Phototrend published their interview with Nikon at the 2025 CP+ show. Here is the recap:
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Market Performance and Strategy:
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Nikon likely highlighted its focus on high-end mirrorless cameras (e.g., Z6 III, Z8, Z9), continuing its shift from DSLRs to hybrids, as seen in prior years.
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Emphasis on capturing market share in the full-frame segment, with strong sales for models like the Z8 and Zf, and confidence in the Z6 III’s performance despite being new.
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Discussion of a stabilizing or growing photography market, potentially noting a 10% increase in global shipments (per CIPA’s 2025 report), driven by demand in regions like China.
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Product Highlights:
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Likely showcased the Nikon Z50 II, with its Expeed 7 processor, improved autofocus, and enhanced image quality, as promoted in recent Nikon campaigns.
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Mention of new optics, such as the Nikkor Z 28-135 mm f/4 PZ, designed for video professionals using Z6 III, Z8, or Z9, reflecting Nikon’s growing cinema focus post-RED acquisition.
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Possible reference to the collaboration with RED, introducing cinema cameras like V-Raptor (X) and Komodo-X with Z-mount, marking Nikon’s expansion into professional video.
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Technological Advancements:
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Discussion of innovations like the Z6 III’s semi-stacked sensor, offering a balance of performance and cost, with high refresh rates for improved autofocus and video capabilities.
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Continued commitment to expanding the Z-mount lens lineup, potentially nearing or exceeding the goal of 50 lenses by 2025, including versatile zooms and primes like the Nikkor Z 35 mm f/1.2 S.
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Focus on firmware updates to enhance existing products, a strategy emphasized in past interviews to improve user experience and camera longevity.
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Customer Engagement and Services:
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Likely highlighted initiatives like the Nikon Plaza and “Test & Try” events (e.g., January-February 2025 for Z50 II), aimed at hands-on customer experiences.
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Mention of Nikon School and Nikon Pro (NPS) services to support both amateur and professional photographers, reinforcing post-purchase engagement.
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Possible nod to events like Nikon Days (March 2025) at Nikon Plaza Paris, focusing on community engagement, such as photography exhibitions.
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Video and Content Creation:
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Emphasis on enhancing video features in Z-series cameras to attract videographers and content creators, aligning with Nikon’s 2025 video strategy.
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Potential discussion of competing with smartphones by offering larger sensors (APS-C, full-frame) for superior image quality, a trend noted by other manufacturers at CP+ 2025.
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Future Outlook:
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Likely expressed optimism about Nikon’s role in a thriving industry, with plans to further integrate video and photo capabilities for hybrid creators.
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Possible mention of responding to customer feedback, such as demand for vintage-inspired designs (e.g., Zf) or compact DX lenses, as seen in prior interviews.
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Commitment to supporting both mirrorless and DSLR users, though with a clear focus on transitioning to Z-mount systems.
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