Sony Growing Mirrorless Digital Camera Market

Sony Growing Mirrorless Digital Camera Market

Sony reports a record 66% growth in what appears to be a still advancing and ever expanding mirrorless digital camera market thanks mainly to the Alpha 7 series and a6000 cameras. However, according to recent survey data the overall DSLR market is not as healthy – shrinking yet another 16.5% in this past year.

Sony’s Mirrorless Digital Camera Press Release:

SAN DIEGO, June 3, 2015 — Sony Electronics – an overall leader in digital imaging and the world’s largest image sensor manufacturer – is experiencing record growth in sales of every mirrorless digital camera, a rapidly expanding segment of the interchangeable lens camera (ILC) business.

Sony Interchangable Lens Camera Brand Growth – In US Dollars (PRNewsFoto/Sony Electronics)

According to The NPD Group, overall mirrorless digital camera revenue has grown 16.5% over the past 12 months, with DSLR sales declining approximately 15% over the same period. During this time, Sony has experienced a robust 66% boost in their company’s mirrorless digital camera sales, strengthening their dominant position as the #1 overall mirrorless digital camera brand, a position they have held for 4 consecutive years.

Interchangeable Lens Camera Growth 2013 – 2015 (PRNewsFoto/Sony Electronics)

“Growth in the mirrorless digital camera segment shows this new technology and form factor are resonating with consumers,” said Ben Arnold, executive director, The NPD Group. “Going forward, a mirrorless digital camera will continue to command a greater share of the interchangeable lens camera category.”

First-time Interchangeable Lens Camera Buyers (PRNewsFoto/Sony Electronics)

On top of the sales momentum, InfoTrends’ customer surveys demonstrate how strong innovation in the mirrorless digital camera space is continuing to attract a younger and more photo active ILC customer. The latest data shows that over 61% of first time Interchangeable lens mirrorless digital camera buyers are under the age of 35, up from 54% approximately two years ago. Key motivating factors for their photography include travel and family.

Events & Situations for Taking Photos (PRNewsFoto/Sony Electronics)

“First time buyers in today’s ILC market will play an integral part in future growth of the segment, especially considering the increasingly younger customers that are buying into new systems,” said Ed Lee, group director of the Consumer and Professional Imaging group at InfoTrends.

This news comes on the heels of the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) decision to “recognize “Mirrorless”as the official term for mirrorless digital camera interchangeable lens cameras that do not include a mirror mechanism.” (Duh!… talk about late to the party!)

“This information shines a spotlight on where the mirrorless digital camera market has been, where it is today, and the bright future the mirrorless digital camera presents,” said Neal Manowitz, director of the still image business at Sony Electronics. “Our business continues to thrive based on strong innovation and the unique value propositions we are delivering with products like the a7 series, the a6000, and all of our mirrorless digital camera products. Their impressive imaging credentials allow photo enthusiasts, hobbyist and professionals to capture content in ways they never before thought possible.”