Importing video from vintage DCR

Is there a way to import video from an older DVR camera? I have a Sony DCR-VTR315 cam corder that I want to import video from. My 2012 Mac pro desktop will recognize the camera and iMovie but my new 2023 MacBook Pro will not. I’m assuming the camera is no longer supported by the new OS. Is there a workaround to download video from this camera into the MacBook?

MacBook Pro 16″, macOS 13.5

Posted on Sep 21, 2023 10:18 AM

Reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Sep 21, 2023 11:16 AM

Hi,


Most tape based digital cameras are supported by iMovie. However, it can be somewhat hit or miss. Sometimes the import works and sometimes it doesn't.


Take a look at this link and see if there is anything in there that helps you.


Importing mini DV tape from Sony Handy-ca… - Apple Community


The most frequent cause of non-recognition of the camera is faulty cables or adapters. You need a firewire cable coming out of the Sony that connects to the Thunderbolt socket of your 2023 Mac via the necessary adapters. The above link explains more about it.


Meanwhile, try toggling the camera on and off to see if you can trigger recognition. Try starting the camera playing before beginning the import. Check that all cable connections and adapters are tight.


-- Rich






1 reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Sep 21, 2023 11:16 AM in response to Hunterjo612

Hi,


Most tape based digital cameras are supported by iMovie. However, it can be somewhat hit or miss. Sometimes the import works and sometimes it doesn't.


Take a look at this link and see if there is anything in there that helps you.


Importing mini DV tape from Sony Handy-ca… - Apple Community


The most frequent cause of non-recognition of the camera is faulty cables or adapters. You need a firewire cable coming out of the Sony that connects to the Thunderbolt socket of your 2023 Mac via the necessary adapters. The above link explains more about it.


Meanwhile, try toggling the camera on and off to see if you can trigger recognition. Try starting the camera playing before beginning the import. Check that all cable connections and adapters are tight.


-- Rich






This thread has been closed by the system or the community team. You may vote for any posts you find helpful, or search the Community for additional answers.

Importing video from vintage DCR

Welcome to Apple Support Community
A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple Account.