Am I really writing another annual column on digital cameras? Haven’t they pretty much gone the way of the dodo bird? Besides, aren’t most of us carrying around pretty sophisticated cameras in our pockets or purses?
Surprisingly, only two of these questions have clear “yes” answers. Yes, I am writing another annual cameras column, and yes, we are mostly carrying around very sophisticated digital cameras disguised as mobile phones. But no, unlike the Mauritius dodo bird, standalone digital cameras have not disappeared. In fact, they continue to evolve, and the market for them appears relatively stable—by some measures, even growing.
There’s also a growing demand for retro digital camera gear, especially for early point-and-shoot (P&S) models. The P&S category has almost completely disappeared, overwhelmed first by the now-fading DSLR (digital single-lens reflex) category and, more recently, by MILC (mirrorless interchangeable-lens cameras).
Have any old Canon ELPH cameras lying around in a drawer? You might be sitting on some cash value. Perhaps you even have an old film camera? Remember when the Canon AE-1 ruled the photography roost?
This year, camera manufacturers are clamouring to integrate more artificial intelligence features into their models. However, AI capabilities have been present in even low-end cameras for years, with features like blink, smile, and pet detection—each supposedly contributing to the perfect photo.
Five years ago, DSLR cameras dominated the market. Now, major manufacturers like Canon and Nikon have essentially declared the end of DSLRs. From here on, it’s MILC cameras. Proponents argue MILCs are smaller, lighter, and quieter. Buyers agree—the demand is there. Of course, new lens formats and connection systems mean manufacturers see double the money-making potential: new cameras and new lenses.
Sony has been leading the MILC sector for several years, and its flagship models are considered state-of-the-art. Photography enthusiasts eagerly await the company’s annual trade shows, where new gear is unveiled. Canon and Nikon initially ignored the MILC market, almost to their peril, leaving it to Sony. However, both companies are now aggressively catching up.
As always, I’ve updated my vandigicams.ca website to provide a listing of most digital camera models available in Metro Vancouver. Compiling the site data requires extensive searches through online listings from local camera retailers. I no longer include Best Buy or Walmart in my survey, as many of their listings redirect to third-party resellers, where errors—intentional or otherwise—are common. Unless you’re an expert, it’s better to stick with dedicated camera specialists.
While updating this year’s list, I noticed that most of last year’s lineup remains current. This may be the year with the fewest new additions. In Metro Vancouver, the main camera retailers are Kerrisdale Cameras (KC), London Drugs (LD), Henry’s (H), and Broadway Camera (BC). These labels are used on vandigicams.ca to identify retailers. All have detailed websites, with KC’s being the most comprehensive and user-friendly.
Individual cameras and packages on vandigicams.ca are given a single line entry, hyperlinked to the manufacturer’s website for full specifications. Each listing includes the camera’s sensor megapixel rating, optical zoom value, an overview of key features, and “street” pricing from up to three local retailers.
Once again, this year’s survey is dominated by the 24-megapixel sensor class, primarily from Canon, Fuji, Nikon, and Sony. These models account for around 42 per cent of all cameras, followed by 20-megapixel units at 23 per cent. Together, these two classes represent about two-thirds of the cameras surveyed. The remaining 35 per cent is scattered across resolutions ranging from 10 megapixels to an impressive 100+ megapixels.
In my next column, I’ll delve into insights from the site and highlight some of the best deals. In the meantime, check out vandigicams.ca to see what might catch your eye.
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