DSLR sales for pro video work decline

According to Futuresource Consulting's 'Convergence in Pro Video' report, European shipments of DSLRs for professional video applications dropped by 41% in 2014. The report, spanning Europe and the USA, focuses on the growth of alternative acquisition products, such as DSLRs and compact system cameras (CSCs) as well as action cameras, which are increasingly being used in professional production.

According to Futuresource, the industry is currently at a turning point, with DSLRs in Europe expected to account for merely 4% of sales within the professional video market (excluding high-end digital cinema cameras) by 2019. At their peak, DSLRs accounted for 31% of this market.

"We are currently witnessing a significant shift in dynamics, with DSLRs falling out of favour with the professional video producers," commented Nicky Price, Broadcast Analyst, Futuresource Consulting. "End users are turning to more affordable CSCs as well as turning back to professional camcorders."

End users are reportedly increasingly frustrated with limitations in the functionality of DSLRs, as well as the perceived additional costs associated with making the product usable for pro video. Alternatives are now more affordable offering more features in a smaller package.

Futuresource Consulting is a specialist research and knowledge-based consulting company, providing organisations with insight into professional display technologies, consumer electronics, digital imaging, entertainment media, broadcast, storage media, education technology and IT. With a heritage stretching back to the 1980s, the company delivers in-depth analysis and forecasts on a global scale, advising on strategic positioning, market trends, competitive forces and technological developments. www.futuresource-consulting.com