19 free film grain overlays for video editors and filmmakers

While digital video is convenient, cheap to produce, and allows for much quicker content creation, it’s also very clean. The image doesn’t degrade, and it can’t be scratched. Although this is often a good thing, a big chunk of the filmmaking community still stands by old-fashioned film. But it’s expensive to buy, shoot with, and develop film. So that’s where film grain video overlays come in handy.

8mm, 16mm, and 35mm film has imperfections and warmth that are very different from today’s almost sterile digital video. Sometimes, you might need to show an old film effect if the narrative calls for it. Fortunately, digital film scans can be used as overlays to enhance your digital video and give it a vintage, cinematic feel that will add depth and character to the image.

There are plenty of film grain overlays available, both premium and free. Here, Motion Array has listed 19 popular free film grain downloads, followed by some tips on incorporating them into your own video projects.

Summary

• Part 1: 19 amazing film grain overlays to download for free

• Part 2: How to apply film grain video overlays to your video

Part 1: 19 amazing film grain overlays to download for free

1. Free Film Overlay

This free stock video overlay from Motion Array can be imported directly into your video editor. Drop it over your footage on the timeline, set the blending mode to Overlay, and there you have it — instantly degrade your footage to give it that old-fashioned film look.

Download Free Film Overlay Pack by Motion Array Now

2. 8mm Film Grain Pack