Does HDV = HDV?

[sweeperdave]

That is, if my editing software can import HDV via firewire from one camera and edit, can I assume that software can import HDV from all HDV cameras? Specifically, I use iMovie '09 in a bunch of my projects. I would like to know if iMovie '09 can import and edit files from a Sony HVR Z7U an HDV format cam. Yes, I've consulted the Apple iMovie compatibility list and it names no pro video cams. Yet I know iMovie works perfectly well with a pro JVC ProHD cam. Presumably Apple figures anyone shooting with a pro cam is editing in FCP or similar. So is HDV similar across makers? Or is it just a wrap on possibly very different proprietary formats?

A related question: Are all .mov files editable similarly?

I have client prospects who want me to shoot raw footage which they wish to edit themselves. I'd hate to hand them a useless miniDV or try to download from my camera and have the process fail.

The iMovie forum is fairly deserted.

Thanks much!

Dave

[NoahKadner]

As a blanket statement- no. There will always be some cameras that don't work with iMovie etc. Best to test first...

Noah