My honest review after six months using the ZV-E1 as a full time content creator.
We hate to say ‘game changer’ because, well, everyone says it… but after six months with the Sony ZV-E1, we get it. This camera truly changed the game for us as travel content creators, heres why.
Why We Needed A Camera Upgrade
We’ve been long time Sony users for photography, primarily relying on the full frame Sony A7R IV. While it excels in photography, it fell short for video, lacking features like 10-bit colour, 4k 60fps recording, and internal stabilisation, we got a bit frustrated with the video results. As a result, we stuck to using the A7R IV for photos and our iPhone 15 for videos. While the iPhone delivers impressive video quality for social media, its limitations become apparent in low light conditions and for professional client work.
What We Wanted in a New Camera
Our primary content involves short form travel videos for Instagram, TikTok, and client projects. Here’s what we were looking for:
- Full-frame sensor for cinematic visuals and nice soft depth of field.
- 10-bit colour to enable professional colour grading.
- 4K 60fps & 120fps for high quality slow motion.
- Built in stabilisation for smoother hand held footage.
Exploring Our Options
Given our existing Sony full frame lenses, we focused on full frame video cameras. Initially, we debated between the Sony FX3 and the Sony A7S III. Then we learned about the Sony ZV-E1, which offers the same sensor and video specs as those cameras but comes in a more compact, creator focused design.
Why We Chose the Sony ZV-E1
Here’s why the ZV-E1 stood out for us:
- Cost: The FX3 was overkill for our needs, and at nearly double the price of the ZV-E1, it wasn’t really necessary. The A7S III, though excellent and with the same sensor, is almost four years old so it lacked the new in body stabilisation and updated AI autofocus.
- Advanced Features: The ZV-E1 incorporates Sony’s latest AI autofocus and next-gen in-body stabilisation, features typically found in their high-end models like the FX3 and A1 II.
- Value for Money: With its cutting edge technology and affordability, the ZV-E1 was the perfect balance for us. It’s reignited our passion for creating video content.
What We Love About the ZV-E1
- S-Log3 & 10-bit Colour: Enables professional-grade colour grading.
- 4K 60fps & 120fps: Smooth slow motion capabilities.
- Amazing Dynamic range: Up to 15 stops
- Low Light Performance: Exceptional results in challenging lighting conditions.
- AI Autofocus: Fast and accurate subject tracking.
- Clear Image Zoom: 1.5x digital zoom without quality loss.
- Uploading user LUTs: So you can preview how your look will be in monitor
- Compact Design: Lightweight and travel-friendly.
- Flip Out Screen & Vertical UI: Perfect for social media content creation.
Can the ZV-E1 be used for photography?
With a 12MP sensor, we were initially concerned about its photography capabilities compared to our A7R IV’s 61MP sensor. However, for social media and web use, the difference is negligible. The ZV-E1 shines in low light with minimal noise at high ISO. If higher resolution is required, tools like Photoshop’s “Super Resolution” can upscale images effectively.
Addressing Negative Reviews
Automatic Features: Early critics labeled the ZV-E1 as a “dumbed-down” camera due to its automatic features. In reality, these features are great for quick, high-quality shots and can actually be bypassed for full manual control just like any other Sony high end camera.
Overheating Issues: Despite concerns about the ZV-E1 overheating, we’ve had absolutely no issues, even when shooting 4k 60fps in the summer heat of Australia, Bali, and Vietnam the camera has held up perfectly. That said, as short form content creators our clips are typically around 30 seconds to a a couple of minutes max, making this a non issue for our use case.
Who Should Consider the ZV-E1?
If you create short form content or vlogs and prioritise cinematic visuals, the ZV-E1 is an excellent choice. Before splurging on the FX3, ask yourself: do you really need it? For those who don’t require a full frame sensor, the ZV-E10ii offers similar features at a lower cost.
Accessories We Use with the ZV-E1
- Lenses:
- Sony 24-70mm f/2.8 GM: Our go-to versatile travel lens. Shop it here
- Sony 24mm f/1.4 Prime: Lightweight and ideal for vertical content. Paired with the ZV-E1’s Clear Image Zoom, it provides a 35mm equivalent. Shop it here
- Gimbal:
- DJI RS3 Mini: Although the ZV-E1’s in-body stabilisation is excellent for handheld use, the RS3 Mini is perfect for more complex movements during client shoots. Shop it here
Final Thoughts
The Sony ZV-E1 is a powerful tool for content creators looking to get cinematic video quality. It’s compact, user friendly, and packed with professional features that match higher end models. Adding this camera to our kit has sparked our excitement in creating video content again opening up huge possibilities in shooting and editing.
