SONY FDR-X1000V

SONY FDR-X1000V / HDR-AS200V / SHOOTING REPORT

The ever-expanding market of wearable cameras is now joined by two white models from SONY: the FDR-X1000V (the high-end model shooting 4K movies of 3840x2160 pixels) and the HDR-AS200V (the middle-range model shooting 2K/Full-HD movies of 1829x1080 pixels). Now, let's start from checking what the FDR-X1000V has to offer.

( Photography : MAC & T.Takahashi / Text : MAC )

The FDR-X1000V's resolution transcends human vision.

Oh my gosh! Honestly, I didn't think I need 4K, but the difference is clear even through my viewing devices don't support 4K. This is the same long as the one that the reduced still images have higher definition if the original image has high definition. I did enjoy playing the movie which has more information that what I saw with my eyes. But, it's not surprising because 4K means 8 megapixels which rival the high-end still cameras a decade ago. Actually, when I showed an image capture of the video, he couldn't believe it was shot with a wearable camera!

This time I fixed the camera most of the time because I wanted to test the resolution of 4K. But, I also shot the bamboo forest and cherry blossoms handheld with a "selfie stick." And, thanks to the ultra wide 170-degree angle of view, I could minimize camera shake by holding it carefully. In the meantime, I found the SteadyShot is pretty powerful and you can see how effective it is by playing from 0:40 of the clip. When the SteadyShot is active, the angle of view is narrowed down to 120 degrees. But, I'm still happy that I can get 2K movies without camera shake. Yet, personally, when I grab this camera, I'd shoot 4K as much as I can.

The casual HDR-AS200V transforms everyday activities into an entertainment.

Like the FDR-X1000V, the angle of view becomes 120 degrees when the SteadyShot is on (170 degrees when it's off). And, this time I shot with this setting. I attached it on the bicycle's handlebar and pedaled it. Also, I shot the goats handheld. Even though it's 2K, the resolution is high enough for most viewing devices. The SteadyShot is very effective in minimizing the shake caused by the bicycle. The hairs of the goats look natural and realistic. And, the color tone of the sky is refreshing. And, the tunnel section demonstrates its excellent high sensitivity performance. By the way, 2K has some advantages over 4K: lighter data to handle, longer time to shoot, and longer battery life. And, the small and light body can be used more actively and casually. You won't feel it's heavy even if you attach it on your body. Some people who are interested in this type of camera may be looking for their first video camera. And, I strongly recommend this model because it's so tiny that you can put it into your pocket, attach it to anywhere you want, and of course, hold it with your hand. And, you don't even need to focus... it's that easy. Once you push the record button, the world surrounding you becomes a cinematic entertainment.

Next, I'll show you some clips shot with the common functions of the two models.

This is a timelapse video made by editing the images shot with the interval shooting mode. Again, thanks to the high sensitivity performance and the smart noise handling, these evening and night shots look beautiful. With this high sensitivity performance, I'm pretty sure you can shoot indoors or in the night without worries. Plus with the two models, you can set the white balance manually, meaning you can capture the change of sky tones just as it is. *Note: the interval shooting mode supports 2K.

The next one is a slowmotion video shot with the FDR-X1000V's 1280x720 pixels/240fps setting (the HDR-AS200V supports 800x480 pixels at 240fps). With this speed, we can learn movements are composed of micro-activities. And, the slow sound is interesting, too. Try shooting fast-moving and slow-moving objects because I'm sure you will discover something you didn't expect.

Which one should you choose?

In addition to the functions I introduced this time, the two models also supports the Multiview (displays travel time, route, and so on utilizing the GPS), loop recording, live streaming, and more than I can remember. Of course, it has a built-in Wi-Fi and a NFC. Plus, useful software including "Action Cam Movie Creator," "PlayMemories Home," and "Action Cam App" will enhance after-shooting enjoyment. In terms of the hardware, it has a lens by Zeiss, a renowned German optical equipment company and I think SONY is the only brand that has the name of the lens on wearable cameras. And, I must also note that the sound quality is extremely high for a camera in this category and I'm sure it's because of the wind noise reduction and the stereo microphone. Yet, I'm not surprised because it's a product of SONY, who has been a leading brand of the audio industry as well.

Now, which one should you choose? If your top priority is image quality, just go for the FDR-X1000V. I'm sure 4K's high definition will more than satisfy your need. If you are a serious still photographer, you can now start shooting movies as well as a camera like this will enrich your perspective. If you want a compact one that is easy to handle, but don't want to sacrifice image quality, get the HDR-AS200V. And, this model is also perfect for someone who want this kind of camera, but don't the frequency of use.

Anyway, the two models have an eye-opening image quality that you don't expect from the small body. And, cameras like these models make you become curious about everything. Go to the ocean, the mountains, or the sky. Look at your everyday life and around your feet. There, you'll find stories that are hard to ignore.

( 22.04.2015 )