We’re pleased to be able to bring you three days of coverage of the 2013 International CES with our CES Digital Imaging/Photography Dailies.
When we approached the Consumer Electronics Association last year about producing daily magazines aimed specifically at digital imaging and photography, they were both accommodating and enthusiastic, because they realize the excitement that continues to revolve around the category.
The question we’re often asked is whether companies like Canon, Nikon and Olympus should now be considered consumer electronics companies. After all, digital cameras are now easily integrated into the electronics lifestyle of many consumers.
When I asked Nobuyoshi Gokyu, president of Nikon Inc., this very question, I thought his answer was poignant. “We are a technology company,” he said, “but not a consumer electronics company.” His reasoning was that companies like Nikon are uniquely focused on imaging and optics; it’s the core of what they do. And they’ve been doing it for almost 100 years. Their expertise is what drives them to be singular—not just a component of the larger CE industry.
To us, the imaging category, which we focus on exclusively in our coverage, continues to evolve and grow as technology leaps forward. The emergence of smartphones as imaging devices has spurred the industry to create smaller interchangeable-lens cameras and Wi-Fi cameras that facilitate sharing but focus on delivering a better image. Full-frame DSLRs have enabled enthusiasts to elevate to higher quality images, and competitive price points have opened the doors for more consumers to jump into the DSLR category.
Equally as important, the consumer spectrum of picture takers is wider than ever. Ten years ago teens were never really on the radar for camera marketers, but companies like GoPro and Polaroid have recognized the opportunities they represent. And Samsung is showing the first melding of phone, tablet and camera with their Galaxy camera offering. And, of course, Facebook has become the de facto online photo album for photographers of all ages.
What these trends offer manufacturers and marketers are new landscapes in an industry that continues to pump out fresh ideas and new opportunities.
Look for new issues of the CES Digital Imaging/Photography Daily over the next two days—and stay ahead of what promises to be an exciting show full of surprises and opportunities.
