Minolta XL401 and Tri-X b&w

[joshmcdarris]

I'm just getting into super-8 and had a few question regarding film.

 

First, should I have any difficulty exposing Tri-X b&w with a Minolta XL401? With similar cameras I've heard no, but you can never be too careful I suppose. I'd like to have as few surprises as possible exposing my first bit of motion film.

 

Secondly, where do you folks get your super-8 film? I've only seen it sold by B&H and a handful of small camera shops.

 

Lastly, I'm assuming that 18fps just means movement will be a bit choppier, right? Do you think this camera is capable of professional results?

 

Thanks!

 

(Found this camera on ebay in incredible condition. Very excited to get some film in it).

[joshmcdarris]

I suppose another question is where you get your film processed. Looks like Pro8mm is $15 a pop. Anyone out there a bit more competitively priced?

[Nicholas Rapak]

First, should I have any difficulty exposing Tri-X b&w with a Minolta XL401? With similar cameras I've heard no, but you can never be too careful I suppose. I'd like to have as few surprises as possible exposing my first bit of motion film.

 

No. Tri-X will expose at ASA 160, 1/3 stop over, but that should be good especially if you are planning to project. The only thing I'd recommend is that you buy an ND filter, as 160 is too fast for most outdoor scenes.

 

Secondly, where do you folks get your super-8 film? I've only seen it sold by B&H and a handful of small camera shops.

 

I get mine direct from Kodak. You can call them at 1-800-621-3456. Pricing cheaper than almost anywhere else, and if you are a student, they have special discounts.

 

 

I suppose another question is where you get your film processed. Looks like Pro8mm is $15 a pop. Anyone out there a bit more competitively priced?

 

BPS Film Lab in Batavia, IL does it for $9.50 a cart. Give them a call at 630-879-8200 for more info and to get order forms.

[joshmcdarris]

Very cool. Exactly what I was looking for. Thanks!

[joshmcdarris]

Indeed, BPS seems to be the cheapest processor around these parts.

 

Kodak is a few dollars less than say B&H or Adorama on the actual film, but their shipping is a bit high. They only gave me two options for shipping - Next Day & Two Day. I chose the cheapest which was a whopping $14.95! So it turns out that while the film is initially cheaper buying direct, it doesn't pay off unless you can pick it up from the facility.

 

I understand that the less the film is in shipping the better, but paying that much for it kinda hurts.