Fuji Velv-Velv-Velv-ia - Super 8

I was told recently by Spectra Films that their latest batch of Fuji Velvia was reconfigured to have a better balance of lubricant to minimize jitter. Not for me.

This is the fourth roll I've tried in three years, All with different cameras. I was tempted to put it through Deshaker to stabilize it like I had done in the past, but frankly I don't need the therapy. Some may cite the projector I use, the torque on the camera, etc, etc...but I don't get jitter anywhere close to the degree I do when I use this stock.

This will be the last roll of this film I use. My last stab may be having the torque shaft on a camera's clutch adjusted (which I've read should help significantly with this).

As far as the vignetting on the images, it was my fault for using a lens shade that wasn't made for this camera (Yashica Super Electro 800 with modified wide gate). It would show when the lens was in the wider positions, while not showing up at all when I zoomed in for a shot.

Too bad, I really like the colors, grain and speed of this stock plus the fact that it's reversal. It's the closest I've found to Kodachrome 40, even more so in my opinion than Ektachrome 100D, which tends to be warmer and a bit grainier (though I love that stock as well).

If anyone can recommend a camera or technique to help with this issue, I would gladly consider it.

DIY Telecine
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Category:

Film & Animation

Tags:

• Fuji Velvia
• Velvia 50D
• Velvia Super 8
• Super 8
• Spectra FIlms
• Hallgate Bridge
• Astoria NY
• Astoria Queens
• DIY Telecine
• Telecine

[Vahmrick60]

Seems like I read something to that effect as well. In all fairness, I've talked to some folks who have shot that stocl on numerous occasions and not experienced the jitter. Have you tried the 16mm version?

[x05e]

@Vahmrick60 Yes Spectra Films told me the same...that some have no problems whatsoever with their camera's yet many still do. Never tried the 16mm version...would love to. Would you know where I'd be able order some?

[Vahmrick60]

I had bad luck with the velvia. Beautiful colours, just a shame it's unstable.

[x05e]

@Vahmrick60 Someone recently suggested to wipe the film gate on the camera with a clean cotton flannel cloth moistened with pure Silicone and/or wipe the film cartridge's pressure plate with Silicone as well.

I may just do this and give Velvia another try. I've always loved the colors/vibrancy on it and would make for a reasonable replacement for Kodachrome 40.

[j43ms]

hello mate, there's a site called "my old camera" based in the usa that sells double 8 cinechrome 50D (velvia). i don't know if that format might be different in terms of the jitter effect, but maybe it's worth a try?

[x05e]

@j43ms Yes! It's something I've been thinking of trying...Velvia 50 in Regular 8! It should definitely help with the jitter issue. Can't wait for the Spring to try it...it's just been real cold and snowy here in NY and have not been very enthused. Thanks!!

[Vahmrick60]

Not off hand. If Spectra can't help. not sure where unless you look at some of those European companies.

[x05e]

@ZmajSnoshaj Completely handheld. I wonder if a Kaccema cartridge would help as well, but from what I've been told the V50D is thicker than regular Kodak reversal and may be a big reason behind the instability, yet I've heard from some who have had absolutely no issues with it. I really do love this stock as well, would shoot tons more if it didn't tremble the way it does for me.

[ZmajSnoshaj]

Just a curious question.. were you using a tripod or was this a hand-held camera? I know that wouldn't make a difference as far as the "secondary" movement.. the jitter. Also, I wonder if unspooling an entire reel in the dark and respooling it loosely would help. I really love the look of this film! When I think of velvet I think of purple.. haha

[kq6up]

Did you get the direct message that I sent you?

Chris