Sony has introduced the highly anticipated second generation camera to its ZV series, the ZV-1 II, catering to the needs of vloggers and content creators.
Packed with sought-after features, this new addition offers a wider angle and superior image quality, allowing vloggers to captivate their audiences with visually stunning storytelling.
Equipped with a powerful 1.0-type Exmor RS™ image sensor, boasting approximately 20.1 effective megapixels, a BIONZ X™ image processing engine, and a ZEISS® Vario-Sonnar T* 18-50mm F1.8-4i lens, the ZV-1 II empowers creators of all skill levels to unlock their creative potential. From the versatile 18-50mmii wide angle lens, perfect for capturing group selfies, narrow interiors, or dynamic everyday scenes, to the Multiple Face Recognitioniii feature that ensures sharp and clear shots of multiple faces in selfie shots, the ZV-1 II is a compact vlogging camera that delivers professional-grade results.
Yann Salmon Legagneur, Head of Imaging Products & Solutions Marketing, Sony Europe, expressed excitement about the ZV-1 II, stating, “This camera will be the go-to choice for content creators, including vloggers, social media influencers, and short-form video creators. By incorporating features that matter most to vloggers, we continue to listen to and cater to the needs of our community. The ZV-1 II represents a significant step forward for our ZV series.”
The ZV-1 II boasts an array of comprehensive features specifically designed for vloggers and video content creators, providing them with the tools to elevate their content. Notable features include:
Ultra-wide angle and Zoom: The 18mmii wide angle of view enables the capture of stunning, photogenic images of entire scenes, especially for arm’s length selfies. The 18-50mm optical zoom and Clear Image Zoom offer flexibility in video composition by allowing users to change the angle of view.
Bokeh Switch: A single touch enables the Bokeh Switch feature, creating beautiful background bokeh and defocusing effects.
Intelligent 3-capsule microphone: In Auto mode, the camera automaticallyiv adjusts the direction of the built-in microphone ([Front] or [All Directions]) based on recognized faces or objects. In Manual mode, users have the flexibility to select [Front] for selfies, [Rear] for narration, or [All Directions]. The supplied windscreen ensures clear recordings, even in outdoor environments. Additionally, the camera offers cableless attachment to the Multi Interface Shoev and a 3.5 mm microphone jack for seamless external microphone connectivity.
Cinematic Vlog Setting function: With a single tap, users can activate the Cinematic Vlog Setting function, enabling impressive imagery reminiscent of cinema movies. It automatically sets a CinemaScope size (2.35:1) vi and a frame rate of 24 fpsvii. Users can further enhance their videos with five LOOKs and four MOODs.
Creative Look and Pro-Level Imaging Features: The ZV-1 II supports 10 preset looksviii, allowing creators to achieve their desired visual styles. The camera also offers features typically found in professional cameras.
Face Priority AE and Soft Skin Effect: The camera instantly detects faces and optimizes facial brightness through Face Priority AE, regardless of lighting conditions. The Soft Skin Effect enhances the appearance of skin and facial features during filming.
Fast Hybrid AF System: The ZV-1 II ensures sharp image quality with its Fast Hybrid AF system, even in low-light environments.
Active Mode Electronic Image Stabilization: With this feature, content can be captured while walking or in motion, making it ideal for handheld shootingx, as well as movie and slow-motion shooting.
Built-in ND Filter: The ZV-1 II incorporates a built-in ND filter, reducing exposure by three stops and enabling beautiful background bokeh even in bright conditions.
Compact, lightweight, and designed for easy portability, operability, and connectivity, the ZV-1 II is the perfect companion for creators on the go. Its compact form factor allows for easy pocket or small bag storage, even with the optical wide zoom lens attached. The vari-angle screen makes it suitable for selfies, while the user-friendly key and control layoutxi, along with the recording indicator on the front face, provide convenience and ease of use. Charging is made simple with the USB Type-C® connector.
The ZV-1 II enables seamless content sharing and connection with smartphones through the Creators’ App. Users can control the camera remotely, monitor battery and media status, edit metadata and camera names, and effortlessly transfer photos and videos, even in the background. The Creators’ Appxii also facilitates easy camera software updates.
For high-quality live streaming, the ZV-1 II can be connected to a PC or smartphone xiii using a standard USB cable (not included) to function as a webcam. It enhances online meetings and live streaming sessions by improving skin appearance and adjusting hue with Creative Look. Face Priority AE ensures clearer and brighter faces, while Real-time Eye AF maintains focus on the eyes.
Sony’s commitment to sustainability is reflected in the design of the ZV-1 II. Recycled materials, including SORPLASTMxiv, are actively utilized in the camera body to reduce environmental impact without compromising functionality. Additionally, Sony employs unique recycled paper packaging, known as “Original Blend Material,” which eliminates plastic and facilitates easy recycling. The packaging materials include bamboo, sugar cane fiber, and recycled paper, providing both environmental friendliness and high quality.
The ZV-1 II prioritizes accessibility, offering features that facilitate operation for individuals with various needs. The screen reader functionality enables text on menu screens to be read aloud, making shooting and playback enjoyable for everyone. Accessibility features, such as Touch AE, Focus Magnifier, Peaking Display, Real-time Eye AF, Real-time Tracking, Touch Focus, Touch Tracking, Touch Shutter, Vari-angle LCD screen, and Custom function, assist users in achieving pinpoint focus and customizing their shooting experience.
The ZV-1 II will be available in June 2023 at authorized Sony dealers for an estimated retail price of €1,000 EUR.
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