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SONY UPDATES ITS ZV-1 POINT-AND-SHOOT CAMERA WITH IMPROVEMENTS FOR EASY VLOGGING
Sony has unveiled its latest version of the popular ZV-1 point-and-shoot camera aimed at vloggers. The new ZV-1 II features a one-inch-type sensor, a wider zoom lens than the previous version, and various improvements to make it even more vlog-friendly. While the camera’s resolution and ISO range remain the same, its wider lens makes it easy for vloggers to capture themselves and their surroundings in the frame.
A CLOSER LOOK AT THE ZV-1 II
The original ZV-1 was an enhanced version of the RX-100 line, aimed at people who wanted good image quality for stills alongside enhanced video features. The ZV-1 II carries this forward with a wider 18-50mm f/1.8-4 zoom lens, Cinematic Vlog settings, touch controls, and various other conveniences designed to make vlogging simpler. Additionally, the camera has a mic with adjustable pickup patterns for narration, making it great for voiceovers.
The ZV-1 II also has a fast-reading stacked sensor, which is beneficial for video, and is able to film in 4K at up to 30fps. It also features Sony’s real-time phase-detect autofocus tracking, which can detect multiple faces and eyes as well as Product Showcase for focusing on objects held up to the camera.
OTHER FEATURES TO EXPECT
One of the ZV-E1’s features, Cinematic Vlog setting, is now also available in the ZV-1 II. This setting adds black bars to the top and bottom of the frame, sets the frame rate to 24fps, and allows users to dial in preset “looks” and “moods” to enhance their vlogs. Additionally, easy-to-reach buttons make it simpler to add bokeh effects to vlogs, and the sensor is fast enough that there are no negative effects on video quality.
One of the drawbacks of the ZV-1 II is the absence of a mechanical shutter – instead, it relies solely on the electronic shutter for still pictures. However, as Sony has previously used stacked sensors for its Alpha 1, A9 II, Z9 and Z8 models with good results, this is unlikely to have a significant impact on the camera’s performance.
PRICING AND AVAILABILITY
The camera will retail at $899.99 and is expected to launch in June. While it is more expensive than the previous ZV-1 and costs almost as much as Sony’s ZV-E1, it still represents a good value proposition for anyone looking for a high-quality point-and-shoot camera aimed at vloggers.
CONCLUSION
Sony continues to be a powerhouse in the world of vlogging cameras, and the ZV-1 II is no exception. With a wider lens, improved autofocus features, and Cinematic Vlog setting, this camera is sure to be a hit with content creators looking for a compact, easy-to-use camera that delivers excellent video quality. While it may not have all the features of the company’s more advanced Alpha cameras, for a camera under $1,000, it certainly offers plenty of bang for your buck.
