High Definition

[triswebb]

Hi all,

I have a quick question regarding High definition cameras and am appealing to people out there that use one! With Sonys iminent launch of the hand held HD camera (HDR-HC1) I am considering holding back a little longer and going for it. My question being, if I understand correctly I will not be able to watch my video without specialist equipment or through the camera itself? Is it possible to capture HD video onto a computer then record it on a standard DVD in slightly lower quality and hence still watch it?

Thanks,

Tristan

 

[ScubaRandy]

Hi all,

I have a quick question regarding High definition cameras and am appealing to people out there that use one! With Sonys iminent launch of the hand held HD camera (HDR-HC1) I am considering holding back a little longer and going for it. My question being, if I understand correctly I will not be able to watch my video without specialist equipment or through the camera itself? Is it possible to capture HD video onto a computer then record it on a standard DVD in slightly lower quality and hence still watch it?

Thanks,

Tristan

As far as Sony launching this soon, I wouldn't hold my breath. Sony has a tendency to hype products up and taking their time about releasing it. Having been involved in TV Broadcasting for over 25 years, I've seen it time and time again.

As far as taking a HD source and then outputting it into SD (Standard Definition), it is certainly possible. I would recommend getting a computer with some non-linear editing software on it (Final Cut HD, Adobe Premiere Pro). There are a couple of HD capture cards out now that will do the job. My personal fav are the cards from Blackmagic Design. They are at www.blackmagic-design.com .

Hope this helps, and good luck!

 

[ScubaBob92651]

As far as Sony launching this soon, I wouldn't hold my breath. Sony has a tendency to hype products up and taking their time about releasing it. Having been involved in TV Broadcasting for over 25 years, I've seen it time and time again.

As far as taking a HD source and then outputting it into SD (Standard Definition), it is certainly possible. I would recommend getting a computer with some non-linear editing software on it (Final Cut HD, Adobe Premiere Pro). There are a couple of HD capture cards out now that will do the job. My personal fav are the cards from Blackmagic Design. They are at www.blackmagic-design.com .

Hope this helps, and good luck!

At least with the FX1/Z1 (and HD1/HD10U for that matter) you get either true 16:9 (in the case of the JVC) or anamorphic (for Sony) 16:9. I believe the HC1 is at best 4:3 1440x1080?

Don't get me wrong - when I saw the HC1 I instantly though "Yes! A HDV cam for diving!" - but I think it may fall short in terms of HDV. Compared to shooting 4:3 SD DV - yes, the HC1 may be a better option (though the jury is still out on the single CMOS vs. 3CCD debate). The way I see it, if you want HDV right now, go with the Fx1/Z1. If you want to wait for a smaller package, hold out for one with either a 3CCD 1280x720p cam, or a 1920x1080 (interlaced at a minimum, but progressive should quickly follow).

 

[triswebb]

As ever thankyou for all your advice ! This helps greatly.

Tristan