Movie film camera equipment has been around since the late 1800s. Capturing motion on a fluid roll of tape at 24 or 30 frames per second instead of a fast series of stopped motion photos was a great catalyst for the movie industry.
Whether you are an amateur or professional film photographer, you want the best camera for the job. Lenses play an important role in filming as they are the catalyst for capturing the image in the form you want. You should know your filming requirements before shopping for cameras and lenses:
1. Prime lenses have a fixed focal length and zoom lenses have a variable focal length.
2. A wide-angle professional camera lens has a focal length of less than 25mm and takes in a wider area than a telephoto lens, which has a focal length of over 50mm and which grabs a narrower shot.
3. The anamorphic professional film camera lens captures great details and clarity, is the most expensive film to shoot and is most commonly used with 70mm film for widescreen production.
Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done
Personalize your shopping experience for your film lens and camera and equipment
There are still many camera shops in existence where you can visit and talk with a shop owner, but online shopping is becoming more the norm for film photographers' needs. Many film cameras and equipment are offered through private sale as technology and film sizes change.
I recommend: B&H Photo is a popular photographers' resource. They have film camera lenses and accessories for the spectrum of lens sizes. You will find new and used movie camera equipment through
In-Sync Publications.
Locate new and good quality used movie camera equipment
Film motion picture camera equipment can be quite expensive, however you have options when searching for equipment for your project. No matter what your preference for film, whether it's 8mm, 16mm, 35mm or 70mm film, there are cameras available for sale or rent to deliver your required end result.
I recommend: The staff at
Du-All Camera offers professional assistance in addition to filming camera equipment for purchase and rent.
Kitmondo is a resource for new and used movie camera equipment.
Meet other film photographers and get expert advice on camera lens equipment
Networking with people with a similar interest in film photography can aid you in your exploration of the myriad possibilities that film offers. You can locate community photography clubs by contacting a local school. There are also online communities which offer you the opportunity to meet people worldwide who have a broad range of experience and who can make recommendations when you have questions.
I recommend: Join the
Professional Photographers of America to network with other film photographers. Register with the
Professional Photographers' Network to learn more about professional film camera interests and needs.
Tips & Tactics
Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide
- Since all lenses are unique, find a film camera supplier who caters to the type of filming you are doing so that you will have a variety of lenses to consider.
The official source of Film Camera and Lens Equipment is
the Film Camera and Lens Equipment page at Business.com
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