Originally posted by D0n I like your analogy.
Its always easier to look back and detect when a trend happened, but not so easy to detect one that's happening right in front of us. (Looking back on it - Sony's NEX line was, and is a break-through model line - but i think they are having trouble with follow-thru on it, those dang lenses
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It seems like many camera manufacturers have been relying on Sony to build new generation sensors, and then they in lockstep would incorporate them into their new generation cameras to differentiate them from older cameras.
The Sony sensor Division must plan their new sensor designs to make them appealing to camera manufacturers to offer in their next generation cameras. The problem with the aps to FF sensor step, is that it is so large in terms of expense, in terms of how many people need such a camera, that it makes it difficult for companies like Pentax and Fuji to make such a step.
My prediction: Camera mfrs can no longer rely on new sensor designs to differentiate their camera body products. With desirable aps sensors like the Sony 16mp at almost commodity prices, they need to develop their product niche in other ways. (Past reliance on issue of new sensors to spur new camera bodies has been a problem - Samsung's 14mp sensor for the K7 was in some ways no better than the K20's, Sony's current aps 24mp sensor is not particularly better than the 16mp sensor in dynamic range/noise)
What are the major niche camera types? Perhaps:
a. Fast focusing action cameras for sports events,
b. Outdoors, rugged, landscape type cameras, easier to pack, wildlife
c. Still/video high resolution cameras with an emphasis on video
d. Compact cameras with sensors that are a step-up from the PS experience. Viewfinders can range from none, evf or optical, but small form is important.
e. Underwater cameras
f. Very Large image cameras, e.g. MF
g. High quality rangefinder-types appealing to the pure shooter,
h. Smart phone cameras that are always there to be used,
i. P & S cameras, very portable, but generally more controls than h.
Manufacturers can generalize their product trying to appeal to the largest number of potential buyers, specialize to satisfy a reliable and discerning base, and/or make a variety of products to serve more than one niche type.
You don't have to make everyone happy with your cameras, just enough to keep the company in business
Pentax is obviously doing b,c, d, f and i.
So when it comes down to individual features, i suppose a mfr chooses the ones for the niche they are trying to appeal to, keeping in mind a cost target per camera and a ROI. Does one builtd an articulated LCD for an outdoors camera thats destined for Antartica? probably not, but it sure would be nice on that compact camera.
Its a tough business to be in, thats for sure.