DiskBank offers stunning 2K, HD and SD transfers of 8mm, Super 8 & 16mm film.

With Perth’s only 2K film scanning camera, we are now able produce superior transfers for Super 8, 8mm and 16mm film. 2K offers a much higher resolution than HD, with a superior and dynamic range that allow`s for richer blacks and brighter whites. We are able to transfer this into a digital file, then onto a USB, hard drive or SSD. You can bring in your own USB, hard drive or SSD – or purchase one through us.

No matter what quantity, condition or format your film is in, our frame by frame, flicker free film transfers are available for you. We offer standard definition, full high definition or 2K, we transfer to digital file (all resolutions), DVD (SD only) or Blu-ray (SD or HD only).

Pricing Options for Film to Digital Transfer Services

Standard Definition (SD) Frame-by-Frame:

  • Silent films: 62c per foot
  • Films with audio: 82c per foot
  • Includes film cleaning, repairs, editing, color correction, and output to DVD or digital file (e.g., .MP4) on USB or SSD.

High Definition (HD) Frame-by-Frame:

  • Silent films: 69c per foot
  • Films with audio: 89c per foot
  • Includes film cleaning, repairs, editing, color correction, and output to Blu-Ray or digital file on USB or SSD.

2K Frame-by-Frame:

  • Silent films: 79c per foot
  • Films with audio: 99c per foot
  • Includes film cleaning, repairs, editing, color correction, and output to digital file (e.g., .MP4) on USB or SSD.

All of Our Film Transfer Services include:

  • Transferred locally in Perth – Not sent overseas
  • Transferred by Experienced Technicians
  • Inspection of film condition (bad splices, vinegar syndrome, film cleaning where required)
  • Uncompressed full frame film capture in 2K
  • Film supplied in SD, HD or 2K as h.264 .mp4 files for best compatibility (other codec/container types available upon request)
  • True frame-by-frame scanning
  • No image area contact during transfer, no sprockets or pull-down claws
  • Optical and Magnetic sound capture available for Super 8 and 16mm films
  • Neat Video available to enhance the film image (removing film grain for a cleaner modern look)
  • Trimming of the top and tail end of each film reel (leader at the start and the tail end as it goes out of focus)
  • Cropping the film image area for a cleaner look (can bypass this upon request to achieve a particular “vintage” look)
  • 3-way colour correction applied where possible for the best result
    Film Sharpness adjusted to better define the image (film is naturally soft)

8mm film to digital

At Diskbank, we specialise in providing professional 8mm film to digital transfer services. 8mm film typically degrades within 50-70 years. Storage factors like sunlight, heat, and humidity accelerate degradation, affecting the cellulose acetate base and leading to brittleness, colour fading, and blurred images due to emulsion degradation.

With our state-of-the-art 8mm film to digital converter technology, we expertly convert your 8mm film to digital files or DVDs, preserving your precious memories. Our skilled technicians handle the entire process, meticulously cleaning and preparing the film before transferring it to a digital format.

Our 8mm film transfer services include:

  • 8mm film to USB/HDD/SSD/DVD

Super 8 to digital:

Professionally transferring your deteriorating Super 8 film to digital format is crucial for preserving its image and enabling long-term viewing. Converting your super 8 film to digital offers numerous benefits, including the ability to view films on modern screens, share them with loved ones, edit them for a polished result, and easily post videos to the Cloud or social media platforms.

At Diskbank, we specialise in providing professional Super 8 film to digital and DVD transfer services. With our expertise in Super 8 to digital conversion, we ensure the preservation of your precious memories. Whether you have super 8 films dating back to the 1960s & 70s or have recently shot using this nostalgic format, our skilled technicians are experts in super 8 digital conversion.

Our super 8 film transfer services include:

  • Super 8 to USB/HDD/SSD/DVD

16mm film to digital:

As one of the earliest film formats, 16mm reels were stored and projected using projectors, measuring 16mm in width. Preserving 16mm film becomes a priority for two reasons: film was not designed for long-term storage, and finding a capable projector is a challenge.

At Diskbank, we possess the expertise to perform seamless 16mm film conversions to digital formats such as DVD, thumb drive or the cloud. Our experienced technicians use 16mm film to digital conversion equipment to preserve your cherished memories with expertise.

Our 16mm film transfer services include:

  • 16mm film to USB/HDD/SSD/DVD

WHY CHOOSE DISKBANK FOR YOUR FILM TRANSFERS?

  • More than 25 years experience
  • Quality guarantee
  • Leaders in high definition and 2K film technology
  • Service oriented company
  • Regular reinvestment in latest technology
  • 100% Australian Owned

We’ve developed our frame by frame film transfer process over more than 25 years and are confident we offer the highest level of quality anywhere in Australia.

WHY CAPTURE YOUR FOOTAGE NOW?

With most 8mm, Super 8 & 16mm film reaching the age where degradation is starting to set in, we strongly advise you convert your footage to a digital medium. If your film shows signs of fading, mould, shrinkage or warping it is likely that its deterioration has commenced. The most common sign of deterioration is referred to as “vinegar syndrome”, a condition characterised by the vinegar like smell. This issue affects acetate based films and results in break down of the film until it is unusable.

SUPER 8, 8MM AND 16MM FILM CONDITION

There are many factors that determine the results of your film transfers – not least among them is the condition of your film.

INFORMATION ABOUT FILM CONDITION

The quality of the converted film is totally dependant on the condition of the films you have provided us. Assuming your films are in good condition, you will receive the best possible converted footage available. We know, like our hundreds of satisfied customers, you’ll be thrilled with the results.

If the original film is badly scratched, has burnt frames, is blurred or out of focus, this will still show on your converted footage. Your source films and footage are what they are and cannot be changed without spending megabucks on digital re-mastering. Although your DVD will show a 10% bigger picture and will be of a much higher and better quality than you could ever see through your projector, those original faults will still be there.

Some faults such as contrast, colour correction, white balance and exposure problems can often be minimised with our digital re-mastering facilities and if you know your film has problems, give us a ring and discuss what we can do to improve and enhace your treasured memories.

DO YOUR HOMEWORK

We often receive jobs from clients who have paid for their films to be transferred elsewhere and have not been satisfied with the results. It’s difficult to know what you’ll receive until the job is completed, so we always suggest you do your homework before choosing someone for this important role.

FILM TRANSFER PROCESS

We’ve been developing our film transfer process for over 25 years and are proud to offer our service to the public.

Our capture process is no simple procedure. Not only do we use the latest professional equipment and a proven procedure, but an experienced and passionate technician will spend a great deal of time and personalised care ensuring we get the best out of your films.

OUR PROCESS IS AS FOLLOWS

  • Your film is inspected for bad splices, bends, curling, emulsion breakdown, broken perforations. Necessary repairs are then carried out
  • Every foot of your film is treated with our specially imported anti static conditioning solution which cleans, lubricates and preserves your film. Please note, in some cases film arrives to us in near perfect condition. In these cases cleaning is pointless and we bypass the cleaning process to minimise handling of your films
  • Your film is scanned at low speed through an enlarged gate to ensure we capture every last millimetre of your footage
  • We capture your footage frame by frame with a high quality camera and then seamlessly compile it into a smooth, flicker free, accurate reproduction of your original footage
  • Our equipment utilises a high resolution camera, capable of capturing your film in SD, HD or even 2K for a clean, crisp and sharp digital replication
  • The now digital file is outputted to our professional edit suite where it is further enhanced and unwanted sections (white noise, black sections etc) of footage are removed
  • Your footage is outputted to your preferred medium: DVD, Blu-ray or digital file. Digital file is by far the most popular choice, giving you the freedom to make your own copies at home. Copies can be made for back up purposes and to give to friends and family. Feel free to bring in your own USB, HDD or SSD for your digital files, or you can purchase one of ours.
  • Most importantly, every job we undertake includes our uncompromising dedication to quality

OUR TRANSFER PROCESS INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING AS STANDARD

  • Enlarged scan gate, outputting 100% of film frame
  • Colour and density correction where deemed necessary
  • Capture at maximum possible resolution
  • Super cool, bright LED light source for film scan eliminating hot spot and risk of burnt out frames
  • Sprocketless playback of film eliminating risk of damage to films perforations
  • Absolute flicker free playback of film
  • No jitter, blacked out or fuzzy edges around the perimeter
  • Ultimate rich, vibrant colours
  • Crystal clear focus during film capture
  • Brightness enhancement where possible
  • Removal of black, clear or unusable footage

Our frame by frame scanners are purposely built to ensure gentle treatment of your films. The cool, bright LED light source is totally safe, not exposing the film to the sort of harsh light that can cause accelerated damage to your film. It is important to note that this cannot be avoided with any projected or telecine capture method. Remember, if the film gets stuck, the film will burn through due to the excessive heat and those frames are then lost forever.

When supplying your film, if you have a preferred order, please number them accordingly so we can retain the correct order.

What is the best way to convert 8mm to digital?

One of the best ways to preserve your footage is to transfer it to a modern format. Whether you have recordings on 16mm or 8mm film or on VHS video tapes, your footage can be transferred to DVD, USB or digital files. In doing so, you’ll be able to preserve your footage and prevent any further damage. If your video has already begun to decay or develop mould growth, there are steps that professionals can take to revive the footage if the damage has not spread too far.

Digital files are generally the best format for video transfers as they are very versatile and can be viewed on a range of devices.
Transferring old film reels or video tapes can be a very delicate process, and using a professional service like DiskBank offers several advantages:

  1. Expertise and Experience: Professionals are trained to handle different film formats and know how to treat them carefully, minimising the risk of damage.
  2. High-Quality Equipment: They use specialised equipment that ensures a higher quality transfer compared to consumer-level setups, capturing more detail and better colour.
  3. Correct Handling: Old film can be fragile. Professionals know how to clean and store the reels properly during the transfer process.
  4. Restoration Options: Many services offer restoration options, such as repairing damaged sections or enhancing colours and sound, which can significantly improve the final product.
  5. Digital Formats: Professionals often provide multiple digital formats (like MP4, AVI, or DVD), allowing you to choose what works best for your needs.
  6. Time-Saving: Transferring film can be time-consuming, especially if you’re not familiar with the process. Professionals can complete it much faster.
  7. Peace of Mind: Knowing that your precious memories are in capable hands can alleviate stress and worry about potential damage.

Overall, a professional transfer ensures your memories are preserved in the best possible quality for future enjoyment!

How much does it cost to convert 8mm and Super 8 film to digital?

The cost of converting Super 8 and 8mm film to digital formats is influenced by several factors. The condition and age of the film play a significant role, as older or deteriorated films may need special handling or restoration work, adding to the expense. Additionally, the amount of film being converted, typically priced by reel or footage, will directly impact the final cost.

Another major factor is the desired resolution and quality of the digital output, with options ranging from standard definition to high-definition and 2K. Higher resolutions require more sophisticated equipment and processing time, increasing the price. Extra services like colour correction, image stabilisation, and sound capture for films with audio tracks also contribute to the overall cost.

Finally, the choice of output format, such as DVD, USB, or digital download, can affect pricing, with some formats being more labour-intensive. Film preparation, such as cleaning or repairing damaged reels, and expedited processing options may also add to the cost. While professional services tend to be more expensive, they often provide higher quality results compared to DIY kits, making them worth considering for preserving valuable footage.

Please note that there is a minimum charge of $75.

How do I prepare my 8mm and Super 8 film before digitising?

At DiskBank, we make the film transfer process as easy as possible for you. You don’t need to worry about any preparation—just bring your film reels down to our office, and we’ll take care of everything!

Our team is equipped to handle all aspects of the transfer process, including cleaning and preparing the film for optimal results. You can trust us to ensure your cherished memories are handled with the utmost care and expertise. Let us do the work while you sit back and look forward to enjoying your revitalised films!