Why UK TV Shows in the 1970s and 1980s Used Film for Outdoor Scenes and Video for Indoor Ones

In the 1970s and 1980s, UK television production was characterized by a unique aesthetic that often saw outdoor scenes shot on film while indoor scenes were captured on video. This practice, while seemingly outdated in today's digital age, was a necessity driven by a combination of technical limitations, quality preferences, practical considerations, and legacy. Let's delve into the reasons behind this distinctive approach and its impact on the visual identity of UK TV shows during this era.

Technical Limitations

One of the main reasons for the use of film and video in different contexts was the technical limitations of the time. In the early 1970s and 1980s, video technology (especially the use of 2-inch quad tape) was more common for live broadcasting and studio productions. This was due to several advantages that video offered:

Immediate playback and editing: Video could be recorded, played back, and edited in real-time, making it highly practical for live events and studios. Cost-effective for studio production: Video was less expensive and more practical for setting up and breaking down in studio environments.

Film Quality

Film, on the other hand, was the go-to medium for outdoor scenes due to its superior image quality. Key reasons for choosing film included:

Superior image quality: Film provided better depth of color, dynamic range, and overall image fidelity. This was particularly important for capturing the natural lighting and finer details in outdoor settings. Timeless aesthetic appeal: The look of film was more cinematic and captured a certain visual style that remained unattainable with video technology at the time.

Aesthetic Choices

The use of film for outdoor scenes and video for indoor ones was not merely a technical decision but often a deliberate choice by filmmakers and producers. The contrasting visual styles served a specific purpose:

Outdoor vs. Indoor Contrast: Outdoor scenes shot on film lent a more cinematic and natural feel, capturing the true essence of the external environment. Indoor scenes on video, meanwhile, created a more immediate and intimate atmosphere, mirroring the close-up, television-centric shots. Differentiating Storytelling: This visual division helped to narrate different aspects of the story. For instance, outdoor film scenes could convey a broader, more sweeping narrative, while indoor video scenes could delve into character details, building intimacy and emotional connections.

Cost and Practicality

Cost and practicality were significant factors in the decision to use different mediums for different scenes. Producing content on film required considerable resources:

Costly and time-consuming: Film required processing, and the limitations of film stock meant that multiple takes were needed, as well as specific lighting conditions. Cost-effective for video: Video allowed for quicker and more flexible production, which was particularly valuable for sitcoms and drama series with multiple takes in a single location.

Legacy and Tradition

The practice of using film for outdoor scenes and video for indoor ones became an industry standard. This legacy has influenced the visual style of many UK TV shows, even as technology has evolved. The stylistic choices made during this era continue to shape the look and feel of television production.

Overall, the use of both film and video allowed producers to achieve a balance between quality, cost, and practicality. This unique combination resulted in a distinctive look that characterized many television productions of the 1970s and 1980s, leaving an indelible mark on the history of UK TV production techniques.

Conclusion

The use of film for outdoor scenes and video for indoor ones was a strategic choice influenced by technical, aesthetic, and practical considerations. This practice not only shaped the unique visual identity of 1970s and 1980s UK TV shows but also laid the groundwork for modern television production.