You may not realize it, but you probably unconsciously date video footage based on the resolution. The higher the definition, the newer you assume the footage is, which is why this HD video of New York City recorded in 1993 just looks strange.
It’s like the psychological concept of cognitive dissonance… if it applied to video resolution.
According to the video description, the stock video footage was capture by JVC for the Japanese HD market, possibly for a LaserDisc demo. “For those wondering what HD video camera tech existed in 1993—there are a few options, but it’s likely that this footage was shot with a HDVS camera,” writes YouTube user Youtube Pedant. “Perhaps a Sony SONY HDC-500 attached to a HDV-10 portable recorder which recorded on UniHi 3/4″ tape.”
If you’re curious, you can find out more about ‘When HD came to VHS’ in this video:
But as interesting as the history lesson is, the reel itself is what’s most striking. It’s one of the clearest windows we have into New York life in 1993. From the street art, to Times Square, to Central Park, to the Twin Towers—enjoy this blast from the past… in HD.
(via Fstoppers)
