2perf, 3perf, 4perf 35MM question

[Dillon Brown]

Hello all,

 

2perf, 3perf, and 4perf film is not noted by the actual film itself, but rather by the way in which the camera exposes the film, correct? For example, one doesn't buy 2perf or 3perf film from Kodak or Fujifilm, but it is all the same stock, just shot differently within the camera, correct? The camera exposes the film to a certain set perforation standard, whether it be 2perf TECHNISCOPE, 3perf, or 4perf.

 

I think I am correct, I just wanted to check. Thanks so much.

 

- Dillon

Edited May 27, 2010 by Dillon Brown

[Bruce Taylor]

2perf, 3perf, and 4perf film is not noted by the actual film itself, but rather by the way in which the camera exposes the film, correct?

 

You are correct, Dillon. Another way to think of it would be pulldown; a 2 perf camera pulls 2 perfs into the gate each frame, a 3 perf pulls 3 perfs, etc. It's one of the many versatile features of 35mm film, there are so many ways to expose it: Techniscope, 1.85 and 1.66 Wide Sceen, anamorphic ('Scope), Super 35 (3 and 4 perf)... and on and on.

[Adrian Sierkowski]

To add, not all cameras can shoot 2, 3, and 4 perf. It's generally not something field switchable. Some systems can be changed from 4 to 3 to 2 perf, though by the rental house.

[Dillon Brown]

Thanks so much, I really appreciate the response. Helps me immensely!