Sony has released details of a new pocket-sized camera, the ZV-1 which has been designed from the ground up for vloggers, content creators and casual video shooters.
The new Sony ZV-1 compact camera shown with the GPVPT-28T shooting grip/mini tripod and ECM-XYST1M stereo microphone. (Source: Sony.)
Equipped with a 1.0-type stacked Exmor RS CMOS image sensor with DRAM chip, the ZV-1 is likely to offer the same resolution as the Cyber-shot RX100 V, which introduced this 20.1-megapixel sensor in 2016. Its 9.4-25.7mm f/1.8-2.8 ZeissVario-Sonnar T* lens covers focal lengths equivalent to 24-70mm in 35mm format. The new camera includes the latest-generation BIONZ X image processor with front-end LSI, which was also featured in the RX100 V, and provides support for 4K movie recording with full pixel readout and no pixel binning in high bit rate XAVC S codec. Recording modes include Hybrid Log-Gamma (HDR), S-Gamut3.Cine, S-Log3, S-Gamut3 and S-Log3. Interval shooting is available for creating time-lapse videos. Super Slow Motion recording at up to 960 fps is also supported.
A new Bokeh Switch button on the top panel makes it easy to switch between focused and blurred backgrounds blur without losing focus on the subject. The ZV-1 is Sony’s first compact camera with a side-opening Vari-angle LCD screen, which makes it easy to compose selfie shots while using connected external audio accessories via the standard 3.5mm mic input and Multi Interface Shoe (MI shoe). High quality soundtracks are ensured through versatile audio options, starting with the onboard 3-capsule mic, which was designed for forward-directional audio capture. The ZV-1 comes with a wind screen accessory that fits on the MI shoe to minimise wind interference.
The ZV-1 makes it easier to shoot product reviews and similar video content with a new Product Showcase Setting, which enables quick and smooth focus transitions between the subject’s face and the object placed in front of the lens. The advanced autofocus (AF) system includes Sony’s Real-time Eye AF and Real-time Tracking for video, enabling users to switch focus seamlessly between multiple subjects while controlling the AF speed and tracking sensitivity. (Note: Real-time Eye AF for animals is not available during movie shooting.) A new Face Priority autoexposure (AE) function can detect and prioritise the subject’s face and adjust the exposure to ensure the face is correctly exposed. It can also adapt to abrupt changes in exposure if the subject quickly turns away or moves from bright conditions to shade. Advanced colour science is used to optimise skin tones, creating a smooth and natural complexion, while also maintaining sharp images of the mouth and eyes in both videos and stills.
Compact and lightweight, the ZV-1 measures 105.5 x 60.0 x 43.5 mm and weighs approximately 294 grams. It is easily operated with one hand, thanks to the comfortable grip and large movie REC button on the top panel. A tally lamp on the front of the camera indicates when the camera is actively recording. Compatible accessories include the GPVPT-28T shooting grip with mini tripod and the ECM-XYST1M stereo microphone.
The ZV-1 will be available in Australia from mid-June 2020 for an RRP of AU$1299. Click here for full product details. A product video for the new ZV-1 can be viewed here.
