Sony’s just launched a new camera – the Sony ZV-1 – which the electronics giant describes as an ‘all-in-one’ solution for video content creators. This mirrorless camera is built around a 1 inch, 20.1MP Exmor RS sensor, a Bionz X processor, and a 24-70mm. f/1.8-2.8 Zeiss lens. Sony claims the larger aperture and wide zoom range will make for better separation of the subject from backgrounds, and there’s even a dedicated Background Defocus button to make on-the-fly adjustments easy. Meanwhile, the side-opening display should make selfie footage easier, and there’s even a Product Showcase option that lets video creators easily and seamlessly flip focus between the subject and any product they’re featuring.
Sony’s certainly highlighting the ZV-1’s focusing abilities – there’s Real-time Eye AF and Real-time Tracking AF for easier, more reliable focus lock in busy environments or when you’re shooting with multiple subjects. Those of you looking for a way to improve outdoor footage should also love the Face Priority Auto Exposure, which keeps faces properly exposed even as external lighting changes – for example, as you walk through a shadow.
Audio’s also a priority here, as you’d expect from a video-focused device: The ZV-1 comes with an in-built directional microphone and a detachable windscreen, but if you demand higher performance, it’s also got the ability to work with external mics via the Sony Multi Interface hotshoe or the 3.5mm headphone jack.
Other features that should make for a better vlogging experience include the front-facing recording status light, the built-in ND filter, optical and electronic stabilization, super slow-mo, live streaming via USB connection, and S-Log gamma curve recording for advanced color grading during post-production.
The Sony ZV-1 will go on sale this June with an early-bird price of $749 (which will later go up to $799). Sony will also bundle this as part of a special kit, along with a grip / tabletop tripod, a spare battery, and a 64GB memory card.
