Camera sales reports have been showing a changing trend. Since the launch of mirrorless cameras, DSLRs have become obsolete, and their shipments are facing lower value. On the other hand, mirrorless cameras are taking control with every company going after them. Per the latest data from the Camera & Imaging Products Association (CIPA), the company saw a massive shift in July 2025. Here’s a quick recap.
According to the new report, cameras have seen an obvious shift. The mirrorless camera industry has shipped 1.62 million units this month, a 14% increase since July 2024. Similarly, over the past seven months, about 12.2 million units have been shipped, an 8% increase year-over-year. On the whole, mirrorless cameras made 887 billion yen in sales this year, a 13.2% rise from January to July 2024. China has seen the biggest increase in shipments, with a 64% year-over-year increase this month. In fact, about 97.4% of all interchangeable lens cameras are basically mirrorless.
Like them, compact cameras have seen a surge this month. The format saw 2.1 million unit shipments in July, an 11% increase from the same period in 2024. Year-over-year shipments also increased by 49%, thanks to the 12.3 million unit sales of the past seven months. Europe and the Americas have seen a better surge, with Europe noting a 74% increase in July, while the latter is at 64%.
While the two formats are enjoying a rise, the same can’t be said about DSLRs. In the past seven months, the company has seen a 47% decline year-over-year. As of July 2025, only 88,000 units have been shipped, which is down by 54% since the same time last year. At the moment, DSLRs make up only 2.6% of interchangeable-lens camera shipments. As for Japan, they have seen a decline in shipments, both for mirrors and compacts.
Like the cameras, the lens market has seen some interesting reports. In July, they shipped 3.12 million 35mm format lenses, but over he seven months, the number has seen a 3% decrease. People are buying them, but not in the same way. China and the Americas have both shown an increase in shipments, with 18% and 12% increases, respectively. On the other hand, APS-C and other small-format lenses have seen an increase in shipments, which is a 13% rise year-over-year, and the same percentage for the past seven months. China again is at the front, followed by Europe. Japan is yet again the weakest region.
The trends showcase travel-friendly cameras, and those that are cheaper are famous amongst buyers. Full frame is important, too, and that’s where more serious photographers and professionals are choosing. As for lenses, APS-C may be winning, but full-frame users are purchasing more expensive lenses, which can last several years. Hence, quality over quantity. DSLRs may have seen a decline, but they are still a part. Perhaps, they will see a revival soon.
