Lap and dissolve in video cameras with VTR

A video camera comprising:

• (a) reversible drive means for advancing a magnetic record member in either first or second directions along a predetermined path;
• (b) record means for magnetically recording successive multi-picture scenes on a moving record member as such member advances past a recording position in a first direction, said record means comprising magnetic head means, means for producing video signals representing scene information, a source of AC bias, means for combining said video signals and said AC bias and for applying the combined signal to said magnetic head means;
• and
• (c) means for producing a lap and dissolve effect between successive scenes as recorded, said lap and dissolve producing means comprising:
• (1) means operatively coupled to said source of AC bias for gradually reducing the level of AC bias applied to said magnetic head means while recording the end portion of a first scene, thereby gradually reducing the sensible level of the recorded pictures comprising said end portion while the recording member advances a predetermined distance in said first direction past said recording position;
• (2) control circuit means operatively coupled to said drive means for advancing the recording member said predetermined distance in said second direction to position the magnetic record member so that said end portion is located at a position upstream of said recording position;
• and
• (3) means operatively coupled to said source of AC bias for gradually increasing the level of AC bias applied to said magnetic head means while said record member is again advanced in said first direction from its upstream position to record the beginning portion of a second scene, thereby gradually increasing the sensible level of the recorded pictures of the second scene while the sensible level of the recorded pictures of the first scene is gradually reduced.