The Sony ZV-E1 is Sony’s latest vlogging camera in its ZV line-up. The ZV-E1 is targeted at pro vloggers eager to elevate their content output and create trailblazing work.
The camera features a back-illuminated 12.1-megapixel full-frame Exmor R CMOS sensor, Sony’s high-speed BIONZ XR processing engine, a dedicated AI Processing Unit, and 4K60P video capabilities.
Creators will notice that this camera is very similar to the Sony A7S III and the ZV-E10. The ZV-E1 has the look, feel, and usability of the ZV-E10 but the high performance of the A7S III. It’s intuitive, easy to use and available at an affordable price point.
The Sony ZV-E1’s Standout Features
Designed as a dedicated vlog camera for professional vloggers, creators will enjoy the incredible video capabilities of the ZV-E1 and how easy it is to create amazing content. The camera has 4k60p and 1080p 120fps video capabilities, 10-bit 4:2:2 colour sampling, and Sony’s signature S-log 3 and S-Cinetone. The ZV-E1 comes with a Cinematic Vlog setting; this, coupled with Sony’s S-log 3 and S-Cinetone, means that you’ll be able to create captivating content and tap into different vlogging styles easily without spending hours in your editing room.
Its high-powered AI Processing Unit makes this camera so easy to use. The dedicated AI chip in the ZV-E1 delivers excellent speed and stellar auto-focus performance. The auto-framing feature, together with the Dynamic Active Stabilisation Mode, means that you’ll be able to intuitively follow your subjects and keep them in focus and in frame with buttery smooth stabilisation.
Another standout point of the ZV-E1 is its Product Showcase Feature. You no longer have to wait forever for your camera to re-adjust and refocus on the products you’re trying to promote. With the Product Showcase Feature turned on, the camera focuses on the product and blurs out the background instantly. Regarding the camera’s zoom functionalities, when used in conjunction with Sony power-zoom lenses, the zoom rocker on the camera body allows you to zoom in and out of your subjects with ease and minimal camera shake.
The Sony ZV-E1 is the perfect camera for creators who don’t want to fuss with camera settings. If you want to pick up and go and have a camera that can adapt and move at your pace, then the Sony ZV-E1 is perfect.
The camera has a maximum ISO of 409,600, which means if you’re recording your city’s nightlife or the natural world’s early morning activities, you’ll enjoy the camera’s excellent low-light performance. No more blurry and noisy footage, just crystal clear, razor-sharp imagery.
Designed for video and bloggers in mind, it’s important to note that some features are lacking for the hybrid creator. The camera has no viewfinder, mechanical shutter, bulb shooting and long exposure noise reduction. If you don’t mind shooting with the LCD screen, you’ll enjoy its vari-angle feature and touchscreen options, which allow you to adjust your content’s exposure, brightness and bokeh. Speaking of bokeh, the ZV-E1 has a dedicated bokeh switch, allowing you to create dreamy visuals at the click of a button.
Sony ZV-E1 Ergonomics
The Sony ZV-E1 is typically the size of the ZV-E10 but has a slightly bulkier build. Weighing 410g without a lens, the camera is lightweight and easy to take on all your adventures. The ZV-E1 features a full-frame E-mount which allows you to access Sony’s premier range of lenses. The Multi-Interface Shoe will enable you to utilise various accessories to increase camera functionality. It features an Intelligent 3-Capsule Mic system allowing you to record omnidirectional sound. You also have the option to switch up your microphone’s direction in your camera settings. The Sony ZV-E1 has the usual ports, including an audio jack, headphone jack, one SDHC/SDXC slot and a USB-C port. It’s important to note that the camera has a micro-HDMI port and lacks a CF Express Type A card slot.
Sony ZV-E1 Connectivity
High-quality 4k30p live streaming via USB is possible with the Sony ZV-E1. This makes it possible for creators to connect with their audience in real time. New to the Sony experience is the Creators’ App (smartphone app), Creators’ Cloud UX Portal and the Creators’ Cloud Master Cut.
