A/V Geeks' collection is managed and curated by Skip Elsheimer who began restoring these transient films from schools, dumpsters, and thrift stores in the 1990s. Despite 16mm films having being introduced over a hundred years ago, A/V Geeks remains committed to saving every piece of historical footage; providing their audience with an in depth outlook into otherwise forgotten events. 

 

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Valentines Card exchange in 1960
1960s: Boy and girl talk on sidewalk, boy holds Valentines card. They go separate ways. / Private Collection / © AV Geeks LLC / Bridgeman Images
What is the A/V Geeks Collection? 
 

In spite of 16mm film being originally designed as a cost-effective alternative to more expensive film, it quickly found its place in educational, industrial, and government settings. As a result, this collection offers a range of footage, including exclusive looks into events such as circus acts to distinguished political moments. 

Bridgeman Images currently holds over 19,500 pieces of footage from the A/V Geeks collection, and we are constantly seeking for further ingestion to expand this archive. The variation of each clip provides a unique glimpse into the social and cultural attitudes at this time through an exclusive viewpoint. 

Since founding A/V Geeks, Skip Elsheimer has successfully digitalised hours of film which would have otherwise been forgotten, making them accessible to the public through their extensive online archive. Additionally, he has helped organise the 'Bastard Film Encounter' in Raleigh, an annual celebration of orphan films that are “ill-conceived or received; embarrassing or beyond the bounds of acceptability; poor in conception or execution; undesirable to those who should be caring for them; proof of something that should have never happened.” 

 

Thanksgiving Dinner in the 1970s
Thanksgiving Dinner, 1970s / Private Collection / © AV Geeks LLC / Bridgeman Images


Discover more from A/V Geeks archival collection

 

A/V Geeks offers a diverse collection, exclusively through Bridgeman Images: 
  • The collection specializes in rescuing, digitizing, and sharing 16mm films to bring old footage back to life. 
  • There are over 19,500 clips within this collection, ranging from both educational films and short films.
  • Historical content is preserved through the collection. 

 

Close up of bees
1960s: Close-up of pollen sac on bumblebee on flower. / Private Collection / © AV Geeks LLC / Bridgeman Images

 

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