Sony’s New ZV-E1 is a Video-Centric Compact Camera with AI Features
Sony has announced the ZV-FF, a full-frame camera designed for content creators. The camera boasts an impressive feature set developed based on user feedback and aims to provide creators with the best tools possible.
The ZV-E1 is designed to be a video-first solution, featuring a 12-megapixel full-frame sensor (the same resolution as the Alpha 7S III and likely the same sensor) with a claimed 15 stops of dynamic range and a maximum ISO of 409,600.
According to Sony, this is the smallest full-frame camera with IBIS. (The Sigma FP is smaller but has no IBIS.) The compact and lightweight camera weighs only 483g (with battery and memory card included) and measures 121.0 x 71.9 x 54.3 mm.
The ZV-E1 features a full-frame back-illuminated Exmor R CMOS sensor and a BIONZ XR image processing engine. It also boasts a dedicated AI processing unit for its new (as of the Alpha 7R V) subject-detection autofocus and artificial intelligence-driven (AI) video.
The AI-driven video features include a Cinematic Vlog Setting, My Image Style, and S-Gamut3—cine/S-Log3 for versatile creative expression.
The ZV-E1 offers five-axis optical in-body stabilization, AI-based Dynamic Active Mode stabilization with Framing Stabilizer, and AI-based Auto Framing for movies. It also features multiple face recognition, product showcase setting, and creative zoom control.
The ZV-E1 also supports uploading LUTs for an in-camera display of color grading.
Sony claims the IBIS has been improved to allow up to 30% greater stabilization, and footage works with its Catalyst Browse software to stabilize images based on gyroscopic data.
The ZV-E1 has full-frame 4K with full pixel readout with no pixel binning, and no other settings can enable it. A 4K/120p and FHD/240p update is scheduled for June 2023.
The camera supports in-camera time-lapse recording. A three-capsule internal microphone has user-selectable or AI Auto controlled three-pattern directivity (front, rear or omnidirectional) and a vari-angle LCD screen with a new touch interface.
The dust and moisture-resistant camera offers UVC/UAC support for direct-from-camera USB streaming with audio and video up to 4K/30p. The ZV-E1 provides professional audio quality and versatility with an enhanced intelligent three-capsule mic, external mic and headphone jacks, and digital audio interface via Multi-Interface (MI) shoe.
The ZV-E1 will be available for pre-sale on March 30th, with in-market availability in the first or second week of May. It is set to retail for $2,200 for the body-only and $2,500 with the 28-60mm kit lens.
