Cameras and lenses have been showing an interesting trend. In more recent years, the industry has pivoted to mirrorless cameras, with full frame being at the center of attention. However, according to the latest report from the Camera & Imaging Products Association (CIPA), the November 2025 results highlight the rise of smaller sensors, particularly in compact cameras. Here is a look at where the industry stands today.
According to the CIPA‘s latest report (via Nikon Rumors), the industry is expected to see 6.66 million interchangeable-lens cameras (ILCs), approximately 1.92 million compact cameras, and 10.56 million interchangeable lenses shipments in 2025. According to the numbers from November, the estimate now places the ILCs slightly higher at 6.93–6.98 million units, but this number is lower than the one reported last month.
However, the November numbers have declined compared to October, which reflects the post-holiday slowdown. However, it is worth noting that shipments were higher during the same period in 2024, across various categories, with DLSRs and APS-C cameras being the most obvious exceptions.
Year-to-date (January-November 2025) Performance
In the first eleven months, CIPA showcases a divergence in the camera market. DSLRs have seen a decline in shipments and value, with shipments down 29% and value decreasing by 34%. As of this month, the worldwide shipment of DSLRs stands at 55,000 units.
Mirrorless cameras have experienced an 11% growth in shipments and a 2% increase in value, highlighting the steady demand for these devices. This also means that November has seen a total shipment of 608,000 units.
The oddest ones are the compact cameras, which have emerged as standout performers. The shipment has increased 29% in units, while the value has jumped 49%. As of November, approximately 248,900 units have been sent worldwide, and with a projected 1.92 million units by 2025, this means the number of compact cameras has increased by approximately 430,000 units compared to 2024.
The important thing to note here is that this is all that CIPA is tracking. There could be much more! They’re not tracking sales on eBay or any of the new companies like Camp Snap, Flashback, Paper Shoot, or Echolens.
As usual, China is the largest market for interchangeable-lens cameras, accounting for roughly 30% of global shipments so far in 2025, followed by the Americas at 25–27% of shipments.
Lenses: Mixed Performance by Sensor Size
The lens shipment also showcases an interesting trend. Lenses for smaller sensors grew 7% in units and 18% in value, showcasing a demand for APS-C format. However, the same decline was observed for sensors larger than 35mm, with a 4% decrease in units and a 6% decrease in value. The lens-to-body ratio also dropped to 1.52 from 1.56 last year, suggesting that photographers are still buying fewer lenses, despite the plethora of options available.
Overall, CIPA figures showcase that compact cameras are no longer just about a trend. A trend can fade away in a year, but compact cameras have endured for over two years now. It also means that people don’t want more lenses, but rather a complete device that can give you quick results at a reasonable price. Mirrorless cameras are important for professionals, but compact cameras have become a new interest for many serious enthusiasts and beginners. Perhaps, by 2026, this trend will continue to grow, despite camera companies shifting towards smaller sensors.