Sony updates ZV-1 vlogging camera
Posted on Jun 26, 2023
Sony has introduced a second-generation model of its ZV-1 vlogging camera. With the manufacturer claiming that it’s big on sustainability, the ZV-1 II recycles most of the features from the popular original.
These include its one-inch Exmor RS CMOS sensor, providing 20-megapixel stills and 4K-resolution video up to 30p. Oddly, its maker’s desire to be eco-friendly extends to not including a mains charger or USB-C cable, which is essential for charging the battery. In that area, the performance matches its predecessor – up to 45 minutes of recording.
While much here is familiar, including near-identical dimensions and weight, the biggest tweak has been made to its optical zoom. The built-in f/1.8 maximum aperture lens starts at a wider 18mm equivalent, as opposed to its forebear’s 24mm, and runs to 50mm instead of 70mm. The basic touchscreen of the ZV-1 has also been overhauled to allow greater intuitiveness and access to more settings, making the adoption of this second-generation model easier for existing smartphone users. Likewise, Sony suggests the built-in microphone offers more creative flexibility. You can now direct audio recording to the front of the camera, to the rear or in all directions. A dead cat windshield can be slipped into the ZV-1 II’s hotshoe, and there’s the option to invest in an ECM-B10 accessory shotgun microphone.
With availability from mid-June promised, the ZV-1 II is a more expensive proposition than the original at £870 SRP. Since there is no IBIS, merely an electronic version in Sony’s ‘Active’ Stabilisation mode, we would also recommend looking at the optional wireless grip – the GP-VPT2BT – ideal when recording pieces to camera or simply taking selfies. This is currently available for £170. Look out, too, for money-saving promotions being planned around the camera’s release.
Originally featured in Issue 108 of Photography News.
Don’t forget to sign up to receive our newsletter below, and get notified about the new issue, exclusive offers and competitions.
Have you heard The Photography News Podcast? Tune in for news, techniques, advice and much more! Click here to listen for free.
