HDV camcorder shoots documentary footage of Mt. Kilimanjaro

Twelve mountain climbers shot footage of their recent ascent of Mt. Kilimanjaro for a planned documentary with the Sony's HVR-A1U HDV compact camcorder.

Climbing the 19,340ft mountain is physically demanding, so camera weight and size were as critical to the success of the project as the quality of the footage the group shot.

The climbers found the camera’s on-screen menus to be convenient. The touch-screen pre-sets saved time and made it easy to pull the camera out during the climb, quickly check and adjust the settings and get the desired shot before pocketing the camera and resuming the climb.

The climbers used Sony's DigitalMaster professional videotape for the project. The Sony camcorder and DigitalMaster tape were subjected to a range of conditions during the expedition.

The team is currently in discussions with PBS for a broadcast deal.

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