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evolution of camcorders
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Betamax
Still considered a pioneer of portable electronics; Sony unveiled the Betamax format in the mid 1970s. The cassettes looked somewhat like the VHS tapes that would rule the industry from the 1980s until DVD made film movies obsolete. -
VHS
This particular model became a favourite because you could shoot straight onto a VHS, pop it out and stick it in your VCR.
Unlike the beta, VHS tapes had two heads, which provided better picture and sound quality. -
Sony Video 8
Sony introduced the Video 8 Handycam. It was a lot smaller and could fit in one hand. But what really set this camcorder apart was the use of a new, smaller 8mm tape.
As the Handycam evolved, an improved version of 8 mm tape with sharper clarity and sound. -
DV recorder
This was the first time a digital recording and playback function became available to the mainstream consumer.
The quality of DV far exceeded the film models available to consumers and eliminated a slew of problems associated with conventional film, such as excessive white noise and tracking problems. -
Digital revolution
By the turn of the 21st century every major camera company had moved to a digital format. The cameras kept getting smaller and the picture brighter. Now, companies like Canon and Panasonic were giving Sony a run for its money.In 2006, Sony unveiled the first 1080i HDV hard drive camcorder. The introduction of high def 1080i put unprecedented picture and sound quality into the hands of average consumers. -
3D Camcorders: The Future of Home Film Making
Earlier this year, Panasonic announced the launch of the first camcorder to film in full 3D. With Sony and Panasonic already bringing 3D filming into the home, it’s only a matter of time before other companies join in. Much like the development of digital recording, don’t be surprised if 3D soon becomes the norm.
