What is the Difference Between Film and Video?

The main difference between film and video lies in the physical nature of the media and the way they are captured, stored, and played back. Here are the key differences:

Physical Nature: Film is a light-readable medium, meaning you can hold a strip of film to a light source and see individual images (called frames). Video, on the other hand, requires a machine to see the content, as it is stored on a tape or other digital media.
Capture and Storage: Film captures a series of images that, when played back at a specific speed, create motion pictures. Video cameras originally stored content on tape-based formats like Beta, VHS, or digital tape like MiniDV. With the advent of digital media, both audio and video are broken down into digital information, allowing for easy manipulation.
Playback: Film is typically projected onto a screen, while video is played back using a machine or digital device. Digital video playback has become the norm compared to film, VCR cassettes, and videotape.
Aesthetic and Purpose: Film production is often associated with a more traditional, cinematic aesthetic and is typically used for narrative storytelling, such as movies or some TV shows. Video production, which emerged with the advent of television, tends to be more focused on immediacy and accessibility, often used for live events, promotions, or educational content.

In summary, film and video differ in their physical nature, capture and storage methods, playback, and the aesthetics and purposes they are associated with. While both forms involve capturing moving images, they use different technologies and techniques to achieve their desired outcomes.