| Camera Name: | Handycam |
| Maker: | Sony |
| Type: | Camcorder |
| Made In: | Japan |
| Predecessor: | Betamovie |
| Vidrecord: | Various formats; see § Models |
Handycam is a line of camcorders made by Sony and introduced in 1985.
Handycam was first used as the name of the first Video8 camcorder in 1985, replacing Sony's previous line of Betamax-based models of camcorders. The name was intended to emphasize the "handy" palm size nature of the camera, made possible by the then-new miniaturized tape format. This was in contrast to the larger, shoulder mounted cameras made before the creation of Video8, as well as competing smaller formats such as VHS-C.
Sony has continued to produce Handycams[1] in a variety of guises ever since, developing the Video8 format to produce Hi8 (equivalent to S-VHS quality) and later Digital8, as well as adopting MiniDV and MiniDVD, using the same basic format to record digital video. The Handycam label continues to be applied as recording formats evolve.
Select flagship Sony Handycam models feature infrared night-vision dubbed NightShot (often referred to as "NightShot Plus") which utilizes an infrared light-emitting diode and an infrared filter that is mechanically attached, and detached to the sensor in order to enable the camcorder to record video footage in complete darkness ("Nightshot 0 lux").[2] This feature became popular with paranormal investigators on Travel Channel's Ghost Adventures.
MiniDV tape Handycam camcorders record a time code and video recording parameters (such as light sensitivity (in dB), aperture, exposure time, and info) on an additional meta data track on the tape.[3]