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How will the new Trump tariffs impact the camera and lens imports to the US?

✇Photo Rumors
Par :PR admin


I am not an expert in economics, and I am not interested in a political discussion here, so I simply asked AI, "How will the new Trump tariffs impact the camera and lens imports to the US?". Here is the AI answer:

The new Trump tariffs, as of April 2, 2025, will likely have a notable impact on camera and lens imports to the U.S., particularly from key manufacturing hubs like Japan and China. Here’s a breakdown of the effects:

  1. Higher Import Costs: The tariffs include a 24% increase on camera products from Japan and a 34% rate on goods from China, plus a 10% baseline tariff on imports from all trading partners. This directly raises the cost of bringing in cameras, lenses, and components from major players like Canon, Nikon, Sony (Japan), and third-party lens makers in China. For example, a lens or camera body that cost $500 to import could now face an additional $120-$170 in tariffs, depending on its origin.
  2. Rising Consumer Prices: Historical data from Trump’s earlier tariffs (e.g., 2018-2019) shows that U.S. consumers typically absorb most of these costs. Importers and retailers are likely to pass on the tariff burden, potentially increasing the price of a $1,000 camera to $1,200-$1,340, factoring in the tariff, shipping, and taxes. This aligns with projections from groups like the Consumer Technology Association, which warned of significant price hikes in tech-related imports.
  3. Supply Chain Shifts: Manufacturers may try to offset costs by relocating production. Many Japanese firms already moved some factories to Southeast Asia (e.g., Thailand) during Trump’s first term to dodge China-specific tariffs. However, if critical components still come from China, the 34% tariff applies, limiting the relief. Building U.S.-based production isn’t a quick fix—optics manufacturing requires specialized skills and infrastructure the U.S. currently lacks.
  4. Inventory and Market Reactions: Uncertainty around tariff exemptions (e.g., temporary relief for Canada/Mexico auto imports) could prompt importers to stockpile goods pre-tariff, a trend seen in late 2024 with consumer hoarding. This might delay price spikes, but once stockpiles run dry, costs will climb. Demand could also soften if U.S. prices outpace those in untariffed markets like Europe.
  5. No Quick Domestic Boost: Trump’s tariffs aim to spur U.S. manufacturing, but the camera industry has little domestic presence. Unlike steel or cars, camera production can’t easily shift stateside due to missing expertise and supply chains, meaning imports remain the lifeline—and the target of cost increases.

In short, expect pricier cameras and lenses in 2025, with limited immediate relief from domestic production. Manufacturers might eat some costs to stay competitive, but the bulk will likely hit U.S. buyers, echoing patterns from past tariff rounds where consumer prices rose without significant job gains in affected sectors. Retaliatory moves from Japan or China could further complicate the picture, but for now, it’s a cost-driven story.


The post How will the new Trump tariffs impact the camera and lens imports to the US? appeared first on Photo Rumors.

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What’s next?

✇Photo Rumors
Par :PR admin


Here is a list of some of the upcoming/rumored cameras and lenses:

Cameras

Lenses

What to expect next: an updated list of upcoming/rumored Nikon cameras and Nikkor lenses

What’s next for Leica? (updated rumors recap)


The post What’s next? appeared first on Photo Rumors.

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Compact fixed-lens cameras are becoming more popular, while interchangeable-lens cameras are starting to lose their popularity

✇Photo Rumors
Par :PR admin



BCN Ranking is making the case that compact fixed-lens cameras are becoming more popular, while interchangeable-lens cameras are starting to lose their popularity:

"Interchangeable lens cameras are starting to run out of steam. Sales have been declining year-on-year since last summer. Interchangeable lens cameras account for more than 60% of the market in terms of sales value.

Meanwhile, compact cameras are growing. Since last November, sales have been increasing by double digits year-on-year. As of February, compact cameras accounted for 71.0% of sales in terms of unit sales and 37.8% in terms of sales value. They are still the mainstream camera in terms of unit sales. There is a strong demand for cameras that are cheap, small, light, and can take photos with decent image quality, rather than expensive, large, and heavy interchangeable lens cameras. However, manufacturers have decided that compact cameras cannot compete with smartphones, whose camera functions have evolved significantly. They have thrown in the white flag and drastically narrowed down their compact product lineup."

BCN+R Camera Market Report (March 23, 2025)

Decline in Interchangeable Lens Cameras:

  • Sales have been decreasing since summer 2024.
  • High prices and inflation have dampened consumer demand.
  • Post-pandemic surge in camera purchases has faded.

Resurgence of Compact Cameras:

  • Sales have been increasing since November 2024, with double-digit growth continuing into February 2025.
  • Compact cameras accounted for 71.0% of unit sales and 37.8% of market value in February.
  • Consumers prefer affordable, lightweight options with good image quality.

Market Trends & Key Players:

  • Kodak – Led in unit sales (over 20% share), driven by the PIXPRO FZ55 (~20,000 yen).
  • Canon – Held the top market share from July to December 2024, fueled by the 2016 IXY 650.
  • Fujifilm – Climbed to second place in February, thanks to the instax mini Evo (instant film).
  • Kenko Tokina – Gained traction with budget models like the KC-03TY (<10,000 yen).
  • Panasonic – Improved market ranking with the new LUMIX TZ99 (launched in February).

Notable Product Announcements (CP+2025 Exhibition):

Read the full article here.

Opinion: a new compact fixed-lens camera from Nikon would be a nice surprise

Confirmed: Panasonic to introduce new fixed-lens camera(s)


The post Compact fixed-lens cameras are becoming more popular, while interchangeable-lens cameras are starting to lose their popularity appeared first on Photo Rumors.

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Updates on the latest Kickstarter photography projects

✇Photo Rumors
Par :PR admin

Peak Design launched a new Roller Pro carry-on luggage on Kickstarter and raised almost $10 million!


The funding for the Sirui AF 20mm T1.8 1.33x S35 Anamorphic Lens (E, X, Z, L, MFT) is ending soon.


DualView2 dual-screen camera: 8K | Dual Screens | 90g Ultra-light | 6-Axis Horizon Stabilization | Touchscreen | App Control | 512GB | IPX8 | Vertical Mode.


Turn any phone into a wildlife/concert camera instantly: 400mm | High-definition Night Shots without Noise.


Trexo Wheels Go: Content Creator's Toolbox: Precision Motion Control | AI Voice Commands | AI Face Tracking | Product Turntable | Portable | Mobile App | Timelapse | Mobile & DSLR.

Previous successfully funded campaigns that are still available as late pledges:


LIT DUO 1 light meter: late pledges available.


4k night vision telescope & camera: late pledges available.

The post Updates on the latest Kickstarter photography projects appeared first on Photo Rumors.

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Eclick: a new 3D-printed, open-source, DIY robotic panorama camera head

✇Photo Rumors
Par :PR admin



Eclíck released a new 3D-printed, open-source, DIY robotic panorama camera head designed for shooting panoramas, gigapixel images, and time lapse sequences:

Eclíck DIY, 3D printed robotic panorama head

The Eclíck robotic panorama head is a new open-source tool offering photographers and filmmakers an affordable, 3D printed, DIY alternative to expensive commercial options. The Eclíck distinguishes itself through an innovative steel-reinforced design that overcomes the
durability limitations typically associated with 3D-printed equipment. By embedding steel rods within the printed components, the device delivers exceptional strength and precision even when supporting heavy camera gear or operating in challenging conditions.

The system employs a dual-axis movement mechanism enabling photographers to capture flawless 360° panoramas, timelapses, and gigapixel images with precision and ease.

It works seamlessly with all modern DSLR and mirrorless cameras that support a wired remote, ensuring universal compatibility across photography systems. Users can control the Eclíck wirelessly via a built-in web app from any device equipped with WiFi and a web browser, including iPhone, Android, Windows, Linux, and more. This platform-agnostic approach eliminates the need for proprietary apps or specific hardware requirements.

Beyond its performance benefits, the Eclíck prioritizes accessibility in every aspect of the design. All files required to print components are freely available online, and the system utilizes readily available, off-the-shelf parts that are comprehensively detailed in an accompanying bill of materials. This approach eliminates the common frustration of hunting for obscure components that often plagues DIY projects.

The Eclíck has been engineered for straightforward assembly, requiring only basic tools and minimal technical expertise. This consideration extends the potential user base beyond experienced makers to include photography enthusiasts who may be attempting their first DIY equipment build.

And thanks to its fully open-source design, every part can be easily printed and replaced if needed - making the Eclíck the ultimate repairable robotic head.


Technical Specifications:

  • Dual-axis (pan/tilt) motorized motion system
  • Steel-reinforced 3D-printed components
  • Compatible with standard stepper motors
  • Universal compatibility with modern cameras supporting wired shutter remote
  • Browser-based wireless control via local WiFi
  • Cross-platform support (iOS, Android, Windows, Linux, macOS)
  • Suitable for DSLR and mirrorless camera systems
  • Load Capacity: 3Kg (6.6lbs)
  • Open-source hardware and software
  • Fully repairable with user-printable replacement parts


Complete documentation, printing files, and bill of materials for the Eclíck robotic head are available
at www.Eclick.org.

The post Eclick: a new 3D-printed, open-source, DIY robotic panorama camera head appeared first on Photo Rumors.

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