Photo Industry Reporter’s State of the Industry 2010

Photo Industry Reporter’s State of the Industry 2010

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We’re all breathing a little easier these days. Despite continued media talk about dour economic conditions, there is a certain momentum in the imaging category that is taking shape just in time for the holiday season. And it couldn’t come soon enough.

Despite a difficult year, our industry did not rest. There never seemed to be a respite from new product introductions. We’re seeing technology improvements in almost every facet of our business, from software, 3D and HD video capabilities to photo frames, lenses and accessories. We’ve witnessed the birth of a whole new category of mirrorless cameras. We’ve been impressed by new improvements in the capabilities of DSLRs, and we’ve been inspired by point-and-shoot cameras that are practically indestructible.

Our editors thought it was important to take a snapshot of our industry, so we asked an array of industry leaders and key influencers to offer their perspectives from where they sit. In this special section, you’ll be able to see our business through the eyes of thirty-three leaders in our industry. We appreciate their participation, and trust that from this you’ll gain a better perspective about the State of our Industry in 2010.

 

 

Research Organizations

Chris Chute, Research Manager, 

Worldwide Digital Imaging Practice, IDC

Charting the Course for the Photography Market

For the first decade of the 21st century, non-networked devices like compact digital cameras, as well as MP3 players, were viewed as the “hot” devices to own. Apple’s original iPod and slim compact cameras from Canon and Sony were considered status symbols, as much as they were creating new consumer-driven computing paradigms.

While the digital camera space continues to enjoy some growth, particularly in niches like the interchangeable-lens camera segment, it is clear that the “it” device is now the smartphone. While a cannibalistic relationship between phones and cameras has still not come to fruition, this spotlight shift has altered product strategies for camera vendors.

Camera vendors have been forced to innovate around HD video capture, waterproofing and merging SLR photography with video. At the same time, vendors have increased their direct-to-consumer marketing (TV ads). How has this played out?

For the past nine months the post-recession trend story is a tale of two markets: strong growth in emerging countries, and mature, single-digit growth in the U.S. Continued single-digit growth seems to imply that the innovation strategy is working: compact cameras are continuing to do relatively well, as the percent of DSLR unit volume for Canon and Nikon continues to amount to less than 20% of total units for each. Yet Canon and Nikon are continuing to bolster their bottom lines with increasingly more success in the DSLR space.

The question will be how well Samsung, Panasonic and Sony’s new mirrorless interchangeable-lens cameras are received by consumers, and whether they will alter the competitive landscape. idc.com

 

Ed Lee, Director, Consumer Imaging
Services Group, InfoTrends, Inc.

  Instant Sharing Brings Back the Emotion

The future of imaging is the connected experience. The CE industry is buzzing about connecting devices like TVs, set-top boxes, mobile phones and PCs with personal and commercial content and services. Digital cameras need to integrate with this ecosystem or run the risk of being left out of the equation.

As connected devices become more widespread, cameras need to become connected to participate. Eventually, digital cameras may need to adopt an operating system and open APIs that will enable them to run various applications much like smartphones.

The urgency of bringing digital photography into the third stage of market development grows each day. Stage One was the technology stage, where the “digital” nature of photography was a major driver. Stage Two stresses the functional benefits of photography that is digital. This is where the camera vendors emphasize many of the new “automatic” camera features and the “simple to use” message. Stage Three will take consumers beyond the mechanics of taking a picture and will bring emotions back into photography. The more emotionally involved people are with their photos, the more likely that they will create revenue-generating products such as photo books.

Cameraphones and social networks, both primarily low-resolution media, have enabled instant photo sharing that invites friends and family to be in the moment with the photographer, a much more emotional experience. Have consumers chosen speed and convenience over quality? The final ballots have not yet been cast, but without connectivity, camera manufacturers may find it difficult to compete. infotrends.com

 

William J. McCurry,
Chairman, McCurry Associates

The Millennial Generation Will Drive Industry Growth

 

The future offers exciting opportunities along with frustrating perils. Reduced margins cause major retailers to pull back their commitment to the imaging category. This creates opportunities for those remaining committed to imaging.

Distribution costs continue to climb, favoring those larger buyers and those who consolidate volume. All parties in the distribution chain remain committed to wringing costs out of distribution.

Those major brands with “Apple Envy” will continue to explore ways to go around their traditional retailers both online and in corporate retail stores. The problem of hot product allocation remains with vendor-owned websites getting allocation priorities over retailers.

The Millennial generation will be an industry growth driver. They are perceived as being “anti-print.” That’s wrong. They are “image-centric” but not enamored with 4×6 prints. Their ability to embrace new services and new ideas will drive industry growth.

New products and innovation will not slow down. Video will be a new growth engine. The industry must provide frustration-free products and education to exploit this potential. Bad video camera sound and video editing opens doors for those brave enough to exploit them.

Based on calls I’m receiving, new retailers are opening imaging stores. These newcomers don’t look like the historical store/lab.

To address margin deterioration the industry is seeing strong growth of private brands with powerhouses B&H and Best Buy putting more promotional emphasis on their own brand. Among specialty dealers, ProMaster will outpace industry growth in terms of sales as well as product offerings. mccurryassoc.com

 

Liz Cutting, Senior Imaging Analyst,
The NPD Group

Detachable-Lens Cameras and Add-Ons Are Drivers

Pockets of camera growth and accessory opportunities are increasing as consumers invest in more advanced cameras. While beneath overall camera dollar volume levels of 2008, revenue is up versus 2009, reaching 5.7% growth year-to-date July 2010 versus 2009, according to The NPD Group’s Retail Tracking Service.

Detachable-lens cameras were the driving segment, up 17% in units and 14% in dollars even from year-to-date 2008, as consumers are increasingly driven by the availability of HD video.

Accessories also increased by double digits in dollars from two years ago, including zoom and prime lenses, cases over $40, batteries, tripods and chargers. Opportunities abound for aftermarket accessory sales, but encouraging add-ons at the point of camera purchase is critical: over half of recent DSLR buyers surveyed stated a desire for a bundled solution at the time of camera purchase, the majority wanting a lens, memory card or extra battery as part of that solution, while nearly 40% desired an extended warranty.

Detachable-lens cameras haven’t taken a bite out of compact long zooms; both have been increasing, with long zooms reaching 14% of camera units year-to-date July 2010 while DLCs have taken 10%. Mirrorless hybrid cameras, in July 7% of all detachable-lens cameras, could serve as a rising tide to lift all boats.

NPD’s latest household penetration study revealed that wealthier households are more likely to own a detachable-lens camera, at 22% versus an overall household penetration of 11%. By lifestyle, dads have been the largest consumer segment for camera-dollar spending, gaining from the prior year, particularly regarding detachable-lens cameras purchased. In the near term, serving the imaging needs of affluent families will be a profitable pursuit. npd.com

 

Don Franz, President, 

Photofinishing News, Inc.

Cautious Optimism about the Industry

As 2010 began, there were numerous signs of a rebound in the photo-imaging industry. Attendance at the major U.S. professional photography shows reached new highs; there was marked enthusiasm among those with whom we spoke at PMA 2010 in Anaheim, and the PMA Digital Expo 2010 in Melbourne, Australia, attracted a record 23,000 people. However, there was a decrease in consumer printing in the USA during April, May and June. Is this a reflection of the faltering economy?

During recent visits to “continental” West Europe and the Asia-Pacific region, we also encountered excitement within the industry, tempered by overall flat sales of output products.  In Shanghai, for example, local photo specialty retailers reported a 5% growth in second-quarter business, despite the opening of Shanghai Expo 2010, a six-month “World’s Fair” that is expected to draw 70 million visitors before it ends on October 31. In Europe, some leading photo book makers are already projecting that sales will plateau in a few years.

In the U.S., publicly available second-quarter information from a large online finisher shows positive growth, but current customers represented only 74% of sales, and the company is engaged in a major expansion into the wedding market. So, we need to look beyond the numbers.

At Photo Imaging News, we are optimistic about the future of the industry. But the business and marketing model that was so successful for years needs to change. photo-news.com

 

 

Industry Groups

 

Gary Shapiro, President and CEO,

Consumer Electronics Association

New Features Will Set Cameras Apart

 

After a difficult year for the overall U.S. economy, the consumer electronics industry was happy to close the doors on 2009. A stronger-than-anticipated holiday sales season left the revenue picture for the industry slightly better than expected however, and CEA’s recently updated Sales & Forecast predicts a 3% growth rate in 2010, bringing total U.S. factory sales of CE products to $175 billion.

As household penetration for digital cameras exceeds 80%, it’s no secret the market is largely driven by replacements and gifts. CEA does expect camera unit sales to be up by 2% in 2010, and attributes this growth to the steady incorporation of features such as facial recognition, HD video, information tagging and higher megapixels.

Market opportunities for the future lie in several areas. Higher megapixel cameras will steal the show as unit volume for digital cameras with 11+ MP is expected to grow by 82%. Consumers also want to take better photos and easily share them. Features like wireless photo transfer and one-touch uploading to Facebook or YouTube will set cameras apart from the pack.

The industry should also focus on photo enthusiasts who, although doubling in size in the past decade, are often neglected from a marketing standpoint. They take more pictures and purchase more equipment than most, so dedicated sections in mass retailers and camera stores would be beneficial.

The DSLR market presents opportunities, too, as DSLRs have developed a mass appeal across a broad range of photographers. Finally, camcorders should be a bright spot; with household penetration at 54%, there’s room to grow as new features and HD models are more readily available at affordable prices. ce.org

 

 

Brent W. Bowyer, Executive Director,
Independent Photo Imagers

Sales Rebound with Customized Photo Products

 

I recently received a call from a senior editor at Bloomberg Businessweek. She said, “I’m writing an article about disappearing businesses in the United States. Can you provide me with an approximate point in time when you believe the independent businesses in your industry will all be closed?”

I replied, “You missed it. It happened with the new moon on May 31, 2007, but by the full moon on June 14, 2007, they had come back to life through an evolutionary process and are gaining strength daily.”

After several seconds of silence, she asked me to explain. I said, “Our industry at the independent service specialty retailer level continues to evolve into a growing, viable one that offers unlimited opportunities for those who provide unique, customized products along with legacy products that continue to be in demand. Image capture and archiving may have moved from the caves at Chauvet and Lascaux in France to personal products, photo books and Facebook pages, but neither is going away soon.

“The results of our recent survey show our members are rebounding with increasing sales and profitability. Prior to that survey and from listening at our IPI Member Retreat and reading the IPI Member Forum, members are encouraged with new revenue streams.”

IPI members are astute fighters in terms of growing their businesses and managing their profitability. IPI has close to 30 years of history in assisting members in providing opportunities for increased profitability via our cooperative nature, and we will continue our focus on that legacy. IPI will augment that strategy with one that provides opportunities for members to grow sales and increase profits with marketing initiatives. The first step was the rollout of the IPI Marketing Solutions Program, and to say it has been well received may be the greatest understatement of the year.

IPI and IPI members are bullish with regard to the opportunities to grow sales and increase profits for the independent service specialty retailer! ipiphoto.org

 

 

James Chung, President,
The International Photographic Council

My Crystal Ball for the Industry Outlook

 

The U.S. economy is into recovery and heading to expansion. Growth will be moderate but should not be mistaken as a double-dip recession. A majority of 42 economists surveyed by the AP believes the economy remains on track. The year’s GDP will grow between 2.5%–3.00%.

Economic indicators foresee a stronger growth in the second half of 2010. Innovation is the driving force here. Much of the growth is attributed to 3D TVs, smartphones, Blu-ray players, eReaders and tablets. Due to heavy household penetration (82%) and no major innovation for digital still cameras, it is expected this category will decline 3% in unit shipments this year.

3D technology will be a growth opportunity in the coming years, with 6 million 3D TV sets expected to ship in 2010. The following are highlights of the latest developments in 3D imaging technology: Panasonic debuted the first Full HD 3D TV in April 2010; Fujifilm introduced the first 3D digital still camera without the use of glasses, the FinePix Real 3D WI in 2009; the world’s first 3D camcorder, the HDC-SDT750, was launched by Panasonic in July 2010; Nvidia 3D Vision image-processing software and Sony NEX-5 and NEX-3 cameras turn standard 2D into 3D for 3D TVs; Sharp created a 3D camera module for mobile devices that captures 3D video images in 720p HD; Shapeways offers full-color 3D printing; Sony introduced the first Cyber-shot 3D cameras, the DSC-TX9 and DSC-WX5, with a single-lens system using a sweeping motion.

Consumer electronics with 3D will be a gold mine of opportunity for the industry. The coming decade may well be the decade of 3D imaging. ipc-un-ngo.org

 

 

Joellyn Gray, President, PhotoImaging
Manufacturers and Distributors Association

Consumers Continue to Embrace Personalize Photo Products

New beginnings are in the air as we head into our all-important holiday period. While 4×6 prints are down, new personalized photo products are gaining ground. We hear frequent reports that cards and photo books are up, and posters are exceeding expectations. It appears consumers are truly beginning to access the breadth of products we anticipated. Why now?

First, demographics are having an impact. Millennials, the largest U.S. population segment, are entering the workforce en masse, forming households and beginning their child-rearing years. We expect a 23% increase in the number of mothers in the next three years—that’s 10 million new moms! With offices, houses and nurseries to decorate, print enlargements are in demand.

Boomers, the second largest demographic, are entering a picture-intensive phase of life—celebrating milestone birthdays and anniversaries, and their children’s graduations, engagements and weddings. There will be first grandchildren and, sadly, memorial services. They are also inheriting millions of family photos. Today, digitally savvy Boomers are discovering that collages and photo books are the perfect way to tell their story.

Second, retail has reemerged as the destination for photo. Having won the home vs retail challenge for prints a few years ago, retail is now gaining share from online pure plays as consumers prefer to pick up at retail. Recent research conducted by Fujifilm shows consumer preference for photo books made at retail. Why? Beyond fast turnaround, consumers want the control they have at retail. They know they get knowledgeable advice, in-person reviewing, meticulous processing, high-quality results—and they can negotiate the delivery time and withhold payment until the job is completed.

The future looks bright, again. pmda.com

 

 

Ted Fox, Executive Director, Photo Marketing Association

Adapting to the New Digital Landscape

 

Just Reflect on how far photography has evolved during its 170+ years. It’s gone from two-dimensional black-and-white glass plates to roll film, color film, digital capture and output, and the latest trends—3D and Micro 4/3-format cameras.

At the processing end, we’ve gone from regional B/W wholesale labs, regional wholesale color labs, mass-merchandiser captive labs, film manufacturer-controlled national wholesale labs, independent one-hour labs, mass-merchandiser one-hour labs, online services and click and brick Internet print services.

Throughout this evolution, PMA has adapted to changes by addressing the needs of an ever-changing marketplace. Now, in response to the most recent changes, PMA has expanded its reach to include the broadest spectrum of industry participants.

You will see these changes reflected in a positive way during our upcoming educational events, conventions and business product/services. PMA 2011, from September 8–10, 2011 at the Las Vegas Convention Center, will feature activities for our traditional retail trade audiences as well as content of specific interest to the photopreneur and photo enthusiast, including access to the trade show floor.

While this expanded format may be new to the U.S., PMA (working with our partner, the Photo Imaging Council of Australia) has provided this type of event annually for a number of decades. Our most recent Melbourne show drew over 20,000.

The autumn dates for PMA were prompted by changes in industry buying cycles and technology developments. PMA member retailers and service providers welcomed the change and can now use the largest annual photo-imaging show and conference to find products and services that will make the holiday season a success.

PMA is here to serve the industry, and through all of these alterations, it has maintained a consistent mission statement, which is to “disseminate timely information, products, services, and provide forums that contribute to increased profitability, business growth and a sense of community for the imaging and related industries globally.” That worldwide imaging community welcomes your involvement. pmai.org

 

 

 

Manufacturers


Eliott Peck, Senior Vice President,
General Manager, Consumer Imaging Group, Canon USA

Providing the Most Advanced, Reliable Products Creates Customer Satisfaction 

 

Canon’s long-term strategy focuses on providing our customers with the best, most advanced imaging solutions available. Beginners, hobbyists and professionals can rely on Canon to deliver a wide variety of first-rate products at reasonable prices, as well as industry-leading after-sales support.

We’re optimistic that the strong momentum established in 2010 will extend through the holiday season. There are several encouraging signs, including the fact that DSLR and accessory sales are at an all-time high. Image quality, ease of use and affordability continue to improve, along with the popularity of 1080p Full HD video.

Canon is well positioned to capitalize on this trend with the largest selection of Full HD SLRs and interchangeable autofocus lenses on the market, including the exciting EOS 60D DSLR and EF 70–300mm f/4–5.6L IS USM zoom lens.

We’ve also expanded our range of Full HD video camcorders, including the advanced XF professional models and the popular Vixia series for amateurs and enthusiasts. There are more HD-compatible PowerShot compact cameras than ever, headlined by the SD4500 IS Digital Elph, with a 10x optical zoom and Full HD movie capture.

On the output side, we’re excited about the new Full HD movie print feature on our latest Pixma inkjet printers, including the MG series all-in-one models. And EOS customers can produce exhibition-quality, archival prints up to 13”x19” with the Pixma Pro9500 and Pro9000 Mark II printers.

Canon is proud to have been rated #1 in customer satisfaction for digital camera and inkjet printer support by the readers of PC magazine for seven consecutive years. We’re also expanding our outreach to customers through on-site and online education programs. These initiatives help customers appreciate the added value of Canon products, while providing ongoing feedback that is used to fine-tune the features and performance of our future products. usa.canon.com

 

Paul Meyhoefer, Vice President.
Marketing and Product Planning, General Imaging Corp.

  Stay Focused on the Customer Point of View

 

As we move into 2011, the digital camera market will continue to deliver increased levels of power, performance and advanced features consumers have come to expect. With most established markets, the customer is expecting to pay less for newer models, while receiving more features and benefits.

Our consumer-focused research in the point-and-shoot market has uncovered core values shared with the GE digital camera brand. Today’s consumers are looking for a refined combination of features and technology that are easily accessible and not overly complicated to use.

During one focus group we found a person asking, “Is a 5x MP better than a 12 megapixel zoom?” This type of specification-driven confusion can cause average consumers to choose the wrong camera and ultimately result in underwhelming pictures and an even more frustrating consumer experience.

At General Imaging, our mission is to provide cutting-edge cameras that are simple to use and provide the best pictures possible for today’s point-and-shoot photographer. Staying focused on the customer point of view is paramount in continuing to develop and refine our line of GE cameras, while still maintaining an exceptional value. It has never been more important for consumer electronics to fit today’s lifestyles, add to the quality of life and not become a hindrance.

GE is committed to these ideals and has remained one of the most trusted brands around the globe for over 100 years. These same founding principles of innovation, quality and reliability will continue to be found in each and every generation of GE camera and video product we produce. general-imaging.com

 

 

Roger W. Horn, President, Leica USA

A Continued Emphasis on Craftsmanship and Design

Leica is fortunate that both our legendary brand image and the unique quality of our products place us at the forefront of three key marketing trends in imaging: the increasing sophistication of serious enthusiasts and professional photographers; photographers’ demand for ever-higher image quality; and the greater priority now placed on acquiring investment grade equipment of lasting value.

We were particularly gratified at the enthusiastic reception of the full-frame Leica M9 among the legions of committed Leica fans that spurred its development, and also among the highly respected members of the photographic press who hailed it as an outstanding technical achievement.

The successful launch of the German-made Leica M9 (rangefinder camera) and Leica X1 (a high-performance large-sensor compact with a Leica form factor and superb prime lens) in the space of a single calendar year is unprecedented. It is not an understatement to say that this signal achievement has brought renewed excitement to loyal Leica customers and Leica dealers worldwide.

Of course, announcing exciting, new world-class cameras and expanding the acclaimed Leica M optical range with lenses of astonishing speed and performance are only part of the story. We are particularly pleased to report that Leica is increasing its production across the board to meet consumer demand, thereby shortening delivery times and ensuring greater customer satisfaction. But at Leica we’re also proud that some things never change—like exquisite German craftsmanship, unsurpassed optical engineering and distinctive form-follows-function design that makes picture taking a uniquely pleasurable experience. leica-camera.com

 

 

Bo Kajiwara, Director of Marketing,
Nikon Inc.

 Mainstream Consumers Drive DSLR Growth

 

Rapid consumer adoption of new technologies has made it a very exciting time for the digital imaging business. This is great for our industry because those who embrace the opportunity to deliver value and support to consumers transitioning to DSLRs will create sustainable DSLR and accessories growth.

One driver of DSLR growth is digital media. Content creation and sharing through social networks has become mainstream. Consumers share billions of personal images and videos each month with much larger social circles and the public via sites like Facebook and YouTube. With the inclusion of HD movie in affordable and consumer-friendly DSLRs like the D90, the industry’s first with HD movie, the D5000 and new D3100, we predict it will impact the camcorder market as cameras replace traditional video capture devices.

A second factor is that DSLRs no longer intimidate mainstream consumers. They understand the performance, speed, quality and system expandability offered by entry-level models, as evidenced by the strong sales volume of Nikon D3000 and D5000 cameras. While DSLR sales are robust, Nikon will continue to evaluate the market and develop products to meet consumers’ needs in the future.

Appealing prices for feature-rich DSLRs and manufacturers/retailers who educate consumers about DSLR capabilities are also driving growth. Whether hiring knowledgeable sales teams or offering content and workshops for enthusiastic consumers, retailers have a chance to create strong consumer relationships and sustain growth for ongoing purchases of lenses and accessories.

We have seen our brand loyalty grow rapidly. Consumers purchasing from mass market or photo specialty want a choice of trusted brands, quality products and great value. Nikon will continue to work closely with partners, identify ways to listen to consumer needs and introduce innovative, easy-to-use products. nikonusa.com

 

 

Frank Lasorsa, Vice President, Sales and
Marketing, Olympus Imaging America, Inc.

 Challenges Will Continue to Drive Innovators

 

The imaging industry is filled with both opportunities and challenges. The challenges are often what drive innovators like Olympus to develop technologies and products to better satisfy market needs.

The compact interchangeable-lens or “mirrorless” space has seen tremendous growth (up 188%, YTD). Olympus’s share, with its PEN family of products, is over half of the total business in this category at 63% (YTD), and a great example of Olympus’s ability to listen to the market. Other opportunities for growth and leadership are in the Stylus Tough and underwater categories. These categories have seen 25% growth (YTD). Olympus’s share in this category is prominent at more than 50% (YTD), leading with the Stylus Tough series known for its innovative shockproof, waterproof, freezeproof and crushproof features.

Intermediate cameras over $300 also present opportunities. This category has seen 30% growth (YTD), indicating consumers are demanding better features. Households currently average one to two cameras, so category growth indicates consumers are stepping up to new, more feature-rich cameras when they
replace older ones.

Looking forward, Olympus anticipates the mirrorless category will continue to experience tremendous growth. Olympus also foresees growth in the ultrazoom category (15x zooms and longer). We will continue innovating within the SLR and compact interchangeable-lens PEN category; manufacturing and providing the toughest cameras in the industry; and incorporating feature-rich elements into all of our products. Olympus’s strategy remains to provide consumers with diverse, innovative products that can go places and do things that others can’t. olympusamerica.com

 

Richard Simone, Vice President,
Panasonic Consumer Electronics

Leading with Innovation and Consumer Awareness

 

In 2011, Panasonic will continue to drive the excitement and awareness that was built around the Lumix brand. This year’s print and television advertising—in addition to other experiential marketing campaigns—has been extremely successful and a great platform for Panasonic to reach a wide variety of consumers, explaining the value of Lumix digital cameras: take professional-quality photos, without being a professional.

Panasonic Lumix digital cameras will continue to innovate and offer outstanding image and lens quality—resulting in beautiful photos and videos. In 2011, Panasonic will maintain that leadership both with its point-and-shoot line and the Lumix G series, Panasonic’s DSL Micro cameras. Beyond high-performing image quality, Panasonic strives to make Lumix cameras extremely easy to use. Not all consumers are “photographers” by profession, but when combining Lumix image quality with intuitive use, their photos may suggest otherwise.

With the point-and-shoot Lumix models, Panasonic will continue to innovate with its long zooms, improved autofocus speeds and fast start-up times. On the other side, the Panasonic Lumix G series comprises small and lightweight interchangeable-lens cameras that can take powerful photos but are still easy to use.

Consumers who know Lumix for its high performance and great value will not be disappointed with next year’s lineup of digital cameras, which are packed with new easy-to-use features, helping them to take high-quality photos. And for those who will be new to the Lumix line in 2011, Panasonic is confident we’ll gain even more loyal brand ambassadors for years to come. panasonic.com

 

 

Ned Bunnell, President,
Pentax Imaging Company

Differentiation Can Spell Market Success

While we all hope for a recovery of the U.S. economy, there’s concern we will not see a significant, sustained increase in consumer spending for some time. In fact, it’s probably better to think that shoppers’ cautiousness is the “new norm.”

However, consumers will buy cameras, even at premium prices, if the product combines features, design and a user experience that makes their purchase seem more personal, fun and rewarding. With many shoppers putting off purchases, we need to ensure that cameras are still high on their “need to buy” list and not crossed off in favor of the cool CE devices coming into the market.

At Pentax this year, we focused on unique camera offerings. We totally redesigned our latest adventure-proof camera, the Optio W90, and are pleased with the positive reaction to the W90’s look, feel and performance. We also increased the color and style quotient in our I-10 and H90 models to counter a growing consumer perception that many compacts are dull, silver boxes.

The K-x in all its colors allowed us to differentiate Pentax in the SLR segment. Its success confirmed that many consumers think color should be an option with SLRs, just like it is with their CE devices and compact cameras. More importantly, the color K-x models increased our sales to consumers who had not owned a Pentax before.

For the fall/holidays, Pentax will continue to offer models with great features, styling and colors that we believe will resonate with consumers who want to own a camera that matches their lifestyle and personality. pentaximaging.com

 

 

Mark Amir-Hamzeh, General Manager,
Sigma Corporation of America

 Technology and Innovation Will Ensure Growth

 

Our industry continues to react to ever-changing market demands and evolve based on current economic conditions, which both remain difficult. To combat these difficult times, Sigma plans to remain true to its founding principle of delivering a wide selection of quality photography products that are competitively priced.

Technology and innovation will continue to drive this diverse market. DSLRs are more affordable and accessible than ever, and our consumer base varies from very serious pro shooters to amateurs and hobbyists. To ensure we fulfill the needs of this growing audience, Sigma will continue to provide consumers with the largest selection of high-quality lenses, which boast unique features and an extraordinary value. For example, as the company that produced the first wide-angle lens, Sigma recently introduced its latest creation—the 8–16mm f/4.5–5.6 DC HSM lens, now the widest lens on the market.

We also introduced FLD glass, delivering performance equal to the more expensive fluorite glass. The FLD glass can be found in the newly introduced 17–50mm f/2.8 EX DC OS and the 70–200mm f/2.8 EX DG OS HSM lenses.

The use of the Foveon chip in our SD15 and DP cameras produces images of the highest quality with deep, rich color, pushing the envelope of camera technology. We will continue to introduce products that fill voids in the market and push the technological envelope, while keeping quality and value top-of-mind.

Marketing efforts and a synergistic relationship with our dealers continue to play a significant role in getting the consumers’ attention, and Sigma has put forth a tremendous effort in this area by redesigning its website, sigmaphoto.com. With our new Lens Finder Tool, it’s now easier for consumers to find the right lens to suit their interests. We are also active in the social media realm, and our team enjoys interacting with our customer base through Facebook and Twitter. Regular e-mail blasts, continuously updated blog posts, photo contests and a permanent Photo Share section on the website help us attract, engage and interact with our consumers. sigmaphoto.com

 

 

Brennan Mullin, Senior Vice President,
Personal Imaging and Audio Division, Sony Electronics

  Improvements in Imaging Performance Will Spur Consumer Excitement

 

Overall, the imaging industry appears somewhat recession resistant, with growth stabilizing in categories that have previously seen declines, and significant growth in areas that appeal to new and repeat buyers with new technologies and form factors. All in all, it’s a great time to be a consumer in the digital imaging space.

At Sony, we are redefining the imaging arena with innovative digital imaging technologies and products. Examples of this include better picture quality under difficult lighting, Full AVCHD video capture, faster shooting speeds, easier sharing of photos and videos through social networking, and the creation of personal 3D content to enjoy on 3D TVs.

In the compact camera segment, Cyber-shot models can rapidly capture and combine many images into a single photo, solving challenges involving low light, wide dynamic range and wide-angle view that have always limited compact cameras.

In the interchangeable-lens camera segment, NEX-5 and NEX-3 cameras bring large-sensor performance and interchangeable-lens versatility to a smaller form factor never before achieved, while providing still and Full HD video capture. And Translucent Mirror technology, as in the Alpha A33 and A55, has transformed SLR structure to realize shooting speed and handling advantages unmatched by other DSLRs, while maintaining the affordability and ease of use required to appeal to a broad range of consumers.

In the camcorder segment, the new Bloggie Touch makes it easier to share high-quality photos and videos by uniquely blending product, software and services.

To help enthusiasts discover their passion for filmmaking, Sony’s NEX-VG10 is the first to offer the benefits of a large image sensor and interchangeable lenses to the consumer camcorder space.

We believe constant improvements in performance like these will encourage consumers to replace older models, allowing them to derive greater value from imaging.

As the cameras and camcorders providing these benefits become more affordable and widespread, positive growth will continue into 2011. sony.com 

 

Accessories

 


Jill Wight, President, jill-e designs

Products & Services Providing “Tech Support with Style” Will Fit Today’s Lifestyle

It’s been amazing to watch the spread of photography—of cameras and personal technology in generally—over the last several years. Is there anyone out there these days who isn’t carrying a camera, a cell phone, a music device, a laptop or an iPad and who knows what else around with them wherever they go?

Something else we’ve noticed is the increasing emphasis on individualization. Most of us get caught up in the popular trends, of course. But we also want to distinguish ourselves from the crowd somehow—even if we’re keeping one foot firmly planted in the “comfort zone” of what the group likes.

This has created a new category you might call “tech support – with style.” People need help with the tangle of electronic devices they bring with them today, and they wouldn’t mind at all if the solution helped define and announce their unique personality. In our case, that means sturdy and stylish, fashionable and functional camera and carry bags suited, as we like to say, to “today’s technology-rich, on-the-go lifestyle.” We call one of our consumer-oriented bags “the ultimate fashionable family electronics bag.” We address both “style and sass” and “safety and security.”

More broadly, any product, accessory or service that helps people living the modern tech-dependent life—photographers, photo & video enthusiasts (and who isn’t one today?), travelers, businesspeople, busy moms, college students—in terms of organization, access, protection and, yes, “personality,” stands a very good chance of doing well in today’s marketplace. jill-e.com

 

Sam Pardue, CEO, Cofounder, Lensbaby

Photo Industry and PC Industry Parallels and Convergence

The photographic industry parallels the PC industry. Earlier I worked as a marketing manager at Intel, and there I saw tremendous change as PCs grew ever more powerful and became the standard platform for computing. Amazingly, in some key ways the imaging industry is even more dynamic than the PC industry.

The PC industry is driven by Moore’s Law (named after Intel’s Gordon Moore), which states that the number of transistors on an integrated circuit doubles approximately every two years. This exponential explosion of computing power allowed the PC to swallow first the mid-range computer and eventually even supercomputers.

When I started working with Craig Strong as cofounder of Lensbaby seven years ago, I saw the digital SLR as the PC of imaging, with its capabilities growing so fast (partly driven by Moore’s Law) that medium-format and even large-format cameras were threatened. Like the PC industry, the increasing installed base of DSLRs allowed a vibrant ecosystem of software and hardware accessory makers to flourish, which in turn provided ever greater creative options for DSLR users.

Yet, an interesting thing is happening in the camera and the computing industries at almost the same time—smaller, more mobile platforms such as smartphones and mirrorless interchangeable-lens (MIL) cameras are becoming so powerful they will challenge the reigning champions, the PC and the DSLR.

Lensbaby sees MIL camera sales (Micro 4/3, Sony NEX) exploding as their capabilities increase. Lensbaby will serve this market, and the unique form factor of MIL cameras will allow some extremely cool features. We see an ecosystem of accessory providers emerging around MILs and continued dynamism in the entire imaging industry. lensbaby.com

 

 

Manisha Sharma, Director, Worldwide 

Memory Card Product Marketing, Lexar Media

 Take Full Advantage of Still & Video Capture in Digital SLRs

Photo and video-enabled digital SLRs have changed the way shooters capture content, as well as the digital photo landscape. Not only are camera manufacturers making high-definition (HD) video capture a standard feature in many DSLRs, but the cameras are better suited to record video through previously unavailable features, like video autofocus.

The advancements in memory cards—speed, class ratings, capacities—have also played a key role in the evolution of DSLRs for both manufacturers and end users. The cameras require the latest generation of memory solutions to match their capabilities, and consumers need the flexibility to switch from still to HD video capture and back again on the fly, without interruption.

While capacity and minimum speeds are still concerns for shooters, the crux of the issue is reliability. Without highly reliable, versatile cards, users will not have the ability to capture quality images and video. The number of people purchasing DSLRs with video capture capabilities is likely to continue growing, and it is our goal to continue to provide the memory solutions needed to use these cameras confidently.

Lexar Media strives to provide the most reliable solutions on the market. We listen to market demands and have developed our memory cards to withstand rigorous requirements of our users. We rigorously test our cards at the Lexar Quality Labs, facilities that test Lexar cards with more than 800 cameras and memory card devices, to ensure their performance, compatibility and reliability, and above all, to make certain our cards can capture the memory that matters, in still images, video or both. lexar.com

 

Bill Drysdale, Managing Director,
Manfrotto Distribution USA

A New Class of Photographer Provides Opportunities for Growth

It’s no question these tough financial times have had an impact on our industry. Consumers have been forced to cut back and reassess their purchases, as their bottom lines are just as important as ours. Times are changing, however, and as the industry improves it brings with it new digital imaging technologies that present the accessories market with significant opportunity.

These technologies, specifically the mirrorless interchangeable-lens category of cameras, are reshaping the industry. Consumers who once were too intimidated by the complexity of a DSLR are now stepping up to these systems. Mirrorless cameras have inspired consumers to embrace photography and explore their creativity, as now they can experience the image quality and flexibility that was once only available in a DSLR.

As these consumers step up, it’s important to understand that their needs are
different. Photo specialty dealers must offer the guidance and unrivaled expertise that’s synonymous with the specialty level, and most important, educate them regarding the most appropriate support products and accessories they can leverage to enhance their experience.

To help our specialty dealers meet the needs of these consumers, we’re providing a new and robust set of marketing tools as well as bolstering our R&D efforts to bring forth a full range of exciting supports and accessories, many of which can be seen at photokina 2010. Designed to offer the same style and level of flexibility as the mirrorless cameras they’re intended for, these products will offer the quality, reliability and performance that’s synonymous with our organization—and will better position our dealers for success and as they grow and expand. manfrotto.com

 

Jeffrey J. Seidel, Director of Sales and Service, 

OmegaBrandess Distribution

DSLR Advance Features Will Continue to Fuel Growth

 

The past year for OmegaBrandess has been an interesting road. We started out as two companies, OmegaSatter and Brandess-Kalt-Aetna, and merged together in January into OmegaBrandess.

Strategically this merger created two objectives for us. The first was to integrate the two companies’ product lines, filtering out duplication and identifying lines to go forward with; and the second, ever-present objective was of bringing on new product lines that will carry us forward as a distributor of photographic accessories.

As it has been in recent years, the driving force behind most product decisions we make is the continued explosion of the DSLR market. In many ways, the popularity of DSLRs has made old accessories new again. Old standby products like filters, cap keepers, straps, flashes and bags are once again selling well.

However, it is the advances in DSLR features and functions, particularly the advent of HD video capability, that are fueling the major growth going forward. This has resulted in adding products like Zacuto camera supports, TorchLED lighting equipment and Blue Crane Digital DVD titles that deal specifically with DSLR video. We will continue to expand this category with solutions for better sound and image quality for the “new” video camera.

In our view, the dealers who are growing their businesses are the ones who are also embracing new technology and trying different things. Whichever path our dealers choose, OmegaBrandess stands ready with the right products, in stock and ready to deliver on demand as they need them. omegabrandess.com

 

Bob Higgins, Sales and Marketing Manager,
PromarkBrands

“Change” Is an Understatement for Everything Photo

 

There is a saying here in Chicago, “If you don’t like the weather, wait 10 minutes.” There is much about this statement that can apply to the photo industry. For those of us who have been in this industry for a while, this comment sums up the past 10 years. “Change” is an understatement for everything photo.

PromarkBrands consists of five brands, four of which are 50 to 136 years old. They’ve weathered industry change along with our strong dealer base. What continues to make us strong in today’s challenging climate is the conviction of our employees, from ownership to the production floor.

While other manufacturers felt the economic pressure to manufacture overseas, we have strengthened our USA manufacturing hold by building a state-of-the-art facility in the Chicago area. Our customers recognize this commitment, and they continue to support our brands even in the toughest business climate. Though cheaper goods flood the lighting market, we have been able to keep our identity strong through consistent manufacturing processes and tight quality controls. The benefits are endless to manufacturing here in the U.S., and we have the ability to respond instantly to our retailers, consumers and our OEM partners.

We’ve seen signs of recovery starting with the successful WPPI and PPA shows earlier this year. We see not only a new crop of emerging photographers investing in equipment but also the seasoned pro returning and reinvesting in their businesses again. We see a strong contingency of pro photographers doing what every good business is doing in this challenging climate—reinventing their approach and keeping one step ahead of competitors by offering new creative imaging styles.

PromarkBrands is forecasting a stronger year in 2011, which is why we plan on introducing innovative products that directly respond to our customers’ needs and feedback. promarkbrands.com

 

Susan Park, Director, Retail Product
Marketing, SanDisk Corporation

Capture & Storage Must Advance Together

 

Cameras and camcorders are more sophisticated than ever before, offering advanced features that let consumers produce high-quality photos and videos. High-definition (HD) video capture is now a standard feature on new DSLRs, and megapixel counts have reached very impressive levels. 3D cameras and camcorders are also hitting the market, and consumers have shown a great deal of interest in this kind of content. These advanced features produce massive files.

A single RAW+JPEG image can reach up to 32 megabytes in size, and just a few minutes of Full HD video can produce more than a gigabyte of content. As a result, imaging enthusiasts need memory cards with a special combination of speed, reliability and capacity. Faster speeds mean more opportunities to capture the winning shot and less time spent offloading gigabytes of content afterwards. High-capacity storage lets consumers shoot confidently without running out of space, while long-term reliability provides them with peace of mind that their files are safe.

SanDisk is the global leader in flash memory cards for digital cameras and camcorders, and our SanDisk Ultra and SanDisk Extreme memory cards regularly win industry awards. SanDisk invented flash memory cards, pioneered the CompactFlash format and codeveloped SD formats. As imaging devices proliferate among a broad consumer audience, we will continue to bring to market high-quality products that offer a real value to our customers and the industry as a whole. sandisk.com

 

Tak Inoue, President and CEO, Tamron USA, Inc.

Consumer Education Will Lead to Continued Success

In today’s imaging market, many consumer electronics companies have joined the SLR arena. With that comes the power to really expand the penetration of the DSLR, and therefore contribute to the growth of the coveted photo enthusiast segment of the market.

These companies are also challenging traditional SLR designs and are paving the way with cameras featuring mirrorless and Micro 4/3 designs. And this leads to benefits and opportunities for market participants.

On the other hand, product lifecycles have been drastically shortened, making it more difficult for some consumers to make purchase decisions. Accustomed to longer product lifecycles, consumers expect that their camera purchase should last for some time. But with technology changing so quickly and products replaced so frequently, some newcomers to the SLR market are fearful of making what could be a costly wrong decision. However, lots of choice can also be viewed as a very good thing for the consumer.

Additionally, new products and technologies moving at such an incredible pace are hard for the consumer, and even the store sales associate, to follow. As a result, market participants need to work together to provide user education. We view that as one of the most important actions to be successful in the current market.

As the selling power of the mass merchant grows, the specialty photo retailer is having difficulty finding funds to continue to educate the consumer. I believe photo-imaging players need to act as a bank: sell to the mass market to make profits that are then reinvested in the specialty retailer who can in turn educate consumers. We need to maintain the right balance of investments. tamron-usa.com

 

Geoffrey Lewis, President, WYNIT, Inc.

Thinking Back, Looking Ahead

Think back. Photo specialty retailers were pretty happy in 1990. The business of producing images for both professionals and consumers was fueled by repeat sales of film, Polaroid, processing, printing and chemistry. Right about that time, Canon introduced the XapShot—an “affordable” still video camera priced just under $1,000 that stored 50 snapshots on a 2-inch diskette. In the span of 20 years, the technology foreshadowed by the humble XapShot has completely transformed our industry.

While the “film to electronic to high-res digital file” evolution has systematically changed what it means to be in this business, it’s still all about how to capture, store and share images. These images preserve moments in time, create moods, evoke emotions and celebrate life. Photography has been and continues to be a kind of magic.

Human beings value “magic,” and the products that will enter the market over the next 18 months will have no shortage of the “wow” factor. DSLRs are delivering broadcast-quality video. Flash memory is steadily replacing tape. Cameras provide one-touch upload to social media sites. Compact point and shoots create 12MP files sharp enough for 48-inch wide prints.

Looking ahead, delivering this magic to repeat customers will define success in photo specialty retail. Providing new ways to help them get the most out of innovations is key. While product selection and price are major factors, it is personal attention and expertise that transforms information into knowledge, creating the positive experience that every customer values. wynit.com

 

 

 

Output


Nicki Zongrone, General Manager Retail Systems Solutions, 

Vice President, Eastman Kodak Company 

Premium Print Products Illuminate the Path to Success for Photo Merchandisers 

The tsunami of digital photo creation and the mercurial rise of online sharing shouldn’t dampen optimism about the future of photo printing. Research analysts are forecasting 30%–40% growth in creative photo services—upward to $12 billion in 2013.

This growth is evidenced by a number of factors: traditional photo labs are increasing their breadth of products and services; commercial printers are targeting traditional photo markets to expand their customer bases and sell premium pages; new online companies are integrating photo services; and retailers are expanding their photo services to include a broader range of premium photo products.

These trends are driven by the ever-changing needs of today’s “Digital Consumers,” who are telling their life stories through billions of digital photos and trillions of video frames each year. Digital consumers want services “how, where and when they want it.” They also want personalization, customization, high-quality content, ease of creation and exciting new ways to share.

The price/quality/gratification mix for these consumers ranges from low-cost photo mementos to higher end keepsake options to professionally produced heirloom products and business-grade publications.

Kodak is helping photo merchandisers evolve their business models, expanding beyond traditional photo services and differentiating their businesses with photo products that meet the needs of a broader range of customers. Our focus is to enable an exceptional consumer experience at a variety of touch points, including
in-store, online and at the desktop, with full-featured creative tools, simple intuitive ordering interfaces, plus multichannel production and fulfillment options. kodak.com

 

Manny Almeida, Vice President, General Manager, Imaging Division and
Electronic Imaging Division, Fujifilm North American Corporation

  Personalized Photo Print Products Pave the Way

It’s no secret that the photo-imaging industry has undergone dramatic changes. In the past, consumers and retailers were dependent on the 4×6 print, but today the industry has diversified—mostly into personally printed products such as books and calendars. This diversification has changed consumer behavior, and as a result, the printing industry as well. This poses difficult decisions for retailers since many of these personalized products require offsite production.

Because creating items like a mug or high-quality book is more complex than fulfilling an order for prints at a kiosk or in-store, Fujifilm’s strategy is to offer retailers and consumers as many on-ramps as possible. For example, consumers can now order photo products in many ways: from their home computer for at-home delivery or in-store pickup, at the kiosk and soon by phone. By offering as many on-ramps as possible, consumers will be encouraged to print more.

And because retailers and consumers are no longer dependent on the 4×6 print, retailers must decide what equipment to purchase and what specialty products to offer.

By offering multiple print technologies—inkjet, silver halide, xerography and dye sublimation—Fujifilm has maintained a healthy printing business that supports our retail partners’ different business strategies.

So, while the photo industry is now more complex, Fujifilm believes that if retailers partner with a supplier who has a long-term commitment to the photo industry and a vision for the future, there is plenty of growth opportunity now and in the foreseeable future. fujifilmusa.com

 

Stephen Giordano, Jr., President, Lucidiom

Customizable Solutions in the Social Expression Era Will Boost Retail Sales

Each year, I am more excited about the future of imaging than the year before. That holds true today as we continue down the path toward an imaging industry that is more reflective of the Internet, where it’s all about exploration, creation and social interaction. We remain a storytelling industry, but the industry’s own story is more compelling each year.

Lucidiom has been building technology solutions for the industry that directly address consumers’ growing desire to create and share. In 2010, our first year as part of the Noritsu family, we’ve proudly launched two award-winning software solutions—APM 7.5 and Photo Finale Web 7.0—which provide the consumer with seamless in-store, online and on-the-go transactions while also putting 24/7 profit potential in the sights of retailers.

APM 7.5, our latest kiosk software, boasts profit-builders like bundled prints and premium content surcharges. Our white-label website, Photo Finale Web 7.0, brings the effortless kiosk experience online for customers looking to create and place orders both in-store and online. Lucidiom retailers also now can keep customers updated on the go by offering our Pocket Pics iPhone app through their Photo Finale website.

In-store and online integrated solutions that allow consumers to share their stories through pictures—whenever and wherever they want—are the key to digital imaging success going forward. Having a printer that can produce a variety of storytelling products in the store is also a boost to retailers. We at Lucidiom are proud to be delivering flexible, customizable technology solutions for retailers of all sizes in the social expression era. lucidiom.com

 

Bob Crooks, National Sales Manager,
Mitsubishi Digital Electronics America

Building Relationships with End Users Via Service, Support & Cooperation

The best way to gauge the state of the photo-imaging industry is to examine the tools used by professional photographers, as they continue to evolve to fit the needs of the modern-day photographer. Looking at tools like the Mitsubishi CP-9810DW and CP-3800DW photographic printers, it’s clear that technology is becoming more affordable. It’s also becoming more portable, while becoming more durable. And, of course, like many other industries, today’s imaging industry is becoming greener.

The advances in technology have allowed photographers to change the way they do business. Professional photographers are now more mobile, are able to accommodate a more diverse client base, and offer a greater number of services. Overall, they are able to do more with less and increase earnings as a result.

Because of this evolution, there is a developing trend toward higher quality with immediate availability, which is expanding the market. This is where Mitsubishi Digital Electronics America fits in. People come to MDEA because they are seeking the kind of service, support and cooperation that we provide.

We will continue to pursue our strategy of building relationships with end users. Our Imaging Products division is a dedicated group of employees who not only care about our product but also the people who use them. We have recently launched our social media networking initiative and are very happy with the response. We look forward to connecting to current and new photographers. mitsubishi-imaging.com

 

Stephan Coté, Senior Director,
Worldwide OEM Sales, Roxio

Success Means Delivering Creative Apps & Services That Excite Consumers

While the economy is improving, consumers remain careful about what they spend money on. It is therefore critical for companies to continue to look for ways to add greater value to their products. As a software vendor, Roxio’s role is to help our customers—camera manufacturers—deliver more value by creating innovative applications and services that embrace new technologies and excite consumers.

Confident that 3D will reshape the imaging industry and completely redefine how we capture and enjoy personal media, we introduced Roxio VideoLab 3D. The product offers a comprehensive feature set for capturing, editing, creating and sharing personal 3D photos, videos and projects, allowing camera manufacturers to deliver a far more complete out-of-box experience.

Understanding the competitive nature of the imaging market today and shrinking manufacturer returns, we also introduced PhotoShow Express, an innovative client application that empowers users to compose highly personalized multimedia stories that can be shared on disc or via e-mail and social media sites. PhotoShow is an important part of our solution mix, not only enabling our partners to differentiate themselves with creative functionality that builds on the high interest in social networking, but also allowing them to generate new revenue streams.

For all of the conveniences and capabilities the technology industry has afforded users, it has yet to fully address a very basic need—easy access to personal media when and where users want. Roxio has solutions launching this fall that leverage our RoxioNow digital movie delivery platform to provide consumers instant access to media from their favorite connected devices. These solutions will also provide our partners with a unique opportunity to form ongoing, long-term relationships with their customers. roxio.com

 

 

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