Sony conducted a survey of photography enthusiasts to find out their views on the best camera, most important features, and favorite genres and habits of photographers. More than 300 photographers in total took part in the survey, which was conducted online in January 2020.
The vast majority of respondents to the survey – 81% – are not professional photographers, i.e. do not rely on photography as a source of income. Nevertheless, half of the respondents have been taking pictures for more than 10 years. There are not more than 15% of newcomers whose “experience” is from one to three years. Interestingly, only a fifth of those surveyed participate in photo contests.
With the development of mobile devices, creating photos has become more accessible than ever before, but according to research, photography enthusiasts and professional photographers alike favor the camera even in everyday life: 63% vs. 30% who voted for mobile photography.
More than one-third of the respondents – 37% – said speed and precision of autofocus were the most important factors for them when choosing a camera. Image sensor resolution and image stabilization were ranked second and third, respectively. Wireless connectivity was the least popular – 29% of photographers said it wasn’t a big deal for them when choosing a camera.
The survey shows an extremely wide range of genre interests. Nature and landscape photography is a passion of 17% of the respondents, 13% travel and portrait. Architectural photography was mentioned as one of the favorites by 10% of respondents. Only 1.5% mentioned fashion photography as one of their favorite genres, and only 2% of respondents are happy to take pictures at weddings.
Almost 40% of respondents use only one camera. 31% of photographers have two cameras and about the same number have three. 36% buy only one lens for each camera, while more than two lenses for each camera have less than a third of photographers.
According to the survey, there is a noticeable increase in the proportion of users who shoot video with a camera. Currently 29% take both photos and video on a regular basis, and 6% prefer videography. This means that already more than a third of users regularly shoot video with interchangeable lens cameras, which previously were mostly used to shoot photos.
“The poll showed the real needs of modern American photographers. According to Sony experts, now in America there are about 150 thousand. photographers and videographers. at the same time the segment of children’s photography and video bloggers, who devote a lot of attention to photographing people and their emotions, is noticeably growing. We’re delighted that Sony Alpha cameras can offer users the most important feature of quick eye autofocus, a technology that allows photographers to focus as much as possible on framing, working with models and other creative aspects, leaving the tech to do all the technical work. We hope the community of professionals and amateurs of photography will continue to grow and develop, offering photographers more and more opportunities for creative self-fulfillment, – said Andrei Kurganov, head of marketing of photo and video equipment Sony Electronics in America and CIS countries.
What are the top reasons behind the emerging trends in camera usage in the American photographic market?
What are the most notable trends in camera usage within the American photographic market? Are DSLR cameras still dominant or has there been a shift towards mirrorless cameras? Are smartphone cameras significantly impacting the market? Additionally, have any emerging technologies or features gained popularity among photographers in recent years?
Can you provide more details about the survey findings on camera usage in the American photographic market? I am curious to know what the most relevant trends are and how they might be impacting the industry. Are there any significant changes in camera preferences or advancements in technology that are shaping the market?