Canon Scoopic 16mm | What is it?
The Canon Scoopic is a 16mm film camera that was introduced in 1986. It was designed for handheld shooting and was popular among independent filmmakers and television production companies because of its compact size and versatility. The Scoopic featured a single-lens reflex (SLR) viewfinder, which allowed the operator to see exactly what was being recorded, and it had a wide range of interchangeable lenses and accessories. It was known for its high-quality images and was used to shoot a variety of films, television shows, and commercials. The Canon Scoopic was eventually replaced by digital cameras, but it remains a popular choice for those who prefer to shoot on film.
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The Bolex | 16mm Camera
The Bolex is a brand of film camera that was popular among independent filmmakers and video production professionals. The Bolex name is derived from the company's original name, "Compagnie Générale de Cinématographie BOLEX." The company was founded in Switzerland in the 1920s and produced a variety of film cameras over the years.
One of the most famous Bolex cameras is the H16, a 16mm film camera that was introduced in the 1950s and remained in production until the 1970s. The H16 was known for its reliability, durability, and versatility, and it was used to shoot a wide variety of films and television shows. It had a single-lens reflex (SLR) viewfinder, which allowed the operator to see exactly what was being recorded, and it was compatible with a range of interchangeable lenses and accessories.
Other popular Bolex cameras include the S16, a 16mm film camera with a built-in reflex viewfinder, and the EL, a 16mm film camera with a reflex viewfinder and an electric motor. Like the H16, these cameras were popular among independent filmmakers and video production professionals for their high-quality images and versatility.
Bolex cameras are no longer in production, but they remain popular among those who prefer to shoot on film and are sought after by collectors.
Canon Soopic vs Bolex | Which should you buy?
Deciding whether to buy a Canon Scoopic or a Bolex film camera depends on your specific needs and preferences. Both cameras are known for their high-quality images and versatility, but they have some differences that may make one a better choice for you over the other.
Some factors to consider when deciding between a Canon Scoopic and a Bolex include:
Cost of a Canon Scoopic vs Cost of a Bolex Camera
The cost of a Canon Scoopic or a Bolex film camera can vary depending on the specific model and condition of the camera. In general, Canon Scoopics tend to be less expensive than Bolex cameras due to their relative abundance and the fact that they are no longer in production.
As a rough estimate, Canon Scoopics can range in price from a few hundred dollars for older models in good condition to several thousand dollars for newer models in excellent condition. Bolex cameras, on the other hand, can range in price from several hundred dollars for older models in good condition to several thousand dollars or more for newer models in excellent condition.
It's worth noting that these prices are just rough estimates and the actual cost of a particular Canon Scoopic or Bolex camera may vary significantly. The best way to get a sense of the current market value of a specific camera is to research similar models that have recently been sold and to consult with a specialist or appraiser.
In addition to the cost of the camera itself, it's also important to factor in the cost of film stock, processing, and transfer to digital in order to view and share the footage. These costs can add up quickly and should be taken into consideration when deciding whether to buy a film camera.
Using a Bolex vs a Scoopic
The Canon Scoopic is a relatively easy camera to use, with a single-lens reflex (SLR) viewfinder and a range of interchangeable lenses and accessories. The Bolex H16, on the other hand, is known for its durability and reliability, but it may be more difficult to use for those unfamiliar with film cameras.
Image quality | Canon vs Bolex
Both the Canon Scoopic and Bolex cameras are known for their high-quality images, but the specific image quality will depend on the lens and film stock being used. It may be worth doing some research or seeking out sample footage shot with each camera to see which one produces the look and feel you are after.
Digital Bolex D16
The Bolex D16 is a 16mm film camera that was introduced by Bolex in the late '80s. It was designed as an upgrade to the popular H16 camera and featured a number of improvements, including a reflex viewfinder, a built-in light meter, and a self-threading film transport.
The Bolex D16 was a popular choice among independent filmmakers and video production professionals due to its high-quality images and versatility. It was compatible with a range of interchangeable lenses and accessories and was known for its durability and reliability.
Like other Bolex cameras, the D16 is no longer in production, but it remains a popular choice among those who prefer to shoot on film and is sought after by collectors. The cost of a Bolex D16 can vary depending on the specific model and condition of the camera, but they are generally more expensive than Canon Scoopic cameras due to their rarity and popularity among collectors.
Bolex Lenses
Bolex lenses were made in - you guessed it - Switzerland. The lenses were known for their high quality and durability. They were made with a variety of lens elements and coatings to minimize distortion and flare and to maximize image quality.
Like Bolex cameras, sadly, Bolex lenses are no longer in production, but they remain popular among those who prefer to shoot on film and are sought after by collectors. The cost of a Bolex lens can vary depending on the specific model and condition of the lens, but they are generally more expensive than lenses for modern digital cameras due to their limited existence and popularity among camera nerds.
Ultimately, the decision of whether to buy a Canon Scoopic or a Bolex will depend on your specific needs and preferences. It may be worth considering what you hope to achieve with your camera, your budget, and your level of experience with film cameras.