The camera industry has seen different trends over the years. The return of analogue techniques, compact cameras, and disposable devices is an example of this. Right now, there is already a battle between compacts, mirrorless, and DLSRs, with the Camera & Imaging Products Association (CIPA) revealing the results for May 2025. If you have been someone who likes to see where the trends are going, then let’s dive into where the photo market is going.
How Do the Cameras Perform?
First reported by Nikon Rumors, CIPA has seen a surge in mirrorless and compact cameras. Per the new report, DSLRs still see a decline. The reports suggest that DSLRs went down by 17% year on year, with shipment value dropping 20% to 2.52 billion yen. In May alone, the shipment was 71,049 around the world, with Europe seeing the biggest shipments at 38,866 units.
Mirrorless cameras, on the other hand, have seen growth. Between January to May, about 2.97 million units were shipped, which showcases a 22% growth. In May alone, production was 587,591 units, which is up by 13.8% over May 2024, with a value of 2.22 billion yen. The shipment was 619,682 units, with China seeing 243,208 units shipments.
Compact cameras, too, have seen a rebound. There were 171,804 units produced, with the value up a stunning 38% to 8.33 billion yen. In May, 221,265 units were shipped worldwide, which showcases a 19.8% year-on-year increase. China, Europe, and the Americas see the biggest surge in shipments, which proves that these three markets are looking forward to having smaller cameras. CIPA has forecast 6.66 million interchangeable lens cameras (ILCs), with 1.92 million compacts in 2025. These numbers are not as great as the year 2012, but they still show a positive trend of things.
What About Lenses?
CIPA has also revealed the number of lenses that have been produced and shipped this year. Lenses for smaller sensor cameras saw a 10% increase, with 1.68 million shipments, and the value was also up by 12%. The worldwide shipment was 506,826 units, with China seeing the most numbers at 154,556, with Europe coming in second at 120,574 units, and the Americas at third with 113,215 units.
On the other hand, shipment of lenses for 35mm sensors was down by 2%, with worldwide shipments being 430,063 units. Similarly, the lens-to-body ratio has dropped as well, which means that fewer lenses are being purchased and there is a delay in lens upgrades.
The reason for the shipment of smaller cameras being at the center could have to do with tariffs. With reports of reciprocal tariffs set to come into effect from July 9, and the existing price hike, both make it challenging for one to buy a new camera. Thus, smaller sensors are an easy way out for anyone who was something more than a cellphone. This also means you will find more buyers going after these devices in the future, too. But will the companies listen? We have to wait to find out more.