Do I have to have experience of Super 8 filmmaking to enter ?

Absolutely not. Super 8mm is much simpler to get to grips with than digital video and we have found that most people can learn all they need to know in a 15 minute training session. We show you how to load the camera, how to focus and how to adjust aperture. The rest is just common sense.

Do I have to own a Super 8 camera to enter ?

No. We have a number of 'point and shoot' Super 8 cameras available for loan. These feature auto exposure with manual override, a variety of speeds including slow motion and stop-frame as well as a few "special" functions for the technically-minded. The cameras can be booked out for your shoot on a ‘first come, first served' basis but please bear in mind that others may also want use of them so only take them out for the time when you absolutely need them. We will do our best to accommodate everyone's needs but you may have to be flexible on dates if we have a rush on.

The cameras are covered under our insurance but we do ask for a £125 deposit to cover our insurance excess and any minor damage.

Is it free to enter The Joy Of 8mm ?

Yes, the only charges we currently make are for entry to the screening event (although every film gets one free ticket) and for digital video copies of the films.

Do I have to live in the South West of England to take part ?

Yes. We will only send out film cartridges to people with postal addresses in Bristol, Gloucestershire, Dorset, Somerset, Wiltshire, Devon and Cornwall. In the future, we may well extend the challenge to other areas but presently we just do not have the resources to manage a nationwide scheme.

Can a team enter?

Yes, just decide who will do what and nominate a single contact person.

Is there any age limit?

No. Our last event included films by 10 year olds and 60 year olds. We do ask that participants under the age of 18 need to have an adult be responsible for any loaned equipment.

Exactly how long does a cartridge of Super 8 last ?

Approximately 3 minutes and 20 seconds at the standard running speed of 18 frames per second. However, if you undercrank (speeded up action) or overcrank (slow motion) the camera, the overall running time will change.

Can I edit my film?

No. The film is shot sequentially and cut in camera so your decisions must be made beforehand. One of the pleasures of The Joy of 8mm is knowing that you won't have to spend hours in an edit suite spooling through take after take !

What are the soundtrack requirements ?

Super 8 is mute so when adding sound (dialogues, music, narration, soundscapes) you'll have to either burn your own original soundtrack onto CD or perform it live at the screening event. Synch sound is very difficult to achieve for obvious reasons so you do have to be imaginative. At the last screening event, we had filmmakers performing live sound effects to picture, actors with microphones post synching their parts and even an impromptu audience sing-a-long.

How can I view my film after the screening event if I haven't got a Super 8mm projector ?

We transfer all of the films onto digital video as soon as they come back from the laboratory. You have the option to purchase a copy of your film on Mini DV for a small charge after the screening.

What happens to the film spool after the screening event ?

We will return the film spool together with any soundtrack elements to you as soon as possible after the screening. However, we may retain certain film spools to screen at future events or to assist us with raising awareness of The Joy of 8mm. In these circumstances, we will provide you with a copy of your film on Mini DV free of charge.