“Traditional Photography Disrupted by Mobile Photography and Rise of Mirrorless Cameras”
The Future of DSLR Despite Nikon indicating that Nikkei’s article is “only speculation,” and it will “continue the production, sale, and service of digital SLR cameras,” it’s evident that the landscape of traditional photography is undergoing significant changes.
Changing Trends Two major trends have critically impacted this space: mobile photography and the unparalleled rise of mirrorless cameras. These changes have prompted some manufacturers to slowly phase out their Single Reflex Cameras (SLR), and Nikon is the latest to bid adieu to their SLR cameras, pivoting its focus entirely towards mirrorless technology.
Nikon Takes the Lead, Canon to Follow According to Nikkei, Nikon is saying goodbye to SLR cameras to focus on “digital offerings due to intensifying competition from mobile cameras.” While Nikon will continue to manufacture and market its current SLR models, the development of new models will solely target mirrorless camera technology.
This shift is not entirely unexpected. Just a month ago, Nikon announced the discontinuation of its affordable DSLR models, the Nikon D3500 and D5600. Now, the company is shifting its focus to “mid-range and high-end cameras and lenses, aimed at professionals and amateur photographers.”
Canon is also moving in this direction, having stated last year that their EOS-1D X Mark III would be the last of their high-end DSLR cameras. The market is rapidly moving towards mirrorless cameras, Canon’s CEO explained, and it seems Nikon agrees wholeheartedly.