Is vlogging still a thing? It sure is. It's big business and is why we have recently seen the launch of new (e.g. the Canon V10) or upgraded vlog cameras.
Depending on age demographics, statistics show that between 20-35% of YouTube videos watched online are of vlogs. And when there are 1 billion hours of YouTube watched everyday, that means there is a tonne of vlogging going on.
Most vloggers may start off with their phones, but many look to upgrade their image and sound quality in the hope for better production values. So it makes sense that camera manufacturers are cashing in on this continuing trend.
When Sony released the ZV-1 in May 2020, it was soon recognised as one of the best vlogging cameras on the market. Reasonably priced at $1,100, it had quality 4K footage, 20MP stills, was compact, had decent mic options and a 24-70mm (eq) f/1.8-2.8 lens.
This July will see the launch of the mark II version, which although it has the same sensor and processor, it has a wider 18-50mm f/1.8-4 lens that makes it way more suited for vlogging as you can hold the camera at arm’s length for easier 'talk-to-camera' shots. Also new is Multi-face recognition which automatically will stop the lens down so that other people will be in focus if they step into frame. As there is a built in ND filter of 3 stops, this gives more latitude for changing ISO to compensate for f-stop changes.
Another interesting $249 optional addition is the GP-VPT2BT shooting grip. The grip can be paired with the ZV-1 II via Bluetooth to give you limited controls, as well as act as a tripod.
Technical aspects:
- Ultra-wide 18-50mm zoom lens
- Large 1.0-type sensor
- Wide aperture F1.8-4.0 lens
- Directional 3-Capsule mic and wind screen accessory
- Realtime autofocus tracking and Eye-AF
- Side-articulating touchscreen LCD for easy to compose selfie shots
- Touchscreen operation for frequently used features and more
- Cinematic Vlog settings
- Bokeh button easily switches between two modes of background defocus
- Product Showcase Setting transitions focus from face to object
- Face priority AE keeps faces bright in backlit or dim situations
- 4K movie and 20.1 megapixel still photos
- Active mode image stabilisation
- S&Q (Slow & Quick) for stunning slow motion and hyper-lapse videos
- Zoom lever and intuitive touch screen zoom with step feature
- Multi-interface shoe and 3.5mm mic. jack for external microphones
- Soft Skin Effect can enhance face appeal for still and movie
For more information on the ZV-1 II.
More about the GP-VPT2BT grip.