Converting old 8mm films to DVD

[mickeysgal]

My mother has old, old, old 8mm projector-type films of us when we were kids. She never had them converted. We're not even sure if anything can be salvaged due to it's age. We have 8 mm tapes from when our kids were small. I'd like to convert all of these before nothing is left of them - but not sure how to go about it. Has anyone ever done this? Who does it that's extremely reliable?

 

[dismom2]

My mother has old, old, old 8mm projector-type films of us when we were kids. She never had them converted. We're not even sure if anything can be salvaged due to it's age. We have 8 mm tapes from when our kids were small. I'd like to convert all of these before nothing is left of them - but not sure how to go about it. Has anyone ever done this? Who does it that's extremely reliable?

My parents did this. Some were from 8mm tapes, and some were from the really, really old video camera from the 50's or 60's (with the reels and movie projector...yes, very old!!). They took them to a specialty camera shop. Look for one in your neighborhood (check the phone book or online). My parents were very happy with the results...they even added music to the background. They gave copies to everyone (priceless gifts!). Not sure of the cost.

 

[3Leafs]

Quite a few places do it now.. I know a lot of drug stores do. My mom is slowly converting hers over from early 50's on.. I think she has been going to rite aid.. Her's have turned out great.. Expensive but great..

 

[pittsburghmarc]

Agree with all above. You just have to find a reputable video/camera shop in your area. We did ours a while back onto VHS, then more recently VHS to DVD. Good Luck.

 

[SetzKitten]

I did this myself a couple of years ago. It was a labor of love, definitely. I had the 8mm projector and borrowed a video camera. I bought film cleaner and splices and glue online and spent about a month repairing and conditioning the film. Then I set up the projector and camera and filmed. Then burned to DVD. Halfway through, my projector died (it was about 60 years old) and I was able to get the same model on ebay for 50 bucks.

Start to finish, it cost me about $150, including the new projector.

If you're worried about shipping out your film or are looking for a project to do on your own, this is an interesting one.