In filmmaking, there are two major camera formats. The first is the Super 35 format and the second is the Full Frame format. Of course, this isn’t a hard rule because you can get other formats such as VistaVision but for simplicity’s sake, we’ll just focus on these two.
Super 35 vs Full Frame: What’s the difference?
The formal definition of “super” or film-type has been defined by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences as 35mm wide film running vertically through the camera, creating a widescreen image with an aspect ratio of 1.33:1 (also called 4:3).
In this context, “super” is both an abbreviation for the larger negative area and a reference to the fact that it exceeds conventional cinema’s standard 24-frame width.
While many still cameras used film which was much smaller than super-35mm in size, most professional motion picture cameras were “super” because they used a 35mm wide format.
About the Super 35 format
This allows for more “space” which gives the freedom to go for either a wider frame or to zoom into something without actually zooming optically.
The reason why most films don’t look like this comes down to economics: Super 35 cameras were rare and so they were only used on big-budget films with high production values.
About the Full-Frame Format
On the full-frame side, the format has been widely used by still photography cameras although it is also possible to achieve this size using motion picture cameras just as it can be done with super 35.
However, unlike the super-35 format, full-frame has been around for a long time and is widely used by many DSLR cameras which are quite affordable nowadays.
The technical definition of “full-frame” has been defined by George Lucas in 1982 as being a camera with an image size approximating the old silent “non-anamorphic” film standard, thus resulting in an aspect ratio close to square 1:1 or 4:3/16:9.
Full frame is also often less expensive than Super 35 because it uses smaller sensors that are easier to manufacture. However, despite this fact, full-frame is still superior due to its ability to produce better image quality at high ISO speeds (something that’s really important in low-light conditions).
Lens availability
When choosing between the two formats, it’s important to consider the availability of lenses. Full-frame lenses are often more expensive, but there is a wider range of options available. Super 35 lenses, on the other hand, are more budget-friendly, but there may be limitations in terms of availability.
Depth of Field
Full-frame cameras have a shallower depth of field, which can be an advantage in certain situations. However, this can also make it more difficult to keep everything in focus, especially when shooting at wider apertures.
Crop Factor
When using a full-frame camera, you need to take into account the crop factor, which can affect the effective focal length of your lenses. This may not be an issue for all types of shooting, but it’s something to keep in mind.
Low Light Performance
Full-frame cameras generally perform better in low-light situations due to their larger sensors. This can be an advantage when shooting in challenging lighting conditions.
Image Quality
While full-frame cameras generally produce better image quality, this isn’t always the case. There are many factors that can affect image quality, including lens quality, sensor technology, and post-processing techniques.
Super 35 vs full frame: Differences beyond the aspect ratio
Beyond the aspect ratio, there are also other differences between super 35 and full-frame. For example, while each camera has its own advantages when it comes to low-light or high-speed shooting, one of the key benefits of using a full-frame format is that it allows you to shoot with faster lenses.
This makes sense because since they’re not using an imaging chip which needs to “zoom”, due to physics, the maximum aperture will be constant across all focal lengths.
Full Frame sensors are bigger than Super35 ones; Full Frame sensors can produce better results at higher ISO speeds (e.g. shooting in low light with less noise); Full frame cameras don’t need as “fast” (i.e. expensive) lenses as super35; Super 35 is more budget-friendly and it’s easier to find lenses for that format; Super35 has a wider variety of sensors and you can get them with different aspect ratios (4:3, 16:9, etc.).
Why use super 35 vs full frame?
The reason for that is that full-frame costs more to manufacture and buy because it has a bigger sensor that produces sharper images with less noise(grain).
In addition, most cameras have their crop factor which means they don’t have a sensor size of 36mmX24mm but smaller sizes such as 24mmX14.9mm in the case of Canon’s 5D Mark II
Super 35 vs full frame: Drawbacks
One of the main drawbacks when using Super 35 is that if you want to use anamorphic lenses, then you will only get the horizontal equivalent of that lens. This means that for example, your 50mm lens will act like a 25mm(telephoto) rather than normal since the sensor is narrower horizontally.
On the other hand, full-frame cameras such as Arri’s Alexa suffer from another drawback and that is because it has an extremely high sensitivity to green light.. Why green?
Well, this happens due to Bayer filters on digital sensors which can only measure red, green, or blue light separately.
As you might imagine, this creates some moiré and color artifacts when using lenses designed for super-35 (which usually don’t have these problems).
So which should I use?
Well, it depends on what your needs and preferences are but if we had to choose between the two, we’d definitely go full-frame.
It allows for more creativity and the image quality is just so much better than any other camera around this price range. And since many models come with an interchangeable-lens system, they’re a great tool for photographers as well as videographers.
On the other hand, some filmmakers might prefer to go with super 35mm because it’s a more affordable option and you can get different kinds of aspect ratios without wasting too much money on lenses.
Also, many people have been using this format for years so chances are that there will be more lenses and accessories available in the future.
So why not both?
Well, unfortunately, it’s not that easy to find full-frame cameras within a decent price range… But if you have the option to rent, then it’s definitely worth trying them out.
In addition, both formats can be used simultaneously (i.e. digital full-frame for the wide shots and super35 for close-ups) or you can always change between them as you please during the editing process.
FAQ
Can you use Super 35 and Full Frame lenses interchangeably?
It depends on the camera you’re using. Some cameras have interchangeable lens mounts, allowing you to use lenses from either format. However, most cameras are designed for specific lens mounts, so you’ll need to check your camera’s specifications to see which lenses are compatible.
Are there any other camera formats besides Super 35 and Full Frame?
Yes, there are many other camera formats, including APS-C, Micro Four Thirds, and Medium Format. Each format has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to choose the right format for your needs.
Can you use Super 35 or Full Frame lenses on a camera with a different sensor size?
Yes, you can use lenses from either format on a camera with a different sensor size, but the effective focal length will be different. For example, a Full Frame lens on an APS-C camera will have a crop factor of 1.5x or 1.6x, depending on the brand.
Is Full Frame always better than Super 35?
No, Full Frame is not always better than Super 35. Each format has its own strengths and weaknesses, and the best format for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
What are some popular Full Frame and Super 35 cameras?
Some popular Full Frame cameras include the Sony A7 series, Canon EOS R series, and Nikon Z series. Popular Super 35 cameras include the Arri Alexa, Red Scarlet, and Sony FS7.
Do you need a special lens to shoot anamorphic on a Super 35 camera?
Yes, you will need a special anamorphic lens to shoot anamorphic on a Super 35 camera. Anamorphic lenses are designed to squeeze the image horizontally, allowing you to capture a wider field of view. When you de-squeeze the image in post-production, you get a widescreen image with a unique “anamorphic look.”
Final Words
In conclusion, the choice between Super 35 and Full Frame format largely depends on your individual needs and preferences.
While Full Frame cameras may produce the better image quality and allow for more creative freedom, they can be more expensive and have limitations such as crop factor.
On the other hand, Super 35 cameras are more budget-friendly and have a wider variety of sensors and lenses available. Ultimately, the decision between the two formats should be made based on your specific project requirements and budget constraints.
However, both formats offer unique advantages and can even be used together for maximum flexibility.
