Sony ZV-1 20.1MP Vlogging 4K Vlogging Camera

The Sony ZV-1 Vlogging Camera combines the tried-and-true image capabilities of the RX100 series with an improved physical design for faster content creation for vloggers and influencers.  The ZV-1 caters to this group with the Product Showcase Setting, Background Defocus feature, Soft Skin Effect, and Face Priority Auto-Exposure in addition to having a 3.0″ side flip-out touchscreen, and a directional 3-capsule microphone that are ideal for front-facing recording. 

The ZV-1 is distinguished by its big right-hand grip, which is perfect for one-handed recording, front tally lighting, a larger REC button on the top plate, and a Multi Interface Shoe for attaching devices despite its slim and lightweight design. A powerful ZEISS 24-70mm-equivalent standard zoom lens with a brilliant f/1.8-2.8 maximum aperture range is also included. Active SteadyShot image stabilization helps to stabilize video and lessen the impression of camera wobble for smoother shots, which is ideal for shooting while walking.

The ZV-1’s internal components include a 20.1MP 1″-type Exmor RS stacked CMOS sensor, a BIONZ X image processor, and a front-end LSI. These components work together to produce an amazingly quick performance and a wide range of sensitivity to accommodate working in various environments. Real-Time Eye AF and Real-Time Tracking are made possible by the processing power enabling rapid and accurate focusing and subject tracking. A micro-HDMI connector can be utilized in combination with an external recorder or display if needed. UHD 4K recording at 30p is supported for prolonged takes. Sony’s S-Log3/2 and HLG image profiles work with their professional cine cameras to provide footage with enhanced color, dynamic range, and detail.

Features of the Content Creator and Vlogging

The rear 3.0″ 921.6k-dot LCD touchscreen has a side flip-out design that is perfect for photographing selfies or self-portraits in a comfortable and natural way.

The top plate has been updated to include a directional 3-capsule microphone that is particularly made for forward-directed audio recording because the screen swings out to the side. Additionally, a specialized windshield is included for the built-in mic to aid with better audio when working outside.

With firmware version 2.00, the ZV-1’s video and audio capabilities may be utilized for live social networking and video conferencing by simply plugging the camera into a computer via USB. For enhanced video and audio when streaming, UVC and UAC standards are supported. Additionally, this software upgrade enables the ZV-1 and Sony’s Xperia smartphones to work together so that users may Livestream while on the road. This is accomplished by using the smartphone as a hotspot and a secondary display for checking the live feed and reading comments.

For improved accessory compatibility, a 3.5mm microphone connector and a Multi Interface Shoe are both included.

An easy-to-hold right-hand grip and a small, lightweight body design make one-handed operating more convenient and effective. A sizable REC button is also there for instant recognition.

The front tally lamp acts as a visible cue that the recording is taking on.

The Product Showcase setting, which enables rapid and seamless focus changes between a subject’s face and an object in front of the lens, is perfect for vlogging and product demonstrations.

Utilizing a unique button function, Background Defocus enables you to quickly adjust to the maximum aperture setting (f/1.8-2.8) for isolating your subject using bokeh and a narrow depth of field. When utilizing this setting in strong lighting, an integrated ND filter reduces overexposure.

Even if the subject is moving from a bright area into a shadow, Face-Priority AE identifies the subject’s face and adjusts the exposure to guarantee the face is shown in optimal brightness.

In order to prevent unanticipated blown-out or excessively dark photos, the AE technology also inhibits rapid changes in exposure if the subject swiftly moves out of the frame.

For each subject, in both still and video modes, refined color science aids in optimizing skin tones to provide a healthy and natural appearance that is inclusive of many ages, genders, and ethnicities.

The Soft Skin Effect can be applied to a subject’s face to soften and smooth out wrinkles or imperfections in order to provide a natural, flawless complexion. The Off, Low, or Hi settings can be changed from the Mid default level. Extended continuous video recording is possible for longer takes when the Auto Power OFF Temp. the option is set to High.

The enhanced image stabilization option Active SteadyShot guarantees stable video while in motion, even when filming handheld while moving. When recording HD video with Active mode, the camera shake is reduced by up to 11 times more than with standard SteadyShot; when recording 4K video with Active mode, the camera shake is reduced by up to 8 times more than with standard SteadyShot. This mode combines optical and electronic stabilization methods for more effective results.

Exmor RS CMOS Sensor, 20.1MP, 1″ BIONZ X Image Processor

The 20.1MP 1″ Exmor RS CMOS sensor is able to provide superb image quality from ISO 100–12800 with very quick performance because to an ingenious stacking construction and an embedded DRAM chip. To boost data throughput and provide features like Single Burst Shooting, an Anti-Distortion shutter, UHD 4K video, and more, this sensor stacks the pixel area, a high-speed signal processing circuit, and memory. For quicker, more accurate focusing, this 1″ sensor also incorporates 315 phase-detection AF points and 425 contrast-detection regions.

A revised BIONZ X image processor and front-end LSI are used in conjunction with this sensor to significantly increase the speed and throughput of the entire imaging system. This allows for blackout-free continuous shooting at up to 24 fps and continuous AF/AE calculations to be made 60 times per second. By lowering noise and providing greater apparent resolution and color definition, the front-end LSI and improved sensor performance significantly boost overall image quality, particularly at higher sensitivities.

24-70mm ZEISS Vario-Sonnar T* Lens

With a handy 24-70mm equivalent range, the built-in ZEISS Vario-Sonnar T* lens is appropriate for usage in a variety of settings. The lens’ brilliant f/1.8-2.8 maximum aperture range, which is advantageous for working in low light and isolating subject matter utilizing shallow depth of focus methods, is still present despite its small, retractable form factor. In order to achieve excellent sharpness and precise rendering, the optical design combines a number of specialist components. A ZEISS T* anti-reflective coating has also been used to decrease reflections and glare for increased contrast and color accuracy. With Optical SteadyShot picture stabilization, which reduces the appearance of camera wobble to accommodate handheld shooting in low light, the flexible reach is enhanced.

UHD 4K Video Capture

The ZV-1 can record UHD 4K video at 30/24 fps and can create movies with remarkable quality. The camera gathers around 1.7 times the amount of data required for 4K output by employing a full pixel readout without binning. By oversampling, moiré and jaggies are less noticeable while clarity is improved. An Active SteadyShot mode may be employed for recording that prioritizes smoothness while eliminating the appearance of camera wobble, which results in a crisper recording. During filming, Fast Hybrid AF is available to provide precise, quick tracking utilizing phase-detection AF points. The camera also supports Sony’s cutting-edge XAVC S format, which allows for high data rates of up to 100 Mb/s of recording. Uncompressed HDMI output permits the use of an optional external recorder for clear 4K recording with 4:2:2 sampling in addition to high-resolution internal recording.

 The ZV-1 provides users with full configurable gamma and color settings, allowing them to change the gamma, knee, black level, color level, and more. Additionally, for greater post-production versatility, users may employ the S-Log2 Gamma Curve found on high-end Sony Cinema cameras, which can cram up to 1300% more dynamic range into the video signal than conventional REC709. Along with the BT.2020 color space, HLG (Hybrid Log-Gamma) support is also available for recording within a broad color gamut. Additionally, S-Log2 and S-Log3 are both available for providing an effective 14-stop dynamic range with improved grading flexibility in the image’s shadow and mid-tone areas.

The camera has a Photo Capture feature that enables users to easily save an 8.29MP still from their UHD 4K videos. Users will be able to take a 2MP still in Full HD, which can also be advantageous. Vertical movies may be recorded with integrated information to adjust for the vertical orientation during playback. The camera is also switchable between NTSC and PAL, making it usable all around the world.

featuring 315 Phase-Detection Points, Fast Hybrid AF

The ZV-1 incorporates an on-sensor phase-detection AF technology that significantly accelerates autofocus for still images and video. To enable quick, precise focusing in a variety of circumstances, the camera employs a hybrid system with 315 phase-detection points that roughly cover 65% of the picture and a 425-area contrast-detection system. It can swiftly latch onto subjects and employ real-time monitoring for artificial intelligence-based tracking of moving objects. Real-time Eye AF, appropriate for both people and animals, also guarantees the crucial sharpness needed for taking portrait photos.

Wireless Connection

Images may be instantly transferred to mobile devices through built-in Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity for direct online sharing on social networking sites, via email, and on cloud storage websites. Once connected, the mobile device may use Smart Remote Control to remotely operate the camera’s shutter release and show a live view image on its screen. The ZV-1 is also compatible with the Movie Edit add-on from the Imaging Edge mobile software and can connect to a smartphone using a QR code. For effective camera control, Bluetooth connection also makes it possible to connect to the optional GP-VPT2BT Wireless Shooting Grip.

Sony ZV-1 Vlogging Camera Full Specifications