Capturing Timeless Moments: Shooting a Wedding with a 1965 Kodak M2 Super 8 Instamatic Movie Camera
There’s something enchanting about embracing the vintage charm of analog equipment. Imagine capturing the magic of a wedding day with a 1965 Kodak M2 Super 8 Instamatic movie camera. That’s exactly what I did and in this blog post, I’ll share my experience of using this classic camera to document one of life’s most precious moments. Feel free to contact me with any questions you have.
I love Goodwill. Did you know Goodwill has a website? I’ve bought lots of camera equipment over the years. I’ve been lucky enough that all my purchases have arrived in working order. In my most recent shopping experience, I found a lot of 6 Super8 cameras. With no guarantees and some hope that just one would work, I added to cart. A few weeks later, a giant box arrived. It was right before the holidays, I set the box aside and forgot about it.
Fast forward a few weeks, it was wedding day for Micah and Ben, I was enjoying my morning coffee, reviewing their timeline, when I remembered the cameras. I quickly opened the box and carefully unwrapped each one. I had two that were manual, 4 requiring batteries. Of the 4, I had batteries for 3. Of the 3, one required some corrosion cleaning for the light meter battery box and a replacement battery that I need to special order. I was down to 2, of which one was overheating the batteries. Then there was one- it was in perfect condition, all the buttons seemed to be working, it was the most basic in construction and the motor sounded like it was running smoothly. That was the one I would bring with me. I couldn’t wait to test it.
With high-resolution cameras dominating the world, the Kodak M2 Super 8 brings a nostalgic touch to wedding photography. This 58-year-old camera required little preparation. I previously sourced Super 8 film stock, considering factors like film speed and lighting conditions. Since the M2 Instamatic lacks advanced settings, understanding the limitations and possibilities of the camera was crucial for a successful test shoot- but I was limited with time. With a simple point-and-shoot camera, lacking the manual controls I’m accustomed to, I embraced its limitations as opportunities for creativity. Focusing on composition, framing, and timing to craft images that tell a unique story. One of the advantages of shooting with a Super 8 camera is the candid and intimate feel it brings to the footage. Encourage natural interactions among the couple and guests, allowing the camera to capture genuine emotions. The unpredictability of film adds an element of surprise, making each frame a cherished memory.
As a photographer, sharing the experience of shooting with a 1965 Kodak M2 Super 8 added a unique story to the wedding day. The tiny camera brought a lot of attention, everyone was intrigued. During interactions, I shared that it was vintage, a 58 year old camera and expressed uncertainty regarding the film’s outcome. I conveyed my intent to gift the developed film to the couple if successful, aiming to exceed expectations. Naturally, I shared the backstory of discovering this gem and encouraged others to explore similar hidden treasures. I quickly sent it off for processing and in just a few days it arrived. I was brought to tears- I loved the story it told and immediately shared it with Micah and Ben!
In a world obsessed with the future, with perfection, with bigger-newer-better, there’s profound beauty in looking back and savoring the timeless moments captured on vintage film. With a grainy, warm aesthetic- the Super 8 film evokes a sense of nostalgia that resonates with me. Enjoy!
Film: Kodak VISION3 50D Color Negative Film, 1 – 50′ roll purchased at B&H Photo, you can also purchase them on Amazon here: Kodak Super 8mm
Camera: Kodak M2 Instamatic Movie Camera, 1965
Processed by: Pro8mm
Goodwill: https://www.goodwillfinds.com/
Notes to self: Add more light indoors/dark moments. Slow down a bit, use a second roll. Hold the camera steady to reduce shake.
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