The Sony a6000 is a popular mirrorless camera that has been widely praised for its exceptional still image quality, fast autofocus, and compact design. However, many photographers and videographers are also interested in its video capabilities. In this article, we will explore the video features of the Sony a6000 and answer the question: can the Sony a6000 shoot video?
Video Capabilities of the Sony a6000
The Sony a6000 is capable of shooting high-quality video in various formats, including Full HD (1080p) and HD (720p). It can record video at a maximum frame rate of 60fps in Full HD mode, making it suitable for capturing smooth and detailed footage. The camera also features a built-in stereo microphone, which can record high-quality audio to accompany your video.
Video Modes
The Sony a6000 offers several video modes, including:
- AVCHD: This mode allows you to record video in the AVCHD format, which is a high-definition video format that is widely supported by most devices.
- MP4: This mode allows you to record video in the MP4 format, which is a more compressed format that is suitable for web sharing and mobile devices.
- XAVC-S: This mode allows you to record video in the XAVC-S format, which is a high-definition video format that is designed for professional applications.
Video Resolution and Frame Rate
The Sony a6000 can record video at various resolutions and frame rates, including:
| Resolution | Frame Rate |
| — | — |
| Full HD (1080p) | 60fps, 30fps, 24fps |
| HD (720p) | 60fps, 30fps, 24fps |
Autofocus and Tracking
One of the standout features of the Sony a6000 is its fast and accurate autofocus system. The camera features a 179-point phase-detection autofocus system, which can quickly and accurately focus on subjects in both still and video modes. The camera also features a variety of autofocus modes, including:
- Single-shot AF: This mode allows you to focus on a single subject and lock the focus.
- Continuous AF: This mode allows you to track a moving subject and continuously adjust the focus.
- Manual Focus: This mode allows you to manually adjust the focus using the lens’s focus ring.
Tracking and Predictive Focus
The Sony a6000 also features a predictive focus system, which can anticipate the movement of a subject and adjust the focus accordingly. This feature is particularly useful for capturing fast-moving subjects, such as sports or wildlife.
Image Stabilization
The Sony a6000 features a built-in image stabilization system, which can help to reduce camera shake and blur caused by hand movement or low light conditions. The camera’s image stabilization system is designed to work with both still and video modes, and can be activated using the camera’s menu system.
Optical SteadyShot
The Sony a6000 also features Optical SteadyShot, which is a lens-based image stabilization system that can help to reduce camera shake and blur. Optical SteadyShot is designed to work with Sony’s E-mount lenses, and can be activated using the lens’s image stabilization switch.
Additional Video Features
The Sony a6000 also features a variety of additional video features, including:
- Manual Exposure Control: This feature allows you to manually adjust the exposure settings, including aperture, shutter speed, and ISO.
- White Balance Control: This feature allows you to manually adjust the white balance settings, including preset white balance modes and custom white balance.
- Picture Profiles: This feature allows you to customize the camera’s picture settings, including contrast, saturation, and sharpness.
External Microphone Support
The Sony a6000 also features a 3.5mm microphone jack, which allows you to connect an external microphone for improved audio quality. This feature is particularly useful for videographers who require high-quality audio to accompany their video.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Sony a6000 is a capable video camera that can shoot high-quality video in various formats. Its fast and accurate autofocus system, predictive focus system, and image stabilization system make it an ideal choice for capturing smooth and detailed footage. Additionally, its manual exposure control, white balance control, and picture profiles allow for a high degree of customization and control. Whether you’re a photographer or videographer, the Sony a6000 is a great choice for capturing high-quality video.
What are the key features of the Sony a6000 for video recording?
The Sony a6000 is a versatile mirrorless camera that offers a range of features for video recording. Some of the key features include 1080p resolution at 60fps, fast hybrid autofocus, and a 24.2-megapixel APS-C sensor. Additionally, the camera has a built-in OLED electronic viewfinder and a tilting LCD screen, making it easy to frame and monitor your shots.
The a6000 also has a range of manual controls, including exposure compensation, ISO, and white balance, allowing you to fine-tune your video settings to achieve the desired look. Furthermore, the camera has a built-in stereo microphone and supports external microphones via a 3.5mm jack, providing high-quality audio to match your video.
How do I set up the Sony a6000 for video recording?
To set up the Sony a6000 for video recording, start by switching the mode dial to the movie mode. Then, navigate to the menu and select the desired resolution and frame rate. You can choose from 1080p at 60fps, 30fps, or 24fps, or 720p at 120fps. You can also adjust the exposure compensation, ISO, and white balance to suit your shooting conditions.
Additionally, make sure to set the autofocus mode to continuous AF (AF-C) and the metering mode to multi-segment metering. You can also adjust the audio settings, such as the microphone level and wind noise reduction. Finally, ensure that the camera is set to the correct file format, such as MP4 or AVCHD, and that the memory card has sufficient storage space.
What are the best lenses for video recording on the Sony a6000?
The best lenses for video recording on the Sony a6000 depend on the type of shot you’re trying to achieve. For a standard zoom range, the Sony E 16-50mm f/3.5-5.6 OSS lens is a good option. It offers a versatile focal length range and optical image stabilization, which helps to reduce camera shake and blur.
For a wider angle, the Sony E 10-18mm f/4 OSS lens is a good choice. It provides a broad field of view and is ideal for capturing expansive scenes. For a more cinematic look, consider using a prime lens, such as the Sony E 50mm f/1.8 OSS lens. It offers a wide aperture and a shallow depth of field, creating a beautiful bokeh effect.
How do I achieve smooth autofocus on the Sony a6000 during video recording?
To achieve smooth autofocus on the Sony a6000 during video recording, make sure to set the autofocus mode to continuous AF (AF-C). This mode allows the camera to continuously adjust the focus as the subject moves. You can also adjust the autofocus speed and sensitivity to suit your shooting conditions.
Additionally, use the flexible spot AF area mode, which allows you to select a specific area of the frame to focus on. You can also use the face detection AF mode, which automatically detects and tracks faces in the scene. Finally, ensure that the camera is set to the correct subject type, such as a person or an animal, to help the autofocus system track the subject more accurately.
Can I use external microphones with the Sony a6000 for better audio quality?
Yes, you can use external microphones with the Sony a6000 to improve the audio quality of your videos. The camera has a 3.5mm microphone jack, which allows you to connect an external microphone. You can use a range of microphones, including lavalier microphones, shotgun microphones, or handheld microphones.
When using an external microphone, make sure to adjust the audio settings on the camera to match the microphone’s sensitivity and impedance. You can also adjust the microphone level and wind noise reduction to optimize the audio quality. Additionally, consider using a windscreen or pop filter to reduce wind noise and plosive sounds.
How do I stabilize the Sony a6000 during handheld video recording?
To stabilize the Sony a6000 during handheld video recording, use the camera’s built-in optical image stabilization (OSS) feature. This feature helps to reduce camera shake and blur caused by hand movement. You can also use a handheld stabilizer, such as a gimbal or a Steadicam, to smooth out camera movements.
Additionally, consider using a lens with OSS, such as the Sony E 16-50mm f/3.5-5.6 OSS lens. This lens has a built-in image stabilization system that works in conjunction with the camera’s OSS feature to provide even smoother stabilization. Finally, try to keep your arms close to your body and use a firm grip on the camera to minimize camera shake.
Can I record 4K video on the Sony a6000?
No, the Sony a6000 is not capable of recording 4K video. The camera’s maximum video resolution is 1080p at 60fps. However, you can use the camera’s HDMI output to connect to an external 4K recorder, such as an Atomos Ninja or a Blackmagic Design HyperDeck.
Keep in mind that the camera’s HDMI output is limited to 1080p, so you will need to use a separate 4K recorder to capture 4K footage. Additionally, the camera’s HDMI output may not provide a clean signal, so you may need to use a separate audio recorder to capture high-quality audio.