• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar

A Moment With Franca

A Family, Lifestyle & Travel Blog

  • Home
  • About
    • About Me
    • Contact
    • Privacy Policy
  • Family
    • Family Events
    • Family Life
    • Family Days Out
    • Birthdays
  • Lifestyle
    • Home & Interiors
    • Bathrooms
    • Bedrooms
    • Garden
    • Kitchen
    • Health
  • Travel
    • Days Out
    • Things To Do In London
    • Holidays
    • Press Trips
  • Reviews
    • Theatre & Shows
    • Days Out
    • Toys & Games
    • Fashion
    • Beauty
  • Seasonal
    • Christmas
    • Halloween
    • Mother’s Day
    • Father’s Day
    • Easter
    • Valentine’s Day
  • Giveaways
  • Show Search
Hide Search

Sony Xperia XZ1 Smartphone – My First Impressions

amomentwithfranca · 30 November 2017 · 15 Comments

If you follow my blog, you must know by now that I love gadgets! I am always happy to try any new gadgets and try to keep up with the latest technology. I am incredibly happy and super excited to be collaborating with Sony to test out the recently launched Sony Xperia XZ1 Smartphone. How amazing is that? I am excited to be able to test this phone over the next few weeks.

In this blog post, I will give my first impressions of the phone. I have had it for a few days now and have been able to test some of the latest features but still need to try everything. So expect a proper review about the Xperia XZ1 in a couple of weeks in a follow-up blog post. Hopefully by then I will be able to give you all the ins and outs of this phone.

This is the first time that I am actually testing an Android phone so I was very interested to see what features it has that would stand out from my current mobile phone. For me, one of the super important things I need in a phone (apart from being able to communicate with others, using cool apps and keep up to date with the news) is that it MUST have a good camera. As a blogger, this is so important. So knowing that Sony stands out in this area (number 2 in the world in terms of cameras) I was already excited to see what I could do with it.

Nick also loves gadgets and is a little bit of a geek, and will probably hate me saying that but this makes me like him even more. He was also very keen to test the Xperia XZ1 with me. It was great to hear his opinion on the phone too. He is quite tech savvy savvier so together we should be able to tell you if we think this handset is worth its £599.99. You can find more about the phone HERE.

FIRST IMPRESSIONS

I will now look at some of the key features and aspects that we have tried so far and what are thoughts are:

  • EASY SET UP

This is, of course, a plus, especially if this is the first time you are using an Android phone. You only need to follow the instructions on the screen and “Voila” you are all set up! It also has a fingerprint sensor which is very handy to use too, however, we haven’t set this up yet as both Nick and I are using the phone, although I understand you can register upto 5 fingerprints.

  • GOOD SCREEN SIZE

I am very impressed with the size of the screen. It is really good and you can watch videos and play games very nicely with this phone. Its effect when you watch something is very vivid and it makes you feel that you are part of it. It benefits from Sony’s BRAVIA TV technologies including a HDR display so it is amazingly good to look at.

  • IT HAS A FANTASTIC CAMERA

Photo was taken with Sony Xperia XZ1

This feature will have to be divided into sub-bullet points because there are so many great things you can do with this camera. This phone has a sensor inside that is the same sensor as one of the latest £800 Sony cameras. So with this in mind, you can tell how good the camera on this phone would be.

With its latest technology Motion Eye, you will be in control of any shot and therefore you won’t miss any special moment because you will have more creative freedom with its manual focus and shutter speed controls.

  • Better selfies in any light

Photo was taken with Sony Xperia XZ1

This is for me the highlight of this camera. This feature is amazing. One of the things that my current phone let me down a lot on is that my selfies come too blurry and too close to me. With this camera, you won’t have this problem at all. Actually, you won’t need a selfie stick anymore because the front camera has a 13-megapixel 22mm wide angle lens so you will be able to show a lot in a selfie shot. This is one of the problems we have when we want to take family photos! We have taken a few selfies during the last few days with this camera and we are super pleased.

Also, it will help you in all light conditions because it comes with a 1/3.06” low-light sensor and a display flash, so with all of this you’ll get the most outstanding selfies and shots in any light. How fantastic is that?

  • Selfies using Hand Shutter or Smile Shutter

Photo was taken with Sony Xperia XZ1

This is such a clever feature. We have had so much fun using this option! I found it incredibly handy to use this. Now you can pose properly without having to worry about reaching the button with your hands. You only wave your hand or smile (you can choose which option you would like to use) and that’s it, your selfie will be taken! Yey! I love it!

  • Super Slow Motion

This feature is out of this world. I absolutely love it. I cannot tell you enough how good this feature is! We have been testing it a lot and we are both very pleased. We recently attended the Vuelio Blog Awards and while we were dining there was an acrobatic ‘aerial silk’ show where 2 ladies were each performing on a long curtain. Nick thought that this would be a perfect moment to test it and OMG we got an amazing slow motion shot of one of the performers  coming down the curtain. It was stunning!

  • Steady Shot 

This is another great feature. With this, you can capture clear, steady video whilst on the move. This is perfect when you are with your family travelling or moving around. During the weekend we went ice skating and shot a few videos of the girls skating around the rink so it was the perfect moment to test a video on the move. It was pretty good and definitely steady. I would like to try this feature more.

  • Predictive Capture

This is very cool. When you take a shot you will automatically have the option of a few stills before and after the actual moment you pressed the camera shutter so you will never miss that perfect shot because this feature will allow you to start shooting just before you hit the shutter buttons.  It is very clever.

  • Autofocus Burst

With this feature, you will capture a sequence of motion in sharp focus. It will burst 10 pictures per second. This is great when you need to get that perfect photo rather than a video, so you can have about 10 stills to choose from which means that you will definitely get the one you are looking for.

So far this phone has impressed us a lot. I have been taking it with us on our days out and to events to try it in different conditions and I am loving it so far! It has become my main camera at the moment. I am not taking any of my other proper cameras as I know I can capture fantastic shots and videos with it. It is so handy when you don’t have space to carry anything more than a small bag and also when you just want to travel light and uncomplicated. You will never miss any moment with this phone. You don’t need to leave the room to go and get your camera because the Sony Xperia XZ1 will do it all for you.

I will come back with more details about this phone in a few weeks but in the meantime, please check out my social media for updates regarding new shots or videos taken with this phone, on Twitter, Instagram or Facebook.

Have you owned a Sony phone before? If so, what do you think of this features? Do you think having a stunning camera incorporated into your phone is a very important feature? If you own one of these phones, what else can you add to my first impressions?

If you would like to read what the other bloggers who are part of the same campaign thought about the Sony Xperia XZ1, you can read their First Impressions below:

  • Island Living 365
  • Cuddle Fairy
  • Mum in The Madhouse
  • The Mummy Adventure
  • Someone’s Mum
  • Let’s Talk Mommy
  • Meet the Wildes
  • More than Toast

*Disclosure: This is a sponsored post with Sony and Tots100, however, all thoughts and opinions are my own. 

Thanks for stopping by,

Love you all ❤️

Franca  💋

Linking up with:

Related

Filed Under: Gadgets & Technology, Collaborative Posts

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Tracey Bowden says

    1 December 2017 at

    Great review of the camera features. I bought my current phone for the features but I think this phone is so much better for what I need it for. Can’t wait to read the full review x

    Reply
    • amomentwithfranca says

      1 December 2017 at

      The camera is AMAZING Tracey! This is definitely the phone for you! I’m taking it with me everywhere now so I can take good photos at any time! 🙂 xx

      Reply
  2. Ashleigh Allan says

    4 December 2017 at

    Looks really good

    Reply
    • amomentwithfranca says

      4 December 2017 at

      Yes it is a fantastic phone! 🙂

      Reply
  3. Margaret Clarkson says

    4 December 2017 at

    Great, in depth article, thank you.

    Reply
    • amomentwithfranca says

      6 December 2017 at

      Thank you! Watch out for my 2nd post which is coming next week which even more details! 😉

      Reply
  4. Margaret GALLAGHER says

    4 December 2017 at

    Sounds a nifty piece of tech – due to update in January is definately consider this one

    Reply
    • amomentwithfranca says

      6 December 2017 at

      You would love it! The camera is fantastic! 🙂

      Reply
  5. Kim Carberry says

    6 December 2017 at

    This looks and sounds like a fantastic phone….The camera looks brilliant x

    Reply
    • amomentwithfranca says

      6 December 2017 at

      Yes the camera is out of this world! 🙂

      Reply
  6. A.E. Adkins says

    7 December 2017 at

    I need a new phone so your great review has proved very useful

    Reply
    • amomentwithfranca says

      7 December 2017 at

      Yee! So happy to read this! Thank you! 🙂

      Reply
  7. Jo says

    8 December 2017 at

    I’ve had an Xperia phone in the past and was pleased with it – it wasn’t a high end phone but for the price it was decent enough. It’s very important to me now that my phone has a decent camera

    Reply
    • amomentwithfranca says

      8 December 2017 at

      This one has an amazing camera! I’m really impressed! 🙂

      Reply

Trackbacks

  1. Sony Xperia XX1 First Impressions - Mum In The Madhouse says:
    1 December 2017 at

    […] A Moment with Franca […]

    Reply

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Primary Sidebar

HI THERE, I’M FRANCA!

Hi, I'm Franca, a lawyer mum of 2 gorgeous girls married to my best friend, living in London. Award nominated parenting & lifestyle blogger. Read More…

Newsletter

    Built with ConvertKit

    Amazon

    What’s On

    • Barbie Movie Review: Girl Power or Feminist Flop?
    • Wicked Musical London Review
    • 42nd Street at Sadlers Wells Theatre London: A Review

    Family Days Out

    • Qbix Gamecube Review at All Star Lanes White City
    • Frameless London: Unforgettable Immersive Art Experience in Marble Arch
    • tastecard: Your Handy Guide to Exploring and Saving in London

    Collaborative Videos

    Popular Videos





    AWARDS

    BritMums



    BritMums

    Tots100

    Tutora Best Parent Insight Blog Award Shortlist

    RANKING

    Tots100
    Top 20 UK Parent Blog 2020

    Flea Network Top 20 UK Parent Blog 2018

    MEMBER

    LINKY

    Keep Calm and Carry On Linking Sunday
    ✨Wrapping up our Barcelona adventure✨ .We’ ✨Wrapping up our Barcelona adventure✨ .We’ve loved exploring this vibrant city during the summer and sharing it here with you! Hope you found our tips helpful if Barcelona’s in your travel plans. 🇪🇸.Next stop: Torrevieja! ☀️ Get ready for content of two weeks of sun, sea, and summer vibes! Hopefully will bring you a warm escape as the chill of autumn sets in! 🏝️🌊. What’s your favourite destination to escape the autumn chill?.#VisitBarcelona.....Barcelona | Barcelona Skyline | Barcelona Landmarks | Spain | Exploring Barcelona | Barcelona Diaries | Travel Guide | Travel Blogger | Cityscape | Barcelona Tourist Attractions | Family Travel | Mirador del Santuari Barcelona
    ✨24 Hours in Barcelona: Exploring the Must-Sees✨.Although our time in Barcelona was brief, we made the most of every moment. Check out this list of must-visit places we explored in just 24 hours! 🌆.1. Stroll Las Ramblas - Soak up the lively atmosphere and street performances.2. Discover Plaça Reial - A picturesque square with palm trees and vibrant architecture.3. Marvel at Casa Batlló - Gaudi’s architectural masterpiece.4. Explore La Pedrera (Casa Milà) - Another Gaudi gem with a unique rooftop.5. Be awed by La Sagrada Familia - An iconic masterpiece still under construction.6. Soak in Views from Mirador del Santuari - Panoramic vistas of Barcelona.7. Hit the Beach at La Barceloneta - Feel the sand between your toes.8. Savor Tapas & Tinto de Verano - Enjoy delicious Spanish bites and drinks..Bonus: Plan a visit to Parc Güell for more Gaudi magic!💫.✨Watch the reel till the end for the full Barcelona experience. Like, Save, and share if Barcelona is on your travel list!✨.Which Barcelona attraction are you most excited to visit? 🤩 .#VisitBarcelona.....Barcelona | Barcelona Skyline | Barcelona Landmarks | Spain | Things To Do In Barcelona | Exploring Barcelona | Barcelona Diaries | Travel Guide | Travel Blogger | Travel With Kids | Cityscape | Barcelona Tourist Attractions | Family Travel | Mirador del Santuari Barcelona
    ✨La Sagrada Familia ✨.We were captivated by ✨La Sagrada Familia ✨.We were captivated by the beauty of La Sagrada Familia which is a must-see in Barcelona! .We didn’t manage to get in due to lack of time but we did our research just in case we had time, so here are some key insights to keep in mind before your visit to La Sagrada Familia:🌟La Sagrada Familia is Open All Year Round🌟It is located in the Sagrada Familia neighborhood 🌟The easiest way to get to the Sagrada Familia is by metro. Alternatively, you can get there by bus🌟You need to buy tickets in advance. You can buy ticket up to 2 months in advance🌟You should purchase your tickets through the official website 🌟The Sagrada Familia box office only sells tickets for that specific date and you may have to wait 4 or 5 hours until the next available entrance time🌟There are discounts on full fare for children under 11, students, disabled and senior citizens (65+)🌟Any time with the sun outside is good for visiting the church🌟 You can buy a ticket to climb the Torre de la Pasión or the Torre del Nacimiento🌟The ascent of the towers is done with an elevator but the descent is made by a long and narrow spiral staircase🌟There are audiguides available to purchase🌟As the Sagrada Familia is a Catholic church, you must dress appropriately.Swipe left for a close-up view and pics of us in awe of this remarkable masterpiece! 🏰.✨Like, Save & Share if you are planning to visit Barcelona or if someone you know would like to visit ✨.Did you know it’s finally nearing completion after over a century? 🏗️🔜 .#LaSagradaFamilia ....Barcelona | La Sagrada Familia | Gaudi | Spain | Things To Do In Barcelona | Gaudi Experience | Exploring Barcelona | Barcelona Diaries | Travel Blogger
    ✨Admiring the Timeless Beauty of Casa Batlló✨ ✨Admiring the Timeless Beauty of Casa Batlló✨ .We managed to check Gaudi’s masterpiece facade within the 24 hours time we stayed in Barcelona! 🏠 We’re hopefully planning a longer stay to explore the interior! ☺️.Watch the reel till the end to get a glimpse of its fascinating details, including those impressive skull-like balcony railings! .✨Like, Save & Share if you are planning to visit Barcelona or if someone you know would like to visit ✨.Have you ever visited this architectural gem? .#CasaBatllo ....Barcelona | Casa Batllo | Casa Gaudi | Spain | Things To Do In Barcelona | Gaudi Experience | Exploring Barcelona | Barcelona Diaries | Travel Blogger
    PR Invite ✨Feasting at Burger & Lobster✨ .Ou PR Invite ✨Feasting at Burger & Lobster✨ .Our taste buds had an amazing time in the heart of Mayfair in London yesterday! 🌟 We enjoyed the delicious food from @burgerandlobster Family Feast menu - a fantastic culinary experience for the family. Sienna was thrilled watching the lobsters alive. Nick’s first lobster experience was a complete success! The grilled lobster was wonderfully tender, and the crispy chips were a real treat. 🦐🍟.I must say, my first taste of lobster rolls was delightful. The girls enjoyed their cheeseburgers, and my tropical juice was a refreshing choice for that hot summer day. 🍹🥵.The £100 Menu offers:🌟For the adults: Whole Lobster, Original Burger, and Original Lobster Roll, all served with fries, salad, and your choice of sauce, plus a drink each. 😋🍔🦞🌟For the kids: Cheeseburger, Plant Burger, or Prawns & Fries, served with fries, a scoop of ice cream, and a soft drink. 🍔🍟🍦.Did you know you can enjoy this feast at all their London locations throughout the week? A treat that’ll leave everyone smiling. 🍔🦞👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 The offer caters for two adults and up to three children (aged 12 and under). .This special menu also joins a host of exciting activities and offers taking place across Burger & Lobster restaurants including their mid-week Shell & Spritz Hour, offering guests £1 oysters and £5 selected cocktails from Monday to Friday, 3pm - 6pm.We highly recommend the £100 Family Feast Menu! it’s an unforgettable feast! 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦😋 .Watch the reel until the end and tag someone who needs to savour this experience! 🍔🦞.#BurgerAndLobster ....Burger & Lobster | London Restaurants | Where To Eat In London | Eating Out With Kids | Family Friendly Restaurants | Mayfair | Kid Friendly Eats | London | Where To Eat With Family | Taste London
    ✨Back In Beautiful Barcelona✨.I remembered b ✨Back In Beautiful Barcelona✨.I remembered being here, standing in front of "La Pedrera", Casa Mila feeling the vibrant spirit of Barcelona! This was our 3rd stop from our road trip and it was perfect! 🌆🇪🇸.I am so excited to share our whirlwind adventure with you all! Our Barcelona journey was quick but so memorable. Stay tuned for the upcoming content as I will be telling you our experience, from the places that you must visit as well as where to have good tapas and drinks to enjoy Barcelona properly. We managed to fit a lot in such a short stay! Although we missed some key places we would love to come back and add those to our bucket list!💃👜🌞 .Have you been to Barcelona before?.#LaPedrera #CasaMila #VisitBarcelona #GaudiBarcelona #BarcelonaSpain #BarcelonaExperience #BarcelonaTravel #BarcelonaGram #MaxiDress #SummerDress #EveryDayOutfit #EveryDayStyle #Over40 #Over40Blogger #OverFortyStyle .....Barcelona | Casa Mila | La Pedrera Casa Mila | Casa Gaudi | Spain | Things To Do In Barcelona | Gaudi Experience | Exploring Barcelona | Barcelona Diaries | Travel Blogger
    Load More… Follow on Instagram
    Copyright © 2023 · A Moment With Franca · Privacy Policy