Being a book collector long before become a filmmaker of sorts, this book is one I wished existed when I first got into this hobby. In fact, my website is a reflection of my desire to share information on the beauty that we fondly call "super 8." Now, after having witnessed more than 200-odd cameras pass through my hands in one way or another, Juergen Lossau publishes the book "Movie Cameras." Quite simply, it is the definitive guide to small format movie cameras ever published. The only publication that comes close is the complete monthly magazine series published back in the 1970's called "Super 8 Filmaker Magazine." All of those magazines combined would still not capture the entire small format film camera spectrum as well as this book does.

What about Super 8?

Have you ever had the feeling that super 8, over all other makes, models and formats of cameras ever developed in the world, seems to be unduly given basement-level status? I have. I cannot tell you how may laughs I get (or condescending comments) when I mention super 8. Well, finally, after all these years, Juergen has produced a book that ALL small format movie makers can call their own and point out their respective equipment. Whether you like super 8, single 8, double 8mm, 9.5mm, or 16mm, all formats are covered with grace and style. I for one, found it refreshing.

Juergen Lossau's book can easily be considered the penultimate resource on all small format movie cameras and the history behind the companies that produced them. Do not let this book pass you by. Juergen was kind enough to personally autograph my book so you know he is sincere about his craft. This book is a reflection of that same value. Sincerity.

I found this book to be highly informative and readable. Some folks may complain that the text is obviously a translation of the German equivalent, but the book is honest and provides both the original German and the translated English on facing pages. Seeing it this way makes you a little more tolerant of the few akward sentences you may come across.

The book offers incredible photos of the cameras that will not disappoint. Your only wish is that he made the book triple the length (already over 500 pages) with one camera per page photos. However, even better, he made it look a lot like a webpage or coffee table book in its design. And it works. Huge images of cameras intermixed on the same page as the text. I enjoyed it immensely. Unlike other books, you will return to this book again and again. Afterall, others may find it strange that you continually enjoy watching TV through your favorite super 8 camera all night long. Now you have a book that feeds this same need and makes you look normal.

I encourage you to check out this book and be sure to tell him that I sent you. It helps to build goodwill within the small format film community and that's exactly what this website is all about.

You can find the book at this website: www.atollmedien.de.

Cheers,
Michael
Happy Film Shooting!