16mm vs Super 16mm Film: A Guide for Filmmakers
Why 16mm Film Still Matters: Best Cameras and Shooting Tips
Shooting on 16mm film or Super 16mm film has experienced a resurgence in recent years. From indie productions to high-end commercials, filmmakers are embracing the tactile beauty and nostalgic texture of film. Whether you're a student filmmaker or a professional looking to explore a classic format, understanding the nuances of 16mm and Super 16mm is essential. This guide will break down the differences, show you how to shoot with each, and highlight two of the best cameras for the job: the ARRI SR3 and the Bolex H16.
What is 16mm Film?
16mm film is a motion picture film format that has been around since 1923. It’s smaller and more affordable than 35mm film, making it a favorite among students, indie filmmakers, and documentarians. Its characteristic grain and texture give films an organic and timeless quality.
Key Features of 16mm Film:
10.26mm x 7.49mm image area (standard)
4:3 aspect ratio
Used for low-budget features, newsreels, and educational films
What is Super 16mm Film?
Super 16mm film, introduced in 1969, is an updated version of the standard 16mm format. It utilizes more of the film area by extending the image into the area previously used by the soundtrack.
Key Features of Super 16mm:
12.52mm x 7.41mm image area
1.66:1 aspect ratio (wider than standard 16mm)
Better suited for widescreen presentation and digital conversions
16mm vs. Super 16mm: What’s the Difference?
| Feature | 16mm Film | Super 16mm Film |
|---|---|---|
| Aspect Ratio |
4:3 | 1.66:1 (Widescreen) |
| Image Area |
Smaller | Larger (utilizes more of the frame) |
| Soundtrack Space |
Yes (optical) | No optical track area |
| Lens Requirements | Standard 16mm lenses | Needs Super 16mm-compatible lenses |
| Image Quality | Grainier | Sharper with more detail |
Both formats use the same 16mm film stock, but Super 16mm requires a camera with a widened gate and possibly an updated viewfinder. Not all 16mm cameras are capable of Super 16mm without modification.
Can the Same Cameras Be Used for Both Formats?
Some 16mm cameras can be adapted to shoot Super 16mm, but not all. The primary requirement is a modified gate that exposes more of the film surface. Additionally, lenses must cover the wider Super 16mm frame to avoid vignetting.
Cameras Compatible with Both (when modified):
ARRI SR2/SR3 (with Super 16 conversion)
Bolex H16 (with modified gate and viewfinder)
How to Shoot on 16mm and Super 16mm Film
1. Choose Your Format
Decide whether your project benefits more from the classic 4:3 aesthetic of 16mm or the widescreen appeal of Super 16mm.
2. Select the Right 16mm Film Stock
Kodak and ORWO offer a range of film stocks suitable for various lighting conditions and color profiles. Consider:
Kodak Vision3 200T or 500T (for color)
Kodak Tri-X (for black and white)
3. Load the Film
Film loading varies by camera. Always practice loading in a changing bag or darkroom. Be meticulous—improper loading can ruin your footage.
4. Use Proper Lenses
If you're shooting Super 16mm, make sure the lens covers the wider frame. Lenses that are labeled as Super 16mm-compatible are ideal.
5. Set the Exposure
Use a light meter and make sure to match your shutter angle and film speed (ISO) accurately. Many 16mm cameras don’t have built-in meters.
6. Focus and Framing
Use the viewfinder for framing, but remember that Super 16mm may require you to mark the extended frame lines manually if your viewfinder isn’t adapted.
7. Send the Film for Processing
Labs like Cinelab or Pro8mm can process your film and scan it into digital formats for editing.
Famous Movies Shot on 16mm and Super 16mm
16mm Film:
The Texas Chain Saw Massacre (1974)
Clerks (1994)
Pi (1998)
Super 16mm Film:
The Hurt Locker (2008)
Black Swan (2010)
Moonrise Kingdom (2012)
These films showcase the distinct texture and emotional resonance that 16mm film and Super 16mm film can bring to a story.
Best 16mm Film Camera Options: ARRI SR3 and Bolex H16
ARRI SR3: The Industry Standard
The ARRI SR3 is often considered the best 16mm film camera for professionals. Built for reliability, it's widely used in film schools, indie sets, and even major features.
Key Specs:
Crystal sync motor for stable sound recording
Supports Super 16mm (with gate modification)
PL mount for a wide variety of lenses
Built-in video tap for monitoring
Advantages:
Rugged and reliable
Industry-standard camera
Excellent lens compatibility
If you're serious about Super 16mm filmmaking, the ARRI SR3 is an unbeatable choice.
Bolex H16: The Indie Favorite
The Bolex H16 is a Swiss-made, spring-wound 16mm camera famous for its portability and affordability. It’s popular among students and experimental filmmakers.
Key Specs:
Spring-wound motor (no batteries needed)
Compact and lightweight
Reflex viewfinder (on some models)
Can be converted to shoot Super 16mm
Advantages:
Great for handheld shooting
Affordable entry into 16mm filmmaking
Built like a tank
The Bolex H16 is a great Super 16mm camera candidate when modified, offering a low-budget path to achieving a film look.
Why 16mm Film Is Still Used Today
Despite the rapid advancement of digital cinematography, 16mm film continues to hold a unique place in modern filmmaking. It’s not just about nostalgia—there are several practical and artistic reasons why filmmakers still reach for a 16mm film camera today.
1. Aesthetic Appeal
The texture, grain, and organic feel of 16mm film cannot be easily replicated with digital cameras. The subtle imperfections and natural contrast give images a timeless, cinematic look. This is especially true for Super 16mm, which offers a slightly wider image while preserving the filmic qualities that creatives love.
2. Cost-Effective Compared to 35mm
While film isn't cheap, shooting on 16mm is significantly more affordable than 35mm, making it a go-to for independent filmmakers and documentary storytellers who want that film look without a blockbuster budget.
3. Perfect for Storytelling
Because 16mm cameras are smaller and more portable than their 35mm counterparts, they’re often used in dynamic or remote locations. Documentarians, guerrilla filmmakers, and even big-name directors use 16mm film to bring intimacy and grit to their storytelling.
4. Industry Respect and Proven Results
Many critically acclaimed films and TV shows are still shot on Super 16mm. From gritty dramas to nostalgic period pieces, the format remains a respected artistic choice. The film's presence on notable productions reassures both creators and audiences of its legitimacy and power.
5. Educational Value
Film schools continue to teach 16mm cinematography because it disciplines students in the fundamentals: exposure, focus, and careful shot planning. It’s a medium that demands mindfulness and technical proficiency—skills that translate well into any format.
In an age where digital dominates, 16mm film remains a stronghold for those who value texture, tradition, and a tangible connection to the craft of cinema.
Conclusion
Shooting on 16mm or Super 16mm film offers a creative experience unlike any digital format. Whether you're using a Bolex H16 for a raw, DIY feel or the ARRI SR3 for a polished professional look, both offer access to a rich cinematic tradition.
Understanding the difference between the two formats, how to shoot with them, and which 16mm camera suits your needs will help you make informed creative decisions. In a world dominated by digital, film remains an artistic statement—and 16mm is where that journey often begins.