Portapak demonstration video

This 1975 training video, not unlike a contemporary YouTube instructional, explains the operation of the Portapak, the common name for the Sony VideoRover. 

These days, nearly every phone doubles as a sophisticated video camera, making it easier than ever to become a content creator. But in the earliest days of video, the ability to document life was limited to those who could afford it. And the heavy equipment was nothing like the lightweight smartphones we can slip into our pockets now.

Videotape was invented in 1956 and is only used by broadcasters to record and replay television programs. The 2-inch or Quadruplex video recorders (as they were known) filled a room. They eventually got smaller with brands like Sony, Akai, JVC and National manufacturing lighter, more portable options, but still hit the wallet hard. 

The Portapak was the first system for the non-professional user, and it became the most widely used portable video recorder.