Zeiss Ikon Movikon 8: A Small Primer for Cine Fans

Introduction to the Movikon 8

The Zeiss Ikon Movikon 8 is an 8mm cine-camera featuring an entirely new design. Backed by 50 years of experience in cine apparatus, it is the first cine-camera of its shape, previously reserved for miniature still-cameras. Its manipulation is designed to be easy to master, offering a perfectly firm and steady hold due to its compact design and convenient arrangement of operating knobs. This makes it simple to concentrate on filming. The Movikon 8 meets the demands of both beginners and advanced, discriminating film amateurs.

Special Features of the Movikon 8

The most distinctive feature is its new shape, achieved by arranging spool bobbins parallel to the optical axis of the lens. This construction is key to the camera's holding and operation. The camera body is made of light alloy, consisting of two parts that fit tightly together, safely protecting the mechanism and film. The front part houses the lens, spring motor, operating elements, and driving mechanism. The back panel contains the footage indicator, part of the viewfinder, and the lock for the camera back.

Lens: The MOVITAR 1/1.9-10 mm lens, composed of four elements, provides needle-sharp definition and a bright projection of the film. The lens is colour-corrected, and all its surfaces are T-coated.

Lens Mount: Filters can be screwed into the lens mount. The lens is deeply set into the camera body, negating the need for a separate lens hood.

Diaphragm: The lens features clickstops to prevent accidental displacement of the diaphragm settings. Settings are marked twice for easy reading in any camera position. The diaphragm settings range from f/1.9 to f/16.

Distance Setting: The lens allows distance settings from infinity down to 8 inches (20 cm) without supplementary lenses. When set to the red dot (red-dot setting) and used at full aperture, objects from 5'9" (1.77 m) to infinity are recorded sharply, eliminating the need for constant focusing.

Viewfinder: The optical eye-level viewfinder offers a clear view of the entire image field, suitable even for glasses wearers. Positioned vertically above the lens, it excludes horizontal parallax. At distances under 3'3" (1 m), vertical parallax is also prevented. Special reference marks within the viewfinder field indicate necessary parallax corrections.

Operating Components

Key operating components include:

• 1. Winding Key for Spring-Driven Motor: Used to wind the camera's motor.
• 2. Release Knob: Shifts to the right to start the motor. Can be locked in position.
• 3. Viewfinder: Eye-level optical viewfinder.
• 4. Socket for Cable Release: For attaching a cable release.
• 5. Footage Indicator: Shows remaining film length.
• 6. Change-over Knob: For switching between motion pictures (L) and single-frame shots (E).
• 7. Diaphragm Scale: Marks for aperture settings.
• 8. Marks for Red-Dot Setting: Indicates the red-dot focusing position.
• 9. Lens: The MOVITAR 1/1.9-10 mm lens.
• 10. Distance Scale: Marks for focusing distances.
• Rotating Shutter: Features a large open sector for fluent recording of fast movement.
• Frame Frequency: Controlled at 16 frames per second.
• Cable Release Socket: For single pictures or motion pictures.
• Tripod Bush: Located on the base for tripod mounting.

Preparations for Shooting

Winding the Spring Motor

The spring-driven motor is wound by turning the winding key clockwise. It runs for at least 5 feet of film, approximately half a minute. A peculiar noise indicates when the motor is running down, allowing the user to continue filming without interruption. It is recommended to wind the motor fully after each shooting session.

Detaching the Camera Back

The camera back can be detached by turning the locking device (19), granting access to the film gate and spool chamber. This should only be done in subdued light when loading or changing film. The back can only be removed after the film leader has passed the film gate.

Loading the Camera

The Movikon 8 uses 25 ft x 8 mm double-run spools, providing approximately 8 minutes of screening time. To load:

1. Open the camera back and film gate.
2. Remove the empty spool and thread the beginning of the new spool into the fixing slot of the empty spool, securing it with the spring.
3. Insert the film into the film channel, directing the new spool towards the viewfinder and the empty spool towards the camera base.
4. Close the film gate and ensure the focusing frame is also closed.
5. Check film position by gently pulling it towards the empty spool.
6. Place the fresh spool onto the left spindle (feed reel) and the empty spool onto the right spindle (take-up reel).
7. Operate the release knob briefly to ensure correct film running and loop formation.
8. Replace the camera back, ensuring the viewfinder side is attached first. Make sure film loops are not squeezed.

This procedure is also followed when changing film after half its length has been exposed.

Leaders at Start and End of Film

The leader of the unused film must be run through the camera to protect the film from light. Leaders at the start and end are marked on the footage indicator by parallel lines. Position "0" on the footage dial signifies the entire film has been exposed.

Focusing and Exposure

Setting of Distance

For close-ups under 3.6 ft, careful distance setting is required. Otherwise, use the red-dot technique. The lens is focused by turning the milled ring until the pointer indicates the desired distance. The camera markings refer to the distance between the subject and the focal plane. For close-ups, measure from the joint between the front and back parts of the camera to the subject.

Setting of Diaphragm

Turn the diaphragm setting ring until its mark aligns with the required aperture marking. The iris diaphragm has click stops at f/1.9, f/2.8, f/4, f/5.6, f/8, f/11, and f/16. The shutter speed is fixed at 1/25 sec, so the aperture must be adjusted according to lighting conditions and film speed. An electric exposure meter like the Zeiss Ikon IKOPHOT is recommended for accurate aperture settings.

Lighting

Beginners should avoid harsh lighting. Shadows can be softened using reflections from white paper or tablecloths. Artificial light requires the Universal Lighting Equipment MOVILOM.

Shooting

Hold the camera firmly to prevent jerky images. Avoid tilting the camera. For panning (moving the camera to follow a subject), do so slowly and evenly, avoiding pendulous movements. Frame the correct outline of the object in the viewfinder, as post-exposure correction is impossible.

Motion Picture Action: Set the change-over knob (6) to 'L' for motion pictures. The film speed is 16 frames per second, with an exposure time of 1/25 sec.

Single Picture Action: Set the change-over knob (6) to 'E' for single frames (trick photography, time-lapse). The exposure time is 1/25 sec. A cable release is recommended for single frame shots, and the camera should be on a tripod.

The Exposure

Shifting the release knob (2) to the right starts the spring-driven motor. A quarter turn of the release knob in the rest position prevents unintentional release. The knob can be locked in the release position when set to 'L', allowing the operator to be in the picture.

A cable release can be screwed into the threaded socket (4) for easier operation, especially for trick films or when using a self-timer.

How to Hold the Camera

Filming with the Hand-Held Camera

Most general shots can be taken without a tripod due to the camera's convenient shape, allowing a firm grip in both hands. During exposure, vertical lines of the subject should align with the viewfinder's lateral edges. When panning, move the camera slowly and evenly.

Exposures from a Tripod

A tripod can be used for trick, time-lapse, and single pictures. The camera is equipped with a tripod bush (18) on its base.

Attachment of Accessories

Besides the tripod bush, there are two holes (17) on the camera base for attaching accessories.

Accessories

Lens Attachments

The MOVITELAR (2x) is a tele-attachment extending the focal length to 20 mm. The MOVIGONAR (0.5x) is a wide-angle attachment reducing it to 5 mm. The f/1.9 speed remains unchanged. Each attachment comes with a special finder and lens hood in a case.

Ever-Ready Cases

Two cases are available for protecting the Movikon 8: an elegant soft leather bag with a zip fastener, neck sling, and carrying strap, and an attractive solid leather case for more demanding conditions. The leather case accommodates two filters.

Zeiss Ikon Precision Filters

Colour filters are available for tonal value correction in black and white films. These include yellow, yellow-green, orange, red, ultraviolet, and neutral grey filters. When using filters, the exposure meter reading must be adjusted according to the filter factor.

Exposure Meter

The photo-electric exposure meter, IKOPHOT, features a setting mark indicating the exposure time of the Movikon 8, allowing the user to determine the correct lens aperture regardless of lighting conditions or whether daylight or artificial light is used.

Titling and Lighting Equipment

MOVITRIS

The MOVITRIS titling equipment is used for producing titles and trick-films, allowing for various title styles and trick-film patterns.

Effects Box

The titling outfit and lighting equipment can be complemented by a light-hood into an "effects box" (compendium).

MOVILOM

The MOVILOM makes filming with artificial light independent of tripods and other lamps. It is equipped with 2, 4, or 6 reflectors and can be screwed firmly to the Movikon 8, allowing for easy tracking of moving objects without insufficient lighting. Using Photo-floods in reflection for close-ups can lighten shadows and add a "Hollywood" touch.

Hints for Beginners

Planning

The screen is ideal for imagination. Beginners often film whatever comes to mind, but planning your film beforehand enhances pleasure. Keep a note of ideas as they occur. For entertaining short films, ensure continuity by linking sequences. A script helps organize ideas, bridge gaps with close-ups, and detail scene contents, reproduction scale, lighting, and transitions.

Prior to Shooting

Wind the spring-driven motor until it stops, similar to winding a watch, to prevent interruptions during filming.

Distance Setting

For close-ups under 3.6 ft, careful distance setting is required. Otherwise, use the red-dot technique.

Aperture

Determine the correct aperture based on film speed, subject brightness, and filter factors. Using the electric exposure meter (IKOPHOT) is the best method.

Shooting

Hold the camera firmly to avoid jerky images and do not tilt it. Panning should be done slowly and evenly. Frame the object correctly in the viewfinder, as post-exposure correction is impossible. For single frame shots (trick/time-lapse), use a cable release and a tripod.

Editing

Self-criticism is essential for good films. Telling a story properly is key. Bad pictures due to incorrect settings must be cut. The Zeiss Ikon film editor MOVISCOP helps project the film and mark passages for editing.

Hints and Tables

How to Take Care of Your Camera

Clean the camera regularly, paying special attention to the film track with a soft brush when the film gate is open. Avoid dust on the picture gate. Remove emulsion deposits with a wooden stick, never a metallic object.

The 8 mm Double Run Spools

The Movikon 8 uses 25 ft x 8 mm double-run spools (black-and-white or colour), which are reversal films processed into positives. The exposure latitude is limited, requiring accurate exposure, preferably with an electric exposure meter.

Depth of Field Table

The following table shows depth of field ranges for the MOVITAR f/1.9, f=10 mm lens at various distance settings and apertures:

Note: The distance settings indicated refer to the distance between the focal plane (the separating line of the two camera parts) and the object.

Object Sizes

The following table shows the size of the picture field for the MOVIKON 8 with MOVITAR f/1.9, f=10 mm lens at various settings:

Serial Number and Warranty

Serial Number

A serial number is engraved on the base of every MOVIKON 8 for ownership proof. Small changes compared to the description may occur due to technical progress.

Serial Number: B.75813

Lens Number: 2944694

Date: 18.9.57

Certificate of Warranty

The instrument is a genuine product of ZEISS IKON AG, STUTTGART. It has been fully tested, inspected, and adjusted, and is guaranteed against mechanical and manufacturing defects in conformity with the terms of sale. Authorized distributors certify proper importation and payment of customs duty.