How to Estimate the Length of Film Reels
Many home movies from the 1920s through the 1980s are on film reels in formats including Regular 8, Super 8, and 16mm. Unfortunately, these film reels are difficult to view and can decay so severely that they can no longer be digitized for the future.
Even if you find a working projector, you have to be careful that the sprockets don’t tear the sprocket holes and the hot bulb doesn’t melt the film or catch it on fire. To enjoy these memories again, we digitize them at high definition (1440 x 1080) using a gentle process with no sprockets, claws, pinch rollers, or hot bulbs.
We start every film conversion project by estimating the length of the film, which we use to calculate the price of the conversion. We give very accurate estimates by measuring the diameter of each reel in inches. There are many differences between Regular 8, Super 8, and 16mm film, but this estimating trick works the same on all three formats. Use this table to estimate the length of your film reels or bring them into our studio. We’re happy to give you a give you a free estimate.
| Diameter in Inches | Feet of Film | Estimated Running Time |
| 3 | 50 | 3-4 minutes |
| 4 | 100 | 7-8 minutes |
| 5 | 200 | 14-16 minutes |
| 6 | 300 | 21-24 minutes |
| 7 | 400 | 28-32 minutes |
| 8 | 600 | 42-48 minutes |
| 10 | 800 | 56-64 minutes |
If you’re interested in working with Chaos to Memories on your film conversion project you can learn more on our Film Conversion Services Page.
Interested in working with Chaos to Memories?
If you’re near Chicago and ready to get started, come visit our Wheaton Studio Monday – Friday, 10-5. Please bring your memories with you.
If you live outside the Chicagoland area, contact us for more information, shipping instructions, and to get started on your project.