Here is a basic guide to, and some tips for, reversal film
16 mm Film Stock
Much of 16 mm film is labeled by the processes and uses of that film. One popular film stock is reversal film, and it gets its name from the way that it captures and image. Reversal film ends up as one of the more common types of 16 mm film stock, especially if it is not going to be imported into a non-linear video editing system and instead projected directly after processing and development.
Reversal Film Option
The reason that 16 mm reversal film can be projected immediately is that is has an alternative development paradigm and gives a positive image that can be projected directly. Negative film tends to be the more common mode now because film is really only used for thematic projects and not for home movies as much. If you are going to film a home movie today you will likely secure video equipment that is more in line with prosumer standards, such as SD digital video or HD digital video.
Reason for Reversal
What this means for those who are going to film on reversal film is that you have a lot more control over what you end up shooting because you can watch the footage much more quickly. This is why it is often a film school standard for those who are learning how to shoot on film. This actually creates a market problem for reversal film as those who intend to learn the craft often shoot on a format that is more financially forgiving, such as digital video. This ends up leaving the reversal film in a very small niche.
Filming with Reversal Film
Many of the same principles for shooting other types of 16 mm film are true of reversal film. Make sure that you use a well sealed camera, and even in this situation you may want to secure it with gaffers tape if you are going to be in direct sunlight.
Try to stabilize the image and load the reversal film in a darker location before filming. Try to avoid any trauma to the camera because this can dislodge the reversal film or make it a victime to outside light. Make sure that the camera you are filming with is free of any defects or lingering settings that may disrupt your film.
Reversal film remains expensive, often over twenty dollars for film and processing for a mere three minute segment.