Digital Video: Essential for TV

Countless tv shows & documentaries are using digital video. The new question is whether it’s in HD or standard DV.
TLC (The Learning Channel) is a pioneer of HD programs. They are the first to use the new Panasonic AJ-HD1400.

From DV.com:
“Logistically, American Chopper as well as our other shows can be challenging,” Piligian said. “From inside industrial factories to hot desert settings to big Hollywood events, we shoot in a variety of environments. The HDX900 has been an overall workhorse camera. We are running these cameras at full force for eight to 10 hours a day in every type of environment, and they respond with great HD images every step of the way.”

Piligian explained that in post, the tapes are downconverted to mini-DV using the Panasonic AJ-HD1400 and the AJ-HD1200A DVCPRO HD decks for play back. The SD tapes are digitized into an Avid Unity, and shows are edited on Avid Media Composer Meridiens.”

It seems that HDV is the way of the future for television. It makes sense for the nature of their programs that they want to provide the best quality image. They provide non-fiction programs where their facts are highly scrutinized. HD helps them become more legitimate and a forerunner of new technology. The production company for “American Chopper”, Pilgrim Films, had been testing out cameras for three years. They’ve had to compare prices on camcorders, so as to find the best value for their production and post production needs. In other words, the buyer really needs to know what type of camcorder user they will be. And then, they can focus on the best deal. If you just want a camera for personal use, then this Panasonic camcorder is probably not a good choice.

Related posts:

1. The Sound of the Crowd
2. Dual Digital
3. Behind the Scenes
4. British Camcorders
5. Spy Bear