Changes in the Digital Photography Market for 2006

InfoTrends looks at the top trends that will shape the digital photography market over the course of the year.

Digital Photography Market 2006
"The full potential of the digital format has not yet been explored," said Ed Lee, Director of Consumer Services for InfoTrends. "During 2006, look for market players to team with specialist providers to offer complete solutions for viewing, editing, capturing, storage, sharing, and printing." Competition in the photo print market will remain intense, but InfoTrends foresees the focus shifting from convincing digital camera owners to choose one printing method over another to simply providing customers with more reasons to print.

Digital Photography Market - Growth in wireless printing
"Expect to see changes that will make it far easier for consumers to print their photos anytime and from anywhere," said Robert Palmer, Director of Printer Research for InfoTrends. "The evolution of snapshot-sized printers, the growth in wireless printing, and the emerging popularity of net-to-retail printing are just a few of the trends that will make printing simpler, more convenient, and more fun."

Online Photo Service - Printing Photos
Printing in the digital photography age is not limited to traditional 4" x 6" snapshot prints. Another exciting development this year will be the increased emphasis on photo gifts and merchandise. Many of the online photo service vendors have already capitalized on this revenue stream. Look for home and retail vendors to further promote these offerings as well. "The concept of ubiquitous digital imaging and real-time sharing of images is also capturing everyone's attention, particularly as portable media players and sophisticated mobile communication devices become more prevalent," said Jill Aldort, a Senior Consultant for InfoTrends. "Look for signs in 2006 as to whether or not consumer behavior will evolve with the technology, and whether that will have an impact on printing." InfoTrends' new Road Map documents provide additional insights into these topics and many others that will impact vendors' product and service development plans this year.

About InfoTrends
InfoTrends is the leading worldwide market research and strategic consulting firm for the digital imaging and document solutions industries. We provide research, analysis, forecasts, and advice to help clients understand market trends, identify opportunities, and develop strategies to grow their businesses. Additional information about InfoTrends is available on the InfoTrends website.