Sony has announced the ZV-E10, the first Alpha-series camera aimed at vloggers. It’s based largely on Sony’s entry-level APS-C camera, the a6100, and includes many of that camera’s standout features, such as Sony’s Real-time autofocus. However, it adds several modifications designed specifically for vlogging.The ZV-E10 includes a fully articulating screen, making it easy for vloggers to monitor video while shooting. A zoom lever around the shutter button can operate power zoom lenses, with eight user-selectable speed settings, and digital zoom on other lenses using Sony’s Clear Image Zoom technology.A multi-directional three-capsule microphone is designed to follow sound, and the camera ships with a small ‘deadcat’ windscreen. Sony’s Multi Interface hot shoe supports digital audio and is located on the top corner normally reserved for viewfinders on the a6000 series.The ZV-E10 includes several features first seen on Sony’s compact vlogging camera, the ZV-1. These include Sony’s product showcase mode, which can automatically shift focus away from a subject’s face to an object held in front of the camera.Other features include a background defocus function, which sets the lens to its maximum aperture to set the subject apart from the background, and a soft skin mode. Users can also live stream directly through a computer or smartphone, and the camera can act as a webcam.There’s a large movie record button on top of the ZV-E10 as well as a button to quickly toggle between still, movie, and S&Q (slow and quick) modes. A front tally lamp and a red frame marker on the screen make it easy to see when recording is in progress.4K/30p video, captured from an oversampled 6K signal, can be recorded at up to 100 Mbps using Sony’s XAVC S codec, and 1080/120p recording is available for slow-motion. The camera supports HDR video by way of HLG capture and Sony’s S-Log 3 gamma profile. It can capture 24MP still images in either Raw or JPEG format.Dedicated microphone and headphone jacks are included for audio recording and monitoring when shooting video.Sony claims the camera can record up to 125 minutes of video or capture a CIPA-rated 440 images on a single charge. It can also be powered through its USB-C port for continuous use.The ZV-E10 will be available in black and white versions at the end of August and it will retail for $700. A bundle including Sony’s 16-50mm F3.5-5.6 power zoom lens will retail for $800.
Sony Electronics Introduces the New Interchangeable-Lens Vlog Camera ZV-E10 for Vloggers and Video Creators
The ZV-E10 APS-C Camera Delivers High Quality Video and Audio Performance, Vlog-Optimized Functions and Versatile Connectivity – Perfect for Video Creators
SAN DIEGO, CA – July 27, 2021 – Sony Electronics Inc. today announced the first Alpha series interchangeable lens vlog camera, the new ZV-E10. Designed from the ground up for vlogging and vloggers, the new camera combines Sony’s advanced imaging technology with extensive usability and a custom-built feature set that is optimized for video creators.
At its core, the ZV-E10 features a 24.2-megapixel (approx. effective) APS-C Exmor™ CMOS sensor and BIONZ X image processing engine to produce high-quality imagery with high-sensitivity, detailed texture depiction and beautiful natural bokeh. Additionally, the ZV-E10 includes the acclaimed vlogging-specific features favored in the popular ZV-1 digital camera including “Background Defocus” that can smoothly switch between a blurred (bokeh) and sharp background, as well as the “Product Showcase Setting” mode that allows the camera to automatically shift focus from the subject’s face to an object being highlighted.
“With the introduction of Sony’s first interchangeable lens vlog camera, the ZV-E10, we are excited to meet the growing needs of today’s creators,” said Yang Cheng, Vice President, Imaging Solutions, Sony Electronics Inc. “The new ZV-E10 pairs the versatility and excellent image quality of a large-sensor interchangeable lens camera with user-friendly features that are specifically designed for vlogging, making it an ideal tool for video creators looking to transition to a more advanced set up.”
The ZV-E10 features a video-first design in a lightweight form factor (approx. 12 oz. / 343g) and includes the popular side-opening Vari-angle LCD Screen that allows creators to connect external mics on top of the camera. This simplifies setup while still allowing users to see the screen in selfie shooting mode and from high and low angles.
In addition to the screen, the ZV-E10 includes several other easy-to-use functions that are specifically designed for vlogging, including a new mode button located on the top of the camera that allows creators to easily change between Still/Movie/Slow and Quick modes with just one touch.
The new camera also includes advanced video features such as 4K (QFHD: 3840 x 2160) video shooting and Slow Motion with high picture quality (FHD 120p). Electronic image stabilization with Active Mode is also available and delivers stable video recording even while walking and shooting hand-held. Further, the ZV-E10’s advanced AF (autofocus) technology provides fast, precise AF with excellent tracking performance, as well as high quality audio for clear sound recording.
Sony Vlog Challenge Contest
Together with this announcement, Sony will host their second Sony Vlog Challenge Contest that encourages entrants to create a vlog that highlights something that they are the most passionate and enthusiastic about. The entry period is July 27 – September 27, 2021 and is open to video creators in the U.S. (excl. terr.) and Canada (excl. Quebec). See contest official rules here*.
Creative Versatility
An Interchangeable Lens Camera for Expanded Creative Expression
The ZV-E10 allows the user to expand their creative expression by utilizing the ideal lens for each individual scene they want to shoot. The wide variety of compatible lenses in Sony’s E-mount lens lineup lets the user choose the perfect lens based on their creative vision.
Advanced Autofocus
Sony’s industry-leading AF technology enables the user to leave focusing to the camera so that they can concentrate on composing their shot. The ZV-E10 includes Fast Hybrid AF and Real-time Eye AF for video with Real-time Tracking that allows the camera to keep track of the subject’s face and eyes for fast and precise autofocusing even while recording on-the-go and in challenging environments. The user can also customize the camera’s AF settings, such as AF Transition Speed and AF Subject Shift Sensitivity, to choose the rate at which the camera shifts from one point to another according to their creative preferences.
Additionally, the ZV-E10’s Touch Focus function allows the user to intuitively set the focus position by simply touching the screen. With one tap, the user can instantly shift the focus position from one subject to another – almost anywhere in the frame. This is available in both still and video modes.
High Quality Audio
Sony’s leading technology, thanks to its internal Directional 3-Capsule Mic, enables the ZV-E10 to capture crystal clear sound recordings that accurately capture the speaker’s voice and the supplied wind screen to greatly reduce wind noise. For expanded audio options, the ZV-E10 includes a Digital audio interface via Multi Interface (MI) Shoe and a mic jack to connect an external mic. The inclusion of a headphone jack allows the user to connect headphones to accurately monitor sound recordings. Audio output timing can also be set for Live or Lip Sync.
Putting the Subject First
When shooting in different settings with dramatic changes in light, the user can rest assured that the ZV-E10 will automatically correct the exposure, using an original Face Priority AE (autoexposure) algorithm capable of rapid AE transitions, so that the subject’s face is not over or under exposed. This allows the camera to detect the subject’s face and adjusts the exposure to ensure that the face is depicted at optimal brightness, even when selfie-shooting in scenes with extreme changes in lighting, and even if the subject’s face turns away momentarily from the camera. In addition, the camera features the same advanced color science from the popular ZV-1 to optimize skin tones for any subject in both still and video modes.
Cutting-Edge Video Features:
Internal 4K movie recording through full pixel readout without pixel binning
High bit rate XAVC S™ codec at 100Mbps when recording 4K
Slow & Quick Motion
High-speed full HD recording at 120 fps
Interval Shooting for stunning time-lapse videos
Hybrid Log-Gamma (HDR) / S-Gamut3.Cine / S-Log3, S-Gamut3 / S-Log3
Designed for Video Creators
Users can comfortably operate the new ZV-E10 thanks to its easy-to-hold body grip and large MOVIE button that is conveniently located on top of the camera. When paired with the optional Shooting Grip with Wireless Remote Commander (GP-VPT2BT, sold separately), one-handed shooting is simplified with easy to access zoom, record and a customizable button. A recording lamp (tally light) is also provided on the front face of the body for an at-a-glance indication of recording status. A red frame on the LCD screen also appears while recording to quickly and easily lets the user know if recording is active when behind the camera.
A unique feature of the ZV-E10 is the zoom lever that can operate optical zoom with power zoom lenses and Clear Image zoom with both zoom and prime lenses. Using Clear Image zoom, the user can zoom without losing video resolution to maintain full 4K video. The user can also choose from eight zoom speed settings for added creative flexibility.
The ZV-E10 features long battery performance with enough power to capture up to 125 minutes or 440 images on a full charge so the user can record for long periods without worry. When shooting indoors, AC power supplies like the optional AC-PW20AM can supply power, so the user can continue to record without worrying about battery consumption. Power can also be supplied through a USB Type-C® connector, allowing external batteries to power the camera for extended battery life when shooting on the go. To conserve the camera’s battery, the ZV-E10’s Vari-angle LCD Screen allows the user to put the camera into Power save mode by closing it and instantly turn the camera on by opening the panel.
Stay Connected
Livestreaming
The ZV-E10 can also be used as a high-quality webcam or live streaming camera by simply connecting it to a PC or smartphone for increased mobility while streaming with no additional software needed. The feature allows the user to take advantage of the ZV-E10’s outstanding image quality and crystal-clear audio as well Face Priority AE and Soft Skin Effect while livestreaming or on video calls. The ZV-E10 supports standards used for USB cameras like UVC (USB Video Class) / UAC (USB Audio Class). The ZV-E10 also allows users to connect to a power supply via USB cable while livestreaming for longer usage. For added convenience, the user can assign this function to a custom button to start streaming instantly.
Easy File Data and Transfers
Using Sony’s Imaging Edge Mobile app, users can transfer selected images and video files to a mobile device via Wi-Fi. This also allows the user to transfer RAW image files. After the camera has been paired to the Imaging Edge Mobile app, the files’ location data can be acquired from the mobile device and recorded. Users can transfer files from an SD card in the camera to a smartphone (mobile device) via Bluetooth even if the camera is powered OFF.
Pricing and Availability
The new ZV-E10 will be available in black and white in the end of August for approximately $700.00 USD and $900.00 CAD. It will be sold at a variety of Sony’s authorized dealers throughout North America.
A new kit featuring the ZV-E10 camera and E PZ 16-50mm F3.5-5.6 OSS power zoom lens will also be available in the end of August and will be sold for approximately $800.00 USD and $1,000.00 CAD. It will be sold at a variety of Sony’s authorized dealers throughout North America.
Notes:
[i] Background Defocus is the name of the function assigned by default to the C1 button. Aperture values in Bokeh Switch Defocus / Clear are as follows. Movies: [Background Defocus: Defocus] lens widest aperture; [Background Defocus: Clear] F8-11, controlled automatically between F8 and F11 according to the environment. Stills: [Background Defocus: Defocus] lens widest aperture; [Background Defocus: Clear] F11. F values are not displayed in either Movies or Stills. The menu item associated with the Bokeh Switch is named “Background Defocus”.
[ii] When Product Showcase Setting is activated image stabilization on this model it remains on.
[iii] With battery and memory card included.
[iv] A Class 10 or higher SDHC/SDXC memory card is required to record movies in the XAVC S format. UHS-I (U3) SDHC/SDXC card is required for 100Mbps.
[v] Image crop in Active Mode. Active Mode is not available when recording at frame rates of 120 (100) fps, including S&Q
[vi] Real-time Eye AF for animals is not available in movie shooting.
[vii] Tracking” in the menu.
[viii] When recording at 24p. With image stabilization Off/Standard Mode.
[ix] A Class 10 or higher SDHC/SDXC memory card is required to record movies in the XAVC S format. UHS-I (U3) SDHC/SDXC card is required for 100Mbps
[x] Sound recording is not possible. A Class 10 or above SDHC/SDXC card is required.
[xi] A Class 10 or higher SDHC/SDXC card is required for XAVC S format movie recording. UHS speed class 3 or higher is required for 100 Mbps recording. Frame rates are 1-120fps (NTSC) or 1-100fps (PAL).
[xii] Wi-Fi is not operational during interval shooting
[xiii] Time-lapse movie creation is possible on a PC
[xiv] Connect this product to an HDR (HLG) compatible Sony TV via a USB cable to display HDR (HLG) moviesxvContinuous recording time for movies. Actual performance varies based on settings, environmental conditions, and usage.
[xvi] CIPA standards.xviiOn this model, whatever the screen orientation (inward or outward facing), the user can shoot as soon as they open the screen.
[xviii] Your PC or smartphone OS must be compatible with UVC/UAC to use this functionality. Among smartphones, operation has been verified with the Xperia 1 II and Xperia 5 II (latest firmware required) for Android™ 11 or later (As of May 2021). Compatibility with other smartphones depends on manufacturers’ specifications. A commercially available USB cable and/or terminal adaptor may be used to connect to equipment with a USB Type-C port.
[xix] Imaging Edge Mobile version 7.5.1 or later is required. Download app at Google Play and the App Store. Network services, content, and operating system and software subject to terms and conditions and may be changed, interrupted or discontinued at any time and may require fees, registration and credit card information.
[xx] “Power off connection” in the camera’s smartphone settings must be turned ON, and the camera and smartphone must be paired via Bluetooth.