patricklemmer
New Member
Hello everyone,
(It turned out to be a lengthy post, thanks for reading it in advance!!)
I'm reaching out for some advice and insights as I'm currently torn between using my iPhone or the Sony ZV-1 as my primary video camera. Let me dive into the details a bit.
I run a YouTube channel focused on wildlife photography, and while I'm still honing my videography and vlogging skills, I'm committed to improving and uploading more frequently. My videos typically involve outdoor shots and desk-based activities like post-processing tutorials and stuff like that. So, finding a camera that performs well outdoors and as in a "streaming set up" ( I am not really streaming, but pre-recording) is essential.
In the past, I relied on my iPhone (whichever model was on hand) as my go-to video source. I also used a DJI Mavic Mini 2 drone and my trusty Canon 7D Mark II for B-roll shots. I should note that my Canon mainly serves my photography needs, which is why it usually gets the B-roll duty. Occasionally, I experimented with a DJI Osmo Mobile 2 gimbal for added stability and extra camera-to-subject distance. However, more often than not, I found myself opting for a cheap camera tripod – something similar to a GorillaPod – as it provided me with a better sense of control compared to the gimbal. To improve audio quality, I integrated a Rode VideoMic into my setup, securing everything with clamps, elastic bands, and whatever else I could find to keep things compact and tight.
Lured by the allure of new gear, I soon upgraded to the Sony ZV-1, complete with a hand grip. Here's why I made the switch:
Can anyone give me some advice on which set up might be the better fit, based on their own experience with these models or simply out of vlogging experience. Maybe I am still not using either of these options to their full potential or I am missing some stuff that might make either option a better experience.
Thanks in advance!
(It turned out to be a lengthy post, thanks for reading it in advance!!)
I'm reaching out for some advice and insights as I'm currently torn between using my iPhone or the Sony ZV-1 as my primary video camera. Let me dive into the details a bit.
I run a YouTube channel focused on wildlife photography, and while I'm still honing my videography and vlogging skills, I'm committed to improving and uploading more frequently. My videos typically involve outdoor shots and desk-based activities like post-processing tutorials and stuff like that. So, finding a camera that performs well outdoors and as in a "streaming set up" ( I am not really streaming, but pre-recording) is essential.
In the past, I relied on my iPhone (whichever model was on hand) as my go-to video source. I also used a DJI Mavic Mini 2 drone and my trusty Canon 7D Mark II for B-roll shots. I should note that my Canon mainly serves my photography needs, which is why it usually gets the B-roll duty. Occasionally, I experimented with a DJI Osmo Mobile 2 gimbal for added stability and extra camera-to-subject distance. However, more often than not, I found myself opting for a cheap camera tripod – something similar to a GorillaPod – as it provided me with a better sense of control compared to the gimbal. To improve audio quality, I integrated a Rode VideoMic into my setup, securing everything with clamps, elastic bands, and whatever else I could find to keep things compact and tight.
Lured by the allure of new gear, I soon upgraded to the Sony ZV-1, complete with a hand grip. Here's why I made the switch:
- I wanted to up my post-processing game, including more advanced things like color grading.
- Having more control over video settings during shooting was a big draw for me as I have to deal with the elements.
- The convenience of a flip-out display for real-time monitoring was a big plus.
- Improved audio quality was also a major selling point.
- My IPhone had died or drained it's battery super quick several times especially during winter, when it got really cold.
- Battery life - Although I recently found a setup that will make it work, at least when I shoot at my desk, the batteries run out so quick when I am outdoors. I am aware that my video prep must improve which would save me quite a number of takes needing less battery life. But I am often out the whole day and not able to plan everything beforehand. I have so far purchased two extra batteries, but it still isn't nearly enough.
- Frame - I am not a big fan of the tight frame I am getting from the Sony. I always end up having my head in about 70% of the shot and the rest is my surroundings. That just doesn't look nice to me. I want to be able to show more of what's around me.
- Shakiness - I walk/move a lot during filming and while I am not too concerned with a shaky output, it could be better. I don't film zoomed in, with activated Steady Shot and still get quite a shaky output.
- Menu - That is a personal preference issue and but the menu feels unnecessarily complicated and makes it hard to quickly change settings.
- Quick access to a fully functioning set up.
- Outdoor and Indoor capabilities
- A wide(r) frame to have more of my surroundings in the video
- Good audio, especially outdoors taking elements like wind into consideration
- Sony ZV-1 with hand grip and in camera audio (including wind breaker)
- IPhone (whatever model is available to me), with a Rode Wireless Go 2 or the Rode VideoMic Me-L and a simple tripod as extension
Can anyone give me some advice on which set up might be the better fit, based on their own experience with these models or simply out of vlogging experience. Maybe I am still not using either of these options to their full potential or I am missing some stuff that might make either option a better experience.
Thanks in advance!