Sony

Introducing the Sony ZV-E10 II: A Game-Changer for Content Creators and Vloggers

James DeRuvo content creation, mobile filmmaking, Sony, Sony ZV-E10 II, vertical video, vlogging July 10, 2024

Sony has unveiled the next generation of its mirrorless camera designed specifically for content creators: the ZV-E10 II. This compact powerhouse is packed with features to help you take your content to the next level.

Enhanced Performance and Superior Video Quality

The ZV-E10 II boasts a powerful new APS-C 26MP sensor and BIONZ XR processor combo. This delivers incredible performance, enabling you to capture stunning 4K video at 60 frames per second. That’s the same sensor found in Sony’s renowned FX30 cinema camera, offering professional-grade quality in a smaller package.

With a wide ISO range and support for 10-bit video recording, the ZV-E10 II excels in various lighting conditions. It also offers industry-standard codecs for maximum flexibility in post-production. Need slow-motion footage? No problem, the camera shoots 1080p HD video at up to 120 frames per second.

Professional Audio and Advanced Autofocus

The ZV-E10 II takes audio seriously. It features a high-quality 3-capsule microphone but also allows you to connect external mics for crystal-clear sound. Plus, the new AI Processing Unit and Phase Detection AF provide Eye AF support that ensures your focus stays locked on your subject, even when they’re moving.

User-Friendly Design and Connectivity

The ZV-E10 II features a fully articulating touchscreen LCD, perfect for shooting in portrait mode. It also comes with a variety of connectivity options, including USB-C, Wi-Fi, and UVC support for easy streaming. The battery life has also been improved, allowing you to capture footage all day long.

The New Kit Lens: E PZ 16-50mm f/3.5-5.6 OSS II

The ZV-E10 II comes with a new and improved kit lens. This lightweight lens offers a versatile zoom range and improved image stabilization, making it ideal for everyday shooting.

Pricing and Availability

The Sony ZV-E10 II is available for preorder now, starting at $1098 for the kit with the lens. While it’s slightly more expensive than its predecessor, the ZV-E10 II offers significant improvements in image quality, performance, and battery life. With its compact size and powerful features, the Sony ZV-E10 II is a true game-changer for content creators and vloggers looking to upgrade out of a smartphone.

Uncategorized

Transforming Your Sony FX30 Camera into a Traditional Cinema Camera for Under $300

James DeRuvo Caleb Pike, Cineback, DSLR Video Shooter, Sony, Sony FX30 December 26, 2023

Forget hefty cinema camera price tags! DSLR Video Shooter’s Cineback is here, offering a budget-friendly revolution for Sony mirrorless camera owners. This brainchild of YouTube DIY filmmaking guru Caleb Pike transforms your existing a7, a6, or FX series camera into a sleek, pro-style powerhouse for under $300.

Cineback isn’t just about bells and whistles; it’s about empowering creators. “I built Cineback because high-quality filmmaking shouldn’t be a financial privilege,” says Pike. “Cineback lets you achieve professional results without breaking the bank.”

Here’s how it works: the Cine Back module seamlessly integrates with a SmallRig cage, providing a sturdy base for your Sony. V-mount battery support keeps the juices flowing for extended shoots, while a built-in D-Tap hub powers accessories like recorders, monitors, and follow focus systems.

But Cineback’s true magic lies in its adaptability. The modular design lets you swap camera bodies in a flash, saving precious setup time. Mounting options galore let you attach a matte box, wireless follow focus, or even a volt display for precise power monitoring.

“Versatility is king,” emphasizes Pike. “Cineback adapts to your workflow, whether you’re a solo filmmaker or leading a crew. It lets you focus on what matters most – capturing stunning visuals.”

And Pike’s innovation doesn’t stop there. Future plans include Cineback modules for Canon R and Fuji mirrorless cameras, along with Gold Mount battery compatibility for even broader appeal. He’s also working on expanding the Cineback ecosystem with an SSD hard drive recording solution.

For now, the Cineback Module for Sony FX3 and FX30 is available for pre-order on the Camera Forge website for $299. With pre-orders already selling out, be sure to sign up for restock notifications to secure your Cineback and unlock the world of professional filmmaking on a budget.

Key takeaways:

Cineback transforms Sony mirrorless cameras into pro-style setups for under $300.
Modular design allows for easy customization and camera swaps.
V-mount battery support and D-Tap hub power accessories for extended shoots.
Mounting options accommodate matte boxes, follow focus, and more.
Future plans include Canon R and Fuji modules, Gold Mount batteries, and SSD recording.

Cineback is a testament to the power of innovation and a game-changer for DIY filmmakers. So grab your Sony camera, strap on a Cineback, and get ready to unleash your inner cinematographer!

Caleb Pike’s new Cineback has a retail price of $299, but is currently on sold out on preorder. Pike assures, however, that there will be availability in the new year. Sign up for an email notification at his Camera Foundry website.

Cameras

Sony Unveils Alpha 9 III Mirrorless Camera with Global Shutter

James DeRuvo 4K, 4K120, Global Shutter, Sony, Sony A9III, Sony Alpha, Sony Alpha 9 III November 7, 2023

Sony Corporation has unveiled its latest marvel in the Alpha series: the Alpha 9 III mirrorless camera. Packed with cutting-edge features and innovations, the spotlight shines on its new Exmor RS sensor with a global shutter, which promises to revolutionize image capture.

The Alpha 9 III is the latest addition to Sony’s Alpha series, known for its exceptional performance, and it has been eagerly awaited by professionals and enthusiasts alike. With the introduction of the Exmor RS sensor with a global shutter, Sony has taken a giant leap forward in the world of mirrorless cameras.

Key Features of the Sony Alpha 9 III:

Exmor RS Sensor with Global Shutter:

The standout feature of the Alpha 9 III is its brand-new Exmor RS sensor with a global shutter. This technological marvel allows the sensor to capture images without the distortion associated with rolling shutters, making it ideal for fast-paced action photography and video recording. The global shutter also eliminates the dreaded “jello effect” in video, ensuring buttery-smooth footage. With 35.9 million effective pixels, it promises unparalleled clarity and image quality.

High-Speed Performance:

Sony’s Alpha 9 III boasts an impressive burst rate of 30 frames per second, making it one of the fastest mirrorless cameras on the market. This blistering speed, combined with the Exmor RS sensor, ensures that no moment will be missed, even in the most dynamic and challenging scenarios.

Impressive ISO Range:

The camera offers a wide ISO range of 50 to 409,600, allowing photographers to capture stunning shots in low light conditions. The Exmor RS sensor’s exceptional low-light performance and reduced noise make it perfect for night photography, astrophotography, and indoor shooting.

Advanced Autofocus System:

The Alpha 9 III features Sony’s renowned Real-time Phase Detection AF autofocus, ensuring that subjects are in sharp focus with incredible accuracy. The camera also offers Real-time Tracking and Real-time Animal Eye autofocus, making it a versatile tool for capturing a wide range of subjects.

4K Video High Frame Rate Capabilities:

For filmmakers, the Alpha 9 III provides the option to shoot in stunning 4K resolution, which is oversampled from a 6K sensor, ensuring edge-to-edge sharpness. The camera also supports up to 120 frames per second (fps) with no cropping, delivering impressive slow-motion capabilities, as well as shooting high frame rate with greater flexibility in post-production.

Redesigned Ergonomics:

Sony has improved the ergonomics of the Alpha 9 III with a refined grip and a 5-axis in-body image stabilization system, making it more comfortable and stable to hold. The camera also boasts dual card slots (CFexpress Type A and SD UHS-II), a 9.44-million-dot electronic viewfinder, and a 3-inch tilting LCD screen for versatile composition.

Connectivity and Durability:

This camera is equipped with a built-in 5GHz Wi-Fi for high-speed data transfer and remote control, and it also supports FTP for efficient file sharing. In terms of durability, the Alpha 9 III has a robust magnesium alloy body with weather-sealing, ensuring it can withstand the harshest conditions.

Final Thoughts

Sony’s relentless commitment to pushing the boundaries of imaging technology has once again paid off, setting new industry standards with the Alpha 9 III. With its Exmor RS sensor with global shutter, high-speed performance, and advanced autofocus capabilities, this camera is poised to leave an indelible mark on the world of photography and videography. Whether capturing fast-paced sports action or cinematic masterpieces, the Alpha 9 III is poised to be the tool of choice for professionals worldwide.

Pricing and availability

The Sony Alpha 9 III, a full-frame mirrorless camera, is currently open for preorders through Sony’s network of authorized dealers, priced at $5,999. It is set to commence shipping in the spring of 2024.

Cameras/ Featured/ Technology

Sony’s New Wireless Microphones Redefine Portable Audio

James DeRuvo Sony, Sony ECM-S1, Sony ECM-W3, Sony ECM-W3S, wireless microphones September 27, 2023

Sony has thrown its hat into the wireless microphone arena with three game-changing devices designed to cater to the needs of professionals in videography, podcasting, and live streaming.

ECM-W3/W3S: High-Performance in a Compact Package

Sony’s ECM-W3 steps into the ring to take on the likes of RØDE Wireless Pro and DJI Mic, offering professional-grade sound quality with universal camera compatibility. Its lightweight design, featuring both transmitter and receiver, ensures portability and ease of use. With three 14mm large diameter capsules, it captures crisp audio while reducing ambient noise.

Specifications:

Three 14mm large diameter capsules
Noise-cut filter and windscreen
Multi-channel operation
Sony’s LC3Plus audio codec
Range: Up to 492 feet
Battery life: Up to 6 hours
Transmitter power source: MI Shoe
ECM-W3S: Two transmitters and one receiver

ECM-S1: Streamlined for Live Streaming and Podcasting

For live streaming and podcasting aficionados, the ECM-S1 delivers a simple yet effective solution. Its three capture modes – Monoaural unidirectional, Omnidirectional, and Stereo unidirectional – cover a variety of recording needs. The included pop filter reduces plosives, and its desktop stand is adjustable for optimal positioning.

Specifications:

Three capture modes: Monoaural unidirectional, Omnidirectional, Stereo unidirectional
Pop filter included
Adjustable 360° desktop stand
Range: Up to 492 feet
Battery life: Up to 13 hours
Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity

Pricing and Availability

These cutting-edge microphones come at an accessible price point: ECM-W3 ($469), ECM-W3S ($349), and ECM-S1 ($419). Preorders are now open through authorized Sony dealers. The ECM-S1 is set to ship in October 2023, while the ECM-W3 and W3S will follow in November 2023.

Sony’s new wireless microphones are poised to reshape the audio landscape for professionals and enthusiasts alike.

Breaking News/ Cameras/ Filmmaking

Sony Announces a7C II and a7C R Mirrorless Cameras

James DeRuvo Mirrorless cameras, Sony, Sony a7C, Sony a7C II, Sony a7C R August 29, 2023

Sony has announced two new compact full-frame mirrorless cameras, the a7C II and the a7C R. Both cameras feature a back-illuminated CMOS sensor, the same Bionz XR processor, and the same dedicated AI processing unit as the Sony A7R V. Designed to cater to the diverse needs of both enthusiasts and professionals, these cameras promise to elevate your photography and videography experiences to new heights.

However, there are some key differences between the two cameras, including the sensor size.

Improved Image Quality

The Sony a7c R boasts a remarkable 61-megapixel full-frame Exmor R CMOS sensor, while the a7c II (33MP) comes equipped with a smaller 33-megapixel BSI Exmor CMOS sensor. Both sensors are designed to capture color accurate , true-to-life details, even in challenging lighting conditions.

The enhanced BIONZ X image processor ensures outstanding image quality with reduced noise and exceptional dynamic range.

Innovative Autofocus Technology

Both cameras feature Sony’s renowned Real-time Eye AF for humans and animals, ensuring that your subjects are always in sharp focus. The a7c R (61MP) takes this a step further with Real-time Tracking for improved accuracy, making it a dream for wildlife and sports photographers.

4K Video Capabilities

Videographers will appreciate the 4K recording at 60p with full pixel readout, giving you the creative freedom to capture cinematic masterpieces.

Additionally, the a7c R (61MP) supports 10-bit 4:2:2 recording with up to 15+ stops of dynamic range when using Sony’s S-Log codec for even more precise color grading in post-production.

Compact and Lightweight Design

The a7c R (61MP) and a7c II (33MP) maintain the compact and portable form factor that the a7c series is known for. Through the use of lightweight metal frames and recycled plastics, both cameras are over 20% lighter than previous generation A7c cameras.

Ideal for on-the-go shooting, these cameras can easily fit into your bag without compromising on performance.

Enhanced Viewfinder and LCD

Both cameras feature a high-resolution OLED electronic viewfinder (EVF) with a 5.76-million-dot resolution, ensuring a lifelike preview of your shots. The 3-inch LCD touchscreen is tiltable for versatile shooting angles and offers intuitive touch controls.

Price and Availability

The Sony a7c R (61MP) and a7c II (33MP) are set to hit the market at competitive price points. The a7c R (61MP) will be available for $2,799 (body only), while the a7c II (33MP) comes at an attractive price of $1,499 (body only).

Pre-orders for these cameras begin now with shipping scheduled for sometime in the Fall of 2023.