How can i transfer recorded files on canon 1014 xl super 8mm camera to my computer for edits and can i still use the cartridge for another shoot or it’s a one time usage?

[hamad william]

I have a interview documentary to film and i want to use super 8mm camera to film some cutaways, please i need help in understanding how this camera works and how i can transfer the files to my computer for edits ?????? 

[Dan Hasson]

Hi Hamad,

Here is a good tutorial on the XL-S (I'm not sure of the difference between the XL and the XL-S but this should help):

 

In answer to your question, how can you transfer recorded files? Super8 is film and not digital so you'll need to send the cartridge off to a lab where they can develop and scan the film into digital files for you. Once they have scanned, they'll either send you the digital files (maybe via dropbox or something similar) or sending you back the files on a USB or harddrive (usually you would send them a USB or harddrive for them to send back to you).

I'm not sure where the closest lab to Lagos is. Somewhere in France maybe? Just bare in mind the postage cost and having your package flown where it might go through x-ray machines that have the potential to damage your film before it gets to the lab.

There are three great labs (that I know of) here in the UK:

Cinelab: https://www.cinelab.co.uk/

Gauge Film: https://www.gaugefilm.co.uk/

On8mil: https://www.on8mil.com/

I've only used Gauge Film and have had fantastic results and co-operation. As I say these are just UK and the ones I know. Maybe there is others on this forum who know of a lab(s) closer to Lagos?

 

In answer to your other question, is it a one time usage? Yes it is. Once a cartridge has been shot you cannot use it again as the film inside has been exposed and then developed. So you'd have to buy more after that. 

Each cartridge is 3 and 1/2 minutes at 18fps or 2 and 1/2 and 24fps. 

 

Hope this helps and perhaps there are others who can provide you with more info as I'm not an expert in super8. Let us know how it goes?

Best,

Dan