Troubleshooting: Super 8 Film not Advancing
- The Film Wave
- May 6
- 3 min read
Uh oh, we hate to see you here, but if you’re experiencing issues with film advancement, the good news is it's most likely not your camera!Â
While issues with film advancement are uncommon, we wanted to share a few tricks of the trade. Super 8, unlike other mediums out there today, has many variables and, as a result, can at times be sensitive when not properly handled.Â
Pro Tip: Get familiar with your camera, read the manual and spend time field testing your new medium. Once you get familiar with your new gear, you may even be able to hear the film running, allowing you to notice if it's misaligned or fully exposed!Â
Questions to Ask When Your Super 8 Film is Not Advancing:
Before concluding that your camera might be the issue, it's worth running through a few diagnostic questions:
1. Were All Rolls Fully Exposed Before Development?
Make sure each roll you send off for development shows “exposed." This not only confirms that the film ran through the camera but also ensures you get the most of your film. This is considered best practice when sending your rolls off for development.Â
2. Do You Have Another Roll to Test?
Super 8 cameras, with certain models being more sensitive, require specific tension within the cartridge. Using a second roll can help determine whether the issue is with the cartridge or the camera itself. We believe that when it comes to film, the original manufacture is always the best option. We recommend purchasing Kodak film from a reputable supplier.
3. Was the Film Inserted Smoothly and Properly Aligned?
We get it, shoots move fast, but it’s crucial to insert the cartridge carefully, ensuring the sprockets are aligned. Even the slightest misalignment can prevent the film from advancing—resulting in ‘jumpy’ footage or a blank roll.
There are two methods to inserting film depending on the model of your camera, commonly referred to as side loading or rear loading. Side loading cameras require a little more precision as you're working with angles. Regardless, always insert your cartridge film first, align the sprockets, and then smoothly and slowly clicking it into place.Â
Pro Tip: Get familiar with your camera, read the manual and spend time field testing your new medium. Once you get familiar with your new gear, you may even be able to hear the film running, allowing you to notice if it's misaligned or fully exposed!Â
Quick Fix: A Handy Workaround
In some cases, you can try manually advancing the film cartridge. Gently loosen the film within the cartridge by manually pushing down on the sprockets. Avoid twisting the wind-up spool located on the side of the cartridge. Then, mark the film, reinsert it into the camera, and test again. This may relieve the tension issue and allow the camera to catch the film properly.
A helpful discussion on this topic—specific to the Canon 814 Auto Zoom but applicable to many Super 8 models—can be found here: 🔗 Certain Rolls of Film Not Advancing in Canon 814 – cinematography.com
Looking for Professional Quality?Â
If you shoot professionally and want to achieve professional results, you need a professional-grade Super 8 camera. While this is not an exhaustive list, below are a few models we recommend:
Canon
Canon 1014 XL-S
Canon 814 XL-S
Nizo
Beaulieu
Trade-In Options Available
We're committed to helping you get the best out of your Super 8 experience. If you’re thinking about making a switch, reach out!
Final Thoughts
Super 8 is an amazing medium, full of character that you just can't replicate digitally. But like all analog formats, it requires a bit of patience and precision. Whether it’s your film cartridge, the camera, or just user error, a little troubleshooting can go a long way.