Sony has unveiled its latest vlogging camera, the Sony Introducing the ZV-1 Mark II. This little beast boasts a 20MP Type 1 (13.2 x 8.8mm) Stacked CMOS sensor and an 18-50mm equivalent F1.8-4.0 lens.
Sony is increasingly aware that the most mass buyers are future vloggers. And this camera is probably the best entry-level model for beginners.
ZV-1 Mark II: The standard-setting upgrade
The ZV-1 Mark II builds on the foundation of the original by using a brighter, wide-angle zoom. This makes it even more suitable for vlogging, as it allows for very wide-angle shooting, even with digital stabilization (the crop used on the 24mm-equivalent Mark 1 lens was a bit restrictive). Definitely important when shooting selfies and vlogs.
The advanced Stacked CMOS sensor allows for 4K video recording at up to 30p and 1080 video options at up to 120p. On the stills side, the ZV-1 Mark II catches up to the recent RX100 models, with the ability to shoot continuously at up to 24 fps in JPEG or Raw format. The camera can store up to 800 JPEG images.
The Sony ZV-1 Mark II has the same three microphone capsules, which allows for good sound capture, without an additional microphone, and a fully movable screen for video recording with the camera facing away. Just what vloggers have been asking for forever.
The camera offers S-Log2 and S-Log3 profiles, but video can only be recorded as 8-bit files, which limits the degree of flexibility in video processing. S-Log3, which encodes a wider dynamic range, is particularly prone to posterization in processing. As with the original ZV-1, there is no headphone jack for audio control. Which is pretty normal in this price range.
Although the ZV-1 Mark II is a great choice for vloggers, it does not offer a mechanical shutter. This limitation is less of a problem for short exposures, as the Stacked CMOS sensor can read the data very quickly – and there is also an ND filter built in, which allows the use of wide apertures in bright light. However, the longest possible time period is only 1/4 of a second, which can limit creative photography.
Sony ZV-1 Mark II: attainable and affordable
The Sony ZV-1 Mark II will be available on the shelves in mid-June 2023 at a suggested retail price of around 1,000 euros. The camera will be available in two color versions, black and white. You can also combine the camera with the black or white Sony GP-VPT2BT Bluetooth recording grip, which doubles as a compact tripod, for an additional €140.
Sony ZV-1 Mark II: In conclusion
The ZV-1 Mark II represents an important step forward for all vloggers and photography enthusiasts. Its performance, portability and affordability make it a powerful tool for digital content creators. While some holdovers (such as the lack of a mechanical shutter) may seem like downsides, the ZV-1 Mark II undoubtedly offers a lot for your money, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to upgrade their vlogging gear. Oziorma have a piece of equipment that can perfectly serve as a "back up" to their main Sony camera. The camera will not be suitable for demanding videographers. It turns out to be an excellent tool for logging and the need for mobility and documenting an individual's life.
If you are a vlogger, photography enthusiast or simply love new technologies, the Sony ZV-1 Mark II is definitely worth your attention. If you are in the Sony ecosystem, however, it will be a good addition for various recording situations.
