Sony just announced a new pocket sized vlogging camera solution that looks to be nothing short of fantastic considering the super powerful feature set and $750 US at launch price point…
Most notable on the new Sony ZV-1 is the sideways flip out touch screen and high quality built in microphone with offset hot shoe for mounting more gear of choice. Also, this camera has a built in ND filter and mic jack which is key to quality vlogging as far as shutter speed control and max aperture for the most out of focus background possible. Having this built in ND Filter is really nice as opposed to using external filter options. Also the mast f/1.8 24-70mm effective lens is really what we wanted for vlogging over the slower f/2.8 max aperture lens found on the RX100 VII…
Inside for the most part, the ZV-1 is very similar to the current Sony RX100 cameras including the 20.1MP 1″-type Exmor RS stacked CMOS sensor and BIONZ X image processor, with front-end LSI, which contributes to impressively fast performance along with wide-ranging sensitivity to suit working in a variety of conditions. Just like the RX100 VII, the processing capabilities include Real-Time Eye AF and Real-Time Tracking for quick and precise focusing and subject tracking.
In terms of video specs, UHD 4K recording at 30p/24p is supported with no recording limit to allow for longer takes, and a micro-HDMI port can be used to conjunction with an external recorder or monitor if desired. Footage is also benefited by Sony’s S-Log2 and HLG picture profiles that match up with their professional cine cameras for refined color, dynamic range, and detail when recording.
Complementing the sensor and processing attributes, the ZV-1 also features an impressive ZEISS 24-70mm-equivalent standard zoom lens with a bright f/1.8-2.8 maximum aperture range to help isolate subject matter and perform in low-light conditions. Basically the lens from the RX100 VA 😉 This wide-angle to portrait-length zoom also has Optical SteadyShot image stabilization, which works in conjunction with electronic digital image stabilization and Active SteadyShot mode, to produce steady footage and photos in difficult lighting and shooting conditions.
More Features:
- Rear 3.0″ LCD touchscreen features a side flip-out design that is ideal for filming yourself or taking selfies in a natural and intuitive manner.
- Since the screen flips out to the side, the top plate has been redesigned to incorporate a directional 3-capsule microphone that is specifically designed for forward-directional audio recording. Also, a dedicated wind screen for the built-in mic is included to help achieve cleaner audio when working outdoors.
- Both a 3.5mm microphone port and a Multi Interface Shoe are also featured for greater accessory compatibility.
- Compact and lightweight body design is complemented by an easy-to-hold right-hand grip that makes one-handed operation more comfortable and efficient. There is also a large REC button for quick recognition.
- Front tally lamp serves as a visual indicator for when recording is occurring.
- Product Showcase setting is ideal for vlogging and product showcases and allows for quick and smooth focus transitions between a subject’s face and an object placed in front of the lens.
- Background Defocus lets you immediately switch to the maximum aperture setting (f/1.8-2.8), using a custom button function, for isolating your subject using shallow depth of field and bokeh. A built-in ND filter benefits using this mode in bright lighting conditions by controlling overexposure.
- Face-Priority AE detects the subject’s face and adjusts the exposure to ensure the face is depicted in an ideal brightness, even if walking from a bright place into shade. The AE technology also suppresses abrupt changes in exposure if the subject quickly turns away from the frame to eliminate unexpected blown-out or extremely dark shots.
- Refined color science helps to optimize skin tones for any subject, in both still and video modes, in order to achieve a healthy and natural look that is inclusive of different ages, genders, and ethnicity.
- Soft Skin Effect can be used to soften and smooth wrinkles or blemishes on a subject’s face to create a natural, smooth complexion. The default setting is Mid and can be adjusted to Off, Low, or Hi.
- Active SteadyShot is an advanced image stabilization mode that ensures steady video while moving, even when handheld shooting while walking. This mode combines optical and electronic stabilization methods for more effective results—when recording HD video with Active mode, camera shake is reduced by up to 11 times more than with standard SteadyShot; when recording 4K video with Active mode, camera shake is reduced by up to 8 times more than with standard SteadyShot.
Initial Sony ZV-1 Reviews
Closing Remarks
So far, the new Sony ZV-1 looks to be a really exciting camera for those in the market looking for a high quality reasonable affordable turn key pocketable solution for vlogging. It basically has the best of everything when it comes to the 1″ sensor sized camera market in my opinion. The RX100 VII was a great option, but the slow f/2.8 max aperture was an issue, and the RX100 VA which had the faster lens was missing the mic input… Now we have it all in one camera and the sideways flip screen which is way better, so you can have accessories on top of the camera without blocking the screen.
After watching more of these reviews it is worth noting that the Skin Smoothing feature is ON by default!! This will make you video and photos much softer than normal, so be sure to turn that off if you want porno the sharpest results. Also, if you wear polarized glasses, seeing the LCD screen in horizontal mode is an issue as it goes black when the glasses are on.
Would like me to review this camera?? Please let me know what you think, and have a great day! Jay
Pre-Ordering from BHPhoto for $748 US starts at 12PM today!!
