British Photographic Industry News June 2022 by British Photographic Industry News (BPI News)

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IN THIS ISSUE…

60 YEARS OF MR CAD

TIPA AWARD WINNERS

TALK OF THE TRADE

MINILAB NEWS

We catch up with retail veteran Alex Falk, celebrating six decades in the photo business this year and still going strong in his 80s. What’s the secret?

Which photo products have been voted the very best in their categories by the Technical Image Press Association? See our centre pages for the answer!

With supply chain and stock issues currently challenging the industry, we speak to Wilkinson Cameras’ MD to get the picture straight from the shop counter

Fujifilm launches what it’s calling its fastest and easiest instant print kiosk and software combo yet, all for the benefit of photo retailers and their customers

PRODUCTS AND SERVICES THAT DISPLAY THE TIPA LOGO IS YOUR ASSURANCE OF THEIR OUTSTANDING

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Every year since 1991 TIPA awards have been given to the best photo, video and imaging products. The TIPA logo is awarded by a large group of respected editors of technical magazines and websites from around the world, including the Camera Journal Press Club of Japan.

Visit our website to learn more about our organization and TIPA World Awards www.tipa.com

Editorial | June 2022

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EDITOR Gavin Stoker Tel: 020 8274 0578 Tel: 07990 974 367 ART EDITOR Michael O’Connell, Crocus Creative EDITORIAL ENQUIRIES Please direct all editorial requests, news and press releases to info@bpinews.co.uk

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hile the first half of 2022 hasn’t been totally non-newsworthy with regard to exciting new photographic kit, ongoing global supply chain and stock issues have contributed to what’s felt like a bit of a dry spell compared to previous years. We can scarcely believe we used to witness a gush of new product to suit a variety of price points and skillsets every time spring and summer rolled around. So we’re pleased to see the drought being broken with the welcome appearance of new product from two of the market’s key players in Fujifilm and Canon this month, and at price points that, finally, feel a bit more affordable and realistic than the big camera announcements we witnessed at the end of last year and the start of this one. As Wilkinson Cameras MD David Parkinson notes in our Talk of The Trade interview feature this month, asking prices had previously been creeping up to eye-watering levels, which potentially could threaten to shut newcomers out from the hobby of photography if the industry doesn’t take heed.

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It’s no surprise therefore that secondhand sales continue to do well for camera shops, though such kit is a finite resource and of course doesn’t do a lot to support the R&D of future equipment, as funds aren’t being funneled back to the original manufacturer. Still, such sales are providing a lifeline for specialists currently facing challenges across several fronts, including the rising cost of simply doing business. And, if new gear is hard to come by, or the cost of it is pricing out potential customers, pivoting to something you can get your hands on and can sell for a bigger profit does make a lot of sense, in the short term at least. We all have bills to pay and need our wits about us like never before to balance the books and make any investments work that little bit harder. From the hour’s hands-on with a Fuji X-H2S we had last month we came away feeling impressed with how the camera felt and handled. Whether it will be enough to tempt sports and action photographers away from their Canons and Nikons and provide Fuji with an entry point into a photographic specialism it presently has little to do with, who knows – but at least the fairer than expected pricing gives it a fighting chance, with more to come. Looking further ahead, we’re told that exhibition space for The Photography Show this September is now in short supply, which suggests increased trade positivity and that the wait-and-see approach, that has prevailed these past couple of years, is receding. I think we’ve all decided that, whatever else is happening in the world, we’ve just got to get on with it. Speaking of which, do enjoy reading this issue and let us know your own thoughts!

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FUJI OFFERS HIGH-SPEED LINK VIA ‘H2S’ There’s been a lot of talk about the HS2 high-speed link from London to the North West – now a camera with a very similar name, and likewise with speed in its sights, launches. Arriving this July at £2499 SRP, the Fujifilm X-H2S is the fifth generation of its ‘X’ camera series, complete with fifth generation sensor and fifth generation processor. A direct successor to 2018’s X-H1, the new 26.1 megapixel mirrorless camera features a new high-speed X-Trans CMOS 5 HS sensor, in a deliberate attempt by Fuji to try and entice action and sports photographers; a market sector that the brand’s Group Marketing Manager Andreas Georghiades told us: “Fuji traditionally doesn’t get a lot of traction in.” He adds: “We want to encourage high speed shooters into the system with the highest performing, best value hybrid camera. The AF and continuous shooting has come on leaps and bounds. We’re getting more accurate AF because we’re getting information off the sensor quicker. Face/eye and subject detection can keep up with moving subjects a lot better than before.” With a new sensor providing the camera’s ‘heart’ and its stacked layer structure enabling higher frame rates and higher resolution video, a new X-Processor 5 delivers the ‘brains’. Among other things, this enables the camera to shoot in the HEIF file format – the first time Fuji has introduced this option – as well as regular JPEG and RAW. We also get up to 6.2K 30P video and 4K up to 120P, with – another first – a CF Express card slot provided alongside a second slot for regular SD. In total, Fuji claims the X-H2S boasts a 36x quicker sensor and 33x quicker processor than that found in its original X-Pro1 launched a decade ago.

Additional features to share with your photographer customers include a full size HDMI port and 1.62-million dot vari-angle LCD, while the EVF has been upgraded to 5.76 million dots, with a refresh rate of 120fps. Interestingly, an optional extra offered alongside the X-H2S is a bolt-on fan – this is because while the camera can record video for up to 240 minutes at 25°, this drops to a mere 17 minutes if temperatures top 40°. Further extras include two different battery

grips – one that almost triples the core 600-shot battery life, and another known as a ‘network grip’, which offers Ethernet connectivity. Availability is from this September. Arriving the same month is a new XF 18-120mm f/4 LM PZ WR lens, a ‘power zoom’ offering the equivalent of 27-180mm in 35mm terms for both stills and movie shooters. Before that, this July we’re getting the XF 150-600mm f/5.6-8 R LM OIS WR at £1,899 SRP, a promised smooth and silent super telephoto lens offering the equivalent of 229-914mm in 35mm format. Comprised of four super ED and three ED lenses, a mix of aluminium, magnesium and plastic has enabled a weight of 1605g. Finally, Fuji has updated its roadmap to tease new XF 56mm f/1.2 and XF 30mm f/2.8 R Macro lenses arriving this year, plus a XF 8mm f/3.5 for 2023. We also understand a X-Trans CMOS 5 HR high resolution 40MP sensor is in development and the first camera to incorporate it will be an X-H2, raising the prospect of photographers being offered both a high resolution and/or a fast speed version of the same camera. www.fujifilm.co.uk

A winning match: The new Fuji X-H2S with 150-600mm attached, plus 18-120mm lens in front, showcased by Fujifilm UK’s Andreas Georghiades and Jeannie Corby. Shown left, the optional bolt-on fan for the X-H2S

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FIRST APS-C EOS R CAMERAS FROM CANON While the photo stalwart’s focus has been on its full frame EOS R series of late, that changes with the introduction of two APS-C sensor incorporating EOS R branded models in the 32.5MP Canon EOS R7 and 24.2 megapixel EOS R10. The brand says this is in a bid to ‘make smaller yet high speed and high performance cameras positioned perfectly for enthusiasts’, hoping it will tempt photographers wanting to ‘downsize’ from their existing DSLRs. The mirrorless EOS R7 has been inspired by its EOS 7D series and is being pitched at wildlife and sports photographers at an SRP of £1,349.99. The EOS R10 meanwhile is being called a ‘powerful all rounder’, as

suited to video as it is stills capture, at a slightly more affordable £899.99. Among details to share with your photographer customers is the fact that both cameras feature Touch and Drag AF, while the EOS R7 is claimed to make history in being the first camera in the EOS R system to have a combined AF multi controller and control wheel, enabling fast and convenient setting and playback function adjustment via one thumb movement or dial rotation. They are also said to have the fastest continuous mechanical shutter of an APS-C EOS camera at 15ps (the

alternatives being 30fps and 23fps via use of the electronic shutter). The EOS R7 features what Canon claims as the world’s highest level of image stabilisation, equivalent to 8 stops. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity is offered on both bodies. Also launched alongside the camera bodies are a couple of compatible lenses in the RF-S 18-45mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM, described as an ultra compact ‘everyday’ zoom lens at £319.99, plus the RF-S 18-150mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM at £519.99, pitched as a ‘more versatile’ high magnification lens. www.canon.co.uk

SONY CLAIMS ‘WORLD’S SMALLEST & LIGHTEST’ LENS

NIKON LAUNCHES INSTANT SUMMER SAVINGS

Alert your photographer, videographer and hybrid ‘content creator’ customers to the fact that the electronics leviathan has unveiled the Sony FE 28-70mm f/2.8 GM II standard zoom lens, available as you read this. Once again stunning resolution and beautiful bokeh is the promise of this premium grade ‘G Master’ optic, which claims to subdue any flare or ghosting due to Sony’s application of original Nano AR Coating II, while featuring an 11 blade aperture unit to deliver almost perfectly circular ‘bokeh’, plus what’s promised as extremely quiet AF operation. This second generation product is also said to weigh approximately 20% less than the original 24-70mm f/2.8 G Master, while overall volume has reduced by around 18%. This has enabled its maker to claim this is the world’s smallest and lightest f/2.8 standard zoom lens. What isn’t small perhaps is the price: this one will set your customers back a suggested £2,100. www.sony.co.uk

The brand and its participating retailers is aiming to drive extra custom from now until July 18th this year with a new ‘Instant Savings’ deal, whereby discounts are applied automatically when purchasing with no need to register or submit proof of purchase. Selected Nikon camera bodies covered ‘while stocks last’ by the current deal include the Z 5, Z 6II and Z 7II, along with the Nikon Z fc and a smattering of lenses including the Nikkor Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S, AF-S Nikkor 500mm f/5.6E PF ED VR and more. The savings, which at the time of writing went as high as £360 on a Z 7II 24-70 kit, cannot be retrieved retrospectively. For more details and terms and conditions head to the below URL: www.nikon.co.uk/en_GB/promotions/instantsavings22

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BPI News | June 2022 5

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THE PHOTOGRAPHY SHOW TEASES NEW FEATURES Returning trade favourite ‘TPS’, due to be staged once more at the Birmingham NEC from 17-20th September this year and for which registration is now open, has unveiled various new features and formats it says are aimed at pro photographers. This year its ‘On Location’ feature stage will take on a Mediterranean theme, including talks on destination weddings, travel and commercial shoots on location. The Pro Masterclass will also take on a new format, focusing on money management, evaluating your strategy and how to work more efficiently. Also debuting at the event are the Wedding Album of the Year Awards for 2022, aiming to celebrate the talent and craft of pro wedding photographers and album makers. The call for entries is open now at photographyshow.com/waoty The ‘Creator Stage’ is a further first at this year’s show, with its organisers suggesting that if creating online content features in your

business proposition or you’d like it to, it will be worth paying a visit. Aiming to combine the best brands in video meanwhile is the ‘Video Hub’, a new feature that will showcase video kit while promising to offer endless opportunities to discover more about video. Finally, for now, there’s a ‘Pro Party’ involving evening drinks scheduled for Monday 19th, which will see some of the show’s speakers give their take on the business of image making. If you’re currently considering exhibiting at the event yourself, see our back page advert this issue for how to get in touch with the team while there are still a few spaces left. www.photographyshow.com

CameraWorld Live zooms back to Brands Hatch The camera retailer has announced it will be holding another of its live showcase and retail events in 2022, in returning to its usual summertime setting of Brands Hatch on July 7th this year. With the promise of ‘something for everyone’, amazingly this year sees the 10th anniversary of the inaugural event, which will again see show deals available on photo equipment and the chance for visitors to be tutored by pro photographers, as well as the ability to shoot some motorsports action. Exhibitors confirmed as being in attendance include Canon, Fujifilm, Nikon, Sigma, Samyang, Sony and Tamron, among others. There will also be the opportunity to trade in old gear and trade up to new kit. For more details and ticket info head to the URL below. www.cameraworldlive.co.uk

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BPI News Product Focus

NIKON Z GETS STRAIGHT ‘A’S FROM THE TRADE

Nikon has been one of the most prominent brands receiving critical acclaim this past month, with its Z series bagging TIPA, Red Dot and iF Awards in quick succession. These wins support photo retailers’ claims that the Z 9 is one of the hottest products in the world right now…

f there’s one camera that photographers and specialist retailers alike are craving at the moment it’s the Nikon Z 9, described on launch at the end of 2021 as the most advanced camera the brand has ever made. Not far behind on the ‘must have’ list is the even more recent NIKKOR Z 400mm f/2.8 TC VR S lens. Nikon says it is empowering photographers to be the best that they can be, and we don’t have to take its word for it, as in the past few weeks it’s picked up plaudits from TIPA (see more news on page 12) along with Red Dot and iF Design Awards for the same product pairing. Making its mark on the industry, the Z 9 has just been named Best Full Frame Professional Camera by the TIPA World Awards judges for 2022, which is in addition to its recent Red Dot ‘Best of the Best’ award for innovation plus iF Design Award win. The NIKKOR Z 400mm has been likewise acknowledged in the 2022 Red Dot Awards for its functionality, ergonomics and durability, and has been judged as Best Full Frame Prime Telephoto Lens by TIPA. For the full list of wins see our news pages this issue.

A PIONEERING PRODUCT Given the buzz around the product since announcement, it’s not really much of a surprise that the Nikon Z 9 is being viewed as a significant step forward for both the brand and professional digital imaging alike. This is due in no small part to it combining its maker’s most sophisticated AF system to date with a new, Nikon engineered 45.7MP full frame CMOS sensor, plus an ultra-fast Expeed 7 processor capable of delivering capture speeds of up to 120 fps with full autofocus and exposure metering. Reports suggest the camera delivers the dream marriage of speed and high quality that pro photographers demand, whether shooting sports, wildlife, fashion, or commercial projects. More compact than a pro grade DSLR, it nevertheless manages to achieve a robustness of build that exceeds even Nikon’s own flagship D6.

Nikon Z 9 & NIKKOR Z 400mm at a glance: Nikon Z 9 key features: 45.7MP full frame CMOS sensor Nikon’s most sophisticated AF and 3D tracking performance to date Full frame 8K video between 14fps and 60fps, or 4K video from 24fps to 120fps Ability to capture up to 1,000 full resolution RAW files at 20fps in a single burst Records 8K 30P video for up to 125 minutes at a time, currently the longest duration for mirrorless cameras TIPA, Red Dot and iF Design Award winner NIKKOR Z 400mm f/2.8 TC VR S lens:

Magazine editors and specialist retailers aside, Nikon’s photographer ambassadors have also been raving about their experience of the Z 9. Acclaimed filmmaker and NOOR photo agency photographer Pep Bonet says: “it has a lot of the things I prayed for, for many years.” Leon Neal, Staff Editorial Photographer at Getty Images adds: “The Z 9 has well exceeded what I expected. Nikon has shaken up the market and shown the competition what can be done.”

THE PERFECT MATCH Perfect for coupling with the Z 9 is the new NIKKOR Z 400mm f/2.8 TC VR S super telephoto lens, which provides sports and wildlife photographers alike with an ideal creative companion.

Built-in 1.4x teleconverter and phenomenal image quality, whether shooting at 400mm or 560mm with the teleconverter activated Unwavering AF performance Built-in Vibration Reduction Integrated filter slot Compatible with the use of the Nikon Z Teleconverter TC-1.4x and Z Teleconverter TC-2.0x TIPA and Red Dot Awards winner If that impressive focal length isn’t enough to get up close and personal to any subject, there is the ability to activate the built-in 1.4x teleconverter to provide an extended 560mm equivalent reach. Despite these heavy-duty specifications, the lens’ build is impressively lightweight, while, like the Z 9 itself, being robust and fully sealed. It’s also well worth noting that this is Nikon’s first Z lens to adopt the new Silky Swift Voice Coil Motor (VCM) focusing system, meaning that the auto focus is faster and quieter, with subject acquisition and tracking being spot on. No wonder this is already a multiple award winner weeks after being first announced. For more info on these two key Nikon products and their availability, please visit: www.nikon.co.uk

Visit www.nikon.co.uk for more on the TIPA World Awards and Red Dot innovation award winning Z 9 and NIKKOR 400mm f/2.8 TC VR lens

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BPI News | June 2022 7

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TWO LEICA PARTNERSHIPS AS SMART AS THEY ARE SQUARED Leica is much in the news this month, not only for new staff and new gear, but also for some strategic partnerships. First off, there’s news of an agreement between the German marque and consumer electronics giant Panasonic (right) for what’s described as ‘a new comprehensive business alliance’ that sees both manufacturers increasingly bundle their core competencies and seek to develop new technologies and solutions under the name ‘L Squared Technology’ or L2 for short. The name is claimed to derive from and acknowledge both the ‘L’ of Leica and the ‘L’ of Panasonic’s Lumix brand. Those in the trade with longer memories will also recall the L-Mount Alliance announced by Leica, Panasonic and Sigma back at Photokina 2018, whereby the three would jointly develop products that featured Leica’s proprietary camera mount. Of course, since 2001, Leica branding has also

regularly appeared on Panasonic cameras and system lenses (see its new 9mm announced elsewhere this issue). Leica and Panasonic hope that this latest partnership – in effect a renewal of vows – will ‘jointly explore new creativity and expressive power’. CEO of Panasonic Entertainment & Communication Co. Ltd, Akira Toyoshima, says: “I have always been impressed by the high picture quality and the picture-making philosophy that Leica has developed over its long history. I am very pleased and excited to continue working with Leica to develop technology that will enable people around the world to share their emotions.” CEO of Leica Camera AG, Matthias Harsch, adds: “We have been working with Panasonic for many years in a

spirit of partnership and trust, and their extensive expertise is undisputed. The combination of our competencies in L2 Technology is another milestone in the partnership and proves that the best way to meet today’s challenges in the camera market is not to segment and specialise, but to deepen capabilities in order to jointly create solutions for the future.” The second new Leica partnership announcement in a month is with what’s claimed to be the world’s third largest smartphone manufacturer, Xiaomi (below), whose products are sold in more than 100 countries. We won’t have long to wait for the first fruits of this collaboration either, as their first jointly developed flagship smartphone is promised to be launching this July – with both companies said to ‘share the same ideas’ regarding mobile imaging. “Xiaomi and Leica agree with each other’s pursuits and ideas and appreciate each other’s advantages and industry,” suggests founder, Chairman and CEO of Xiaomi Group, Lei Jun. “This cooperation will provide a strong boost to Xiaomi’s imaging strategy.” For Leica’s part, Matthias Hirsch concludes: “We are convinced that the first jointly developed imaging flagship smartphone makes the pioneering progress of both companies visible. We will provide consumers in the field of mobile photography with exceptional image quality, classic Leica aesthetics, unrestricted creativity, and will open a new era of mobile imaging.” uk.leica-camera.com

WEX RELOCATES IN GLASGOW It’s all about location is the estate agent’s mantra, which is why Wex Photo Video has packed up its old Glasgow store and shipped its contents and staff to a new 4,088 square foot modern destination on the city’s Bath Street, which Wex claims now makes it ‘the largest camera score in Scotland’. It adds that the move ‘underpins a continuing commitment to serving underrepresented photographers and videographers in the north of the UK’, as well as its investment in bricks and mortar stores alongside online. Adding the potential for a bit of retail theatre in Glasgow is a fully

enclosed seminar room that can host over 30 individuals for events and demonstrations, while separate areas have been carved out to allow customers to ‘touch and try’ the latest gear. The store is also open seven days a week. Wex CEO Louis Wahl concludes: “We are thrilled to return to Glasgow and delighted to be launching a new flagship, the biggest camera store in Scotland. The opening signals our sustained investment in bricks and mortar, allowing us to offer an unrivalled product and service range to customers in all corners of the UK.” www.wexphotovideo.com

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BPI News Product Focus

TRANSCONTINENTA UK PROMO BRINGS BUSHNELL INTO FOCUS

By stocking the high quality yet affordable Bushnell brand this summer, with its broad range of optical solutions suited to birding, boating and travel – plus sales potential boosted by up to £100 savings on selected lines – retailers can make hay while the sun shines

ptical specialist Bushnell is best recognised by trade and consumers alike for its affordable, high quality binoculars. And this summer its UK distributor Transcontinenta UK is pulling out all the stops in supporting the trade with promotions. These not only include press campaigns in leading specialist publications (shown right); it’s also showcasing Bushnell products in person at the Outdoor Trade Show in Liverpool early June, followed by the renowned Global Bird Fair in Rutland, July 15th to 17th. Whether your customers want a highpowered yet portable pair of binos for bird-watching, something for everyday use, a compact and lightweight option for travel or the theatre, or even a fully waterproofed pair for marine and seafaring activities, Bushnell has the product to match the pursuit. Customers and retailers alike can choose from several specialist ranges that sit under the Bushnell umbrella, including Forge, Engage EDX, Legend, Prime, H20 2.0 and Powerview 2.0. And, for when your customers require an even more specialised solution for observation and tracking, Bushnell can provide spotting scopes, trail cameras, plus night vision and range finder products. Again, there are solutions to fit a broad range of budgets and requirements. “As the UK distributor of Bushnell products, Transcontinenta is committed

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No matter what bird you're looking for, you can count on Bushnell's reputation for excellence and 70-plus years of innovation. Whether you watch birds in the field, the woods, alongside rivers or at the coast, our products enhance the enjoyment of your observations. Wherever you roam, Bushnell optics are

No matter what you're looking for, Bushnell binoculars come standard with a reputation for excellence and 70-plus years of innovative thinking. From hiking, walking, birding, camping to every outdoor activity imaginable, our binoculars enhance your enjoyment of outdoor pursuit. Getting out

there with your Bushnell binoculars is like setting the reset button. You experience every moment with vivid clarity and live your life to its fullest. Your enthusiasm, combined with our dedication have made Bushnell the most recognized and reputable binoculars brand in the world.

GOOD. BetteR. BUSHNelL.

| www.transcontinenta.co.uk

No matter what you're looking for, Bushnell products come standard with a reputation for excellence and 70-plus years of innovative thinking. From birding, camping, fishing, spectator sports, stargazing to every outdoor activity imaginable, our products enhance the enjoyment of your outdoor pursuit. Wherever you roam,

purpose-built to help you experience every moment to its fullest. And this guaranteed by our unmatched and outstanding customer service. Your passion for birds, combined with our dedication, have made Bushnell the most recognized and reputable sports optics brand in the world.

GOOD. BetteR. BUSHNelL.

Transcontinenta UK Ltd. | Distributor Bushnell | www.transcontinenta.co.uk

Bushnell optics are purpose built to help you experience every moment to its fullest and our commitment to outstanding customer service is unmatched. Your enthusiasm combined with our dedication have made Bushnell the most recognized and reputable sports optics brand in the world.

Bushnell | www.transcontinenta.co.u

“As the UK distributor of Bushnell products, Transcontinenta is committed to investing in marketing and support for promoting the Bushnell brand in the UK” Transcontinenta UK Optics Specialist Tim Hunnable to investing in marketing and support for promoting the Bushnell brand in the UK,” Transcontinenta UK’s Optics Specialist Tim Hunnable confirms. “We’re not only exhibiting at two outdoor event related trade shows, we also have a continued commitment to targeted

advertising in related outdoor, wildlife and birding magazines and publications.” Get in touch with the Transcontinenta UK team now to be advised on the best Bushnell products to both match and grow your customer base this summer, and discover how its promotional activity is driving footfall and sales to specialist retailers. Visit www.transcontinenta.co.uk, call 0203 966 5947 or email info@transcontinenta.co.uk

SAVE UP TO £100 WITH BUSHNELL SUMMER PROMO! In addition to its print and in person promotions, Transcontinenta UK announced the launch of a consumer facing Bushnell Summer Promotion as we went to press. Those buying selected Forge and Prime series binoculars – including the 8x42 and 10x42 models in each range – via selected official UK retailers, can enjoy a generous saving of up to £100. Readers are therefore strongly advised to keep an eye on the promotional section of Transcontinenta UK’s website for further details of this activity, its launch date and the full list of included products. It’s all designed to grow the Bushnell brand whilst boosting your own store’s bottom line into the bargain. Direct your browser to www.transcontinenta.co.uk now to make sure you’re on top of all the latest offers.

Investigate Bushnell’s Forge, Engage EDX, Legend, Prime, H20 2.0 & Powerview 2.0 products via www.transcontinenta.co.uk @bpi_news

BPI News | June 2022 9

BPI News Product Focus

DON’T LOSE YOUR SHIRT THIS SUMMER

Any retailer or minilab seeking a profitable, high margin revenue stream as the warmer months approach is directed to the Epson direct-to-garment SC-F2100 T-shirt printer, available now via its official reseller the DPS Group

un’s out, guns out, runs the muscleflexing wisecrack; yet with your customers rolling up their sleeves and baring some flesh this summer, there is a serious opportunity here for photo retailers and minilabs. The latest generation Epson SureColor F2100 ‘DTG’ (direct to garment) printer will enable season-savvy business owners to make a buck from printing personalised T-shirts, beach bags and tote bags galore. But it’s worth stressing that the device is not just for summer; in the autumn and winter months it can be used for printing Christmas stockings and Santa sacks too – potentially providing a year-round revenue stream and attracting a customer base you may not have enjoyed before. “Now is the perfect time for anyone in the trade to give us a call about installing an Epson SC-F2100,” suggests Maneesh Patel, MD of official Epson re-seller the DPS Group. “Doing so could prove the lifesaver that keeps your business buoyant throughout the summer. Personalised photo gifts have been the industry’s success story for a while now – so I strongly suggest stepping things up a gear with this versatile high quality garment printer.”

speak to the DPS Group about ordering in a DTG printer now and seize a golden opportunity to construct an in-store or window display of printed garments, which will, in turn, grow customer demand? A further bonus for BPI News readers in the trade ready to partner with the

“Now is the perfect time to give us a call about installing an Epson SC-F2100. Personalised photo gifts have been the industry’s success story for a while now, so doing so could prove the lifesaver that keeps your business buoyant throughout the summer.” DPS Group MD Maneesh Patel

‘COTTON’ ONTO THIS GREAT OPPORTUNITY The high-end printer enables printing on garments that range from 100% cotton to 50/50 fabric blends. A clever use of four colour inks, plus white ink, ensures that printed designs truly ‘pop’. Additionally your ice cream won’t melt while waiting for it to finish; the SCF2100 boasts operation that’s twice as swift as the previous generation, thanks to features including a quick-load platen plus a Light Garment Mode. With T-shirt weather now upon us, why not

DPS Group to start printing personalised garments for customers is that they will also be able to take advantage of its on-going low prices for compatible inks. Truly a ‘one stop shop’, Maneesh and his team can tailor a package that’s unique to your level of business and on-going requirements. So don’t miss the golden opportunity to print garments for your customers and achieve the sort of high margins that will keep you afloat this season. Contact its DTG division: sales@dtgsolutions.co.uk or call 020 8460 3690 now. www.dtgsolutions.co.uk www.thedpsgroup.co.uk

SureColor F2100 garment printer at a glance: Fast delivery of high quality garment printing Twice as swift as the previous generation ‘DTG’ printer Designs that really ‘pop’, thanks to four colour inks plus white ink set up Prints on 100% cotton garments, or 50/50 fabric blends Intuitive Epson Garment Creator Software is simple to use Less downtime thanks to an integrated self-cleaning system

Get shirty this summer! Contact DPS Group NOW on 020 8460 3690, email sales@dtgsolutions.co.uk or visit www.dtgsolutions.co.uk 10 June 2022 | BPI News

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BPI News Extra

MR CAD: 60… AND NOT OUT! Mr Cad proprietor Alex H. Falk is celebrating 60 years in the photo industry this year – very much a milestone worth celebrating. BPI News grabs him for a quick Q&A between customers to reflect on the passing decades – and what’s next

ack in December 2018, when the world in some ways felt like a different place, BPI News visited long-time face in the trade Alex H. Falk of camera retailer Mr Cad, recently relocated to London’s Pimlico. Formerly of Croydon, Alex was now holding court in one of the most prestigious addresses in the capital, a stone’s throw from another long established industry name, Gray’s of Westminster. Postcode aside, we were even more impressed by Mr Cad’s take-us-asyou-find-us Aladdin’s Cave-like set up; every storage unit and inch of floor space crammed with covetable photographic kit; an approach reminding us of vintage stores in Japan. It’s the sort of place where, if we were wracking our brains on where to find a particular specialist bit of kit, or a hard-to-come-by roll of film, we’d undoubtedly find it. In short, Mr Cad is an increasingly rare breed. We kick off our new chat to celebrate six decades of trading by asking Alex about his earliest memories of the business, whether they were happy ones, and his many years in Croydon…

new at our shop, a 10,000 sq ft building in Croydon, whether it was a Kodak 14N or a new computer. Q: The advent of digital photography and the Internet must have felt exciting and invigorating at the time. With the benefit of hindsight, have both digital and the Internet helped or hindered the business?

Retail legend: Now 85 years old and 60 years in the photo trade this year and counting, Mr Cad owner Alex Falk (inset) says he has no plans to retire and is thinking about the next decade

“I’ve enjoyed all of my 60 years in the business and continue to enjoy it every day,” is his reply. “It is getting slightly harder now however at 85, and I’m down to four days a week! I started my photographic life as a press photographer for Reuters in Fleet Street and then moved into photographic retail with Fotographia and Mr Doug Sizer in Streatham. That’s when a customer offered me a partnership to open a small retail store on Pitlake Bridge in Croydon. So I took the chance.” BPI News: What was the local clientele, the industry and photo trade like then? Alex Falk: When we opened there was already three other photographic shops, plus a very well known chemist with a fine photographic department next door to Marks & Spencer’s in the High Street in Croydon, together with a well known English camera maker called AGI, so it was a very established central shopping area for photographers. Customers were coming down to us to enjoy a different side of photography, to set up darkrooms and to take forward the photography they had been doing at school, now that cameras were no longer rationed and films were becoming more freely available. Q: Which were the boom years? A: We were always front-runners up until about 25 years ago. We even started a computer and digital department, originally selling Sinclair and BBC Computers. I have to add it was not me selling them, but my colleagues. Customers would queue up on a Saturday morning to come and try something

A: Digital has certainly destroyed the value of money invested in a digital product, whereas now we are buying photographic film items for more than they cost new 40-60 years ago. Q: Who are your customers now... have they changed massively over the years? Is it film or digital that does better for you now? A: Where are our customers today? Not so many in this country, I am sad to say. China is probably our largest customer base today. They have never had film or film cameras previously, never had photographs of their grandparents, and at that time they did not have the money to eat, let alone purchase film cameras. Now they have the money. UAE is also a growing marketplace for us. Q: What motivates and enthuses you still to keep doing it, when others have retired or shut up shop? A: Why do I not wish to retire? I am still loving it; David, my long standing manager, has been with the company for 47 years and certainly does not wish to take it easy and retire, so he has set the bar high and continues to enjoy the buying and selling of real photography. Please understand that while we are being challenged every moment of every day, the door is opened by many new customers, as well as customers of ours who’ve been visiting for the past 40 years. Do we have another 10 years of our business? I absolutely think we do; the amount and variety of stock that we currently have will hopefully ensure customers will keep on coming. www.mrcad.co.uk

Find Mr Cad at 12 Upper Tachbrook St, London, SW1V 1SH. Open Mon to Fri, 10am to 5.30pm. Email sales@mrcad.co.uk NEVER MISS AN ISSUE! Read BPI News online at issuu.com/bpinewsonline

BPI News | June 2022 11

BPI News Extra

WORLD CLASS PHOTO GEAR TIPA’s international judging panel – which includes BPI News – has made its annual selection of the hottest photography products in the world right now. We survey the experts’ choices to give distributors, manufacturers and retailers alike an extra sales tool when pitching equipment to customers

he Technical Image Press Association – whose membership stretches from Europe to America, Australia and Japan, and, since last year, has included BPI News – has pooled its shared expertise to select the photo equipment worthy of this year’s TIPA World Awards. As usual, this includes new entrants alongside well-established industry names, who have collectively battled through pandemic and supply chain issues to bring us exciting new products in the camera, lens, software, monitor, video, lighting, smartphone and photo printer and paper categories. TIPA also highlights general trends over the past 12 months. As well as new full frame mirrorless, APS-C and medium format cameras offering higher pixel counts, improved tracking, greater sensitivity, speed and wider dynamic range, the influence of ‘vloggers’ and content creators has led to the development of new cameras and accessories. Exciting new developments in AI, sensors and connectivity suggest even greater creative potential for image-makers and content creators in the coming years. “Now, more than ever, the industry and the people who work so hard, be it in production, distribution or marketing, deserve our thanks and appreciation for their efforts to continue to develop new and exciting products that expand imaging creativity and potential while pointing the way to new and exciting technologies in the future,” says TIPA Chairman Thomas Gerwers. Without further ado then, let’s examine the products recognised and rewarded by TIPA this year.

Olympus is deserving of this particular honour. Impressing the judges is how its ‘remarkable’ 8.0EV image stabilisation system delivers shake-free photography. Nikon is also in the jury’s sightline, with the retro styled Nikon Z fc named Best APS-C Camera. ‘The design is a conversation-starter, especially among cognoscenti photographers,’ notes the panel. Another factor praised is that younger users, whose parents – or grandparents – were Nikon SLR photographers, can mount older generation F series lenses via an FTZ Mount Adapter, hence making photography part of the family legacy. Something this magazine – published by Legacy Media – can also appreciate. The flagship mirrorless Nikon Z9 (left) also gets an award for being the Best Full Frame Professional Camera, in TIPA’s eyes. One major design evolution that’s interested the judges is its elimination of a mechanical shutter, enabling the camera to deliver 30fps shooting in JPEG mode and 20fps in Raw format. A third prize goes to Nikon for its Nikkor Z 400mm f/2.8 TC VR S as Best Full Frame Prime Telephoto lens, acclaimed for being suited to all photographers wanting to enjoy the benefits of a fast, vibration-free telephoto. Best Camera Innovation has been bagged by another photo stalwart, Canon’s EOS R3 (right). Praise was lavished on its Eye Control AF and AF tracking technology, plus

the camera’s very fast and responsive back-illuminated stacked sensor and Digic X processor. The Canon EOS R5 C meanwhile is named as Best Professional 8K Hybrid Camera, with TIPA’s editors viewing it as a ‘does everything’ camera suitable for sports, new, documentary, nature and weddings, plus shooting unlimited pro level video, thanks to its active cooling system. The compatible Canon RF 14-35mm f/4L IS USM lens also bags the manufacturer a plaudit for Best Full Frame Wide Angle Zoom Lens, while its RF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM is Best Macro Lens, according to the judges. Lastly Canon’s economical PIXMA MegaTank G650 (below) receives the award for Best Photo Printer. TIPA has selected the Leica M11 (top-left, next page) as this year’s Best Rangefinder Camera, applauding its blend of traditional yet elegant design

PUTTING EXCELLENCE IN THE FRAME Not so many contenders in the running for Best Micro Four Thirds Camera, but the impressive looking flagship OM System OM-1 (right) from the former

Want more winners? For even more news from this year’s TIPA World Awards, including the jury’s verdict on the best in software, 12 June 2022 | BPI News

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TIPA World Award Winners 2022 plus advanced technology. Judges profess to be impressed by its 60MP full frame CMOS BSI sensor, and the choice of three different resolutions for capture.

It’s praised for its larger sensor’s ability to offer enhanced light gathering capability, plus smooth colour and tonal transitions. Best Best Vlogger Camera meanwhile has gone to the Sony ZV-E10 (below), which the great and the good of TIPA have decided ‘ticks all the boxes’ for design, features and shooting modes, making it ideal for single person productions. The compatibility of the E-mount with more than 60 different lenses also makes the ZV-E10 a versatile camera for telling any type of story. Less surprisingly, its Alpha 7 IV has picked up a gong for Best Full Frame Expert Camera.

Reflected glory: A TIPA win is a much prized accolade that can act as extra sales ammunition for manufacturers, suppliers and photo retailers. A section of the judging panel for this year shown in Wetzlar, Germany, with others joining online to vote

With the ability to shoot video alongside stills much in demand, the Panasonic Lumix DC-GH6 (below) bags Best Professional 4K Hybrid Camera,

with the Lumix DC-BS1H named Best Professional Video Camera. Of the former, the judges say: ‘TIPA members know a versatile camera that can handle every position on the field is a distinct advantage in today’s media environment’, while the latter’s praised for the fact its small size holds a 24.2MP sensor and accepts Leica L mount lenses, making this one the choice for mobile productions. Fujifilm is also recognised in this year’s awards, with its chunky GFX 50S II bagging Best Medium Format Camera.

ACCESSORIES WORTH LOOKING INTO Talking of lenses, the Laowa Argus FF II 35mm f/0.95 takes the prize for Best Manual Focus Lens. Its 15-blade aperture allows for ‘remarkable’ bokeh effects. Best APS-C Prime Lens this year is the Tokina atx-m 56mm f/1.4; considered by many as a portrait lens, it’s likewise said to be well suited to landscape, nature and candid street photography, while the f/1.4 maximum aperture aids low light work and its size and weight make for an excellent field companion. Craftsmanship and handsome looks also contributed to the Voitländer Nokton 50mm f/1 Aspherical VM being garlanded with Best Full Frame Standard Lens. Not to be outdone, optical specialist Sigma has also made a decent showing this year. Its 18-50mm f/2.8 DC DN ‘Contemporary’ class lens is Best APS-C Zoom Lens and its 20mm f/2.0 DG DN Contemporary lens (left) takes Best Full Frame Prime Wide Angle Lens. The former was selected as the compact and lightweight lens that TIPA members would most recommend to photographers for their travel camera bag, while the latter fast, wide prime lens is described as an excellent addition to any photographer’s kitbag. Sticking with optics, Sony makes another appearance in this year’s awards line up for its FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II and FE 70200mm f/2.8 GM OSS II; respectively these are Best Full Frame Standard Zoom Lens and Best Full Frame

Telephoto Zoom Lens. Another TIPA Awards regular returns, with the Tamron 150500mm f/5-6.7 Di III VC VXD (right) heralded as the Best Full Frame Ultra Telephoto Zoom Lens, which jurors agreed was a comfortable field lens for handheld shooting. It’s further described as being very useful for any kind of wildlife, sports, birding and landscape photography. Tamron also bags an award for its 35-150mm f/2-2.8 Di III VXD as Best Travel Zoom Lens, recommended to those who pack only one lens for every opportunity. Another familiar name, Hahnemühle Canvas Metallic gets the nod as Best Photo Paper for those wanting to create images for home or office décor. The canvas boasts a shimmering look on a finely woven surface that yields eye catching, bold colours.

Best Flash goes to the Godox Macro Flash MF12 (above), distributed by Transcontinenta UK over here, and described as opening up a whole new world of imaging exploration and expression. Sticking with accessories, Best Tripod is the Benro Induro Hydra 2 Waterproof Carbon Fibre Tripod (left), distributed by MAC Group Europe. The Hydra 2’s ability to handle challenging terrains and conditions impressed TIPA. Lastly, Best Photo Service has gone to the CEWE Photobook Personalised Slipcase, for giving precious memories a premium home, while Best Photo Retail Service is the Kodak Moments LittlePix, said to ‘set the new standard for retail photo experience’ by enabling customers to print the popular mini retro format instantly in store. Agree or disagree with any of the winners here? Send your thoughts to info@bpinews.co.uk www.tipa.com

computer monitors, storage media and smartphones with regard to photographic performance, point your browser at www.tipa.com @bpi_news

BPI News | June 2022 13

Talk Of The Trade

COUNTER CULTURE We catch up with Wilkinson Cameras’ esteemed MD David Parkinson to take the temperature of the trade following two years of pandemic and Brexit related challenges, exacerbated by the Ukraine war and cost of living crisis. What does the forecast look like for our industry?

here’s no doubt that chip shortages physically see or get their hands on it. For business that we’ve got to negotiate. and supply chain issues have had an us it’s frustrating that a disproportionate But the photo industry is something that impact, writes David Parkinson, MD of amount of our time is spent chasing stock continues to amaze me. Despite all these Wilkinson Cameras. The whole pandemic and and trying to pacify customers who have issues, a number of brands continue to bring its aftermath coupled with the war situation been waiting three, four or five months. out fantastic pieces of kit that people want. and Brexit is causing issues. Whether With Nikon, to take one example, we still The disappointment is that it’s then taking you’re in the photographic business or have back orders on stock lines that have months and months for them to be supplied. not, there are shortages of stock. And we now celebrated their first anniversary. The new Olympus OM-1 is a case in point. It keep reading of doom has been a roaring success and gloom, such as the as far as preorders are The photo industry continues to amaze me. aluminium used to make concerned, but we can’t get Despite all these issues, brands continue to bring out enough of them. The Nikon Swarovski binoculars comes fantastic pieces of kit.” from Ukraine, meaning Z9 is probably the best that components aren’t camera in the world at the getting through to manufacturers. The positive is that because demand moment, so everybody reckons, but again When you’ve got multiple stores and is outstripping supply, it’s maintaining we can’t get them for love or money. The you have 50 of something on order but margin. Having the network and the Canon R3… similarly, we can’t get enough of only get given three of them, what do financial ability to pay the bills means that them. This is the story time and time again. you do? They’re gone within 24 hours we do seem to get more stock in than some The talk of the trade at the moment is that and while it’s great that at Wilkinson – though obviously still not enough. So in we know we can do the business, but just Cameras we’re turning stock over as soon some ways business is reasonably buoyant, can’t get the stock. We also can’t get enough as we get it, the disadvantage is stores are or has been up ‘til now. The cost of living of 35mm film either, which is equally as in being starved of stock and people can’t crisis is just another curveball thrown at demand as some of the digital hardware.

Have trade related issues you’d like to get off your chest and advice and experience to share with peers and colleagues? 14 June 2022 | BPI News

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Talk Of The Trade calls, Teams and video conferencing. Printers and scanners also went through the roof – we were wheeling in pallets of printers, sticking dispatch labels on them and wheeling them back out again. But, as more people have gone back to the office, the pace of change has slowed and it’s gone back to pre-pandemic levels of demand for those products. Fortunately, during lockdown we added thousands of new customers to the database and since stores re-opened we’ve maintained a good proportion of those online customers. They seem to be coming back, so we must be doing something right. Physical stores are doing OK too. Footfall in the towns isn’t quite back to pre pandemic levels but we’re getting close. Comparing traffic online with footfall in store for our industry, it’s now probably split exactly 50/50.

Just can’t get enough: The mirrorless Olympus OM-1 is proving a soar-away success with Wilkinson Cameras’ customers; so much so that David Parkinson says available stock is unable to meet current demand

What would be nice is that if we can’t spend money on promotions, then perhaps we can spend it on driving the category of photography to try and get more people to take up the hobby.”

FIGHTING SHORTAGES WITH PROMOTING THE HOBBY

A 50/50 split: Wilkinson Cameras’ business is now divided equally between in-store (Liverpool branch shown) and online, in terms of footfall and traffic respectively. To capitalise on this, it’s in the process of revamping its website (current home page shown)

The mood of the industry? Well, despite the frustration with shortages of stock, we’re buoyant. There is cause to be optimistic. Even if the promotions and marketing is a little subdued because of the shortages, thanks to some fantastic products we seem able to maintain the demand that’s required. What would be nice is that if we can’t spend money on promotions, then perhaps we can spend it on driving the category of photography to try and get more people to take up the hobby. The second hand market is buoyant because, shortages aside, not everyone has £2K or £3K to spend on a new camera and we don’t want to shut out newbies to the hobby. That’s keeping the entry-level products going, as well as the enthusiast products. We remain reasonably optimistic

because online sales are also doing well and we’ve just re-located our Carlisle store to a much better location and much bigger premises, which has had an instantly beneficial effect. We wouldn’t have been able to do that 10 years ago, as the rent for that location would have been well beyond our budget. But the way the high street has gone… landlords are now willing to do deals on properties. The business is certainly changing, in that after Covid we decided not to re-open two of our smaller stores. The future seems to be in the bigger towns and the bigger cities, if you’ve got the right mix of product. We’re also seeing significantly more business online and during and after lockdown the product profile changed dramatically – we couldn’t get enough desk LED lights, mobile phone holders and all the stuff people would want to use for Zoom

NO QUICK RESOLUTION, BUT BE CAREFUL ON PRICE However, I don’t think our immediate problems can be resolved that quickly. For one, we’ve got to be very careful as an industry not to price too many people out of the market. Prices have been creeping up and even I, with 35 years+ experience of this industry, wince at the cost of some of this gear. So it would be nice to see some product that is a little bit more affordable, as we do need to continue to generate the interest in photography and tap into the new breed of content creators and the younger generation. We’ve all heard stories of how photography got people through some desperate moments during the pandemic and gave them something to do that they could appreciate at the end of it, so we need to maintain that momentum. The future is difficult to predict. The oldest rule in the salesman’s book is ‘sell what you’ve got’. And that’s what we have to do – sell products that we can get, which means looking again at the products that are less problematic in terms of supply, and concentrating on promoting those products. We have to look at every opportunity for making money, because we have fixed costs and at least have to generate some profit to cover those costs. At Wilkinson Cameras, we’ve got a new website launching shortly and are spending a lot of time on developing our secondhand business further. Plus the processing side of the business is being revamped, because these are all services we can continue to provide even when the hardware is in short supply. We’re reasonably confident that we’ll see 2022 out well. How it goes after that is a little bit out of our hands.

Email us via info@bpinews.co.uk and we’ll get back in touch for a possible interview for Talk Of The Trade NEVER MISS AN ISSUE! Read BPI News online at issuu.com/bpinewsonline

BPI News | June 2022 15

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BENRO GIMBAL’S NO GAMBLE FOR DEALERS The Benro brand, via distributor MAC Group Europe, has a trio of product announcements this month for dealers to add to stock. Aimed at ‘content creators’ shooting video is a new Benro GH5CMINI carbon fibre gimbal (immediate right). The claim here is that it makes balancing longer lenses with a lightweight head easier than ever, thanks to weighing just 1.1Kg and offering a 30Kg load capacity. At £465 SRP, its distributor suggests that its lightweight quick release plate and adjustable height platform will enable users to precisely balance a camera/lens combination and track moving subjects with ease. A couple of additional stabilisation solutions arrive in the shape of the Benro TablePod Flex (far right) and KoalaPod (middle). The former is a tripod that combines rigid carbon fibre legs with flexible legs, allowing, it says, for use of the tripod in a range of configurations. When not in use, the flexible legs – which, for example, can be wrapped around an object – are stored inside the rigid carbon legs.

At £140 SRP the TablePod Flex Kit includes an Arca compatible ballhead that features 360° pan rotation plus a smartphone holder with cold shoe mount. The KoalaPod meanwhile is pitched at users of mobile devices and small compact cameras. Featuring a built-in ballhead with ¼-inch mounting thread, it can be easily switched between landscape and portrait format. Three built-in accessory mounts allow for additional legs to be added in

order to mount microphones, LED lights and more. Two versions are available: the KP1 at £35 SRP includes the tripod, quick-lock clamp, auxiliary locking ring and drawstring bag, while the KP1K at £45 SRP kit adds a folding smartphone holder and two additional legs to hold accessories. Legs are also available separately at a suggested £9 each. uk.benroeu.com www.macgroupeu.com

Never mind the parabolics, here’s Rotolight In Jubilee year the British LED lighting manufacturer has sprung back into action with a vengeance, with product announcements now arriving in quick succession, starting with the Rotolight R-90 and R-120 Universal Parabolic Softbox Umbrellas aimed at photographers, cinematographers and content creators alike. With availability this July, these are made from what’s claimed to be highly durable, highly reflective material, and feature ‘state of the art’ 16-side light shapers ideal for both location and studio use. Rotolight says users should expect a soft light output with a crisp edge that adds dimension and detail, along with natural looking catch-lights. Both sizes come with removable 1-stop outer and 0.5 inner baffle diffusion panels, which in combination can create a 1.5-stop diffusion level. SRPs are £249.99 for the R90 and £289.99 for the R120.

The second new announcement this month is what Rotolight is calling the world’s first electronic ‘SmartSoft’ Box and ‘a genuine revolution in lighting control’. Photographers and filmmakers can, it says, electronically adjust diffusion, focus and spread without the need for gels or additional modifiers. It’s claimed SmartSoft provides 1.5-stops of electronically variable diffusion thanks to Rotolight’s patented technology, providing the flexibility of a soft output and a harder light source all in one – and can be mounted to Rotolight’s own AEOS 2 lights in seconds, being adjustable via the touchscreen display or an all-new Rotolight iOS and Android app, which was made free to download from June 1st. The Rotolight SmartSoft Box has an SRP of £429. www.rotolight.com

Panasonic oozes 9mm The electronics giant has announced a new large aperture ultra wide-angle Micro Four Thirds compatible lens in the Leica DG Summilux 9mm f/1.7, offering a 35mm equivalent of 18mm. The optic is described as providing beautiful ‘bokeh’ for both stills and video, while clearing the stringent Leica standards, along with smooth and silent operation. With a compact size, construction involving 12 lens elements in 9 groups, and a weight of just 130g, the design is also dust and splash resistant. Availability for the lens is from mid June at an SRP of £449. www.panasonic.co.uk

BPI News is your mouthpiece to reach peers in the photo trade, so use it. Send ad bookings & press releases to info@bpinews.co.uk @bpi_news

BPI News | June 2022 17

Mini Lab News

FUJIFILM LAUNCHES QUICKEST IN-STORE PHOTO PRINTING SERVICE YET It’s an impressive double whammy from Fujifilm this month with the launch of new FUJIFILM Easy Print software plus sleek and stylish PHOTO by Fujifilm Kiosk to provide retailers with the capacity to deliver affordable instant prints to their customers in store. With the trade invited to a special event on June 21st – scan the QR code to register now – BPI News drills into the details…

odern life can be hectic and increasingly we hate to wait. Put too many barriers in our way and we’ll walk. It’s all about that instant gratification. Deftly addressing all such issues facing modern retail is what Fujifilm impressively claims is the swiftest instore photo printing solution yet. First off, and already being put to use in John Lewis & Partners’ flagship Oxford Street store in London, is new FUJIFILM Easy Print software. Involving four simple steps, this solution has been developed to make printing from a smartphone a more streamlined process than ever before. The customer simply scans the QR code on screen, selects the images they want to print from their camera roll, chooses the size and number of copies, reviews their order and prints. Utilising this innovative software to offer instant prints to customers in store is the equally new PHOTO by Fujifilm Kiosk, which has a compact footprint of just under half-a-metre square (61.6x67cm). Further minimising the retail space taken up on the shop floor, the unit can house up to two DE100XD printers, with print sizes of between 6x4-inches to 8x12-inches offered.

A TRILLION REASONS WHY IT SHOULD BE FUJIFILM With reports suggesting over 1.2 trillion photos are taken on a smartphone or camera each and every year, this new solution aims to make it easier and quicker than ever for consumers to get hard copies of their special precious memories. At the same time it cleverly gives retailers an autonomous means of providing such a print service. “Photo printing has returned in a significant way,” enthuses Theo Georghiades, Fujifilm UK’s General Manager for Imaging Solutions. “And

A novel solution: the sleek and stylish PHOTO by Fujifilm Kiosk can accommodate up to two DE100XD printers – and all within a space-saving unit with a footprint of barely half a metre square

“Photo printing has returned in a significant way, and we want to help retailers provide the easiest service to their customers with a quick and straightforward solution.” Theo Georghiades, Fujifilm UK we want to help retailers provide the easiest service to their customers with a quick and straightforward solution. “With our latest FUJIFILM Easy Prints software working through a compact and intuitive PHOTO by Fujifilm Kiosk, taking up minimal floor space, customers can make their prints themselves with no input required from store staff. Image data is stored for eight hours, while no personal data is stored at all, so both retailers and their customers can rest assured that this service is completely GDPR compliant.”

AN AFFORDABLE SOLUTION THAT WILL SEE PROFIT FAST The new Fujifilm software and hardware combination is not only straightforward to operate and swift in action – it’s also an affordable solution for retailers wanting to boost their customer base and profit margins via adding a photo printing service. What’s more the standardised kiosk automatically updates its software, making it easy to maintain in the long run and saving time for the shop staff working alongside the unit.

To discover how Fujifilm can inspire ideas and help boost the profile and bottom line of your own store or minilab, get in touch 18 June 2022 | BPI News

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Fujifilm Advertorial

Four steps to print heaven: FUJIFILM Easy Print software claims to make it easier and faster than ever for your customers to turn images locked on their smartphones into precious print memories

With our FUJIFILM Easy Prints software working through a compact and intuitive PHOTO by Fujifilm Kiosk, taking up minimal floor space, customers can make their prints themselves with no input required from store staff”

SCAN ME! To register for Fujifilm’s SPECIAL EVENT on June 21st

Fujifilm’s years of experience in the photo printing sector means that, as well as delivering high quality prints, a further promise is that the solution is a reliable and trustworthy one. “We want everyone to be able to access the magic of printing special memories, so photos do not just stay on our phones,” Theo Georghiades adds. “With retailers adding FUJIFILM Easy Print software and the PHOTO by Fujifilm Kiosk to their shop floors, it’s easier than ever for retailers to make photo printing a central part of their business, without

causing extra work for their employees or causing disruption to their retail space.” STOP PRESS: For more information on how to implement the FUJIFILM Easy Print software and PHOTO by Fujifilm Kiosk in your store, Fujifilm is hosting a special event on June 21st, from 10m to 1pm. Register now by scanning the QR code provided on this spread, or simply visit: https://fujifilmphotoservices.co.uk/ fujifilm-novus-kiosk-and-easyprint-software-registration/

with Fujifilm Photo Print Services at photoimaging_uk@fujifilm.com or by visiting www.fujifilmphotoservices.co.uk NEVER MISS AN ISSUE! Read BPI News online at issuu.com/bpinewsonline

BPI News | June 2022 19

Business Advice

STAY FLEXIBLE, FRIEND

Navigating the challenges and curveballs thrown at us these past few years has schooled us in the need to be reactive and to pivot at short notice – expertise that will pay dividends in the long run. We look at some ways in which you can hedge your bets and keep options open to maximise return

“

he only thing you’ve got in this world is what you can sell,” runs the memorable line in Arthur Miller’s Death of a Salesman. For the past two years it’s been very difficult to write and commission these business advice features, for the obvious reason of things changing so fast and life being so unpredictable. We’ve considered pausing or dropping them entirely, but feedback tells us you guys appreciate reading them. Nevertheless, it’s hard to impart bon mots when we don’t know what next week or next month will bring – and what’s relevant at the time of

Could the concept of a camera shop-come-coffee shop work – customers lap up a latte while viewing an inspirational gallery of images on the walls, which subsequently inspires them on a caffeine-fuelled spending spree on the latest photo gear?” going to press may have been overtaken by the time you hold the mag in your hands. Business may need certainty, or so the well-worn adage suggests, but it’s been in precious little supply. And even if we were confident in what to stock, what to sell and what will do well for us, the big issue at the

moment is actually getting hold of it. At times like these flexibility is key. Fortunately the independent supplier or retailer has an advantage here, generally being quicker to (re)act and faster in implementing any necessary changes than bigger brands and manufacturers

Got your own ideas about how the photo industry can counter the challenges arising from the pandemic, 20 June 2022 | BPI News

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Sell What You’ve Got Thinking outside the box, and the fact that every second shop on our local high street now seems to serve coffee, even if it’s not the primary source of sales, could the concept of a camera shopcome-coffee shop work – customers lap up a latte while viewing an inspirational gallery of images on the walls, which subsequently inspires them on a caffeinefuelled spending spree on the latest photo gear, or to finally create their own prints via an adjacent instant print kiosk? How about a print and a pastry?

and that includes a flash sale on stock you’ve had sitting in the window or warehouse for the past six months. Naturally many manufacturers and retailers have bolstered their social media presence during recent times by embracing live streams and podcasts, becoming ‘influencers’ in the process and finding and winning customers they didn’t have access to before. The trick now is keeping hold of those new customers and continuing to engage with them, while being mindful that they may

The independent supplier or retailer has an advantage here, generally being quicker to (re)act and faster in implementing any necessary changes than bigger brands and manufacturers who already have matters mapped out years in advance.” Sounds ridiculous perhaps; but in these straightened times it feels like nothing should be off the table. Plus, we’re finding locally that there are now plenty of independents selling vinyl records with a coffee machine stuck in the corner too – or even compatible businesses setting up store in the corner of an existing café. If customers can’t or won’t get to them in person, they’ll also deliver locally via bike or on foot. It’s all about giving the customer that much-trumpeted personal ‘experience’ they can’t get online, or will feel it’s worth paying that little bit extra for.

MOVED BY THE WHEELS OF INDUSTRY

who already have matters mapped out years in advance. Imagine trying to stop and change the direction of an ocean liner, when what you really need to be nippy is a speedboat. Of course, in 2022 bosses need to be flexible and receptive to the demands of their workforce – and vice versa. We’ve all got used to working from home these past two years (some of us have been doing it since 2004 – Ed), though, while that may be fine for staff at the big brands, obviously it is less practical in photo retail than many other industries. Camera stores still need bodies on the shop floor to welcome, advise and serve customers, and warehouse staff to pick and ship online orders out to them – though, even so, perhaps not everyone needs to be in at the same time. Keeping staff happy to is key to business success and growth after all.

Disruption of industry and the supply chain has been going on for some time now, and with the added curveball of the war in Ukraine thrown into the mix, so it’s hard to know whether things are improving, getting worse, or when we’ll be back on a predictable and level playing field. While the supply problem is a temporary issue that will be resolved at some point, camera stores have long told us – at many times complained – that they profit more from secondhand and photo processing than they do from selling new camera bodies. Pivoting towards secondhand when new equipment is unavailable or in short supply has been their salvation and continues to be so. With more people reacting to the cost of living crisis and pandemic alike by having a good old clear out / refresh and reset – in the quest for less clutter and increased living space – now’s the time to encourage your regulars to give you first refusal on equipment before they stick it on eBay. Sell what you’ve got, or can get hold of readily, is the advice here –

currently have less in their pockets than when most lockdown era restrictions ended last summer (remember ‘freedom day’?) and people were keen to get back out there and spend. So we’ll all need to work harder – quite literally. And we’ve said it before so we’ll say it again; when encountering bumps in the road, you need a business plan which covers multiple channels and platforms so you can keep driving sales, even when one thing changes. Building this kind of multiple channel, mature digital approach means you’re ready to take advantage when demand increases, and / or protect yourself when times are tough. Of course the photo industry requires exciting product to tempt customers to step into shops, or land on web pages in the first instance – even if both retailers and customers are now having to wait that bit longer to get kit in hand. As we note in our editorial this issue, after what feels like a bit of a drought these past few months compared to previous years, some innovative and more realistically priced photographic equipment is starting to appear again. Let’s hope it’s not too delayed! Any one – or all – of the above ideas and concepts could be the future of retail and the photo industry going forward. Now more than ever feels like the time to try new things alongside the traditional – and see what works. And if you’re finding things that do work, please share with your peers in these pages. After all, the disappearance of the local camera shop or minilab leads to that little bit less of a general recognition factor among the public of photography and photo printing. So, if there are methods working particularly well for your own business that you’re willing to share with fellow independents, don’t hesitate to get in touch via info@bpinews.co.uk

or care to share what’s working for you (without giving away trade secrets)? Then do get in touch direct via info@bpinews.co.uk @bpi_news

BPI News | June 2022 21

News

NEW-LOOK LOMO MAY BE JUST YOUR TYPE While being best known for its low-tech photographic solutions, Lomography has launched an addition to its Art Lens Family with the return of the Daguerreotype Achromat 2.9/64 Art Lens Aluminium in Black Onyx and Silver Graphite aluminium finishes at an SRP of £299. Described as a modern twist on the 19th century optical design, the lens, which is aimed at both analogue and digital SLR users, is said to combine quality craftsmanship with unique creative and experimental features. These include the ability to switch between silky soft focus or razor sharp images. The trade can source Lomo products via distributor SJF Photographic (www.sjfphoto.co.uk) www.lomography.com

‘Weird but practical’ Venus Probe now available Venus Optics, who featured in our April/May issue, has been back in touch to share details of what it’s calling ‘another weird but extremely practical lens’ in its Laowa branded line up: the new Laowa 24mm T14 2x Periprobe. Described as a ‘full frame powerhouse’, features to share with your customers include a wideangle 2x magnification, bugeye perspective and a waterproof barrel. It comes with a 90° periscope-like front tip for creating formerly impossible shots, making setups more flexible, it says. The lens is also able to do 360° helix rotations to create ‘one of a kind’ motions, while it has a 1/4-inch thread at the front for attaching accessories including extra lighting or arms. It’s available for the Arri PL, Canon EF, Canon R, Nikon F, Nikon Z, Sony E and the L Mount. For the UK trade, your Venus Optics sales contacts are kevin@venuslens.net and fion@venuslens.net www.venuslens.net

NEW FILTERS & BATTERIES FROM PHOTOTEQ Distributor PhotoTEQ, the company run by familiar face-in-the-trade Paul Genge, has a couple of new products for photo dealers to add to stock. From the Hong Kong-based photography filter manufacturer comes a new adjustable sized circular polariser in the H&Y RevoRing MRC CPL filter which comes in 46-62mm, 58-77mm and 67-82mm at SRPs between £120 and £130. As this suggests, the filter’s unique mechanism can fit in lenses of different thread sizes, making it a desirable solution for users with multiple lenses. All RevoRing products are made using architectural grade aluminium. For lovers of long exposures there’s also an H&Y Magnetic Clip-on ND filter in the same three sizes as above and four grades: ND4, 8, 16, 400 (2, 3, 4, 8.5 EV stops respectively), with suggested retail price ranging between £109 and £129 dependent on option chosen. As it sounds, the clip-on ND filter is compatible with the RevoRing product, and operation requires just one simple snap; the magnetic force holding the both the ND

and RevoRing filters securely together. Also available via PhotoTEQ are Supracell batteries from Polish brand Newell, which also has vertical control grips, LED lighting, remote releases and product photography tents among its offerings (see www.newell.pro for more). The Supracell is designed specifically for use in extreme temperature ranges; often camera users need to keep a battery close to their body to

keep it warm and reduce the prospect of noticeable power depletion – but the claim for Supracell is that it will continue performing strongly without concern. It’s initially available in compatible fits for the most popular Canon, Nikon, Panasonic and Sony models. Available now, SRPs range from £50 to £65, with a 40-month warranty providing additional peace of mind. www.photoTEQ.com

BPI News is your mouthpiece to reach peers in the photo trade, so use it. Send ad bookings & press releases to info@bpinews.co.uk 22 June 2022 | BPI News

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