Sony’s HVR-Z7U and S270U HDV high-definition camera products were used in production of “Woodstock: Now and Then,” a documentary that aired on both History and VH1 networks. HDV technology was selected by director/producer Barbara Kopple, based on its versatility and ability to produce high quality images, even in changing shooting conditions.
“We’re documentary filmmakers; we shoot in every possible environment,” Kopple said. “In the span of minutes we’d be shooting a concert performance in the back of a large and well-lit club on sticks and then have to make adjustments for hand-held shots in low-light backstage corridors. The Z7U and S270U are so versatile, there isn’t much they can’t do.”
Kopple’s documentary examines the three-day 1969 Woodstock music festival from the perspective of musicians who played, fans who attended, and the event’s organizers and promoters.
“Woodstock: Now and Then” also relied on historic footage that was intercut with the HDV images.
“It was never a concern that playing both film and HDV would be jarring for the viewer because they look like the same movie,” she said. “These cameras give a wonderful ‘film’ look, that's crisp but never cold.”
Kopple’s production aired on Aug. 14 on VH1, and was seen on History on Aug. 17.
