Tech Review – ANNKE Crater Pro indoor security camera

Home security is a must in my book be indoors or outdoors and for me it is both because if someone wants to get in they will and with cameras inside your home if by any chance they missed the intruders outside you will get them inside once you place the cameras in a clever spot. We have tried and tested many of both here before and today we are working with a new brand called ANNKE and also have an outdoor camera review coming up shortly so stay tuned for that one, for now though we will be loking at the ANNKE Crater Pro indoor security camera.

This camera is simple to set up and use and their app is also quite good and easy to use as you will see down below and in the video review, You will be set up in about 5 mins flat and once done and you have the camera connected go through the app and check out the features on offer and familiarize yourself with them and get the set up that best suits your needs.

Out of the box it is a small familiar shaped camera for what it does and can be placed anywhere in your house or garage, you do however need to be near a power outlet and have a decent Wi-Fi connection to ensure all works well and get the best results and hope there is no disconnection from your Wi-Fi which can happen sometimes.

Also required is a micro sd card for local storage if you so not want to enter a plan which many of these brands are doing now and doing away with the freemium models but the micro sd card is the best route to go although some will complain about the price for a decent one which can be expensive depending on where you buy but buy a branded one and not a cheap one off Amazon as they usually get corrupted fairly  easily from my testing over the years.

One thing that stood out for me with the Crater Pro indoor security camera is how clear the videos are even after downloading them, you can view them online and download to your smartphone and over the years some lacked quality after download and tended to buffer but this is not the case here and for me a vital part of holding evidence if it is required and this is where this camera gets a thumbs up, it also has two way audio and an alarm and has tracking so all the requirements are there for a super affordable indoor camera that does not cheap out on important features,,

Check out the video review below for more and see what is involved and what to expect.

The App

Smart Detection, Instant Alerts

Once the camera detects a person or sound, the camera automatically tracks and follows the movement, capturing every moment clearly. To make sure you don’t miss anything, the camera provides instant alerts to your smartphone or tablet. As soon as the camera detects any suspicious activity, you will be notified so you can take immediate action.

Cover Every Angle of Your House

The camera has a wide range of coverage with a viewing angle of up to 350 degrees horizontally and 60 degrees vertically, which enables it to monitor large areas in your home, office, or yard without any blind spots. The camera is also designed to capture any special movements, ensuring that nothing goes unnoticed.

Two-Way Audio: Seamless Communication

With a built-in speaker and microphone, you can speak to anyone on the other end, whether it’s your pets, family members, or visitors. Two-way audio enables real-time conversations and helps you stay connected with your loved ones while you’re away.

Quickly Show by Voice Command

Compatible with Alexa, you can control it with voice commands to showing you live video feed, playing recorded video or turning the device on/off, making it easy for you to manage your home security from anywhere in the house

 

Features

  • Dual-Band 2.4GHz 5GHzIf
  • 4MP Full HD Clear Image
  • PT 350° Pan & 60° Tilt Wider Coverage
  • Alexa Voice Control Access Quickly

BUY 

Video Review

Tech Review – SJCAM C300 4K Action camera

The SJCAM C300 4K Action cam is a versatile portable camera that can be used just about anywhere or in any scenario and ideal for just about anyone it can be used just to take photos or videos on the fly be mounted to your car for dash cam use and ideal for vloggers and much more with the accessory pack that you get with it as you will see in the unboxing video below so if this is something you need stay tuned, now there is more than my needs met with this guy so far but should I need it all the equipment is there for me so what more could you ask for thinking ahead with how they have prepared the package for you, it can also be used in two ways detached or attached from the main mount or even attached to a selfie stick, it can be hung around your neck too and much more so in the accessory department it is a win win for anyone.

 

Setting us was not too bad there is several apps in the store so use the QR code in the book or check the image below this app is where you begin the set up process and once set up it has been pretty good for me and again signal maybe an issue at times but overall a decent easy to use app that replicated what’s built in on the camera itself which I go through in the video review below.

 

Settings galore. Once connected you are good to go then you need to go through all the settings to get familiar with what you can and cant do here spend some time on this to get the best end result you want as there is many features and settings to adjust some of which important and some just the standard you find on any camera if you will. Once all this is done you are pretty much good to go start taking pictures and videos and then check out the results on the fly or at home on the device or on your connected smartphone which was and iPhone 14 pro in case you are wondering it was also tested on a Pixel 7a device and no notable differences noted and pretty much the same across the two devices.

After that it is pretty much go and do what you need doing and thats all there is to it if you are a pro you can do more and the same applies if like me you just want to point and shoot you get the results and if you want to go underwater you can even do that, check out the video below for more and see how it all works and the results I got.

The App

 

Features

  • 【4K 20MP Action Camera】: Video recording the highest resolution 4K and 2K/60FPS or 1080P/120FPS. 20MP high-definition sensor, 32G SD card supporting 2-3 hours 4K video recording, and store 1500pcs 20M high-definition photos.
  • 【1000mAh and Underwater Camera】: when it is used as a pocket camera, using C300 magnetic accessories, the C300 pocket camera can be attached to clothing, freeing your hands when shooting, suitable for running records; using a waterproof case, It can dive and a variety of water sports camera, up to a depth of 30 meters.
  • 【2800mAh and Grip Camera】: When it is used as a grip camera, you can hold the C300 to complete a variety of selfie fun, or for VLOG, webcam and live. At the same time you can also be assembled with other accessories like a selfie stick, Also as a dash cam or helmet camera use (Note: some accessories are not included).
  • 【Electronic Image Stablization】: This action camera is equipped with improved 6-axis EIS, it can provide gimbal-like stabilization and greatly boost the stability and fluency of your recording. It can enable excellent footage even you or the object is in fast-moving.
  • 【98ft/30m Underwater Camera】: The pocket camera supports the use with the SJCAM waterproof case, providing waterproof camera protection for water activities, snorkeling and scuba diving enthusiasts. Underwater 4K action video camera. Note: the gripping camera doesn’t support a waterproof case.
  • 【Not Just Action Camera】: It’s not just an action camera, but also a single-screen selfie camera and a touch dual-screen camera. This camera is equipped with improved 5G Wi-Fi, After connected, the camera’s content can be viewed, set up and downloaded in real-time through “SJCAM Zone” APP. It can also act as a network live stream camera by connecting to home Wi-Fi. and use as a dash cam or Vlog camera.

BUY 

Video Review

 

ZHIYUN Launches CRANE 4 Gimbal for DSLR and Cinema Cameras

ZHIYUN, a world leader in professional camera and smartphone stabilisation systems, portable scene lighting, and filmmaking accessories, has today announced the launch of its new premium camera gimbal, the CRANE 4.

With a commitment to providing creators and filmmakers with reliable, professional productivity tools, ZHIYUN again catalyses dynamic visual storytelling, unconstrained by equipment weight and capability. The CRANE 4 has been carefully developed to unlock the ambitions of global filmmakers and content creators.

Stand-out features include built-in balance indicator lights at each motor provide an at-a-glance indicator of their balance calibration status. Meanwhile, Bluetooth connectivity provides direct shutter control to supporting cameras, removing the possibility of a cable in the way, dislodging, or becoming lost. Operators can easily start/stop recording, and trigger photo capture remotely.

Less Weight, More Ergonomic
Crafted with precision, the CRANE 4 is built with lighter design compared to previous generations, enabling camera operators to work longer one- or two-handed without fatigue. The CRANE 4 provides a novel, adjustable sling grip that, when combined with the ergonomic wrist rest, supports fine-tuned angle adjustment to enable precise movement control. The versatile sling grip can be adjusted to match the gimbal’s central axis, allowing easy switching between sling style and two-handed modes, depending on the operator’s preference. Using the quick-release module, effortlessly switch between landscape or portrait modes as the shoot requires.

Next-Generation Precision & Performance
The CRANE 4 takes payload capacity to the next-level, enabling it to lift and move heavier full-frame DSLR and compact cinema cameras, such as Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 6K, ZCAM, and SIGMA FP series, more accurately. Its longer arm length and stronger motors ensure effortless precision and incredible portability.

Easy To See Colour Touchscreen
The integrated 1.22-inch colour touchscreen allows the operator to easily see and adjust the CRANE 4’s functions such as balance, operating mode and see real-time status information.

PD Fast Charging Keeps the Day Going
Four high-capacity 18650 batteries provide up to 12 hours runtime and can be fully recharged in under two hours via USB PD fast charging,  enabling operators to use their preferred multi-device PD charger.

Built-in Fill Light
New for the CRANE series, the CRANE 4 includes a built-in 10W fill light with max illuminance of 3200 lux, CRI 95+ and CCT between 2700K-5500K. The extra level of integration and portability adds convenience to shoots where kit weight and crew sizes are a premium.

Comprehensive Creative Ecosystem
The CRANE 4 can be paired with a rich selection of professional accessories, such as remote monitoring, follow-focus motors and ZHIYUN’s TransMount Image Transmission system, creating a comprehensive creative ecosystem for professional filmmaking.

ZHIYUN’s commitment to continuous innovation improves its hardware in each generation, enabling users with greater freedom to embrace their creativity without limitations.

Price and Availability

CRANE 4: £669

CRANE 4 Combo (with MasterMove accessories and storage bag): GBP £749

The CRANE 4 and CRANE 4 Combo are available from: ZHIYUN and Amazon UK stores.

Incredible Prime Day 2023 Discounts on Camera Gimbals & Lighting Accessories from ZHIYUN

ZHIYUN, a world leader in professional camera and smartphone stabilisation systems, portable scene lighting, and filmmaking accessories, will offer incredible gimbal and camera accessory discounts during Amazon Prime Day 2023 for a wide range of its products including, its WEEBILL S, MOLUS G60, MOLUS X100, FIVERAY M40 and FIVERAY F100 series. Get up to 27% off the ZHIYUN FIVERAY, MOLUS and select gimbals – ideal for photographers, content creators and filmmakers.

ZHIYUN Amazon Prime Day 2023 will officially take place between July 10 – 23 on the ZHIYUN Amazon Store. An exclusive discount period will be available between July 12-13 for the ZHIYUN MOLUS G60, MOLUS X100 and WEEBILL-S, so ensure to save the date to avoid missing out!

Scene Lighting
MOLUS G60 — Ultra-Portable COB Lighting

As small as a Rubik’s Cube and an ultra-portable 300g, the MOLUS G60 provides initiative controls, an excellent CCT, CRI ≥96 and TLCI ≥97. For added convenience, the G60 can be charged using a DC power adapter or via a USB-PD fast charging.

  • MOLUS G60 Discounted Price: £195 (11% off)

  • MOLUS G60 Combo Discount Price: £239 (11% off)

MOLUS X100 — Powerful, Portable, Accurate Lighting

Combining practicality and stylish design in just 385g, the MOLUS X100 rivals much heavier cinematic lights with 3881 lux while still imbuing the simplest and most efficient setup. The MOLUS X100 offers excellent CCT, a CRI≥95, and TLCI≥97. On the go content creators can minimize downtime with three ways to power up the light, choosing between the grip battery, DC adapter and the 100W USB-PD fast charging.

  • MOLUS X100 Discount Price: £239 (11% off)

  • MOLUS X100 Combo Discount Price: £329 (11% off)

  • MOLUS X100 Pro Discount Price: £375 (11% off)

FIVERAY M40 — Precise, Powerful, Pocketable Light

The palm-sized FIVERAY M40 360° fill light epitomises simplicity and utility. This highly compact fill-light uses 176 embedded LEDs and ZHIYUN DynaVort technology, the M40 ensures superior heat dispersion without compromising on its 40W illumination – up to 4X more powerful than alternatives – without strobing. Adjustable dual-color temperature ranges from 2,700-6,200K, with CRI reaching 96+ and TLCI reaching 97+. Weighing in only 320g, it fits neatly in pockets, looks stylish and is the ultra-portable illumination companion for videographers, whether amateur or professional.

  • FIVERAY M40 Discount Price: £84 (15% off)

FIVERAY F100 – Power, Portability & Accurate Colour in a Handy Lighting Tool

The lightweight FIVERAY F100 is designed for one-handed control and comfort, offering a pro lighting solution without the need for complicated set-up or setting adjustment. Embedded with 5 times more LED chips, the F100 outshines similar-sized lights, reaching 20,708 lux at its 100W maximum power. F100 offers six creative lighting effects that help build up the atmosphere easily when inspiration strikes.

  • FIVERAY F100 Discount Price: £179 (28% off)

  • FIVERAY F100 Combo Discount Price: £219 (27% off)

Camera Gimbal
WEEBILL-S — Unleashing Possibilities for Professional Filmmakers

The WEEBILL-S professional camera gimbal easily handles mainstream mirrorless and DSLR camera & lens combos. Thanks to its lightweight body and a unique Sling mode, the WEEBILL-S imbues an effortless shooting experience. Featuring strong motors with an advanced stabilisation algorithm, the intelligent ViaTouch 2.0 system, as well as an ultra-low latency HD image transmission module, the WEEBILL-S pushes the limit of filmmaking even further to unleash boundless possibilities for professional filmmakers.

  • WEEBILL-S Discount Price: £259 (10% off)

  • WEEBILL-S Image Transmission Pro Kit Discounted Price: £399 (17% off)

How to Buy

Exclusive Promotion Period: July 12-13, 2023
Available online from: Amazon ZHIYUN

Portable Scene Lighting

MSRP (GBP)

Promotional price

Discount

MOLUS G60

£219

£195

11%

MOLUS G60 Combo

£269

£239

11%

MOLUS X100

£269

£239

11%

MOLUS X100 Combo

£369

£329

11%

MOLUS X100 Pro

£419

£375

11%

Camera Gimbal

MSRP (GBP)

Promotional price

Discount

WEEBILL-S

£289

£259

10%

WEEBILL-S Image Transmission Pro Kit

£479

£399

17%

Promotion period: July 10-23, 2023.
Available online from: Amazon ZHIYUN

Smartphone Gimbal

MSRP (GBP)

Promotional price

Discount

SMOOTH-Q3

£79

£69

13%

SMOOTH-Q3 Combo

£99

£89

10%

SMOOTH-Q4

£99

£84

15%

SMOOTH-Q4 Combo

£119

£99

17%

SMOOTH 5

£139

£115

20%

SMOOTH 5 Combo

£189

£159

16%

SMOOTH 5S

£169

£149

12%

SMOOTH 5S Combo

£219

£189

14%

Camera Gimbal

MSRP (GBP)

Promotional price

Discount

CRANE-M2 S

£199

£169

15%

CRANE-M2 S COMBO

£219

£189

14%

CRANE 3S

£559

£449

20%

Professional Scene Lighting

MSRP (GBP)

Promotional price

Discount

FIVERAY F100

£249

£179

28%

FIVERAY F100 Combo

£299

£219

27%

FIVERAY M40

£99

£84

15%

First Look – C300 4K Action Camera from SJCAM

With the Summer here we like to take photos and videos to capture those special moments, now I have never been one to carry a standalone camera but only use my phone but this new kit could change that due to its size and stop me heavily relying on my smartphones for all forms of image and video capture which my phones be used for on a daily basis for my tech reviews.

This is small light and portable and comes with stacks of use case scenarios and accessories to get the most out of it which is super cool and can be seen in the unboxing below there is something here for everyone and not only that there is a wide spectrum of settings too which adds some flavour to the pocket sized gadget.

Standard Recording

4K (3840*2160) 30FPS
2K (2560*1440) 60/30FPS
1080P 120/60/30FPS
720P 120/60/30FPS

Photo Resolution 20MP, 16MP, 14MP, 12MP, 10MP, 8MP, 5MP, 3MP, 2MP

Check out the package below and if you have any questions while we test it out feel free to let us know in the comments

Features 

  • 1.3″ touch screen (front)+1.3″ touch screen (rear)
  • 4K 30FPS
  • 6-Axis Gyro Stabilization
  • 30M waterproof with case
  • Continuous shooting, Timed shooting, Quick shooting, Interval shooting

BUY

Unboxing Video

3..2..1.. Action As Boom Collaboration Launches Powerful Multi-Camera Controller

Boom Collaboration has launched a powerful multi-camera controller designed to put the power of mixing into the hands of anyone, in an easy and intuitive way.

The Boom GOJO transforms live events, court rooms and religious ceremonies, as well as standard video meetings – with a four dimensional joystick to control pan, tilt, zoom and speed functions.

It includes four camera quick select buttons and massive capacity to seamlessly link 255 devices. The GOJO can be used in traditional conference rooms as well as for high performance broadcasts, with an array of connectivity options.

Texas-based Boom Collaboration is spearheaded by founders Fredrik Hörnkvist and Holli Hulett. Created in 2020 the ambitious video conferencing equipment manufacturer has launched a global expansion drive this year including the UK and wider Europe.

Seamless control

Hörnkvist says the GOJO represents the dawning of a new era for multi camera functionality which has often been complex and difficult to operate in the past.

“The Boom GOJO offers the ultimate in camera control with a 4D joystick and LCD display at its heart. Users can easily adjust focus, colour, PTZ and shutter speed with quick-adjust dials and quick buttons to program camera presets and shortcuts. It offers the ultimate camera control for broadcast, live events, auditoriums and traditional conference settings.”

Fredrik Hörnkvist and Holli Hulett

The GOJO seamlessly controls multiple PTZ cameras on a single network making it an intuitive, flexible and superior solution across a host of environments, according to Hulett.

She highlighted: “Boom Collaboration is a relatively new kid on the block and we are all about pushing the boundaries of innovation and ease of use. The GOJO is an ideal solution where more than one camera is needed. That could be government meetings, religious services or other live events – and even conference rooms where multiple angles are required.

Ultimate experience

“Enjoy quick switch control for four cameras with dedicated buttons and control for up to 255 cameras in total. We’re putting the power of mixing control into the hands of anyone with basic knowledge. Additional quick control buttons adjust focus, backlight compensation, red and blue, white balance, pan/tilt speed and zoom speed with ease.”

She concluded: “POE is included too and when paired with our MAGNA 4K PTZ cameras the GOJO ensures the ultimate visual experience. Users can also deploy LAN network control which is a big feature for many organisations and has been one of the primary drivers for lots of initial traction.”

The Boom GOJO offers multiple connectivity options with ports for LAN/PoE, RS232, RS422/RS485 and Tally/Contact. It comes with a three-year warranty and has an RRP of £545.

First Look and hands on with the new Instax Square SQ40 camera from Fujifilm

Just announced the all new Instax Square SQ40 camera from Fujifilm has dropped in for review and we take a hands on first look at the latest on offer today, this camera is by no means small however these cameras are popular and will fly off the shelves and we love their retro look and finish which is also solid, there is also a new camera film launched to coincide with the launch of the camera and we will of course be testing both these out during our testing over the coming week or two.

First impressions of the new camera is solid and simple to use as is all cameras from the company and this runs on two batteries so no cables required which is a nice bonus these days as there is just too many lying around. The camera itself is not that heavy either and you get a neck strap to keep secure, there is a flash of course a viewfinder and that twisting lens which I love and you can see the camera in action and how it works by twisting the lens and this also gives you you two shooting modes. And yes guys we can take selfies with it.. Think back to the Instax Mini 40 for a similar camera

Check out the hands on unboxing below and feel free to ask any questions, as far as a point and shoot goes you cant ask for anything easier and then to have an actual photo in your hand.

Key SQ40 features include:

Automatic Exposure function

The SQ40’s Automatic Exposure function automatically senses the level of ambient light when the shutter button is pressed, optimizing the shutter speed and flash output according to the scene. It allows even novice INSTAX instant camera users to take photos that are automatically adjusted regardless of interior or exterior conditions, producing high-quality photos on-the-spot.

Selfie Mode for quicker and easier selfies

Users can activate the Selfie Mode, perfect for taking selfies and close-up shots, by simply twisting the lens after powering the SQ40 on. Using this mode to take amazing selfies and close-ups is incredibly easy and convenient.

New Film Variety Introduced:

Also accompanying the launch of SQ40 is Fujifilm’s launch of the new INSTAX SQUARE “Sunset” variety of instant film. The design of this new square format instant film is inspired by the gentle gradation of the colors in the sky during a sunset. As with all INSTAX SQUARE instant film varieties, Sunset will be available in a single pack with 10 exposures.

Pricing and Availability:

Fujifilm’s INSTAX SQUARE SQ40 instant camera will be available at Fujifilm stockist’s nationwide at a manufacturer’s suggested retail price EUR 150.00 (incl. VAT) and is expected to be available for purchase on 29th June 2023. For more product information, visit www.instax.ie/cameras/square-sq40/

INSTAX SQUARE Sunset instant film is also expected to be available on 29th June 2023 at a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of EUR 11.00 (incl. VAT) per pack (10 sheets). For more information about this new INSTAX SQUARE instant film variety, visit www.instax.ie/film/#film-selector.

Unboxing Video

Fujifilm Introduces the INSTAX SQUARE SQ40 Instant Camera

FUJIFILM Europe GmbH, Imaging Division, announced today the launch of its new INSTAX SQUARE SQ40 instant camera (SQ40), a new addition to the INSTAX SQUARE lineup of instant cameras. Fujifilm has also introduced a new INSTAX SQUARE instant film variety, “Sunset”, featuring a variety of film borders with soft color gradients designed to be reminiscent of a serene, peaceful sunset.

“Consumers love our INSTAX MINI 40 instant camera, so expanding the line to also include a SQUARE format option just made sense,” said Shin Udono, Senior Vice President, Imaging Solutions, FUJIFILM Europe. “Not only can INSTAX fans now have another instant camera with a classic look, but they can also now enjoy the SQ40’s large, square image area.”

Key SQ40 features include:

Automatic Exposure function

The SQ40’s Automatic Exposure function automatically senses the level of ambient light when the shutter button is pressed, optimizing the shutter speed and flash output according to the scene. It allows even novice INSTAX instant camera users to take photos that are automatically adjusted regardless of interior or exterior conditions, producing high-quality photos on-the-spot.


Selfie Mode for quicker and easier selfies

Users can activate the Selfie Mode, perfect for taking selfies and close-up shots, by simply twisting the lens after powering the SQ40 on. Using this mode to take amazing selfies and close-ups is incredibly easy and convenient.

New Film Variety Introduced:

Also accompanying the launch of SQ40 is Fujifilm’s launch of the new INSTAX SQUARE “Sunset” variety of instant film. The design of this new square format instant film is inspired by the gentle gradation of the colors in the sky during a sunset. As with all INSTAX SQUARE instant film varieties, Sunset will be available in a single pack with 10 exposures.

INSTAX MINI EVO Now Available in Brown:

Fujifilm is also pleased to introduce brown as a new color option for its FUJIFILM INSTAX MINI EVO hybrid instant camera (MINI EVO) product line. Initially introduced in 2021 in a black camera body, MINI EVO’s unique hybrid format combines the excitement and satisfaction of traditional instant camera functionality with the capabilities of digital imaging technology to select, share, and store specific images. Paired with INSTAX MINI instant film, MINI EVO creates high-quality prints directly from the camera. Images can also be printed from a paired Smartphone camera roll using the INSTAX MINI EVO Smartphone App. 

Pricing and Availability:

Fujifilm’s INSTAX SQUARE SQ40 instant camera will be available at Fujifilm stockist’s nationwide at a manufacturer’s suggested retail price EUR 150.00 (incl. VAT) and is expected to be available for purchase on 29th June 2023. For more product information, visit www.instax.ie/cameras/square-sq40/

INSTAX SQUARE Sunset instant film is also expected to be available on 29th June 2023 at a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of EUR 11.00 (incl. VAT) per pack (10 sheets). For more information about this new INSTAX SQUARE instant film variety, visit www.instax.ie/film/#film-selector.

 

Fujifilm’s INSTAX MINI EVO hybrid instant camera in brown will be available at a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of EUR 200.00 (incl. VAT) and is also expected to be available for purchase on 29th June 2023. For more information regarding the INSTAX MINI EVO product, visit www.instax.ie/cameras/mini-evo/ 

Sony launches their new ZV-1 II vlogging camera

Sony has launched the all-new second generation camera to the ZV-1 in the vlog camera ZV series, the ZV-1 II which includes highly requested and popular market-leading features.  With a wider angle than ZV-1, the ZV-1 II helps vloggers make more engaging storytelling with attractive photogenic image quality.

With the 1.0-type Exmor RS image sensor (approximately 20.1 effective megapixels), BIONZ X image processing engine, and ZEISS® Vario-Sonnar T 18-50mm F1.8-4lens, the ZV-1 II allows for creators of many skill levels to enjoy sophisticated capabilities. From the 18-50mmii wide angle lens which can frame everything from group selfies to narrow interiors or dynamic recordings of everyday scenes to the Multiple Face Recognitioniii ,which recognises multiple faces and automatically adjusts to keeps all faces sharp and clear when taking selfie shots that include two or three people, the ZV-1 II is the advanced vlogging camera packed into a travel-size.

“The ZV-1 II is an exciting chapter for content creators and will be the go-to camera for many, including vloggers, social media influencers and short form video creators. With the newest vlog camera in the ZV series, we have taken requests from various users and included features that matter most to vloggers,” said Yann Salmon Legagneur, Head of Imaging Products & Solutions Marketing, Sony Europe. “We are striving to take feedback from our community to continue to expand and elevate our ZV series and the ZV-1 II does just that.”

Comprehensive Features for Vloggers & Video Content Creators

The ZV-1 II has a number of new and popular features that will empower creators to capture better content. Ultra-wide angle and Zoom – 18mmii wide angle of view makes it easy to capture attractive photogenic image with the entire scene – especially when shooting selfies at arm’s length. The 18-50mm optical zoom and the Clear Image Zoom smoothly enlarges images while minimising loss of image quality to create a variety in videos by changing the angle of view.

  • 1.0 type sensor with Bokeh Switch which gives beautiful bokeh by defocusing the background with a single touch.
  • Intelligent 3-capsule microphone – In Auto mode, the camera recognises human faces or objects and automaticallyiv switches the direction of the built-in microphone ([Front] or [All Directions]). In Manual mode, you can select [Front] for selfies, [Rear] when shooting with narration or [All Directions]. The supplied windscreen ensures a clear recording of the speaker when outdoors. Easy to use cableless attachment to Multi Interface Shoev  and a 3.5 mm microphone jack makes it easy to connect external microphones.
  • Cinematic Vlog Setting function responds to the demands to easily take ambient images using a vlog camera. It enables impressive imagery at a touch. Simply tap the on-screen function icon and the camera will automatically set a CinemaScope size (2.35:1) vi and a frame rate of 24 fpsvii , the same as for a cinema movie. Then finish off the work with the on-screen buttons to select from five LOOKs and four MOODs
  • Creative Look which supports 10 preset looksviii to suit your creative preferences and pro-level imaging features.
  • Face Priority AE and Soft Skin Effect automatically and immediately detects faces and adjusts the exposure to optimise facial brightness, no matter the lighting. Soft skin effect smooths skin and facial features when filming.
  • Fast Hybrid AF System – Even in high-definition 4K where precise focusing is required, the camera will keep the images sharp with the same Fast Hybrid AF system seen in α series cameras. The camera is equipped with AF Transition Speed to select the focusing speed during video recording, and AF Subject Shift Sensitivity to control the focus in line with the subject’s movement and environment. In addition, the Real-time Eye AF can accurately keep focus on human or animals for both stills and movies.
  • Product Showcase Setting – which delivers convenient shooting of product review videos with smooth focus transitions from your face to the item you are highlighting.
  • S&Q shoot modevix which allows a selection up to 5x slow or up to 60x quick motion to add impact to everyday scenes. The combination of shooting and recording frame rates can now be set on a single screen.
  • ISO sensitivity spanning from 125 to 12800– allows the camera to record sharp images with less noise, even in low lighting.
  • Active Mode electronic image stabilisation – content can be captured while walking or in motion and is especially useful for handheld shootingx. Useful for handheld Movie and Slow & Quick motion shooting.
  • Built in ND filter – to reduce exposure by three stops and allow for beautiful background bokeh even in the brightest situation.

Compact and Lightweight for Easy Portability, Operability, Connectivity

The ZV-1 II is perfect for on the go; its compact and lightweight design can be easily carried in a pocket or small bag, even with its’ optical wide zoom lens. The ZV-1 II supports different filming styles with the vari-angle screen suitable for selfies, easy to hold body grip (or with an optional GP-VPT2BT grip), user-friendly key and control layoutxi and the recording indicator on the front face of the body. The monitor display has been redesigned with a bold, clearly visible red frame that makes it obvious when recording is in progress. Power charge easily via a USB Type-C® connector.

Creators can connect and share content easily with Sony’s Creators’ Cloud platform and easy smartphone connection. The Creators’ App can be used to control the ZV-1 II from a smartphone, monitor camera battery and media status, edit date and camera names and easily transfer stills and videos shot, even in the background. The Creators’ Appxii also provides a convenient way to update camera software.

For easy high-quality live streaming, simply connect the ZV-1 II to a PC or smartphone xiii with a commercially available USB cable (not included) to use it as a webcam. Make your video more attractive in online meetings and live streaming by using Creative Look to improve the skin’s appearance and adjust the hue. Faces will appear clearer and brighter (Face Priority AE) and the eyes will be kept in focus (Real-time Eye AF).

Environmentally Friendly and Accessible Design

In addition to Sony’s commitment to a sustainable future with global initiatives like Road to Zero and the 2030 renewable energy goal, the ZV-1 II has been specifically developed with sustainability in mind. Recycled materials, including SORPLASTMxiv, are actively used for the camera body, reducing environmental impact without sacrificing functionality. Sony’s unique recycled paper “Original Blend Material”, which does not use plastic and is easy to recycle, is used for individual packaging. Using materials such as bamboo, sugar cane fiber, and recycled paper collected from the market, it is both environmentally friendly and high quality.

The ZV-1 II includes accessibility features that facilitate operation in several ways, including screen reader functionality for people with visual impairments. Accessibility features allow anyone to enjoy shooting and playback.  When the screen reader functionxv is activated, text on the menu screens is read aloud. The screen reader function can be activated by turning the [Screen Reader] function in the [Setup] tab ON. Screen reader volume can be adjusted via the [Sound Options] settings. In addition to the above, the ZV-1 II includes a number of functions that assist in achieving pinpoint focus on a variety of subjects. The Real-time Eye AF can automatically recognise and focus on [Human] or [Animal], or the Real-time Tracking function. Focus Magnification, and Peaking functions make it easier to focus manually, and features like Touch Focus, Touch Tracking, and Touch Shutter let the user focus, track, and shoot simply by touching the subject on the monitor screen. ZV-1 II accessibility features (items listed in the specifications): Screen Reader, 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.

Pricing and Availability

The new ZV-1 II will be available in June 2023 at a variety of Sony’s authorised dealers, for an estimated retail price of £870 / €1000.

With Sony’s promotion – Welcome to Vlog. UK & Ireland customers who buy any ZV camera (ZV-1F, ZV-1, ZV-E10, ZV-E10L, ZV-E1, ZV-1 II) can register to receive up to £100 / €100 off their next lens or accessory purchases.