Research Examines Digital Photographer Shopping Behaviors, Explores Where Market is Headed

ARLINGTON, Va.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Six segments of digital photographers exist according to a new Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) ^(R) analysis. The study, The Digital Photographer - Segmenting the Market to Gain Deeper Understanding, shows the segments are the Frustrated Photogs making up 25 percent of the market, Digital Curators (23 percent), One-Click Wonders (15 percent), Feature-Focused Photogs (16 percent), Picture Happy Socialites (10 percent) and Digital Mavericks (10 percent).

"Understanding how digital photographers are naturally grouped together, based on similar thoughts, behaviors, attitudes, interests, etc., will help companies in the consumer electronics industry better serve these consumers' needs," said Chris Ely, CEA senior research analyst.

The study focuses only on those who have used a digital imaging device with still photo capabilities within the past year, 61 percent of consumers. While only one percent of digital photographers consider themselves to be professionals or experts, the vast majority (63 percent) consider themselves to be average users.

The standalone digital camera is still the predominant device owned by digital photographers with 83 percent owning a standard point and shoot digital camera and 13 percent owning a more advanced SLR digital camera. However, 83 percent of digital photographers also own a cell phone and 27 percent own a smartphone. Looking at Digital Mavericks, the group with the most early adopters, only 56 percent are using a standalone camera, while 30 percent use cell phones or smartphones and 14 percent use digital camcorders showing a clear trend away from the single-purpose digital camera.

The Digital Photographer - Segmenting the Market to Gain Deeper Understanding (October 2009) study was fielded in September 2009. 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)(R). The complete study is available free to CEA member companies. Non-members may purchase the study for $999 at myCEA.CE.org . A webcast presentation is scheduled for November 3 (2-3 p.m. ET). To register, visit www.CE.org/Events/webcasts.asp or email Steve Kidera at skidera@CE.org.

About CEA:

The Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) is the preeminent trade association promoting growth in the $172 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 and the fostering of business and strategic relationships. CEA also sponsors and manages the International CES - Where Entertainment, Technology and Business Converge. All profits from CES are reinvested into CEA's industry services. Find CEA online at www.CE.org.

UPCOMING EVENTS

• CES New York Press Preview featuring CES Unveiled @ NY
  
  November 10, 2009, New York, NY

• Future of Television East
  
  November 18-19, 2009, New York, NY

• 2010 International CES
  
  January 7-10, 2010, Las Vegas, NV

• Greener Gadgets
  
  February 25, 2010, New York, NY

Consumer Electronics Association (CEA)

Colleen Lerro

tel: 703-907-7080

e-mail: clerro@CE.org

www.CE.org

or

Steve Kidera

tel: 703-907-4358

e-mail: skidera@CE.org

Source: Consumer Electronics Association (CEA)

<<Business Wire -- 11/04/2009>>