Black and White > Color

[Dre\/\/]

Is it possible to convert some black and white video clips to color?

I have several security cameras at my place and some are color and others are black and white. For evidence purposes it is easier to present color video rather than black and white.
I would like to be able to convert them obviously so I can have the original in black and white and the color ones for more detail. I have no idea if this is possible, let alone cost effective. I do want to explore this though as I do know how much color cameras cost.
I have done some research but didn't find any concrete evidence supporting yes or no. All advice is appreciated.

Thanks.

[makntraks]

Is it possible to convert some black and white video clips to color?

I have several security cameras at my place and some are color and others are black and white. For evidence purposes it is easier to present color video rather than black and white.
I would like to be able to convert them obviously so I can have the original in black and white and the color ones for more detail. I have no idea if this is possible, let alone cost effective. I do want to explore this though as I do know how much color cameras cost.
I have done some research but didn't find any concrete evidence supporting yes or no. All advice is appreciated.

Thanks.

If it ain't there to begin with, it ain't happening.. How would software even begin to know what colors belonged where???
You'd need to "colorize" each frame.... by hand I would imagine...

makntraks

[Dre\/\/]

That's what I thought, but I had to ask.
I want to explore all avenues before spending that kind of money on new cameras.

Thanks for the quick reply.

[dphirschler]

Plus for "evidence" purposes, an altered video will not likely hold much weight in court.


Darryl

[andkiich]

Before modifying any of the security tape footage, I'd consult a lawyer.

If you were presenting something like that to a jury and I were on that jury. I'd figure, if you have the ability to "colorize" a video, then what other cool "tricks" might have you done to the "original".

[Dre\/\/]

That's why I said "I would like to be able to convert them obviously so I can have the original in black and white and the color ones for more detail."

I have consulted my lawyer, the black and white would be untouched, the color would be for better identification and clarity.

Color cameras that do what I need them to are quite expensive, where this is for my home and not a business. That is why I wanted to check on the possibility, technology has came a long ways, but not quite this far I guess, at least not yet.

Maybe I should just move and get away from those neighbors.....

my dilema continues..

[MikeV]

I install video security systems as a second job and I can tell you that color video cameras are not that expensive anymore. I'm even switching from VCRs over to DVRs because the price is so low now. Due a search on "spy cameras" and you will get several hundred hits on companies selling cameras of all types. Check out places like Polarsis, marshall, spy cameras for less, and cctvsupplier. Or you could tell me exactly what you need and i'll see what I can find.