set up the DV camera facing the projection screen. Frame up the camera so the projection screen fills the frame entirely. Conduct some tests with the footage. Adjust the shutter speed and other settings until the image looks correct and there is no flicker.

    • 3
      A tripod is ideal, but a stable surface like a table can work as well.

      Begin recording with the DV camera and start the film from the beginning. Ensure that the area around the recording stays quiet so the recording has accurate sound. When the film is done, stop recording. Transfer the digital recording to a computer and burn a DVD.

    • 4
      Keep a DVD, digital and original copy of the footage.

      Watch the DVD and determine whether all of the footage is there and in good shape. Make a backup copy of the DVD. Place the 8mm film back into storage. Do not destroy or dispose of the original film.

    • 5
      Enjoy the freedom to watch the film on any TV with a DVD player.

      Maintain the original copy, the digital copy and DVD copies so it is easier to transfer next time a format change comes around.

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