As we were putting together the pages for this month’s issue of Photo Industry Reporter, we couldn’t help but notice how our industry continues to innovate.
New products are the lifeblood of any industry, but the imaging industry has been on an innovation rampage for the last 10 years. Every few months, just when you think the new ideas are drying up, our industry surprises us with cameras and accessories that we didn’t think were possible only a few short years ago.
The recent excitement at the International CES over the Lytro consumer light field camera, the Nikon D4 DSLR and the Tamaggo 360-Imager were just the beginning. Only two months later, Canon, Nikon, Olympus, Pentax, Sony and others continue to bring new product features to their already impressive lineups.
The opportunities for retailers are endless. Nothing can be more profitable than creating excitement and promotions around new products. And with the economy seemingly on a positive roll, there should be plenty of pent-up demand for the spring. Taking a proactive approach to selling over the next few months should quickly pay dividends at the checkout counter.
On another note, we’re pleased to welcome George Schaub back to the pages of Photo Industry Reporter. George has been one of the best industry writers in the business for a long time, and his Selective Focus columns will once again begin appearing on our pages on a regular basis. We’re sure you’ll enjoy and appreciate his unique perspectives on a range of issues affecting our industry. Welcome back, George.