Although obviously aimed at the photo market the new Sony RX1R II can shoot video at 1920 x 1080 at up to 60p using the XAVC S format. When combined with the full frame sensor an 35mm f/2 lens it is an intriguing prospect for some filmmakers wanting a small pocket camera, though it does obviously lack the 4K option that would future-proof the camera for the next couple of years.

The camera also has on-sensor 399 phase-detection AF points, that cover around 40% of the image. It also inherits a similar pop-up EVF to the RX100 range of cameras, as well as having a 1.2-million-dot rear tilting LCD. Focus peaking and Zebra highlight warnings are also included to make life easier for videographers.

With a similar back illuminated sensor that we have recently seen in the A7R II, we can expect some impressively low levels noise, especially at high sensitivities. In fact the camera has a ISO sensitivity range of ISO 100-25600, which is expandable to ISO 50 – 102400, making it great for low light shooting, particularly when combined with the f/2 aperture of the 35mm Zeiss lens.

Movies can be captured in Program Auto, Aperture Priority, Shutter Speed Priority and Manual Exposure modes.

The Sony Cybershot RX1R mk II also features a microphone socket, though it does lack a headphone socket.

The battery is said to last for around 30mins when shooting using the rear screen, with a maximum record time of 20mins in one continuous shot. The battery can be charged via a micro USB socket on the side of the camera, making it possible to keep it powered by a external USB battery pack, making it an interest camera for high-quality timelapse videos. (Check out this amazing timelapse video that Enrique Pacheo shot with the RX1 a couple of years ago http://www.enriquepacheco.com/shooting-rx1celand/)

Here are the movie recording options in full:

MOVIE RECORDING MODE (PAL)AVCHD: 28M PS (1,920 x 1,080/50p) / 24M FX (1,920 x 1,080/50i) / 17M FH (1,920 x 1,080/50i) / 24M FX (1,920 x 1,080/25p) / 17M FH (1,920 x 1,080/25p), XAVC S HD: 50p 50M (1,920 x 1,080/50p) / 25p 50M (1,920 x 1,080/25p) / 100p 50M (1,280 x 720/100p), MP4: 28M (1,920 x 1,080/50p) / 16M (1,920 x 1,080/25p) / 6M (1,280 x 720/25p)

There is no word yet on whether the camera will feature S-Log 2 or 3 shooting modes.

The new Sony RX1R II full-frame compact camera will be available in December 2015 priced at approximately£2,600 / €3,500.

This article will be updated as more information becomes available

See www.amateurphotographer.co.uk for more details