Photographers across the U.S. can be segmented into two major groups – primary smartphone users and primary point-and-shoot users – but a gap exists between device usage and satisfaction in terms of printing and editing, according to a new study released today by the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA)^®. Digital Imaging – Photo Sharing and Printing found photographers across the U.S. still enjoy the permanence that print photographs offer for memorializing personal occasions, providing an opportunity for consumer adoption (or re-adoption) of point-and-shoot or digital single lens reflex (DSLR) cameras with multi-purpose options such as in-camera editing and printing, and Wi-Fi connectivity to expedite photo sharing and archiving.

“Many consumers who use their smartphones or basic point-and-shoots as their main photo capture devices are less satisfied with printing options, signaling a need in the marketplace,” said Chris Ely, manager, industry relations, CEA, who oversaw this study. “These findings suggest there are untapped opportunities in advanced printing features for these segments of digital photographers.”

When it comes to printing, two in three online U.S. adult photographers print at least one photo in a typical month. Additionally, roughly two in five (42 percent) estimate they spend more than 25 dollars each year to print photos, exhibiting a steady demand for printing. However, online U.S. adult smartphone and point-and-shoot photographers (60 percent) are less satisfied with their current capabilities for printing photos.

Among primary smartphone and basic point-and-shoot photographers, editing photos is another pain-point. Consumers who primarily use their smartphones or point-and-shoot cameras for photos are less likely to be satisfied with current editing capabilities (61 percent satisfied). Furthermore, six in ten (63 percent) photographers express interest in built-in editing apps on cameras, indicating an opening for more interactive camera options.

“The future of the digital imaging marketplace lies in connectivity and cameras with multiple features such as in-camera editing and printing,” said Ely. “Camera manufacturers who create or market multi-purpose cameras that have a quality advantage over smartphones and include more compelling features over basic point-and-shoots will be well positioned to meet the needs of today’s consumer.”

Use of smartphones for digital imaging has nearly doubled from three years ago. Half of online adult U.S. photographers (50 percent) use smartphones to capture images, whereas only 28 percent did so in 2009.

Digital Imaging – Photo Sharing and Printing, was fielded in November 2012. It was designed and formulated by CEA Market Research, the most comprehensive source of sales data, forecasts, consumer research and historical trends for the consumer electronics industry. Please cite any information to the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA)^®. The complete study is available free to CEA member companies at members.CE.org. Non-members may purchase the study at the CEA store.

About CEA:

The Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) is the preeminent trade association promoting growth in the $209 billion U.S. consumer electronics industry. More than 2,000 companies enjoy the benefits of CEA membership, including legislative advocacy, market research, technical training and education, industry promotion, standards development and the fostering of business and strategic relationships. CEA also owns and produces the International CES – The Global Stage for Innovation. All profits from CES are reinvested into CEA’s industry services. Find CEA online at www.CE.org, www.DeclareInnovation.com and through social media: https://www.facebook.com/#!/CEAfeed, http://twitter.com/ceafeed, http://blog.ce.org/.

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