Sony ZV-1F

The Sony ZV-1F is a 2022 compact camera with a fixed lens and a body that genuinely fits a pocket. It weighs 256 g and measures 106 x 60 x 46 mm, so it goes places a system camera will not.

Its 4K video and flip-out screen suit people who film themselves, and the touchscreen keeps everyday operation simple. Still photography works too, though you compose on the LCD because there is no viewfinder.

There is no lens mount, so the optical range you buy is the one you keep. That trade is what makes the small body possible.

Stills come from a 20 megapixel one-inch CMOS sensor. That resolution handles online sharing and moderate prints comfortably, and the sensor size gives more scope for blurring backgrounds than the smallest compacts.

The maximum burst rate of 16 fps is useful for catching fleeting moments, though it is a peak figure rather than a promise for long sequences. Shutter speed tops out at 1/2000 of a second, a possible limit for wide apertures in strong sun. The ISO range runs from 80 to 12800, covering bright outdoor work through to dim interiors.

The autofocus system offers 425 points. There is no in-body stabilisation and no viewfinder, so in low light a steady posture or a support helps keep handheld shots sharp.

There is no built-in flash, but the camera accepts an external flash unit when you need extra light. Combined with the fixed lens, that keeps the shooting kit simple rather than expandable.

The camera records video in 4K, which keeps footage detailed enough for large screens and leaves room to crop when editing. Files can be written in MPEG-4, AVCHD or XAVC S, giving a choice of recording formats.

Frame rates reach 120 fps, enough for footage that plays back as smooth slow motion. Check which resolution is available at that rate before you plan a slow-motion shoot.

A built-in timelapse mode automates interval shooting, useful for clouds, crowds or a passing sunset without extra gear or software.

Because the screen flips toward you, framing solo pieces to camera is straightforward. Live view keeps the feed on the screen at all times, which is how this camera expects to be used.

You interact with the camera through a three-inch LCD with 921,600 dots. The display stays sharp, the touchscreen simplifies setting changes and focus placement, and the screen flips out for framing at awkward angles.

Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are both built in, so the camera can connect wirelessly to a phone, tablet or computer. There is no GPS, so the camera itself does not add location data to your files.

The body has no weather sealing, so it needs care around rain, spray and dust. There is no built-in flash either, though an external flash can be fitted when you need extra light.

Recording goes to a single card slot that takes SD, SDHC and SDXC media as well as Memory Stick Duo Hybrid. With no second slot there is no in-camera redundancy, so carrying a spare card is wise on important shoots.

The NP-BX1 battery is rated at 360 shots, a figure that does not promise endurance on every shoot. Video and heavy screen use draw more power, so a second battery is a sensible addition for longer sessions.

The camera charges over USB, which makes topping up from a laptop, wall adapter or car socket straightforward while travelling. USB charging does not guarantee every power bank will work, so check your own setup before depending on it.