Why the Sony ZV-1 is so special.

Today we discuss what makes this little Sony ZV-1 camera so special. Did Sony make the perfect pocket video camera?
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First time here? Hi, I'm Omar Gonzalez, a professional portrait and event photographer in the NYC/NJ area. On this channel, we talk cameras, lenses, and techniques to improve our photography.
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[@ogonzilla]

Yes, I had hair. We know.

[@doolittlegeorge]

Great review. Absolutely agree with everything. Definitely competes with a cell phone and plain old cell phones.

[@toxichatter8387]

Can you use this camera to shoot a movie?

[@Seanonyoutube]

I wasn’t expecting this level of heartwarming in a camera review

[@MoeMorales]

Seeing the memories made me smile while watching. Thank You for the smiles

[@dabblesonguitar6752]

Those old videos are great. It’s funny isn’t it, how photos and videos become more valuable over time. And also how the lower quality isn’t so important.

[@SwitchbackGuitars]

Omar you’ve got to be one of the most likeable dudes on YT. And everything you said about the ZV-1 is spot on.

[@eddybax1]

This makes me so happy! Who cares about image quality! You have a beautiful family sir! A big salute to all nerdy dads watching this!

[@PhotoGearFun]

I use my Z-V1 as a camcorder too. I thought I might be the only one to think of it in that way. I love my Fujis but this is my go to put into my pocket content machine. Thanks for the video! Cheers.

[@kalvin.]

It’s actually such a good camera. I don’t mind 24mm so much except that the 4K crops even before you add stabilization. Also USB C would be great to have fast charging for the tiny battery

[@LashayneHampton]

You sold me on this camera but more importantly your beautiful hearts shines on the outside so I subbed too. We need more good people out here. 💕

[@papsny]

I agree, i have the zv1 anywhere i go and try to record moments with my kids as much as i can.. what i love about the zv1 is the hotshoe that lets me do ocf.. great video and review

[@adliberate]

Love a happy looking family with dads playing with kids. Priceless.

[@LawSchoolBlueprint]

I loved this video, the clips of your family, and etc made it personal. Thanks so much for this

[@charliejg]

Gotta love the old camcorders. I remember having one in the OR when my son was born. That was 2001 and they still allowed filming back then. By the time my daughter was born in 2004, no more filming. :-)

[@HaywoodHomestead]

Amazing review! Just ordered this camera and excited to get it!

[@jonieder50]

Omar rocking the SARB033. Love It!!

[@michaelbell75]

Thanks. Just picked up one of these on sale and really like it. Super underrated camera capable of a lot more than just vlogging. Great sensor, really good lens, good mic, best in class AF, downsampled 6K video etc...and it fits in your pocket. Cant beat it IMO.

[@JakeMay]

Really helpful review, and presented in a really warm and friendly way - thank you!

[@griffittsgarage]

Awesome video, great information! I just bought this camera last night, can’t wait to try it out today!

[@MichaelMoore-bx6st]

On my last vacation, I took my XT3 w/ 16-80 and ZV1. XT3 was mainly photo, ZV1 mainly video while still trying to switch it up on occasion. After I went through my photos and video clips, I concluded that they make a great combo, and that I will stick with each of their strengths for my next trip. Sony AF on wide mode with active stabilization makes getting good footage effortless.

[@solegemini03]

Hi, can you share your experience with reagrds to the photos capabilities of ZV1?

[@MichaelMoore-bx6st]

@@solegemini03 In my opinion, the ZV1 is better than a smartphone for stills, but it is hard to see the screen in bright day light (no evf) and doesn't have a joystick for focus points which is the way I like to focus for stills... It does however have incredible eye AF if you know your taking a pic of the closest person to you. I don't think it's a great experience, but everyone is different. I got a Fuji X100V for a small portable stills camera and am pretty much in love with it.

[@moobsandboobs]

thanks you for such a heartwarming video! I was actually considering this camera as a pocket "Dad cam" to document my newborn and this video sold it to me haha

[@bill3117]

Neat camera. Similar to my recently found my RX100 IV that had been lost in the house for three years (thank you family). I'm having a ball with it, and love the pop up viewfinder. This camera is fun to use, even in 2021.

[@HoneyandMe]

I'm sold! I've been dickering between the 1 and the 10...and this just seems so easy and simple for the kind of filming I do. Thanks!

[@hobbsthehobbyist]

Don't do it lol. Get a Go Pro 10. Im returning my Zv1 tomorrow. Not a great camera once you use it. Unless you're into photos or still video only.

[@HoneyandMe]

@@hobbsthehobbyist Hey! I appreciate your input. I have actually been watching comparisons of these 2 and am even more confused now, lol!

[@Sebastian-ht3el]

Out of the yt hell again into the warm sun of happy memories. God bless you.

[@sadmanshakib7646]

Honestly, more than the camera technicality, I liked seeing your videos with your family.

[@APOLLOSTEES]

Gotta say I never gave this camera second look. Figured it was a too 'basic'. But you make a good case for using it. Also thanks for sharing the family pics 😊

[@AndrewMatthews]

I’ve also got this camera and love it. Keep going backwards and forwards with 1080 or 4k recording. Never quite sure which one to use for the day to day.

[@zacredacted2137]

I feel like this and a griii would make a nice tiny video/picture pair. Edit: that flip up mic idea is brilliant!

[@akyerit]

That's absolutely true! Although the picture quality is surprisingly great too. But probably not quite as nice as the Griii

[@ellisgrisham1117]

THANK YOU😂 I bought the ZV 1 camera in December and I have not really put it to any Test because of this new term Vlogging camera and watched plenty of videos about it but today your video made complete sense why because I still have that same camcorder from Sony and I used it alot and it still works! Even though your video is a year old the Zv 1 IS the new mini camcorder for today’s use to record the grandkids !!! Thanks again😊

[@BecTarot]

That’s it, I’m sold!

[@NickBarang]

Totally agree, I love my Fujis but the ZV-1 has been one of the best additions to my kit bag ever. :-)

[@sonholee5769]

what is the advantage over just shooting video with my iphone?

[@Henry-ve3ye]

What a beautiful family. ❤️

[@ProjectLM_]

As a little kid I'd constantly be borrowing (aka taking) my dad's camcorder to make videos, and that's what let me to get into cameras and videos. A few years ago I started learning photography, and while I love my a6400 for photos, I'm still way more into videos and end up just using my phone to record because I always have it on me. I love the idea of using the ZV-1 as a camcorder rather than a blogging cam, and while I have a smaller NEX-5T as a backup cam, maybe I'll get something like this as a proper secondary/video cam.

[@DonGurugay]

Very useful information, thank you.

[@nicoletiana]

I just got this camera for my everyday quick vlogging! lol. love it so far!!!

[@RAMtrails]

dang! the deep cuts on this 👌

[@totiwuo]

Lo mejor de este video es ver tu linda familia 😍

[@shaananwalsh7513]

My new camcorder is the dji osmo pocket. So small, easy to use and great results. Not knocking on the ZV-1 but i love my osmo.

[@empressdoinalot]

😂😂😂😂 the 1st throwback with the camcorder was enough. Im subscribing.

[@simplychloe2089]

cant wait to get my hands on one!

[@kiysebaert9971]

excellent video as usual

[@projectpearblossoms]

Super helpfu, great video 😄

[@Awingyy]

Thank you for the review im now sure of this camera🤗

[@RachelWhelton]

Just today I sent off my Sony AX-53 to trade in towards my first ever Fuji camera. (I hope it goes well). Each of us has to decide when redundancy is a good idea and when it's just too many cameras doing similar jobs. I always worry when the lenses extend out like that and when it's auto/on/off because if you drop it the camera might not turn on or off properly anymore. I love how you discuss different brands of cameras but most of all Fuji since that is my new interest.

[@BrandonTalbot]

That's a solid thumbnail Omar!

[@timothypaxson2976]

Thanks for the video! Looking to get this camera everyday pictures and recording family time.

[@Luna_Lhaeleay_Lotus]

I just bought it!! It’s better than I expected I am extremely happy!! Best quality I’ve seen on camera still need to put settings tho also it didn’t come with memory card!

[@berat_dede_1]

Zv-1 and street photo , good idea

[@canwilldone40]

Thanks for the video. I received a Sony ZV-1 for Christmas. This was helpful. Question. What did you use to mount the camera in your car?

[@schoeferfilm]

Definitely a great cam the ZV1 👍🏻 although I have a professional FX6 I love my small ZV1 😍 especially for holidays

[@dccoletrain]

I find the wide angle lens adapter works pretty well. Just another thing to have to carry. I take it off to save the motor

[@markshirley01]

Nice to see the fambo Omar - ❤️ #flipupable 😃

[@stefpix]

I think the lens at the widest is 26mm or 27mm equivalent. the RX100 series has a wider 8.8mm lens, this has 9.4mm at the widest. I have the RX100vii which i love, but the tiny video button in the corner is a pain to press. it also got dust under the lens visible in some images. This has the ND filter and a cold shoe for a mic. nice review and points.

[@ulisebalbuena]

I love this video

[@alanaperture]

Are you stalking me? Seriously I had Fuji and starting watching you. Just a month after I got my Nikon z6ii you got one, and now I literally just bought a used zv1 2 weeks ago and now you have a video on it. Lol. What you said are all points I took into consideration when getting the ZV1 plus it had a great low aperture for lower light videos. I think it’s a great little camera and it’s going to be my go to for video. I threw a movo shotgun mic on it but also have the rode wireless go. Also have a cage for it and with that I can get it to stabilize on the Ronin SC. Also, my kids (7 and 5) love recoding themselves with it so it’s just a fun little camera. Great video Omar.

[@irenequeenofPeace6228]

I’m a new youtuber and I’m looking for a pocket friendly best camera. What’s your recommendation please?

[@ulisebalbuena]

I love this video, i dont know how many times i saw it hahah

[@tknson]

YOUNGER OMAR 🤩

[@SYXONTOP]

Amazing video

[@SamoScopom]

Omg, this is probably the best commercial for a camera I have seen. I mean, I know it's not an ad, but you are doing what marketers always want - you are not only taking about the product, you are talking about what it represents to you.

[@ryanthomas9306]

Still a fan of my phone or pocket 2 for documenting stuff

[@mipmipmipmipmip]

in practice do you use the deadcat outside a lot, or can you skip it? Looking for a used one but they often come without the deadcat. Also, one more item to slow you down before filming.

[@MrYoochoobet]

Just got mine 👍🏽

[@ZotmundSzele]

I'm planning to get one of these. I'm a point and shoot fan but I'm not prepared for giving up a zooming 🤔

[@-grey]

This is how I feel about the g7x. I used to be such a camera snob about quality, and when I first got it I still was. The LCD sucks quality wise, but the first time I got the photos and video onto the computer I was shocked. Now I take it as the do 90% of everything camera. I still bring my X-70 if I want the buttons and quality, or the X-T2 if I want that silky "real camera" look, but it honestly does most of everything I need, with reasonable file sizes too.

[@ashleyye]

Hi, I am doubting between the Sony zv1 and the canon g7x. Do you have any opinion on this?

[@-grey]

@@ashleyye In 2023? ZV1. It's just a more adaptable and versatile camera. I just like my time with my G7X. It's a great camera, but it's old now.

[@ashleyye]

@@-grey thanks! I’m mainly using it for taking pictures but also video. I was also doubting between the ZV1 and RX100vii but looking at the price point and the fact I’m not a professional photographer, I am going for ZV1.

[@-grey]

@@ashleyye ZV1 is better still. It's very good for it's price and size.

[@spyhunter6411]

Any chance you could let us know how it is for stills? I have an xt4 and I'm really searching for a tiny camera I can keep on me at all times that does good video and stills for family photos (first) and hobbyist photography (second, mainly practicing conposure). Thanks!

[@minhazkhan4093]

Wow x70 on the table!!

[@AnjaneeUnique]

When I realized that those are the same babies shown in the previous clips...awww.

[@didiudoaffah4359]

I have been asking this question but no one out there has done any video. Thank you

[@ericcortez5328]

Omar have you ever used the Sony FDR-AX53 camcorder? Awesome 4k video, flippy screen that turns on/off the camera, stabilization, 5.1 surround sound mic, and a super far zoom lens that doesn't degrade any quality. Plus it's cheaper than the ZV-1. It's my go to for my family videos. Thank you for showing us this awesome camera! 🎉

[@ogonzilla]

Size.

[@camhussain3782]

Great video do you think a zv2 is coming?

[@dominiclester3232]

“Flipupable” that definitely needs to be added to the dictionary, nice!

[@mipmipmipmipmip]

seems the handling is great without the bluetooth grip? maybe even better than with the grip because you can put it in a pocket? - I really like the flip-open and start recording mode, perfect for family setting.

[@forgottengrave_]

You went to renaissance faire in NY other week?

[@andresce1308]

Omar, how does this camera compare to Nikon Z6ii for video? Is the quality close?

[@lukaseichinger2332]

Very pleasant Video

[@floridasaltlife]

Looks like a great little machine for exactly what you described. How about another video geared toward people wanting to start with it as their camera, I can picture completely different but good content with that twist, add in some comps with next level up camera comps too.

[@robertgrenader858]

I've seen other KZbin reviewers having less than ideal still photography results with the ZV-1. It is a video-centric camera that can take stills when needed.

[@ufukkiblat]

My camcorder is my phone. It’s always with me and easy to share

[@Doogsay]

Hi good review. Curious why you and others Ive seen make no mention of the 960fps @ 1080. Surely this is a major selling point.

[@johnsomai4107]

While recording normally without stopping record can we change to slow motion video

[@briarjensen2123]

I was going to buy this camera for myself. But did want to be outdated in a few months with the zv 2...or whatever. Do you think this will happen with it being almost a year and a half old?

[@akyerit]

I friggen LOVE my sony Zv-1. I feel like for some odd reason it's one of the most underrated cameras out there tho. I have used practically ALL of the pocket cameras and nothing honestly really comes close. Except maybe the $1300 rx100 vii which is double the price and has a totally different lens range. The 4k quality out of this little pocket rocket is actually amazing. Best quality vs size that is out there imo. And I also have the a7c and this zv1 can easily be the B Cam to my a7c. But aside from the phenomenal video abilities that this is capable, this tiny camera actually can take some great photos as well! Anyone would be hard pressed to tell this zv-1 from my a7-c in alot of photos I can guarantee you. Unless you're talking about super wide open portrait bokeh shots or maybe certain lowlight shots. But this thing can even handle most lowlight situations plenty fine. And I even use this for tons of street photography because the auto focus is so damn instant you barely have to even think about it. My only personal gripe is that I wish it could specifically hit some of the most common focal lengths easier. Like 28, 35, 40, 50 etc. Instead of having to barely tap the rocker back and forth to get it to where you want it. Plus with any crop you have to factor that in too, I have just just given up lol. But aside from that, this is easily the best pocketable camera you could ever have on your person as an actual edc, because it does everything well enough. It's basically a pocketable jack of all trades, master of none haha! (Oh ya and it also makes for a super high quality webcam for streaming on Twitch or whatever your preference)

[@daniel635biturbo]

How is the stabilization for video comparing a7c and zv1 ? I've got the way older siblings A7II and RX100II. And the RX100 completely crushes the A7 in video, I'm surprised how much I use the RX100 !

[@akyerit]

@@daniel635biturbo I feel like their similar. Plus they both have the gyro stabe. But a7c has actual ibis vs digital on the zv1. It's good enough but no where near, let's say, Panasonic's ibis. The a7c is a beast tho. And the zv1 I tend to grab when I'm heading out the door the most. Primarily due to its size and its surprisingly capable, even in lowlight

[@daniel635biturbo]

@@akyerit Thanks !

[@22hype1]

Hello interested in purchasing one, how good does it record video for like kids sports games:soccer, basketball in your opinion?

[@nomad0714]

Hi Omar, Nice one! Taking us back to memory lane. How much has evolved but more precious are the moments. I’ve had the ZV-1 since it came out and here are some info about it to save you some time: 1) ZV-1 crop (the math): (Credits: Peter Trub and Over-X-poser comments on Kasey’s video). UltraHD 24p crop: 1.094 Active stabilization: 1.185 Combined: 1.094 x 1.185 = 1.29639 ZV-1 sensor size: 13.2mm x 8.8mm FF sensor size: 36mm x 24mm Crop factor for ZV-1 to FF (ff/ZV-1): 36/13.2 = 24/8.8 = 30/11 = 2.727 ZV-1 Crop with 24p + active stabilization: 9.4mm x 1.29639 x 2.727 = 33.2mm FF-equivalent 25.7mm x 1.29639 x 2.727 = 90.9mm FF-equivalent If you add on Zomei’s 0.45x wide angle adapter, you get: 33.2mm x 0.45 = 14.94mm FF-equivalent 90.9mm x 0.45 = 40.905mm FF-equivalent If you add on Ulanzi’s 0.75x WL-1 wide angle adapter, you get: 33.2mm x 0.75 = 24.9mm FF-equivalent 90.9mm x 0.75 = 68.179mm FF-equivalent Both adapters have macro lens attached if you want to do some macro shots. The downside is that they’re both heavy so not sure what it will do to the motors over time. I prefer the Ulanzi as you don’t lose IQ. Also, Ulanzi provides an a 52mm filter adapter to attach the lens. The Zomei I got awhile ago so don’t remember if it included one or not. Back then I had a Lensmate 52mm filter adapter. 2) Battery life: Check out Ulanzi’s power grip BG-2/3/4. Will give you all day recording. I have them all but will use the BG-4 for compactness and BG-3 for longer battery life and reach. Both have newer USBC + A ports that can be used simultaneously and/or charging. 3) more ND filters: You first need to add a 52mm filter adapter. In my case, I already had a Lensmate one. Then I stack on Freewell’s magnetic filters on bright shooting days 4) audio: Nowadays if you vlog, I suggest getting a Ulanzi MT-8 small tripod with a cold shoe. I like this one because when you use say a Deity D4 Duo Shotgun, it is leveled with your mouth rather than putting it on top of camera. Rode Wireless Go 1/2 as you mentioned are good alternatives as well. 4) cage. Get a small profile like the Smallrig 2937/38. Allows to add other accessories 5) lights for lowlight conditions: Check out Ulanzi’s VL-30 mini 5600K light, VL-49 RGB mini light, or L2 Cute Waterproof IP-68 light. There are more lights but to name a few. Not sponsored by Ulanzi but just like their affordable products. But seems like you’re a low key guy and keeping a simple setup. Just some options to have if you so choose to need.

[@ogonzilla]

Thanks for the info!

[@Ineng-xn9iz]

Thank you for this video. I currently have the Iphone 14 pro max and although i am happy with it, i am curious with the sony zv1. I am not a vlogger nor do i plan on taking videos. its more of pictures. Is the sony significantly better at taking photos/ portraits than an iphone? not interested in photos of places/scenery. my focus is people/ family portraits :)

[@ceecee130x]

Now that sweet x70 on the side is what I wanna get... not being a video/vlog guy myself. I know, that's totally off-topic. It's good to see a beloved old friend... the cam, that is 😂😂😂.

[@gregoryoutdoors]

Hi Omar! That is exactly what I'm missing on my x70 too and in the Fuji lineup in general, a pocketable cam good for both pics and video. I love my tiny x70 and im sure you too but I want a camera for videos like this Zv1...I had to find a camera to do it all and stay small any ideas? I got xpro2 with 18-55 and 35 1.4 but really cannot be bothered taking them bulky ones everywhere.

[@akyerit]

Why not this zv-1? Its affordable and ticks all of your boxes and then some

[@Feelageela]

I have the iphone 13 pro max,theoppo find x5 pro n the zv 1.Video quality n colour wise,zv 1 win hands down.Sold my 13 pro max just after 2 weeks.Kept my oppo for daily usage coz the charging speed is insanely fast.Zv 1 is really worth keeping for family outings n travelling.

[@arkosarkar343]

You didn't change a bit Omar 👍

[@jerryeisner1]

Omar did you mention the sensor size and if it takes stills also? Thanks. je

[@ogonzilla]

1 inch sensor and yes does photos

[@donvittoriosierra]

How good is still photography on this camera? Comparable or better than the g7x series?

[@Risayogi]

I bought the ZV-1 for the exact same reason. In this day and age, we tend to record video instantly from our phone, in vertical aspect ratio. Looks great if we watch it straight from our phone or to share to social media. But on TV, yeah not so great. So me and my wife decided to buy this ZV-1 as a primary device (video and photo) to record our family activities, trips, and vacations. Basically, just like the camcorder in the old days, so later we can watch these special moments on TV. Oh and we also bought an external drive specifically to store the videos from our ZV-1.

[@ogonzilla]

Exactly. Great little memories caught

[@solegemini03]

Hi Omar, how is the ZV1 on taking photos?

[@vicenteGuitarPlayer]

It would be the perfect camera but, I would make the following improvements, lw I would put a ring for manual focus and when recording video it should show what millimeter of lens we are in... but it is still a great camera that Sony launched and left forgotten ....

[@BellaBeeBaby]

Can I take regular pictures on it?

[@Nogitsune_Yako]

Would like to see comparison between ZV-1 & iPhone 13 Pro

[@SarkazzHere]

I love mine

[@manuelpalocci]

3:59 - Fresco: Coronation of the Virgin (1466-1469) - Painter: Filippo Lippi - Location: Cathedral of Spoleto, Italy Greetings from... you guess it :)

[@colin4836]

Liked this 15 seconds in just for that gold camcorder footage haha

[@colin4836]

And it only gets better!

[@just_eirik]

Do you still have this camera? Do you ever use it for photography? If so, what do you think about the image quality?

[@amedina_life]

ISO 100k brings back that camcorder look

[@alanc6416]

Just got the new iPhone 13 pro. Now it’s increasingly difficult to justify buying and carrying ZV1 for daily use. I can still justify carrying an Fuji X100 though because of the difference in sensor size, but one day that might also change.

[@ogonzilla]

The SD card data transfer ALONE is worth the price lol...Plus the selfie cam on phones is still pure poops.