Are Smartphones Threatening The Survival of DSLR Cameras?

It is probably the worst kept secret to anyone following the photographic industry but camera manufacturers have been experiencing declining sales for the last few years. The main reason is due to changing customer preference and the advancement in many smartphone cameras.

Canon, the largest photographic equipment manufacturer in the world has experienced drops in profits in the last few quarters. They are hardly alone and based on the most recent data published by CIPA, the Japan-based Camera & Imaging Products Association, sales have not improved much so far this year.

It seems mirrorless cameras offered the industry a bright spot for about two years but now sales are leveling off and the increase in sales may have been at the expense of the traditional DSLR market.
There is no question smartphones have taken away some sales from the low end point-and-shoot and DSLR camera segment, but the best way to keep a photographic company relevant is to come out with the state of the art product to convince serious photographers why it is still the traditional DSLR camera that takes the best photos. What is more important than the number of DSLR sold is the mix of the sales, since low end cameras like the Rebel and SL series bring considerably less profit than the higher end models like the EOS-5 and EOS-1 bodies.

My readers know, I am the Wildlife Ho-tographer using Canon equipment for over 25 years. Through the decades, I have used almost all of Canon's cropped and full frame, film and digital cameras and lenses. You can see my equipment bag and works on MichaelDanielHo.com. On my recently concluded Polar bear photo shoot in the Canadian sub Arctic, I have used both my smartphone and DSLR cameras to take photos and find the two types of photography perfectly compatible with each other.  I use the EOS-1D X Mk II and EOS-5Ds cameras as main bodies for my work.

CIPA Report Shows All Camera Sales Up Slightly

The latest CIPA (Camera & Imaging Products Association) numbers for data up to April 2016 are out. It indicates camera shipments of all types have increased slightly so far this year, but still down compared to previous years. 2016 figures are in Orange, 2015 in Black, 2014 in Blue.

The Yen has again 'strengthened' against the U.S. Dollar and other currencies even though the Japanese economy is in the doldrums. This will present headwinds to companies like Canon, Sony and Nikon, which are major exporting firms, selling their products overseas.

Nevertheless, Canon is expected to announce more products for the remainder of 2016. The long awaited, EOS-5D Mark IV is out for field testing, and should be announced some time in August, plus more EOS-M mirrorless cameras and lens are coming.

Canon Patent - 3D Lens Style Camera For Smartphone

Sony DSC QX100 attachable lens style camera

Egami discovered a new Canon patent for an add on camera to smartphones. Sony announced the attachable lens-style camera, DSC-QX100 last year. The new Canon camera can apparently shoot 3D images.

Frankly, I think this is really much ado about nothing. The camera on the newer top-of-the-line smartphones like the Apple iPhone 6 or Samsung S6 and S7 are just fine. If a person wants to take more serious photos, then bring along a DSLR. How many people will lug around a small camera to attach to a smartphone when they want to 'take better photos'? It is so cumbersome. See my post on Smartphones vs DSLR cameras.

Patent Publication No. 2016-10133

• Published 2016.1.18
• Filing date 2014.6.26

Canon patent

• The first device having a camera function (101 smartphone of)
• The second device having a camera function (102 lens-style camera)
• The second unit (102 lens-style camera) is provided with a retractable mechanism
• Equipped with a marker that represents the collapsed position
• The first device (101 Smartphone of) is to shoot so as to include a marker
• Depending on the tip position of the collapsed, to get the mounting position to the first device of the second unit (102 lens-style camera) (101 smartphone of)

Canon #1 In DSLR and Compact Camera Sales 13 Years Straight

TOKYO, March 29, 2016 - Canon Inc. announced today that the Company’s interchangeable-lens digital cameras (digital SLR and compact-system cameras) have maintained the No. 1 share of the global market for 13 consecutive years from 2003 to 2015.

Canon, which develops the key components featured in its interchangeable-lens cameras - the CMOS image sensors, image processors and interchangeable lenses - employs these cutting-edge technologies across its entire product lineup, from entry-level models to professional-use flagship cameras. Through its robust product lineup that effectively responds to the needs of a wide range of users, Canon has continuously secured the top global share within the industry.

In 2003, the dawn of digital SLR cameras, Canon introduced its breakthrough EOS Kiss Digital (EOS Digital Rebel or EOS 300D Digital in other regions). This groundbreaking camera, which was competitively priced and featured a compact, lightweight design, captured the top share of the global market and set the stage for growth in the digital SLR market. Since that time, Canon has continued to launch a range of epoch-making products, including the professional-model EOS-1D series and the EOS 5D series which, equipped with a 35 mm full-frame sensor, paved the way for digital SLR video recording.

During 2015, Canon introduced an impressive lineup of new interchangeable-lens camera products that supported the Company’s achievement of a 13th consecutive year at the top of the global market. In June, the Company released the EOS 5Ds and 5Ds R digital SLR cameras, which realize the world’s highest pixel count with approximately 50.6-megapixel resolution; while in April the EOS 8000D (EOS Rebel T6s or EOS 760D) and EOS Kiss X8i (EOS Rebel T6i or EOS 750D) digital SLR cameras were released. Also, in March, Canon launched the EOS M3 compact-system camera.

Additionally, further bolstering Canon’s product lineup designed to meet the specific needs of a diverse user base, the Company announced in February this year the introduction of the EOS-1D X Mark II, capable of high-speed 14 frame-per-second continuous shooting, and the EOS 80D, which combines full-fledged still image-capture performance with exceptional movie-shooting operability. Also, the extensive EF lens-series lineup, production of which surpassed the 110 million unit mark in June 2015, currently comprises a total of 98 models and represents one of Canon’s biggest strengths, supporting the EOS series by enabling a wide array of shooting possibilities and rich expressive capabilities.

Through the further refining of its diverse imaging technologies, based on the Company’s core optical technologies, Canon will continue striving to create attractive and reliable products aimed at contributing to expanding the culture of photographic and video imaging.

Canon Announced Five New PowerShot Cameras

Canon PowerShot SX540, SX420, ELPH 360, ELPH 190 and ELPH 180 cameras

MELVILLE, N.Y. - January 5, 2016 - Built to deliver high-quality images and HD video and featuring built-in Wi-Fi and NFCTM connectivity for easy sharing, Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, today announced the addition of two new cameras to its super-zoom PowerShot SX lineup - the PowerShot SX540 HS and PowerShot SX420 IS digital cameras. Also announced are three new stylish and compact additions to the Company’s PowerShot ELPH series, the PowerShot ELPH 360 HS, PowerShot ELPH 190 IS digital cameras as well as PowerShot ELPH 180, all housed within slim bodies that can easily fit in a pocket or purse.Experiencing the power of a printed image is also easy when users connect and print to a Canon wirelessii printer, like the Canon PIXMA MG7720. And for even more convenience, the cameras are compatible with the new Canon Connect Station CS100 – a dedicated device for easy image and video viewing, sharing and storage.

PowerShot SX540 HS Camera

The PowerShot SX540 HS digital camera builds on the features included in the PowerShot SX530 HS digital camera. The PowerShot SX540 HS has a powerful 50x optical zoom lens (equivalent to 24-1200mm) with Optical Image Stabilizer for outstanding optical performance. It features a new 20.3-Megapixeliii High-Sensitivity CMOS sensor with DIGIC 6 Image Processor that helps deliver high resolution combined with stunning low-light performance. A dedicated Wi-Fi button allows for easy sharing and transferring of images over Wi-Fi and NFCTM technology. The new camera features a dedicated movie button so users can easily record 1080p Full HD video at an improved rate of up to 60 frames-per-second in MP4 format with stereo sound. The PowerShot SX540 HS digital camera has an improved advanced Zoom Framing Assist feature that intelligently controls the lens, making it easy to identify the main subject of the shot, even when the subject is moving. It also features a lock button option for quick and accurate subject tracking. Additionally, its new Story Highlights feature automatically selects and compiles images into an exciting highlight reel within the camera without the use of extra software.

The PowerShot SX540 HS digital camera’s large 3.0-inch LCD screen (approx. 461,000 dots) allows easy viewing even from a wide angle. Its Hybrid Auto mode records quick video clips before each still and compiles them together to make a short highlight reel. The PowerShot SX540 HS digital camera is scheduled to be available in March 2016 for an estimated retail price of $399.99.

PowerShot SX420 IS

Based on the successful PowerShot SX410 IS model, the PowerShot SX420 IS digital camera features an improved powerful 42x optical zoom lens (equivalent to 24-1008mm) and Optical Image Stabilizer for outstanding optical performance. A dedicated Wi-Fi button allows for easy sharing and transferring of images over Wi-Fi and NFCTM technology. The 20.0- Megapixeliii sensor with DIGIC 4+ Image Processor helps deliver stunning image quality. Smart Auto intelligently selects the proper settings for the camera based on predefined shooting situations, and 720p HD video capture in MP4 format.

The PowerShot SX420 IS digital camera also features Scene modes such as Fisheye effect, Toy Camera effect and Monochrome, which provide creative freedom to capture your photos. While taking these creative photos, Eco mode helps reduce power consumption for longer battery life.

The camera’s large 3.0-inch LCD screen (approx. 230,000 dots) allows for easy operation and sharing. The PowerShot SX420 IS digital camera is scheduled to be available in February 2016 for an estimated retail price of $299.99.

PowerShot ELPH 360HS

The PowerShot ELPH 360HS is slim and stylish, boasting a 12x optical zoom lens with Optical Image Stabilizer that helps capture images with flexibility and ease. A dedicated Wi-Fi button allows for easy sharing and transferring of images over Wi-Fi and NFCTM . The 20.2-Megapixelii CMOS sensor combines with the DIGIC 4+ Image Processor to help deliver stunning image quality even in low light. The PowerShot ELPH 360HS digital camera also captures spectacular 1080p Full HD video.

The camera’s large 3.0-inch LCD screen allows for easy viewing and the Hybrid Auto feature records quick video clips before each still and compiles them together to make a short highlight reel. Story Highlights mode automatically selects and compiles images into an exciting highlight reel within the camera without the use of extra software.

The PowerShot ELPH 360HS digital camera is scheduled to be available in February for an estimated retail price of $209.99 and will be available in silver and purple.

PowerShot ELPH 190 IS

The PowerShot ELPH 190 IS digital camera delivers high-quality imaging capabilities with a 10x optical zoom lens with optical image stabilizer and 20-Megapixeliii CCD sensor. A dedicated Wi-Fi button allows for easy sharing and transferring of images over Wi-Fi and NFCTM technology. The PowerShot ELPH 190 IS digital camera features smooth 720p HD video capabilities with Smart Auto mode, Scene modes and Eco mode to preserve battery life.

The PowerShot ELPH 190 IS digital camera is scheduled to be available in February 2016 for an estimated retail price of $159.99 and will be available in black, red and blue.

PowerShot ELPH 180

The PowerShot ELPH 180 digital camera delivers high-quality imaging capabilities with an 8x optical zoom lens and 20-Megapixeliii CCD sensor. The PowerShot ELPH 180 digital camera features smooth 720p HD video capabilities with Smart Auto mode, Scene modes and Eco mode to preserve battery life. It also includes the Auto Zoom feature that automatically zooms in to frame subjects and keep them in focus.

The PowerShot ELPH 180 digital camera is scheduled to be available in February 2016 for an estimated retail price of $119.99 and will be available in silver and red.

Apple Announced Smart Battery Case for iPhone 6

Apple iPhone 6 Smart Battery Case

Apple announced their iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus in September, 2015. You can read my post on the phone's review here. Some users think smartphones have replaced digital cameras and make the iPhone the only device they carry, combining phone, camera and pocket computer, all rolled into one.

Of course there is one drawback. The battery will not even last a day if usage is extensive. Luckily, Apple has introduced a new battery case to extend the battery life. This new soft silicone case has a microfiber inner lining and makes inserting and removing the phone rather easy. There is a hump in the back of the case that contains the extra battery power.

The case and phone can be charged simultaneously. Apple claims the Talk time, Internet use and Video playback can be increased to 25, 18 and 20 hours, from 14, 10 and 11 hours, respectively.
The phone's remaining power can be displayed through its intelligent battery status, located on the Lock screen and in Notification Center.

Apple Store sells the iPhone 6s Smart Battery Case for $99. It comes in Charcoal Gray and White colors. Other battery cases may be available for the iPhone 6 Plus and older iPhone models in the future.

Are Worldwide Camera Sales Still Declining?

Canon DSLR, Mirrorless and CinemaEOS cameras and EF lens

It is probably the worst kept secret to anyone following the photographic industry but camera manufacturers have been experiencing declining sales for the last few years. The main reason is due to changing customer preference and the advancement in many smartphone cameras.

Canon, the largest photographic equipment manufacturer in the world has experience a drop in profits in their latest quarter. They are hardly alone and based on data published by CIPA, the Japan-based Camera & Imaging Products Association, Mayflower Concepts published the charts below illustrating the trend in camera sales over the past decade.

It seems mirrorless cameras offered the industry a bright spot for about two years but now sales are leveling off and the increase in sales may have been at the expense of the traditional DSLR market.
There is no question smartphones have taken away some sales from the low end point-and-shoot and DSLR camera segment, but the best way to keep a photographic company relevant is to come out with the state of the art product to convince serious photographers why it is still the traditional DSLR camera that takes the best photos. What is more important than the number of DSLR sold is the mix of the sales, since low end cameras like the Rebel and SL series bring considerably less profit than the higher models like the EOS-5 and EOS-1 bodies.

My readers know, I have been a Canon user for about 25 years. Through the decades, I have used almost all of Canon's cropped and full frame, film and digital cameras and lenses. You can see my equipment bag and works on MichaelDanielHo.com. On my recently concluded Polar bear photo shoot in the Canadian sub Arctic, I have used both my smartphone and DSLR cameras to take photos and find the two types of photography perfectly compatible with each other.  I am waiting for the EOS-1D X Mk II and EOS-5D Mk IV to debut early to mid 2016 for my next DSLR purchase.

'DSLR' Quality SmartPhones To Challenge DSLR Cameras?

* * *  Read the latest post on how Apple iPhone 6S plans to challenge Canon  * * *

Recently, Qualcomm deliberately made a headline-grabbing claim, by boasting their, soon-to-be-released, SnapDragon 820 chip would be able to "support superior DSLR-quality photography and enhanced computer vision", all in the palm of your hand, via a smartphone.

This incendiary statement flies in the photography world of reality. The new chip runs on the new 14-bit Qualcomm Spectra ISP and Qualcomm claims 4K video capability at 60 fps, 25 MP at 30 fps, 40% less battery consumption, 40% faster processing, superior autofocus, and last but not least, NO shutter lag.

Clearly, no thinking person, let alone informed photographers will pay much attention to such a sound bite but I reference the Qualcomm claim in this post to highlight my point - too many people think equipment alone makes a better photographer. Take a look at my recent posts on Smart Phones vs DSLR Cameras and  Photography with an inexpensive camera.

Smartphone Cameras vs. DSLR Cameras

A bit of humor from Canon. Personally, I find the camera on my smartphone very handy but limited in capabilities and image quality. Therefore, my rule of thumb is, if the images mean a lot, I will reach for the real camera in my equipment bag, provided I have it with me. If not, the smartphone will have to do and let's hope for the best.

Apple iPhone 6 Camera Video Review

Apple announced the new iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus last month. Both phones have a much improved camera and software plus a retina screen display, with a resolution of 1334 x 750 for the former and a resolution of 1920 x 1080 for the latter. Take a look at the DigitalRev video review of the two phones above.

Canon and other camera manufacturers have been losing sales (particularly in the low end) in the last few years. Part of the reason is the much higher quality cameras found in high end smartphones. Some people have decided the photos taken with their smartphones is good enough and the new iPhone 6 will go even further to reinforce that point. Certainly Canon is concerned about the competition from Apple and Samsung's high end phones but my own feeling is their apprehension is misplaced.

I believe those who will trade a high end PowerShot camera for a high end smartphone with camera to take photos are mostly interested in convenience first. Those who are passionate about photography, like yours truly, will own and generally carry both. There may be some overlap between the two groups but by and large, I think they are mostly mutually exclusive.

The best way for Canon and other camera manufacturers to stay competitive is to keep producing high quality, innovative photographic products, like the EOS-7D Mk II camera and cut down on some of the fluff and marketing glitz. Photographers will respond to genuine improvement and not same old technology, wrapped in new camera and lens housing.

Canon Ad Campaign Against SmartPhone Photography

The times they are changing. Apparently, Canon is 'concerned' enough that the latest smartphones may have enough photographic technology to challenge the point-n-shoot cameras and seriously make a dent in their sales. Thus, they have embarked on an ad campaign, with the tag line 'Don't Let A Call Interrupt Your Photo' to try and stem the tide.

Apple, Samsung and others are coming up with optical zoom and LED flash technology in their smartphones to even try and challenge the low end DSLR cameras. Read my latest post on this topic. Frankly, I think this 'fear' is a tempest in a teapot, just like the prominence of image sharing websites are supposed to diminish the appeal of still photography. My philosophy is simple. There are always those who will choose simplicity and multitasking capabilities in a piece of equipment over the pursuit of excellence with a dedicated purpose.

Unique and high quality still photography will always be in demand. The people and equipment manufacturers responsible for making this happen will be secure in the knowledge that they just need to do one thing, and do it the best. The rest will take care of itself. You can see my work with smart cameras on MichaelDanielHo.com