British Photographic Industry News October 2017

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OCTOBER 2017 • £3

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Focusing on the Photo Trade The BIGGEST stories from the UK photo industry – including exclusive interviews, features, Q&A’s and the inside track on how you can profit from them!

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NEWS ‘X’TRA

GITZO TURNS 100 NEW PRODUCT

PHOTOKINA Q&A

Fujifilm talk us through the launch of the X-E3 camera plus new lenses and accessories for both the X and GFX systems – arriving now and on its roadmap for the near future

Modern ergonomics meets classic style as the brand celebrates its big anniversary with a limited edition run of premium tripods, plus Century Collection of camera bags, sure to catch photographers’ eyes

THE BIG INTERVIEW: Photokina’s new Director Christoph Menke answers our big questions about the big changes happening to Europe’s biggest newly annual photo event

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IN THIS ISSUE:

BPI News drops in to Pinewood Studios where Rotolight showcases its new NEO 2 continuous light and flash combo – potentially revolutionising shooting for photographers and videographers

I AM CHASING MOMENTS

I AM THE NEW NIKON D7500. Don’t let a great moment escape you. Equipped with a 20.9MP DX-CMOS sensor, 51-point AF and ISO 100 to 51200, the new Nikon D7500 can achieve stunning images in low light and has a continuous shooting speed of 8 fps. Wherever you move, an intuitive, tilting touch screen and slim body with deep grip offer added agility, and you can share your images in an instant to your smart device*. Alternatively, capture movies in incredibly sharp 4K UHD to relive again and again. Go chase. nikon.co.uk *This camera’s built-in Bluetooth® capability can only be used with compatible smart devices. The Nikon Snap-Bridge application must be installed on the device before it can be used with this camera. For compatibility and to download the SnapBridge application, please visit Google Play® and App Store. The BLUETOOTH® word mark and logos are registered trademarks owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and Google Play® is a trademark of Google Inc.

EDITORIAL | October 2017

Photographic British

Industry

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published monthly by

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

Follow us on Twitter... @bpi_news Publisher’s Office: 31 New Road, Richmond, Surrey TW10 7HZ. Legacy Media Ltd accept no ultimate responsibility for accurate reproduction of digital artwork created by third parties.

Insurance and carriage of products submitted for inclusion in reports rests with the owner. News, data, prices, interviews and opinion are printed in good faith E&OE. Content including advertising artwork created by Legacy Media Ltd or its agents is ©2017 Legacy Media Ltd. ISSN: to be advised.

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Copious use of the ‘F’ word

s in Friday… Black Friday to be dates in the photo trade calendar will precise, that increasingly important not only include The Photography Show day in the retail calendar where in March, but also the re-appearance of discounted goods spark a buying frenzy that Photokina in September. Controversially, lasts over the weekend and is given a final from 2018 Photokina will become a yearly (largely online) boost on the Monday, known event and the changes don’t end there, with as Cyber Monday. That’s four days of solid it moving to May from 2019, meaning less opportunities for boosted income, whether than a year between the first, more frequent, you’re a retailer, manufacturer or supplier. shows. Wanting to learn more about the Gavin Stoker, This year Black Friday falls on November thinking behind the major changes, we Editor 24th. So why are we talking about it early? speak to Photokina’s new young Director, gavin@bpinews.co.uk Well, with the retailers we surveyed for this Christoph Menke, for an exclusive Q&A this @GavinStoker issue’s business advice feature suggesting issue, starting on page 22. that the event can be bigger than Christmas, we Naturally this edition of our magazine is also about wanted to give you time to prepare your own offers the present – and so as usual we’re packed with details and strategies. As we say, we’ve some excellent advice on the latest and greatest photo kit and accessories, from those doing well you can read about, plus views whether that be the newest mirror-less model from from key manufacturers and supporters of the event.

Fujifilm, revolutionary illumination from Rotolight, Even without potential extra boost from Black or the Gitzo brand celebrating 100 years in existence Friday, manufacturers traditionally support the trade with must-have premium tripods and bags. Nothing on the run up to Christmas with time-limited cashback stays still behind-the-scenes either, and so we’ve the offers, and we’ve news of a current Canon scheme plus inside track on the latest acquisitions by Manfrotto and extended three year warranty deal (see page 11), while its parent company Vitec Group, whilst CameraWorld Epson also has a three year deal on its P-series printers is also expanding its empire. That’s BPI News for you (more on page 21).

– whatever is happening in the photo industry, we’re Looking further ahead into 2018, similarly important putting you firmly in the picture…

CONTENTS 04 NEWS Broncolor distro moves from Hasselblad to Manfrotto, CameraWorld opens its third store, there’s a new premium Sony, plus ‘millennials’ are in the news again 08 FUJIFILM PUTS THE ‘X’ IN XMAS A bunch of new lenses for its X series mirror-less and GFX medium format camera, plus a new body too in the X-E3. The UK team gives us the lowdown 11 THREE CANON PROMOS FOCUS SALES FOR DEALERS Push a sale on its L family of lenses with the promise of initial cashback, ‘bonus’ cashback for the same item via its Lens Reward scheme, plus extended warranty!

Light work: taken with the Rotolight Neo 2 by Jason Lanier. See page 16

12 CELEBRATE A CENTURY OF GITZO …with limited-edition premium tripods, bags and a groundbreaking gimbal head from the premium quality brand, like Manfrotto part of the Vitec Group 16 ROTOLIGHT NEO 2: A SEQUEL THAT ACTUALLY DELIVERS Unlike disappointing follow-ups from Hollywood, Pinewood-based

Rotolight is going from strength to strength, as are its products, including the new Neo 2 22 TALK OF THE TRADE: PHOTOKINA DIRECTOR CHRISTOPH MENKE The recently appointed 32 year-old is in our Q&A hot seat this issue to talk about the present & future of probably the world’s biggest, newly annual, photo show

Subscriptions, back issues & BPI News online Overseas annual subscription £50 (Cheques payable to Legacy Media Ltd).

For details email info@bpinews.co.uk. View current and back issues online at www.bpinews.co.uk

The Original is back!

Polaroid Originals is bringing back analog instant photography straight from its iconic roots – reinvented for today.

Speak to your Swains Regional Sales Manager for more information www.swains.co.uk

@bpi_news

01485 536200

BPI News | October 2017 3

NEWS

HASSELBLAD REFOCUSES, AS BRONCOLOR MOVES TO MANFROTTO DISTRIBUTION UK HASSELBLAD UK HAS RELINQUISHED its contract as UK distributor for Broncolor products, with immediate effect.

The new distributor for Broncolor is Manfrotto Distribution UK. Informing us of the move, Hasselblad’s UK MD Simon Coleman added: “We are proud of the work be have done with Broncolor. However our intention in the UK is to focus our efforts on our core Hasselblad brand, having experienced significant year on year growth.

“Chris Burfoot, our Broncolor Sales Manager, will continue to work

Prices rising for Hasselblad products with the exception of the H6D-50c - as seen with UK MD Simon Coleman at last year’s launch

for Broncolor as a sales and training consultant alongside Manfrotto, ensuring continuity for the brand.

We thank [the trade] for all your business, support, assistance and enthusiasm during our time as the Broncolor UK representatives.”

Urs Gass, Head of Sales and Marketing for Broncolor, adds: “Manfrotto Distribution UK was the ideal choice to distribute our brand to the UK market. With expertise in distributing well-known premium brands, they showed a clear understanding of our brand and the requirements needed to take our products to market.”

Commenting on the new partnership Chris Carr, Manfrotto’s Vice President for Lighting, Partner Brands and UK, adds: “Broncolor is one of the most recognised and reputable lighting brands in the UK and is the perfect fit within our portfolio. We are proud to offer to the market its range of premium lighting products, combining outstanding technological innovation and superb quality that you would expect from product produced by hand in Switzerland.”

In related news, Hasselblad UK has announced it is raising the price of its own brand products by an average 8 to 10%, commencing October 1st. The exception is

“Broncolor is one of the most recognised and reputable lighting brands in the UK and is the perfect fit within our portfolio.”

– Chris Carr, Manfrotto UK the H6D-50c, which has been ‘repositioned’ at an SRP of £12,960, including VAT. There is also updated firmware with two improvements for the X1D-50c said to be ‘important’; namely the ability to resize autofocus points and an electronic shutter function. The electronic shutter allows for shutter speeds up to 1/10,000s and is silent with zero vibration. Three focal point options promise an even more accurate and precise selection of the photographers’ subject focus point. The new features are said to enable users to take high-quality images in situations that may have previously been challenging such as when silence is needed during a live performance or when working in low light conditions. www.hasselblad.com www.manfrottodistribution.co.uk

Vitec acquires Lowepro & Joby brands IT IS ALL GO FOR the Vitec Group this month – parent company to Manfrotto – with not only Manfrotto taking over distribution of broncolor plus also its Gitzo brand celebrating its 100th birthday (see page 12 and 13 for more on the Gitzo story).

In addition, as we were putting this issue to bed, it was announced that Vitec has acquired ‘certain assets’ from the DayMen Group – including the Joby and Lowepro brands.

“We believe that Vitec is the natural, long-term home for these brands and are very proud to add not only the brands but also the team to the group,” Vitec Group CEO Marco Pezzana tells us. “This acquisition will help us develop a leading global position in the new and fast growing ‘iPhoneography’ and ‘vlogging’ accessories markets, as well as strengthening our position in the photographic bags market.

“Our market is showing good signs of growth and we strongly believe in the brands that we have added to our group.”

The Vitec Groups brands now include, in terms of supports: Gitzo, Manfrotto, Joby, Avenger. For bags the brands are National Geographic (manufactured and distributed under licence), Lowepro and Manfrotto.

As regards lighting and controls, the Vitec Group also has Colorama, Lastolite and Manfrotto. www.vitecgroup.com

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Three stores make it a SONY’S TYRANNOSAURUS ‘RX’ ‘family’ for CameraWorld THE ELECTRONICS GIANT’S monster of a premium bridge camera (or all-in-one) has received a speed-enhanced upgrade. The latest generation RX10 IV arrives claiming a world’s fastest AF speed of 0.03 seconds, thanks in part to a hybrid system of 315 phase detection AF points coupled with contrast detection. This has also enabled a lightning swift 24 fps continuous

shooting speed with full AF/AE tracking, with its buffer ‘limited’ to a whopping 249 images. Similarly attempting to justify the outlay is its Zeiss branded lens, offering a 24600mm focal range and f/2.4 to f/4 aperture. This being the 2017 model, naturally 4K-video capture is offered at 24fps or 30fps, whilst a one-inch 20.1 megapixel resolution CMOS sensor sits at its heart.

Supporting the zoom lens is optical image stabilisation, which Sony claims is the equivalent of 4.5 stops when activated. A tilting 3-inch screen which is also touch sensitive suggests this is a comprehensive option for customers who can afford its £1800 SRP. www.sony.co.uk

Polaroid takes OneStep… beyond!

Lumix National Trust POS

©National Trust Images/Matthew Antrobus

Complimentary 12 month national trust membership with the lumiX FZ200 or FZ72

Description

©National Trust Images/Matthew Antrobus

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NEWS

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to take a speCial piCture you need to go to speCial plaCes Now you and your family can discover hundreds of new special places with the National Trust and capture every stunning detail with the award-winning new LUMIX FZ200 or FZ72.

Promotional period: 22/08/2013 – 31/12/2013. Promotional terms apply, please see panasonic.co.uk/promotions *Leica is a registered trademark of Leica Microsystems IR GmbH. ELMARIT is a registered trademark of Leica Camera AG

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21/08/2013 13:54

A3 Poster Wobbler ©National Trust Images/Matthew Antrobus

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PHOTO INDEPENDENT CAMERAWORLD has expanded on its existing central London and Chelmsford stores by taking over the former Digital Depot store located on the Old Town High Street, Stevenage.

CameraWorld’s shop number three lays claim to the biggest selection of used camera equipment in Hertfordshire, from digital to film and from new models to the ‘classics’. All are cleaned and checked come with a no quibble six-month warranty.

The CameraWorld ‘family’ is further extended by the addition of retail manager Matt Taylor, plus store staff Carl, Will and Hayden. All are said to be keen photographers themselves and ‘come with a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm’ which is the hallmark of CameraWorld. The new store can be reached on 01438 367619.

“It was too good an opportunity to pass up,” says CameraWorld Director Tony Stent of the new acquisition (see also our business feature on page 28). “We know its

BPI NEWS READERS of a certain age will cock an eyebrow at the fact that the Polaroid brand is back (again), with a successor to the original Polaroid OneStep of 40 years ago arriving in time for Christmas sales. This time, in marking its 80th anniversary there is no attempt at a digital version of the instant camera; the Polaroid OneStep 2 (£109.99 SRP) is a strictly analogue offering that is, as with its predecessors, point and shoot in terms of operation. With a built-in flash, the new unit offers access to colour and black and white film. A point of difference from the 1970s, however, is that the camera can be charged via USB. There is also a built-in timer.

As a quick re-cap, Polaroid originally ended instant film production in 2008, with a group of photography fans in

potential and the local customers there. We have effectively soft launched it – we never had to close in order to re-open. Business is good and we’re very happy. It’s an ideal addition for us.”

The independent is also looking for an extra member of staff in Stevenage and one in Chelmsford.

As readers will have read in our September edition, it is also putting on its own one-day event, CameraWorld Live, in London on October 28th. www.cameraworld.co.uk

The Impossible Project buying the Polaroid Factory to continue making film for vintage cameras.

The Polaroid Originals website also continues to offer refurbished original models for sale.

The acquisition of the Polaroid brand by The Impossible Project’s largest shareholder in spring 2017 subsequently created the opportunity for Polaroid to return to instant analogue photography and for The Impossible Project to declare its mission accomplished. www.polaroidoriginals.com

BPI News is your mouthpiece to the industry. Send your news to info@bpinews.co.uk

to take a speCial piCture you need to go to speCial plaCes Now you and your family can discover hundreds of new special places with the National Trust and capture every stunning detail with the award-winning new LUMIX FZ200 or FZ72.

Hang Tag

Photographic British

Promotional period: 22/08/2013 – 31/12/2013. Promotional terms apply, please see panasonic.co.uk/promotions *Leica is a registered trademark of Leica Microsystems IR GmbH. ELMARIT is a registered trademark of Leica Camera AG

21/08/2013 13:56

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21/08/2013 13:59

A4 Cling

Supported by

Industry Items shown are for referencenews only and are not to scale

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BPI News | October 2017 5

NEWS

No place like home for Fuji

SQUARE DEAL FROM LOMOGRAPHY WHO SAYS WE LIVE in a totally digital world? Quirky analogue camera brand Lomography has announced that its latest venture – the Lomo’Instant Square – which is being pitched as the world’s first fully analogue camera to work with Fujifilm Instax Square film, is furthermore capable of delivering multi format instant prints, in allowing its users to shoot both

Fujifilm Instax Square and Instax Mini film. It achieves the latter via an Instant Mini Back that clips on to the camera.

Featuring a foldable bellows type design that keeps the camera relatively compact when not in use and 95mm glass lens (45mm equivalent in 35mm terms), there’s also a self-timer and a remote control shutter release tucked away in the

camera body that can be whipped out when you need it. The angular looking retro device was still the subject of a Kickstarter campaign at the time of writing (due to have ended at the close of September, though with the project having received five times its requested backing, this one was always going to reach its photo finish). www.lomography.com

FUJIFILM HAS TEAMED up with world-renowned photo agency Magnum for a touring exhibition of photography on the theme of ‘Home’, which is due to set off around the globe in March 2018, feature the work of 15 of Magnum’s photographers, visit seven cities and be accompanied by a photobook.

According to the blurb: ‘Home’ is not only defined as a space for physical living; it holds various other associations that are emotional, biological, cultural and societal.

Magnum’s 15 photographers have been given an open brief to explore the subject through their own individual practices, the resulting work reflecting their personal take on a subject that we all record photographically.

The exhibition is due to touch down in New York, London, Paris, Tokyo, Cologne, Italy and China. www.magnumphotos.com

Ansmann powers your autumn sales PHOTO SPECIALISTS STOCKING up for autumn might want to consider adding Ansmann’s wellreviewed Powerline Vario charger to enhance their customer offerings – an item which regular BPI News readers will recall was a previous recipient of five star awards from both Amateur Photographer and What Digital Camera.

No surprise then that it’s something of a best seller in the

current Ansmann product line up – and perfect for your customers looking for a means of recharging their batteries this autumn and beyond, as it is suitable for worldwide use, as well as in-car.

Offering microprocessor controlled charging, it starts automatically when a battery is inserted. Further features include a trickle charge function for NiMH batteries whilst an LCD display indicates charging status.

Contact Ansmann’s distributor Peak Development Ltd for its power and accessory products on 01489 796 979, email sales@peak-uk.com or visit www.peak-uk.com

Sony’s new hero is a ‘zero’ THE ELECTRONICS GIANT has launched the 15.3 megapixel sensor incorporating RX0, described as ultra compact, robust (able to withstand drops from two metres and crushproof to 200Kgf) and waterproof (to depths up to 10 metres, or 100 metres with MPK-HSR1 housing) – whilst offering users the ability to take hallmark ‘RX’ image quality into places

where other cameras fear to go. Plus, for those who want to shoot super slow motion footage, the RX0 can shoot up to a whopping 1000 frames per second. Weighing just 110g and measuring 59x40.5x29.8mm, Sony suggests the RX0 redefines how small and light a camera can be. Availability is from this month, with a price quoted in the region of 850 Euros as we went to press. www.sony.co.uk

BPI News is your mouthpiece to the industry. Send your news to info@bpinews.co.uk 6 September 2017 | BPI News

www.bpinews.co.uk

Thank you to everyone who attended our Open Days If you missed it, why not ask for a personal viewing?

On Sept 14th and 15th, we opened the Tetenal doors in Leicester to all our customers, including a day dedicated to our Kodak Express members.

Experts were on hand to demonstrate our key brands including Epson, Kodak, DNP, CS1, Wacom, Eizo, Jobo, Lion and Hahnemuhle.

The place was buzzing and the feedback we’ve received has been overwhelmingly positive.

If you couldn’t make it then our doors are always open. Just let us know when you’d like to visit.

Come along and see how Tetenal can help build your business.

Tetenal Limited | TEL: 0116 289 3644 | marketing@tetenal.uk.com | www.tetenaluk.com

BPI NEWS EXTRA

Back in black (and silver): Both kit options of the new X-E3 showcased

by Fujifilm UK’s PR Executive Jeannie Corby (silver with new 23mm lens) and General Manager Theo Georghiades (black with standard zoom)

Fujifilm puts the ‘X’ in Xmas with new autumn line up The photo giant has announced an expanded range of X series offerings, making their way to your stores in time for crucial pre-Christmas sales. With the help of the Fujifilm UK team, BPI News surveys what photo specialists should be stocking and how they should be selling them…

F

ujifilm has expanded its X series mirror-less camera line up for autumn 2017, with the addition of a new camera body in the X-E3, two new lenses in the Fujinon GF 45mm f/2.8 R WR and XF80mm f/2.8 LM OIS WR Macro, Firmware updates for its X-Pro2, X-T2, X100F and X-T20 cameras, plus the development of a new Raw file conversion system; Fujifilm X Raw Studio.

From dedicated camera to smartphone Available by the time you read this, the design of the 24.3 megapixel APS-C sensor incorporating Fujifilm

X-E3 maintains the rangefinder type look and feel of the series, with two top-plate dials: one for exposure and one for shutter speed. Fujifilm says the audience it is targeting is ‘photographers who want to seamlessly upload photos directly to their smartphone or tablet,’ it being the first X series model to feature Bluetooth communication.

Described as small (at a compact 121.3x73.9x42.7mm) and stylish in a choice of either all-black or silver and black bodies, the X-E3 features both an eye-level electronic viewfinder plus a static touch screen LCD monitor, which features the ability to control focus and take a picture with a finger

tap. Thanks to a newly developed image recognition algorithm, the X-E3 is said to track moving subjects twice as fast as previous models. In terms of video, both 4K and Full HD capture is offered. SRP for the new camera is £849 body only, or there are kits that bundle it with either a 23mm lens at £1,149 all-in, or 18-55mm zoom lens for £1,249.

For photo specialists hoping to piggyback a sale with that of the camera, accessories for the X-E3 include a BLC-XE3 leather case (£74.99 SRP) with matching leather shoulder strap and protective cloth, plus an optional MHG-XE3 handgrip (£119 SRP), which allows

Familiar face in the trade: Adrian Clarke - now MD for Imaging at Fujifilm Europe - dropped into the London launch to espouse the benefits of the compact X-E3

New Fujifilm products arriving this autumn: X-E3 mirror-less camera incorporating 24.3 megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor; 8 October 2017 | BPI News

www.bpinews.co.uk

FUJIFILM NEW PRODUCTS PROMOTION

both memory card and battery to be swapped with the grip in place.

New GF and XF lenses & updated roadmap Not only Fujifilm X series users, but also its GFX medium format owners are getting new kit to play with this autumn.

A new GF lens – the sixth in the series – arrives in the shape of the Fujinon GF45mm f/2.8 R WR (see above).

Designed for street and documentary photography, the lens features a compact and lightweight design (at 490g). Described as

10 areas) and features Nano GI coating for reduced ghosting and flare.

Availability is from this November at a suggested price of £1,699.

GFX owners will be further bolstered by the news that the manufacturer has unveiled an updated product roadmap that details development of a telephoto prime lens in the GF250mm f/4 R LM OIS WR (focal length equivalent to 198mm in the 35mm format) (seen right with teleconverter) which is designed to provide a beautiful ‘bokeh’ effect when shooting portraits, plus a 1.4x tele converter in the GF1.45X TC WR (enabling a focal length equivalent to 277mm on a 35 camera if used with the GF250mm). These latest announcements will make for an eventual GF lens line up comprising eight optics in total.

In the meantime, the second new lens announced by Fujifilm that also arrives this November is the Fujinon XF80mm f/2.8 LM OIS WR Macro (see left), the first 1.0x magnification mid telephoto macro lens for the X series range.

Constructed using 16 elements in 12 groups,

“The X-E3 is the smallest and most stylish X series camera to feature an integral viewfinder. This is a true lifestyle camera, which is comfortable to hold even though it’s the smallest camera we’ve got.”

– Fujifilm UK Marketing Manager Andreas Georghiades ‘highly versatile’, the lens, ideally suited to the GFX 50S camera launched back in February this year, offers a focal length equivalent to 36mm on a 35mm camera.

Constructed from 8 groups and 11 elements, it is weather and dust resistant (its construction is sealed in

including one aspherical lens, one Super ED lens and three ED lenses, along with a floating focus system and Optical Image Stabiliser, it’s described as optimal for photographing flowers and nature. Fujifilm advises your customers combine this lens with its camera’s Film Simulation modes, such as the saturation-boosting Velvia.

With the lens being weather and dust resistant, a fluorine coating has been applied to the front element to repel water and dirt.

An updated roadmap for X mount lenses has also been unveiled by the manufacturer, indicating that an ultra wide-angle zoom lens in the XF8-16mm f/2.8 R LM WR (equivalent to 12-24mm in the 35mm format) most suited to shooting dynamic landscapes, night views and architecture, and telephoto prime lens in the XF200mm f/2 R LM OIS WR (305mm in 35mm terms) designed for

Fujifilm’s new autumn collection at a glance:

photographing sports, nature and wildlife are under development.

With the addition of the Fujinon XF80mm f/2.8 R LM OIS WR Macro, which has an SRP of £1,249, Fujifilm currently has 25 options in its XF lens line up.

Fujifilm on ‘firm’ ground As mentioned at the outset, it’s worth alerting your X series camera owning customers that there are also free firmware tweaks on the way this November and December for the existing X-Pro2, X-T2, X100F and X-T20 cameras. These include support for the new Fujifilm X Raw Studio (which allows users to connect their camera to Mac or PC via USB for developing Raw files in camera), an improvement to third party studio flash controller usability and compatibility (X-Pro2, X-T2, X100F), the introduction of a new AF tracking algorithm (X-Pro2, X-T2), plus various functional and operational updates. The latter comprises 4K video support, when using the X series’ Film Simulation modes, computer tethering function (X-Pro2) and enhancing touch panel operation when using the EVF (XT20), for the ever-evolving mirror-less camera range.

The firmware updates for the X-T2 and X-T20 arrive in November, with that for the X-Pro2 and X100F arriving in December.

Interestingly, when it comes to the Fujifilm X Raw Studio, the manufacturer says that it utilises the X Processor Pro in the camera instead of the CPU in the computer. The application arrives for Mac users late November and for Windows users late January 2018.

For further info on all of the above, please head to the below URL, or speak to your local Fujifilm rep. www.fujifilm.co.uk

n Fujifilm X-E3 mirror-less camera incorporating 24.3 megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, 4K capture, plus rangefinder style handling and design.

Priced at £849 (SRP) body only, £1,149 with 23mm lens, or £1,249 with 18-55mm zoom.

Accessories include BLC-XE3 leather case at £74.99 plus optional MHG-XE3 handgrip for £119

n Two new lenses: For GFX 50S camera users, there’s the new Fujinon GF45mm f/2.8 R WR at £1,699. Designed for street and documentary photography, it offers a focal length equivalent to 36mm on a 35mm camera.

The second new lens is the first 1.0x magnification mid telephoto macro lens for the X series, in the Fujinon XF80mm f/2.8 LM OIS WR Macro.

SRP is £1,249

n In addition, there are Firmware updates on the way this November and December for Fujifilm’s X-Pro2, X-T2, X100F and X-T20 cameras, plus the introduction of a new Raw file conversion system in Fujifilm X Raw Studio

GF45mm f/2.8 R WR lens for the GFX; XF80mm f/2.8 LM OIS WR Macro for X series cameras. For more: www.fujifilm.co.uk @bpi_news

BPI News | October 2017 9

NEWS

RICOH’S FIFTH ELEMENT

customers driving demand for more pages and larger SKUs. The value of the photomerchandise segment grew by 5% through 2016, with 90% of all orders placed via PCs, tablets and smartphones. The growth of online/ mobile device ordering presents yet more opportunities for retailers, as once a buyer has customised an image they are far less likely to back out of a purchase decision. It is not yet clear which retailers will emerge victorious in the battle for dominance over the photo-printing industry, but one thing is clear – according to Futuresource at least – photographic printing is back in business.

ALLOW YOUR CUSTOMERS to capture and create a fully spherical image with the 360° stills and video shooting Ricoh Theta V, a new slender carry anywhere rangetopping device, following hot on the virtual heels of the Japanese anime inspired Ricoh Theta SC Type Hatsune Miku camera we featured in our September edition.

At an SRP of £399.99, the pitch to the photo trade for the latest generation of a concept launched back in 2013 is that stills (at 14 megapixels) and video quality (at 4K and 30fps) has been improved on the ‘V’, whilst power consumption is reduced. It’s been launched with optional accessories in a 3D microphone and underwater housing too, while the idea remains that this is a cutting-edge portable device for use anytime and anywhere. Bluetooth and Wi-Fi equipped, the fact that the Theta V features an open source Android operating system allows for future enhancements through firmware updates, claims its maker.

www.futuresource-consulting.com

www.ricoh-imaging.co.uk

Want to sell prints or photobooks?

Target ‘millennials’ AS WE REPORTED back in our June edition, it appears that millennials – those under the age of 35 – are driving the photo print market at the moment; that’s if the latest research is taken at face value.

According to industry watcher Futuresource Consulting, current figures suggest a ‘booming’ photo printing industry in Western Europe.

Square shaped prints, photobooks and photo-merchandise present new and growing opportunities for this sector, already estimated at a €3.2 billion annual worth.

“Digitalisation had previously been held responsible for a decline in photo-printing services, with photo print volumes falling below 50% of overall market value,” says Futuresource’s Senior Analyst

Jeremy Wills. However, according to this latest insight, it seems that the millennial market is rediscovering the joys of physical photography, albeit in a different way to previous generations, and is increasingly willing to spend their cash on the real thing. Futuresource notes that smaller volumes of formats such as square and ‘instant style’ photography sell for over €0.75 per photo, and the growth of photoproducing technology reduces the time and effort involved in creating such profitable images and photobooks.

The market tracking report highlights that online orders account for around 95% of the 25 million photographic units sold throughout 2016, with repeat

Change in leadership at CEWE UK MAIK HORBAS (pictured) has assumed the General Manager position for CEWE UK, with former UK MD Duncan Midwood departing.

Maik has been with CEWE for 15 years, his long running tenure with the company beginning in Germany in 2002.

“In 2005 I became Assistant to the CEO of CEWE,” he tells BPI News.

“In that year CEWE also acquired Standard Photographic in Warwick and one of my bigger projects was to help integrate it into the CEWE group. I got to know the UK photo market personally at that time.

In 2006 I was appointed General Manager of the CEWE company in Bratislava, that provides CEWE services for Slovak, Slovenian and Austrian market. We also operated a production for photo services and CEWE photo retail stores under the brand ‘Fotolab’.

“For the past three years I was also General Manager of the CEWE company in Poland that operates a big production lab and 50 photo retail stores under the brand ‘Fotojoker’. There I led a repositioning and rebranding of the retail stores, online and brand activities.”

As regards the UK, Maik tells us that: “our business in Warwick will stay as it is and my role is to lead it from here on. From now on I will spend nearly all my time here in the UK and will devote only a small fraction to other CEWE group matters. It’s still – and will remain – a UK based business that is managed locally, as with all other CEWE international operations. To be absolutely clear it is a change of management not a change to our commitment to the UK market. We will continue also with marketing and I expect to expand our activities

and the team based here in Warwick, because we know that this is key for our future success.” www.cewe-photoworld.com

BPI News is your mouthpiece to the industry. Send your news to info@bpinews.co.uk 10 October 2017 | BPI News

www.bpinews.co.uk

BPI NEWS EXTRA

THREE CANON LENS PROMOS FOCUS SALES FOR DEALERS

The photo giant currently has three key promotions for its retailer partners involving its ‘L’ series lenses – a mixture of short term (cashback), mid-term (three year warranty) and long term (Lens Reward).

BPI News examines the purchase incentives…

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anon is helping specialist retailers drive footfall to their businesses by offering a triple whammy of promotions on its L series lenses. These can be combined to provide an even better deal for your customers, and thus provide you with a better chance of making an additional sale.

For example, currently your customers can purchase and claim the following cashback, if buying the items together: EOS 7D Mark II (£130 cashback) and EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM lens (£215). But – and this is what most people won’t realise – your customers can claim a further Lens Reward (see paragraph that follows) on the EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM of £105. This makes for a total saving of £450 on these two products (camera + lens), and is a great opportunity to increase the value of the sale.

“People naturally think they can only claim cashback on one of those products,’” says Neale Conroy, Product Manager, Canon UK & Ireland. “It’s a common misunderstanding. But if you’re lucky enough to be able to afford an EOS 7D Mark II and an EF 24-70mm when they’re both in cashback, then claiming the additional Lens Reward really sweetens the deal.”

Canon’s current cashback scheme runs until October 17th 2017, with the aim of providing consumers with enticing savings.

There are seven ‘L’ lenses included in the latest scheme, alongside the EOS 80D, 77D, EOS M5, M6, PowerShot G3 X and G5 X camera bodies. The same multiple savings will also be available with any future cashback campaigns.

For more info on the Lens Cashback: www.canon.co.uk/ cashback/current-cashback/

Extra cashback when buying a lens The second promotion is, as mentioned, the Lens Reward. This is an ongoing loyalty offer that

Driving sales on lenses: Canon’s Neale Conroy (pictured) brings retail partners up to speed on three deals putting optics in pole position

rewards purchasers of selected mid and pro EOS cameras, plus Cinema EOS – in the shape of cashback – if purchasing lenses on the same day as (or within 90 days of) their original camera purchase.

UP TO £215/€250 CASHBACK

on selected advanced Canon products at participating retailers*

That’ll pay towards your next story

Wheel-y good deals: Cashback is just one of the stories Canon has to tell retailers and their customers this autumn... the Live for the story_ others being an additional ‘Lens Reward’ saving, plus extended 3 year warranty

*To enter the cashback promotion, the Participant must purchase a Promotional Product from a Participating Retailer within the United Kingdom or Republic of Ireland between 01.09.2017 and 17.10.17 inclusive. Claims must be submitted by fully and correctly completing the online claim form (including specifying a valid EEA product serial number) by midnight on 30.11.17. Full details at canon.co.uk/autumncashba ck or canon.ie/autumncashback

“Whilst there’s an opportunity here for some great savings for the consumer, the Lens Reward scheme is also a perfect chance for retailers to use their mailing lists and re-connect with customers who have purchased a mid or pro level DSLR or Cinema EOS camera in the last 90 days, to encourage a further purchase of a lens,” Neale adds. “If customers are within the 90 day period, it’s worth contacting them again to remind them of the offer plus how it can be used with our current cashback offer. The dealers that do this have found it to be really useful.”

As well as encouraging a sale, the additional discount also encourages customer loyalty, believes Canon, “as we appreciate that buying a lens and a mid range body at the same time can be expensive. It makes life simpler for the dealers who stock our lens range as well. We fully understand that the golden rule of retail is to make the offer as simple as possible. So the Lens Reward is an always-on, on-going promotion now.”

More on the Lens Reward scheme and savings can be found here: www.canon.co.uk/lens-promo/

A third and final current Canon promotion gives consumers greater peace of mind via an extended warranty on L series lenses – increasing it from the standard one year to three years in total. This last offer runs until January 31st 2018.

“If customers are going to invest in a lens at the premium end of the market, then we want to give them peace of mind,” reasons Neale.

For more on promotion, simply visit: www.canon.co.uk/ promotions/extended-warrantylens-promotion/

Canon’s three lens promos at a glance: n Great savings on L series lenses when taking advantage of Canon’s latest cashback scheme – the current one running until October 17th this year n Also get cashback if purchasing lenses at the same time as – or within 90 days of – the purchase of a mid or pro level EOS DSLR, CSC or Cinema EOS camera via the Lens Reward scheme n In addition to both of the above, there’s an extended warranty on L series lenses when purchasing, giving a total of three years piece of mind. Offer runs until January 31st 2018 n All the regular T&Cs apply, naturally www.canon.co.uk

Three Canon schemes to boost your profits, via cashback, extended warranty and Lens Reward offers. www.canon.co.uk @bpi_news

BPI News | October 2017 11

BPI NEWS PRODUCT FOCUS

CELEBRATE A CENTURY OF GITZO WITH MANFROTTO Originally founded in 1917, this year marks the 100th anniversary of the premium tripod brand, renowned for blending modern ergonomics with classic style. Celebrations to mark the Centenary and wow photographer customers include a limited edition run of two tripods, plus three premium camera bags and ‘revolutionary’ gimbal head.

BPI News discovers more…

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trong and stable premium travel tripods might be exactly what the Gitzo brand is known for among photographers – but this year it is upping its quality ante further, and with good reason.

Currently part of the Vitec Group (and distributed by Manfrotto Distribution UK), Gitzo is celebrating its first Century with a range of covetable camera tripod and bag products.

100 years old, but still stable

The Arsène Gitzhoven Traveller tripod, named after Gitzo’s founder, is available now to stockists, limited to just 100 commemorative units

For photographer customers looking for something to accessorise with that Leica TL2, or perhaps Gucci hold-all, there are two recently announced and sure-to-be-soughtafter tripods – numbering either 100 or 1917 units, naturally. First up is the slick three-legged Arsène Gitzhoven Traveler tripod, named after Gitzo’s founder.

At a cool £2,499.95 SRP, the Arsène arrives as a covetable limited

edition of 100 units, with laser etched leg and engraved signature. Its core tech is the same as Gitzo’s coveted Traveler Series 1 tripods. This means we get carbon tubing, 180° leg folding mechanism, plus centre ball head, providing precise and smooth adjustments. Further differentiating itself, this limited version adds an ergonomic, genuine Italian leather strap with carbon fibre look, whilst, further enhancing the feeling that this is a luxurious object of desire, the tripod itself arrives in a white chest with leather detailing. It’s also worth noting that this is the very first model on the market to feature a full carbon fibre spider, making this very limited option significantly lighter.

For customers who can’t quite stretch to that price tag, then a second option presents itself in the 100th Anniversary Edition Tripod. This retails at a more affordable £1249.95

A second option for customers wanting to celebrate Glitz’s first Century is the 100th Anniversary Edition Tripod, with titanium colour details

100 years of Gitzo – a timeline 1917

1942

1944

Arséne Gitzhoven founds Gitzo, in France, who produce cameras, cable releases, shutters (at a rate of 750 per day) and film pack frames for the photographic industry

War leads to the company being temporarily dismantled

Production starts again, with its iconic tripods introduced to the range in the 1950s

For more details on the Gitzo 100th anniversary products – tripods, bags and fluid gimbal head – 12 October 2017 | BPI News

www.bpinews.co.uk

GITZO 100TH ANNIVERSARY PROMOTION

SRP, plus again offers the same core features as detailed above, except that this time we’re offered a brand new magnesium spider, enhanced by a black finish, plus titanium colour details. The 100th Anniversary edition is available in a run of 1917 pieces, as opposed to

the even more exclusive 100 run for the Arsène model.

Going someway to justifying the price tags, it’s worth noting (or explaining to customers) that every Gitzo product is hand assembled, hand packaged and hand checked by its in-house craftsmen.

BAGS OF IDEAS FROM GITZO Looking to make an add-on sale with your photography customers?

Created for Gitzo photographers who love to travel and likewise arriving as part of its 100-year celebrations is the Gitzo Century Collection of premium look and feel camera bags. Again designed and crafted in Italy, these feature Italian leather with an exclusive carbon fibre look, that is itself reminiscent of Gitzo Traveler tripod legs and weather resistant nylon that is not only water repellant but is claimed to guarantee a high resistance to scratches and abrasions.

There are several options to choose from here. First up is the

Gitzo Century Traveler Backpack, with a roomy interior capable of accommodating a medium sized DSLR or premium CSC, with 70200mm f/2.8 lens attached plus two additional lenses. Alternatively it can also hold a DJI Mavic Pro drone with its remote control and accessories.

SRP is £249.95.

The second model in the series is the Gitzo Century Traveler Messenger. Described as an ‘everyday’ solution, this features a smart magnetic ‘G lock’ closing mechanism and can hold a mid range DSLR with detached 70-200mm f/2.8 lens, or a CSC with a similar lens attached, plus two or three standard

Check your head Also coming soon from Gitzo as part of its exclusive product launches commemorating its big birthday is a GHFG1 Fluid Gimbal head. Described as ‘ground breaking’, the product is pitched at wildlife photographers and bird watchers and is said to guarantee perfect balance, even with heavy equipment. Sporting what its manufacturer describes as ‘clean and harmonic lines’, it features Gitzo’s distinctive ‘Noir Décor’ finish.

Moreover, fluid cartridge technology from the video world is being applied to a gimbal head for the very first time in this model, says Gitzo. It’s designed to absorb vibrations and ensure smooth movement throughout observation and shooting, even with very large lenses. It’s also

been designed to perfectly match the Gitzo Systematic and Mountaineer tripods, celebrated for their incomparable stiffness.

In addition the GHFG1 Fluid Gimbal head features soft-touch ergonomic knobs and built-in Arca-type compatible quick release base – along with new, Arca-type plate with rubber grips, with ease of handling enhanced by a detachable pan bar. Its stiff yet lightweight magnesium body is the result of a combination of high-pressure hot chamber die casting.

SRP for the gimbal head was still to be announced, at the time of writing.

Bird watchers and wildlife photographers are the perfect audience for Gitzo’s ‘revolutionary’ gimbal head, which offers its users a perfectly balanced set up, even with heavier kit

A perfect pairing with a tripod: Also arriving as part of its 100th year celebrations is the Gitzo Century Collection of premium look and feel camera bags

zooms. It is also able to conceal a DJI Mavic Pro and accessories.

SRP is £179.95.

For photographers with a more ‘minimalist’ approach the third option is the Gitzo Century Compact Messenger, designed to offer stylish protection for your customers’ mirrorless camera or rangefinder, with standard zoom attached, or a DJI

Mavic Pro with ‘smaller’ accessories.

This model also features a G-lock flap closing system and has an SRP of £149.95.

All three carrying options include a dedicated soft touch compartment designed to keep a computer tablet or laptop safe. Each bag is sold with its own branded, dust resistant pouch to offer protection when not in use.

More information on Gitzo’s Centenary celebrations can be found online at www.manfrotto.co.uk/gitzo

1960

1992

Today

Arséne Gitzhoven retires, with his daughter Yvonne Plieger and her husband taking over the running of the company. Products are exported to 54 countries

Gitzo becomes part of the Vitec Group (also including Manfrotto & Lastolite)

Gitzo still strives to produce the best possible camera accessories and supports, with the aim of delivering top performance and traditional quality

please direct your browser to www.manfrotto.co.uk/gitzo or speak to your local sales representative @bpi_news

BPI News | October 2017 13

BPI NEWS PRODUCT FOCUS

Sigma flash illuminates dealer profit Third party photo accessory manufacturer Sigma has a bright idea for specialist retailers in its EF-630 flashgun, which comes with a dedicated Flash USB dock accessory.

We were sent one to play with, providing illuminating results…

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ith a guide number of 63, Sigma’s multi-functional EF630 clip-on type electronic flash is aptly named. It’s a third party device for a range of key DSLRs – notably those from old favourites Canon and Nikon, as well as, naturally, Sigma – plus one with a degree of future proofing available if opting for the FD-11 Flash USB dock to enable firmware upgrades down the line.

Among the main unit’s diverse features is TTL exposure control as standard as well as high-speed sync, rear-curtain sync and wireless flash functions. It also boasts an auto zoom function, bounce-flash function and catch-light panel. The rear LCD, with a new dot matrix liquid crystal display, provides both improved visibility plus an intuitive user interface.

The flash head meanwhile can “The flash head can be tilted up by 90° and swiveled be tilted up by 90° and swiveled left or right by 180° – changing the illumination angle left or right by 180° – changing the illumination angle from 24mm wide from 24mm wide to 200mm telephoto – with power to 200mm telephoto – with power coming courtesy of four regular AA batteries. With coming courtesy of four regular AA a control pad plus dial on the side of the flashgun, batteries. With a control pad plus dial changing settings is also relatively easy.” on the side of the flashgun, changing settings is also relatively easy. Included accessories out of the box comprise a and sturdy for its £299 asking price, in place via a lever provided at the case and FS-31 flash stand. a spring loaded cover concealing the rear of the flash – switch the unit vacant slots for its four AA batteries, on, and we’re instantly met with a Sigma makes light work which, in themselves, offer the canny simple-in-appearance menu screen, retailer an opportunity to make an alongside a four-way control pad With the above in mind Sigma sent us extra sale at point of purchase. with central implementation button. an EF-630 flashgun to conduct a field Slide the unit on to the chosen Anyone familiar with tabbing through test with. As with anything from this camera’s accessory shoe – we opted on screen menus on their DSLR will manufacturer, the unit feels well built for the Canon fit which can be locked instantly get cracking. We can also

From illuminating darkened rooms for wide angle shots, to adding punch to table sets and lifting shadows for still life portraits, the EF-630 is one flash that can do it all, capable of both power and/or subtlety as required!

Harmonious marriage: the EF-630 works with the camera’s TTL auto exposure system (above) plus the optional USB dock (below)

opt to have the flash’s operational beep on or off; which proved useful for avoiding drawing extra attention to ourselves in public (if obviously the flash firing will also do that!).

In operation, if angling or attempting to bounce the light didn’t quite rid our subject of potentially unflattering shadows, we liked the opportunity to dial down exposure on the back of the unit – something that is, again, both easy and quick to do – with the flash otherwise working seamlessly with our camera’s TTL auto exposure system. The result is that we didn’t have to concern ourselves with chopping and changing settings too much and could concern ourselves more with subject and framing – which is exactly as it should be.

Speak to your local Sigma rep about getting in stock of the Sigma EF-630 flashgun plus dedicated Flash USB dock in good time to ensure you have a pre-Christmas best seller on your hands. www.sigma-imaging-uk.com

All lenses sold via Sigma Imaging UK come with the benefit of a three year limited warranty.

14 October 2017 | BPI News

www.bpinews.co.uk

MINILAB NEWS

SHETLAND CALLING! PHOTOXPORT & EXPAND GREEN II REACH

If your photo business needs a duplex dry lab with the potential to both expand your product offerings and your customer base this autumn, then Noritsu’s mighty QSS Green II, distributed in the UK by PhotoXport, should be your go-to machine, as The Camera Centre, based in the Shetland Isles, is currently discovering…

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he run up to Christmas and the darker nights drawing in is traditionally the time when photography enthusiasts get around to sifting through the thousands of images on their hard drives and selecting the best to make prints.

At the same time, this period also has key gifting potential – and what could be more personal than a framed print for a festive gift. In order to fulfill this inevitable avalanche of interest, you’ll want a workhorse lab, whether you’re looking to replace an existing one or add a new arm to your photo business.

Capable of coping with high volumes, Noritsu’s QSS Green II dry lab – supplied exclsuively in the UK via Leicester-based PhotoXport – is worth investigation.

As detailed previously in BPI News, the Green II offers the industrial build of a traditional wet lab yet with a dry lab engine. It’s been “built for a hammering”, according to PhotoXport MD Derek Fieldhouse, “and to produce millions and millions of prints”. In fact over 3,000 prints can be produced before new paper needs loading.

“We believe this lab has ‘evolved to perfection’. It’s the de facto best quality, highest capacity industrial build dry minilab on the market. It’s also got one of the best ‘up time’ records of them all; forget downtime, we talk about up time..”

–PhotoXport MD Derek Fieldhouse Evolved to perfection

From Leicester to the Shetlands: Camera Centre MD Ben Mullay tells us the Green II’s quality has been “well received” by customers, adding: “In terms of getting the machine to us, the installation and training, I couldn’t fault PhotoXport!”

“The Green II’s cassette-loading capability is another unique feature and key selling point, ensuring ease of use,” outlines PhotoXport’s Derek Fieldhouse. “The other it is that it allows for the automatic sorting of prints. We believe this lab has ‘evolved to perfection’. It’s the de facto best quality, highest capacity industrial build dry minilab on the market. It’s also got one of the best ‘up time’ records of them all; forget downtime, we talk about up time, because we have a

machine running that hasn’t gone down once in a year.”

See the Green II video at: youtu.be/0BPCnR5Zpvo

Want to talk business?

Talk to Derek As to the cost of installing a Green II into your business, PhotoXport is, to quote Derek, ‘always doing deals’. Get in touch now on 0116 2675907 to find out how you can offer your customers a premium quality product at a very competitive price.

The retail advantage of going Green Retailers who have migrated from traditional silver halide Agx wet printing to Noritsu dry labs are impressed with the significant increase in print quality, and usually their consumers have noticed too.

One business that has recently installed this rangetopping machine is The Camera Centre, based in the Shetland Isles and run by Managing Director Ben Mullay (on left).

“Obviously as we’re in a remote location, the reliability of any lab we choose is always a concern,” says Ben when asked why he chose the pairing of Noritsu and PhotoXport in particular. “If the print head was to fail then we’d be out of action. As well as the future proof element, the Green II just suits the nature of our business and the volume of stuff we’re doing, as well as offering the ability to do cards and photobooks and added value items like that. It’s more of a ‘photo machine’; it’s a special bit of kit and that is confirmed by the picture quality, which is much more photo-realistic than our previous lab. It even renders pictures from mobile phones really well and does as good a job as it can with them.

“In terms of getting the machine to us, the installation and training, I couldn’t fault PhotoXport. They were brilliant.

We made the good decision to shut the shop for the day so their engineer could train everybody up at the same time, which was preferable to being constantly interrupted, and everyone got on well. Over the next few weeks we’ll be making the most of the added value products this machine can do like the 12x36 panoramic prints and greeting cards in time for Christmas.

That was part of the thinking behind getting the machine now; so we could be fully up to speed with it before Christmas and get cracking. I also really like that the gloss and the matt give a nice choice of surfaces, which have been well received by customers.” www.photoxport.com

Want to know more? Contact PhotoXport, exclusive UK distributor for Noritsu on 0116 2675907 @bpi_news

BPI News | October 2017 15

BPI NEWS PRODUCT FOCUS

ROTOLIGHT NEO 2: A ‘SEQUEL’ THAT ACTUALLY DELIVERS We visit Pinewood Studios – home to the Star Wars sequels, Bond and British lighting specialist Rotolight – to view another potential classic in the Neo 2, a small light capable of big results. MD Rod Aaron Gammons and photographic ambassadors Jason Lanier and Simeon Quarrie also tell us how this sequel improves on the original…

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ack in the summer of 2015 we covered the launch of Rotolight’s revolutionary Neo portable LED light in BPI News. Two years on, with us having witnessed subsequent launches of the larger, game changing Anova PRO in 2016 and the amazingly slim yet powerful AEOS location light – nestling between the Neo and the Anova PRO – in May this year, it’s now joined in swift succession by a new, improved Neo 2.

With the company celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, Rotolight’s Managing Director Rod Aaron Gammons introduced the sequel to us as something it had developed to be ‘a revolution not an evolution’ – an on-camera (or off-camera) light that was capable of being used for both stills and video. “At Rotolight we think there is a better way,” noted Rod, adding: “the Neo 2 is the brightest on-camera light ever launched.”

The beauty is that, like its bigger brother in the AEOS, the new Neo 2 can be utilised as both a continuous light source and an HSS (High Speed Sync) flash with no recycle time; meaning that, uniquely, it can keep

pace with the high speed burst modes of the latest premium digital cameras. Capable of shooting at 1/8000th sec, “it will never miss a moment,” according to Rod. “Photographers told us they want an LED that can flash. There is no other light in the world that can keep up.”

Something else that’s never been done before is the Neo 2’s ability to offer adjustable colour temperature for flash, plus when shooting in continuous mode.

‘The brightest on-camera light ever launched’ The Neo 2 is an impressive 85% brighter than the original, while featuring adjustable dimming.

Optional extras include a softbox and barn doors. Like the original model, there are also built-in special CineFX options for filmmakers, so again it’s as much a tool for videographers as it is for portrait and location photographers.

Enhancements this time around include the addition of gunshot, neon and paparazzi effects.

A crucial new addition however

Introducing the Neo 2 (L to R): Rotolight MD Rod Aaron Gammons, videographer Simeon Quarrie, Elinchrom CEO Simon Whittle, photographer/ brand ambassador Jason Lanier

is a built-in Elinchrom Skyport 2.4Ghz HSS Wireless Flash Receiver; enabling it to control up to 10 lights in four groups at 200 metres.

“The Neo 2 will never miss a moment.

Photographers told us they want an LED that can flash. There is no other light in the world that can keep up.”

– Rotolight MD Rod Aaron Gammons

Existing Anova and AEOS owners are eligible for a free receiver with the purchase of a transmitter.

According to Elinchrom’s CEO Simon Whittle: “We wanted to open Skyport to third parties.

We optimised our transmitter for Rotolight. They are a highly innovative company, with a unique set of industry first products, and we were very excited to work with them when they approached us to integrate Skyport technology.

The integration is great for both companies.” Rotolight is further offering a 20% discount for original

For more on the new Neo 2 portable LED, direct your browser at www.rotolight.com 16 October 2017 | BPI News

www.bpinews.co.uk

ROTOLIGHT NEO 2 LIGHT PROMOTION

Beauty in the eye of the beholder: Tell your customers the Neo 2 is perfect for stunning portraiture, as these two images by Jason Lanier expertly reveal

“I was really shocked at how well it did. I tested the Neo 2 on a Sony A6500 at 11 frames per second. It fired every single time.

There’s genuinely no recycle time, no light loss, no power loss.

That is just a game changer.”

– Photographer Jason Lanier

photographer Jason Lanier, also a Sony Artisan, plus film-maker Simeon Quarrie, a Canon ambassador.

“I was really shocked at how well it did,” remarked Jason of his initial testing of the Neo 2. “I tested the Neo 2 on a Sony A6500 at 11 frames per second. It fired every single time.

There’s genuinely no recycle time, no light loss, no power loss. That is just a game changer; there is no other light in the world that can do that. No recycle time is incredibly important.

Plus the fact that we can change white balance when we’re shooting is huge. As photographers we have ‘GAS’ – Gear Acquisition Syndrome – but it’s not just about having the biggest amount of light, but also the right amount of light. As photographers we need gear that works, and the fact that with the Neo 2 we have an all-inoption is liberating.”

Noting that it was perfect for filming corporate interviews and short films, filmmaker Simeon Quarrie clearly echoed Jason’s thoughts:

Rotolight Neo 2 advantages at a glance: n All-in-one High Speed Synch flash and continuous light for photographers and film-makers n Unlike traditional on-camera flash, there is no recycling time, thereby helping photographers to never miss a shot n Can be simultaneously used as a modeling light and HSS flash n Rotolight has collaborated with Elinchrom to integrate its Skyport 2.4Ghz HSS wireless flash receiver into the product n Adjustable colour temperature in both flash and continuous modes n Provides 85,000 full power flashes on a single set of rechargeable AA batteries, compared to the 200 flashes of a typical speedlight

Bright star: The new Neo2 has ramped up the available output, now includes the ability to flash, plus features a built-in Elinchrom Skyport 2.4Ghz HSS Wireless Flash Receiver

Neo owners seeking to upgrade to the second generation before December 31st.

Being portable, power for the Neo 2 is obviously a big consideration.

But, again, here it impresses, delivering 85,000 full power flashes from 6xAA batteries. Rotolight recommends using Powerex Pro batteries, with whom it has formed a partnership, thereby enabling it to offer perfectly-suited Rotolight Lionheart AA batteries in packs of six.

The Neo 2 is available for purchase as a single light at an affordable SRP

of £299 inc VAT. Alternatively there is a three light kit priced at £1,375, which includes stands and hard flight case. Shipping was from the end of September, so the new Neo will be available by the time you read this.

‘Shocked at how well it did’ Designed for portrait photographers and videographers ‘on the go’, at the launch of the Rotolight Neo 2 we were also treated to talk and demonstrations from two of Rotolight’s ambassadors – pro

n 85% brighter in continuous light mode than its predecessor “What’s important is absolute flexibility. We now have the power to document on the go, as both photographers and film-makers as well.”

As usual with Rotolight, good competitive margins are available to trade partners; call Rotolight now on 01753 422 750 or Digital Distribution (for independent photo dealers) on 01442 230022.

Email sales@ddltd.co.uk to get info and pricing. www.rotolight.com

n Features Rotolight’s CineFX plus AccuColour LED technology that delivers outstanding colour rendering for perfect skin tomes n Available as a single light including belt pouch, accessory shoe, power supply and four-piece filter pack, or as three light kit with hard flight case, stands and ball heads n Optional accessories include softboxes, rain covers and a 10 piece colour filter pack

Independent retailers should get in touch with Digital Distribution on 01442 230022 or email sales@ddltd.co.uk @bpi_news

BPI News | October 2017 17

MINILAB NEWS

THE WONDER STUFF: DYNAMIC DUO REAP REWARD OF FUJIFILM MEMBERSHIP

BPI News meets two award-winning photo businesses – Razzaq Digital in Harrow and Click Click in Bishop’s Stortford – whose profits are on the up as a direct result of membership of Fujifilm’s Digital Imaging Service network. Both are further transforming their photo retail environments, by trialing contemporary ideas taken from Fujifilm’s international Wonder Photo Shop concept…

T

o stay ahead of the competition it’s important to review your business and, if necessary, make changes from time to time. Each year, Fujifilm’s print division rewards members of its UK-wide network doing just that, at its Business Endeavour Awards, held in March.

“The marketing advice and support Fujifilm give independents was the push that we needed and one we’ve never regretted – Fuji have been great and have helped us with everything. So much so that we’re now opening a second store in October.”

– Sumi Hasan, Razzaq Digital Bagging ‘BEA’s this year – and not for the first time either – were Razzaq Digital in Harrow (also crowned ‘Shop of the Year’ in 2016), and Click Click in Bishop’s Stortford.

We caught up with both to discover what makes them winners in the photo processing and fulfillment game and how they are upping the ante by trialing ideas culled from the manufacturer’s steadily expanding ‘Wonder Photo Shop’ concept, which gives a fresh, modern, urban makeover to the retail environment.

“We signed up with Fujifilm’s Digital Imaging Service network in 2012, on the back of a meeting at Focus On Imaging,” recalls Manager Sumi Hasan of Razzaq Digital (www. razpics.com). “Before becoming a photography shop we used to be a stationery business. My brother

Getting more out of your store: Razzaq Digital (owners Sumi and Hassan pictured centre of group shot) is giving its interior a make over to move from this…

Hassan decided we should go into photography because that was my hobby, so we opened a small lab facility. We met with Fujifilm’s Paul Henry at Focus and found out all about the marketing advice and support they give independents. It was the push that we needed at the time and one we’ve never regretted – Fuji have been great and have

…to closer to this! The clean contemporary ‘urban’ feel of Fujifilm’s Wonder Photo Shop concept (as adapted by Independent store Annex in Canada, shown here by way of example).

helped us with everything.

So much so that we’re now opening a second store in October, in the Pavilion Shopping Centre in Uxbridge. We’re hoping to trial the Wonder Photo concept.

“We’ve already refurbished our current store in Harrow quite a few times. Fujifilm’s business expert Wendy Gray has visited on several

occasions and said ‘I don’t like this, or I don’t like that’, so we’ve been taking it in our stride and changing things over. As a result we’ve been winning awards from Fujifilm for the past five years, including Shop of the Year last year.

“Awards are very important.

We give them pride of place in the shop so customers know straight

Boost your print sales in 2017! Get in touch with Peter direct on 01234 572138 or via photoprintservices_UK@fujifilm.com 18 October 2017 | BPI News

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FUJIFILM DIGITAL IMAGING SERVICE PROMOTION

away that if Fujifilm are giving us these awards it must mean that our services are good and that we’re able to provide fantastic products.

And it also gives a little push and motivation to staff to try to be the best every year. The market is quite difficult for the independent retailer, so what we focus on is service – that’s our motto. We have to get it right as soon as the customer walks in the store, so that they keep coming back to us. We do try to be consistent.”

With four full time staff, including Sumi herself and brother Hassan, plus two part timers, Razzaq Digital remains very much a family business. “But it’s not going to remain that way much longer when we move into Uxbridge – because we’ve run out of family,” Sumi laughs. “Hassan and I are both going to spend a few months getting the second store up and running, so we’ll have two extra full time staff in both of the stores.”

It seems very much like, despite challenging times for the photo market, with the backing and encourage of Fujifilm, this is a business on the up. “My brother and I have always been adventurous,” she agrees. “Business is doing good because we’ve been pushing it, but it was becoming routine, to be honest, so we decided to up our game. A shopping centre means that a lot more people will discover us. With our Harrow store, people are visiting us because they specifically want our product. We’ve been trying for the last year to find another location and this one just came up and seemed to work.

But even in our Harrow store, new shelving and new images have gone up in the past few months.

“We were invited to visit the Wonder Photo Shop in Barcelona and are presently putting our heads together to envisage how the new store could look, according to the Wonder Photo concept. What’s coming back into fashion is a lot of wood and brickwork and the whole ‘arty’ side; that’s the next step for us.

Fujifilm have been fantastic in terms of inspiration. We’ve literally come back and said ‘we want to do this, we want to do that’. When people see hanging lights, wooden crates and artistic stuff on the walls, it’s going to be a wow factor for people coming into the store.”

An idea that just Clicks: Similarly inspired by the Wonder Photo Shop concept, Bishop’s Stortford’s Click Click - which only became an FDIS member 12 months ago is already an award winner. Main pic: Lindsey Trundle (centre) flanked by colleagues Sophie on left and Rose on her right.

Click Click to win, win Also winning a Business Endeavour Award from Fujifilm earlier this year was Click Click, based in Bishop’s Stortford in Hertfordshire. Owner Lindsey Trundle is as proactive as Razzaq Digital when it comes to spotting opportunity and moving things forward – both of which she’s been aided and abetted in

by Fujifilm.

“We were re-branded as a Fujifilm store last July and had our big open day last September,” recalls Lindsey, adding that over the past 12 months: “we’ve definitely seen an increase in customers and an increase in turnover. I think that’s partly down to branding and partly down to the support we’ve had from Fujifilm, with help in finding new products and services.

We had a wet lab before, which died, and prompted the change.

But if we’d realised the benefits earlier – what its capabilities were and the difference it could make to us as a store – we would have gone with Fujifilm maybe two or three years ago.

“Wendy Gray has been over a couple of times – and since she knows what she’s talking about we’ve taken on quite a few of her suggestions. For example, changing the ‘flow’ of the shop and moving displays around so they make more sense in terms of certain products sitting closer to like-minded products. Wendy is very into her figures, so we now keep figures for basically

everything. We know exactly who our customer is and their average spend. For example, we can now pinpoint that on a Sunday our top customer is a male between the age of 25 and 45, which really helps when deciding which promotions to run at what time. Generally our top customer is female between 25 and 45 – our core customer base is mothers with young children.

The Fujifilm Imagine app works really well for us. We talk them through what can be done on the kiosks and then tell them that, actually, they can do all that at home while the child is at school.

For them it’s a godsend.”

that extra spend, Lindsey has considered the attractiveness of her in-store displays – and, like Sumi at Razzaq Digital – is a recent returnee from visiting the Wonder Photo Shop in Barcelona, alongside fellow retailers and Fujifilm UK staff. “It’s about not just being an old fashioned photo lab but a ‘destination’ retail store that feels good,” she surmises.

“That’s the direction in which we’re progressing now.”

It sounds like the past year has seen a big change for the Bishops Stortford store – in a positive way. “We’ve gone from being a very clinical photo lab

“Over the past 12 months we’ve definitely seen an increase in customers and an increase in turnover. I think that’s partly down to branding and partly down to the support we’ve had from Fujifilm.”

– Lindsey Trundle, Click Click In terms of which products are big sellers for Lindsey, she notes that the traditional mainstay of frames is, along with passport photos and general prints and enlargements. “Sometimes people will come in just initially wanting a few prints off their phone and end up ordering 500 prints. You just don’t know. Or someone might end up ordering three 20x16’s and buying three frames. The size and amount of our orders is really very diverse.”

Naturally, in order to tempt

where we’re wearing white gloves to handle negatives, to evolving into a modern, trendy retail store to attract the younger customer, and somewhere that looks and feels good when they enter so they’ll want to stick around a bit longer. We’re going to go for a contemporary finish with blackboards above the kiosks – we have three of the latest ones – but rather than doing a little bit here, and there, we’re going to wait until we’re ready to do it all.

I’m nearly there!”

To discover how being part of Fujifilm’s dealer network could also inspire and enrich your own business, call Peter Wigington on 01234 572138 or email photoprintservices_UK@fujifilm.com

Boost your print sales in 2017! Get in touch with Peter direct on 01234 572138 or via photoprintservices_UK@fujifilm.com @bpi_news

BPI News | October 2017 19

NEWS

AS ENTRIES FLOOD IN for next year’s Sony World Photography Awards, which has become one of the most prestigious showcases this past decade (images by the latest hopefuls showcased here), the organisers have released the names of the jurors who will be passing judgement. They comprise: Mike Trow, Picture Editor for British Vogue; Naomi Cass, Director of Australia’s Centre for Contemporary Photography; Sue Davies, OBE,

Founder of The Photographer’s Gallery UK; Gareth Harris, Chief Contributing Editor, The Art Newspaper; Dewi Lewis of Dewi Lewis Publishing, plus Philip Tinari, Director for the Ullens Centre for Contemporary Art, China.

The closing date for entries to next year’s awards – its 11th

year – is December 4th 2017 for Student Focus, January 4th 2018 for Open, Youth and National Award competitions, and January 11th 2018 for the Professional competition. Entry is free.

The Awards’ winning and shortlisted photographers can enjoy global exposure, in addition to cash

prizes, the latest digital imaging equipment from Sony and inclusion in global exhibitions. New for 2018 is that award winners can also secure a grant from Sony to fund their future photographic projects. www.worldphoto.org/ sony-world-photography-awards

MANFROTTO TAKES IT TO THE STREET IN A BUSY MONTH of acquisitions for Manfrotto and the Vitec Group, the brand has added five new models of bags to its Manfrotto NX and Street Bag collections, said to meet the needs of enthusiasts and advanced hobbyist photographers.

The new options in the Street series include the Sling/Waist pack (right), which can reportedly hold a premium CSC or entry level DSLR with standard zoom attached, plus two additional lenses. With adjustable inner dividers, it can also house a DJI Mavic drone with remote and other accessories. SRP is £59.95.

The alternative in the Street Pouch (below left) can safely hold

a CSC with lens attached and up to two additional lenses or an entry level DSLR with standard zoom attached. Furthermore the Pouch can also be slipped into any choice of bag. SRP is £19.95.

Next up is the Street Strap, described as an ‘essential’ piece of kit for photographers who like to be ready to shoot with their CSC or premium compact when on

the move. The strap also features a lens cap or extra battery holder, at a suggested £9.95.

The two new models in the NX range meanwhile are the NX CSC backpack (below) and the NX CSC Messenger (below right). The former can transport a premium CSC with standard zoom lens attached and up to three additional lenses (or a 70200mm f/4 lens), or alternatively an

entry level DSLR with lens attached and two further lenses. Secure rear access helps ensure gear remains safe while there is the ability to transport a DJI Mavic Pro drone and a dedicated compartment for a 9.7-inch iPad Pro is further provided.

The camera insert is removable, thus allowing it to be transformed into a practical daypack. SRP is £59.95.

Finally, the NX CSC Messenger can hold a standard compact system camera with lens attached plus two additional lenses, or a premium CSC with lens attached plus additional lens for £39.95 SRP. www.manfrotto.co.uk

BPI News is your mouthpiece to the industry. Send your news to info@bpinews.co.uk 20 October 2017 | BPI News

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Pictures (left to right): © Songshen Jiang • © Anastasia Kaloshina • ©Shirly Pricillia

JUDGEMENT DAY: WORLD PHOTO AWARDS’ JURY CHOSEN

BPI NEWS PRODUCT FOCUS

DPS GROUP INSPIRES EPSON EAGLE TO TAKE FLIGHT This month BPI News hears about how the proactive nature of the DPS Group has inspired Epson to issue a regular newsletter to its trade partners – whilst DPS’ own customers can take advantage of a current Epson three year warranty promotion that includes its powerful P8000 printer…

T

he Epson Eagle has taken flight – or rather the cartoon mascot that adorns its new dealer newsletter has – said newsletter being an idea apparently inspired by Epson re-seller the DPS Group’s MD Maneesh Patel. “I saw what Canon was achieving via its newsletters and thought it was time Epson had its own,” he reasons. “Luckily they agreed and now the trade can stay better informed of Epson products and deals…’

Talking of such deals, there is currently a three-year warranty being offered on Epson P-series printers, including the workhorse SureColor SC-P8000. This is a 44inch printer acclaimed throughout the industry as being capable of consistent output – encompassing accurate and long lasting professional

“Take advantage of Epson’s time limited three year extended warranty offer. Speak to us to discover how the SC-P8000 may make for the perfect partner to your print or photo business. Or better still drop by in person and receive a demo before you buy.”

– DPS Group MD Maneesh Patel photographs, fine art prints and proofs on a variety of media.

As those in the trade will know, the reliable workhorse of the SCP8000 comes with an eight-colour UltraChrome HD pigment-based ink set. The printer is said to boast very good short-term stability, large colour gamut, plus is capable of neutral or toned black and white reproduction.

Ideal for producing professional prints and fine art, the printer is especially adept at replicating natural skin colours on matte media. Building upon Epson’s market reputation, it’s no surprise that the P8000 is said to ensure highly accurate prints with colours that will remain consistent throughout the print run.

“Speak to us to discover how the SC-P8000 may make for the perfect partner to your print or photo business,” enthuses the DPS Group’s Maneesh Patel. “Or better still give us a call to arrange dropping by in person and receiving a demo before you buy. You’ll want to make sure

The Epson P8000 - available with a 3 year warranty for limited period - features an Ultrachrome HD 8-colour ink set for superior results, as shown here

you do this as soon as possible to subsequently take advantage of the extended three year warranty deal – available for a limited period only!”

For more on its high-end printers, interested parties may also want to take a look at Epson’s site dedicated to photographers, which can be found at www.epson.co.uk/ forthemoment and which showcases many of the additional printers that the DPS Group can provide to the photo trade, including the P5000, P6000, P7000 and P9000 models.

The 44-inch P8000, just one of the Epson printers available via UK re-seller the DPS Group, now comes with a three year warranty for a very limited period - so get your order in now!

Key Epson SureColor SC-P8000 features at a glance:

Book an appointment now to demo the Epson P8000 There’s nothing better than getting hands-on with a product before deciding whether it’s a perfect match for your business’ print requirements.

Get in touch with the DPS Group team now to book a showroom appointment and take advantage of the time limited three year warranty deal at the same time for added peace of mind.

Get in touch now: Trade members interested in ordering an Epson SC-P8000 or booking a visit to the DPS Group’s showroom are strongly advised to contact Maneesh Patel or Gary Crawley on 0208 466 7230, or email sales@dpsb.co.uk

n 44-inch desktop printer n UltraChrome HD 8 colour pigment based ink set, including light black n Pantone certified colour reproduction n Outputs prints with light fastness of 60-70 years n Front access to media and cartridges for ease of use n Versatile media support n Competitive printing speeds

Get in touch about the time-limited warranty deal on the P8000 and related printers. Call 020 8466 7230 or email sales@dpsb.co.uk @bpi_news

BPI News | October 2017 21

THE BIG INTERVIEW

‘WE’RE CONFIDENT WE’LL PROVIDE AN IMPROVED PHOTOKINA’ With big changes afoot in Cologne, we present an exclusive interview with Photokina’s new Director Christoph Menke, credited as playing a lead role in creating the new concept for the leading trade fair, as it moves to a new yearly schedule from 2018…

B

ack in our June issue we reported that Europe’s biggest photo show, Photokina, would become a yearly event from 2018, and be shorter too, at four days in duration. In addition, from 2019 it will also be shifting its long-held slot in the calendar, from September to May. This means that after many

decades as a biennial show, the next two Photokina’s will barely have eight months between them.

Such revolutionary changes coincided with the appointment of a new Director for Photokina in 32 year-old Christoph Menke, who has worked for Koelnmesse since 2012.

“In recent years, Christoph

“Such big changes create some surprise and in our case also much understanding. Many upcoming imaging technologies have significantly shorter innovation cycles than the established capture technologies. To offer these industries a suitable exhibition platform, the answer can only be a shorter cycle.”

Menke has proved his expertise in creating concepts for trade fair events at Koelnmesse’s Corporate Development. He played a key role in creating the new face of Photokina,” Koelnmesse CEO Katharina C. Hamma tells us. “Thanks to his strong conceptualising ability and his sensitivity to innovative, technologyoriented trade fair trends, he brings with him exactly the skills that are needed to successfully move Photokina forward in the future.”

Naturally, it seemed that this was a man we needed to speak with, to discover the inside track on one of the biggest photo industry shakeups in years.

BPI News: What has the reaction from the international photo trade been to the news that Photokina will be a yearly event from 2018?

Christoph Menke: So far the responses are mostly positive. Budgets and logistics are certainly issues which have to be dealt with, and we expect a transition process to adjust to the yearly dates. We are confident that the changes we are making will provide an improved Photokina for exhibitors and attendees alike.

Q: Has there been surprise about the change, given the event’s long, long history and, until now, biennial schedule?

Photokina returns in September 2018, running from Wednesday 26th to Saturday the 29th; then, as of 2019, moves 22 October 2017 | BPI News

www.bpinews.co.uk

TALK OF THE TRADE

period of adjustment, but eventually we are going to prove that an annual Photokina offers great opportunities for the entire community.

Also, when we are looking at the world of imaging, the traditional photo market is part of a branch that has become a lot more significant, more diverse and more dynamic over the past few years, and shows no sign of slowing down. This branch deserves an annual business and communication platform like Photokina.

Q: What was the thinking behind moving the show from September - a period in which many traditional camera companies still announce launches for the Christmas that follows - to May instead? Anything to do with desire to avoid clashing with other trade shows like iFA? The switch to the May dates starting in 2019 is the result of conversations with key accounts from all segments. The feedback we received indicated that the May dates will provide an ideal time frame to fully take advantage of international demand, before the start of the summer season.

As Europe’s - arguably the world’s - biggest photo show, Photokina is refocusing on imaging in all its ever-evolving shapes and forms in order to continue drawing the crowds...

Of course, such big changes create some surprise and in our case also much understanding. Many upcoming imaging technologies today have significantly shorter innovation cycles than the established capture technologies. For instance, the software industry has always been characterised by short development cycles. VR/AR and mobile technologies are constantly reinventing themselves. To offer these industries a suitable exhibition

platform, the answer can only be a shorter cycle. And as for those industries that do have longer innovation cycles, they are looking for ways to stay in the minds of consumers and create opportunities to encounter and test their products, a service that cannot be provided online.

Q: Given that many commentators have suggested the traditional photo market has contracted in recent years and we’ve seen lots of challenges in terms of camera sales, is a yearly show sustainable?

Exhibitors will have to find the budget to support the event every year now, instead of every two years...

We are fully aware that an annual event will be challenging for our exhibitors in terms of budget and other resources. However, we are convinced that an annual showcase of the industry creates great benefits for our exhibitors and their relationship with existing and potential new customers. Perhaps we will see some sizing down in that

Q: Can we expect exhibitors to continue to schedule their new product announcements around the show, as they do currently?

Yes we can, plus the new yearly cycle offers companies much more flexibility to schedule and present their product innovations on the best stage possible; the world’s leading imaging show. Until now, companies either had to use other (yearly) shows to announce their products, or stage their own presentation in between two Photokina shows. So we are actually expecting to see more new product announcements in the future, not less.

Q: Should traditional camera companies be concerned by the increased desire to focus on technologies that are related to imaging, but perhaps a bit less tangible, like cloud computing, the smart home, social media and Virtual Reality?

This is an opportunity for traditional camera companies, not a threat. We’re expanding their highlight event to technology segments that are inevitably part

of the imaging world anyway, and therefore make the show more attractive for everyone. As an imaging platform, we need to embrace those new technologies, building on the unchangeable brand core that is always the traditional camera industry.

Q: Does this make Photokina 2018 and beyond as much about consumer electronics and scientific innovation, as photography? Is it, in any way, becoming ‘less’ about photography?

Photokina is not becoming less about photography, it is becoming more about imaging in its entirety.

Since imaging technologies have entered so many other industries, the product range shown at Photokina inevitably will broaden. However, consumer electronics is a broad field and there are plenty of international shows for that. Photokina is all and only about imaging and imagingrelated technologies, and it will stay that way.

Q: Finally, what can we expect from Photokina 2018 and why should we already be getting excited by the prospect?

It will, once again, be the meeting point for imaging enthusiasts from all over the world. You will see exciting technological advances and all new dimensions of imaging. You will be able to test the newest products on the market, compare them, and discuss them with manufacturers, colleagues and peers alike. You will discover that imaging might not end at the point of the horizon that, so far, many of us haven’t been able to look beyond. And ultimately, you can look forward to spending wonderful days in Cologne, which never fails to be a grand stage for the most important imaging trade fair in the world.

For more, point your browser at www.photokina.com

to an earlier slot in the yearly calendar: May 8th to 11th. Keep up with latest developments at www.photokina.com @bpi_news

BPI News | October 2017 23

NEWS

Canon camcorder offers ‘ultimate’ in 4K PASSIONATE VIDEO ENTHUSIASTS are being targeted

by Canon with its Legria GX10 camcorder, described as offering advanced capabilities via its facility to record video in 4K at 50p.

Capturing up to 100fps, it also allows your customers to produce a variety of content, from time-lapse footage to 0.25x slow motion effects.

Also worth noting is that the manufacturer claims it is the first camcorder with a 1-inch sensor to integrate Canon’s Dual Pixel CMOS AF technology. Attendant features include three optical ND filters offering two, four or eight stops of

exposure control, plus a 15x zoom lens and 5-axis in-camera image stabilisation. Dual SD card slots, tilt adjustable viewfinder, Wi-Fi connectivity and long battery life are also promised. www.canon.co.uk

World’s smallest studio light THAT’S THE CLAIM being made

by Profoto for its new ‘A1’ device.

The other is that its round head delivers light that is both natural and beautiful, with a pleasingly soft/smooth fall-off. A magnetic mount built into the head allows for light shaping tools and modifiers to clicked on and taken off just as quickly, it adds. With a user interface that’s described as simple and intuitive, this is a device that Profoto says has been designed to punch above its weight. It has a built-in lithium ion battery said to last four times longer than AA batteries and with no fade in performance.

Whilst the A1 is Profoto’s first oncamera solution, as well as being the smallest flash it’s ever made, it can also be just as effective used offcamera, suggests its manufacturer.

Versatility is provided via built-in Air remote, which enables the unit to offer seamless connectivity with freestanding lights, such as another A1 or Profoto’s bigger lights, like the B1X. It’s compatible with Canon and Nikon on launch, with a Sony fit to follow at a later date. For more head to: www.profoto.com

PANASONIC GH5 ‘ENHANCED’

BY FIRMWARE UPGRADE DIRECT YOUR CUSTOMERS to the news that there is a new Ver2.0 Firmware upgrade available for the electronic outfit’s flagship digital camera in the DC-GH5. The company says the latest version addresses feedback from its users and delivers enhanced functionality.

As well as tweaks affecting those who use the camera primarily for shooting video – such as the ability to now record 18 effective megapixel images in Anamorphic video recording mode, plus 4K HDR video recording – the unit’s auto focus performance has been further improved for capturing low contrast subjects. There is also newfound compatibility with Lumix Tether PC software, to enable tethered shooting via USB, plus improved usability governing time lapse shooting, the electronic viewfinder’s Power Save function, and a shortening of the waiting time (by 50%) between one burst shooting sequence and the next (in 6K Photo and 4K Photo modes). Direct your customers to the below URL to grab the upgrade. http://panasonic.jp/support/global/cs/dsc/

CITIZEN’S MAIN EVENT

CITIZEN PHOTO HAS ANNOUNCED an updated version of its Event Photo software, designed, it says, for not just event photographers but anyone looking to drive their photo business to the next level.

During Autumn/Winter 2017, Citizen is including a free demo disk within the packaging of every new printer from across its range, which will allow users to trial Event Print and two other software titles, along with the benefit of a 20% discount for a subsequent purchase of Event Print.

For example, also featured on the

CD is ID Photos Pro 8, Professional ID software for passport, Visa and other official ID photographs, with a built-in database with over 250 ID formats, covering more than 80 countries.

The free disk likewise offers a trial of DryLab System software, which provides a Citizen Photo printer with functions you might expect on a professional minilab. Drylab System provides quick corrections and printing even for large groups of photographs. www.citizen-systems.com

BPI News is your mouthpiece to the industry. Send your news to info@bpinews.co.uk 24 October 2017 | BPI News

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Boost your kiosk numbers at an amazing price.

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Just two of the many great hardware offers we have available Contact Tetenal today to discuss all your photo lab requirements © 2017 Kodak Alaris Inc. The Kodak and Kodak Moment trademarks and Kodak trade dress are used under license from Eastman Kodak Company.

Tetenal Limited | TEL: 0116 289 3644 | marketing@tetenal.uk.com | www.tetenaluk.com

NEWS

TAMRON’S ‘TELE’ HAS New Sales Director for Canon MAGNESIUM FLAIR UK and Ireland A NEW SALES DIRECTOR has been appointed for Canon’s consumer imaging business. Ian Barnard (pictured) has a background as a Senior International Director, with the company reporting that he will be leading the sales of consumer and professional imaging products through multiple retail and B2B channels across the UK and Ireland, with the aim of further strengthening Canon’s position in the camera and video markets.

Ian joins Canon UK after more than two years as Global Sales and Operations Director at an imaging start-up company. He was previously at Sony Europe, where he fulfilled multiple high-profile positions

within sales and marketing functions.

“We’re delighted that Ian is joining us at this exciting time for the business, as we work closely with our customers and retail partners to transform and enhance our professional and consumer businesses,” says Matthew Searle, Country Director at Canon UK & Ireland. www.canon.co.uk

THIRD PARTY LENS MANUFACTURER Tamron – distributed by Intro2020 in the UK – has announced the development of a new ultra telephoto zoom lens for full frame cameras that nevertheless boasts a lightweight, compact design. The Tamron 100-400mm f/4.5-6.3 Di VC USD includes three LD (low Dispersion) lens elements and anti reflective coating.

At 1,115g, it is also said to be the lightest in its class and features magnesium material in key areas of the lens barrel to improve weight reduction, along with strength

and portability. Another boast is that this new lens delivers fast and precise autofocus performance and consistently powerful VC (Vibration Compensation), thanks to the highspeed Dual MPU (Micro-Processing Unit) control system that is found in the latest Tamron lens models.

Furthermore, the optic is fully compatible with Tamron’s 1.4x tele converter and in terms of accessories an Arca Swiss compatible tripod mount is available as an optional extra. Release date and pricing was still to be confirmed by Intro as we went to press. www.intro2020.co.uk

FLAGHEAD’S NEW STANDARD BEARERS

POOLE-BASED Flaghead Photographic Limited is touting stock of new Voigtlander lenses, plus a Tether Tools ‘Tether Block’ to protect the data connection of photographers when shooting tethered to a computer.

Available in black and/or silver (below, left & middle) and pitched at Nikon F mount DSLR owners, the 40mm f/2 SL II-S Ultron lens is Voigtlander’s third 40mm f/2 lens

and the second SLR lens with the ‘II-S’ title. As with the 58mm, the lens chassis – which boasts a full metal construction – sports signature ‘bunny ears’ and a nostalgic retro look. SRP is £479 inc VAT. Also new from Flaghead and Voigtlander is the £749 SRP Nokton 40mm f1.2 Aspherical lens (shown below, far right), described as a high-speed manual focus lens optimised for Sony full frame E-mount mirrorless cameras.

Boasting a compact size, the full frame 40mm lens with a large F1.2 aperture is described as a world’s first.

An optical formula featuring two elements, each with two aspherical surfaces, provides gentle out-offocus bokeh at maximum aperture.

The aperture ring also has click

stops in 1/3 steps, plus a click stop switching mechanism that enables the click stops to be turned off when shooting video.

The Tether Tools ‘Tether Block’ meanwhile is built in the USA from a single piece of precision milled T5 aerospace aluminium alloy.

This claimed to ensure that it is extremely durable while remaining lightweight and is covered by Tether Tools Lifetime Warranty.

Finally there’s a new Hedler Profilux LED 650 light (top, left) at £595.20 SRP, also available to order now. This flicker free continuous light is said to generate daylight quality light, with a light output power that equates to 650W. www.flaghead.co.uk

BACK UP TO ‘SPEED LAST MONTH FOTOSPEED hosted Foto Fest 2017, its day-long annual festival celebrating photography and print, now in its the second consecutive year. This year, the festival took place at the University of Bath, and featured talks from photographers Martin Hartley, Paul Sanders, Ben Hall, Colin Prior and Dave Kai-Piper.

Attendees were also joined by familiar brands including Kaiser, Canon, Panasonic and Lee Filters at the Foto Fest Marketplace, which gave photographers the opportunity to get exclusive deals on the latest products.

“We feel it’s very important that we take every opportunity to promote the importance of printing and to help bring together and inspire photographers who share this passion,” reckons Sales and Marketing Director at Fotospeed, Toby Herlinger. “We’re already really looking forward to 2018 and seeing how far we can take Foto Fest and inspire more people to print their photography”. www.fotospeed.com

BPI News is your mouthpiece to the industry. Send your news to info@bpinews.co.uk 26 October 2017 | BPI News

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PRODUCT OF THE MONTH

NEWS

PANASONIC GX80

STREET CREDIBILITY WEIGHT (GRAMS) MEGAPIXELS STILLS CAPABILITIES AUTO FOCUS POINTS FRAMES PER SECOND (RAW) FASTEST SHUTTER SPEED

65 426 16 HHH 49 8

1/16000 HH VIDEO CAPABILITIES 25,600 ISO T HIGHES H PRICE st grade, feature rich The ‘little brother’ to the enthusia tions.

GX8 but with reduced specifica

CANON 5D Mark II

3/7/17 14:03:19

Cards_FINAL_V3.indd 17

STREET CREDIBILITY WEIGHT (GRAMS) MEGAPIXELS STILLS CAPABILITIES AUTO FOCUS POINTS FRAMES PER SECOND (RAW) FASTEST SHUTTER SPEED VIDEO CAPABILITIES HIGHEST ISO PRICE

95 810 21.1 HHHH 9 3.9 1/8000 HHH 6,400 HHHH

The 5D is popular among profession al photographers because of its wide range of capabilitie s and robustness.

Cards_FINAL_V3.indd 1

WANT A BESTSELLER? IT’S ON THE CARDS… LOOKING FOR AN EASY SELLER you can keep on the counter top – and one that has ideal gifting potential as a stocking filler on the run up to Christmas? Then look no further than this clever, camera-themed ‘Clash of the Cameras’ card game that recalls the ‘trumps’ packs of old. Beautifully illustrated by Peter Levenspiel at Lens Lab, and with BPI News’ own Michael O’Connell involved, the idea was inspired by the fact that whilst there are loads of different card-based one-upmanship games

3/7/17 14:03:14

in the market, covering just about every topic, the camera industry was seemingly completely ignored.

The cards are pitched as suitable for camera lovers as well as being the perfect stocking filler for all ages, and offering potentially hours of fun playing famous cameras off against each other, SRP is £8.99.

Photo specialists interested in stocking a few packs to make the most of this crucial sales period should get in touch now via: peter@lenslab.co.uk www.lenslab.co.uk

Little idea with big potential ARE YOU A PHOTO RETAILER running a photo studio as part of your business, or maybe you’re looking to add a further string to your bow? ‘Photography for Little People’ is pitching itself as a time tested affordable business franchise with the emphasis on training and enabling – its founders, Jan Massey and Melanie Armstrong, were one of the first mobile newborn and baby studios, back in 2005. The pair suggest the franchise is easy to incorporate into a business plan, with good projections for future earnings and security. Photography for Little People also provides interested parties with a range of props, backgrounds and finished products so franchise samples can

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be shown – whilst it adds that a systematic and planned approach to the photography itself means no prior training is necessary.

For more, contact Jan Massey on 0800 622 6008 or email jan@photographyforlittlepeople.com

FUJIFILM X-E3

W

e’ve covered the launch and basic spec behind this camera over on page 8 of this issue. We also got to have a play with a working sample, so are able to present you with some impressions and sample images, as the camera makes it to stockists’ shelves this month.

Pitched as being a lifestyle camera for smartphone shooters looking to upgrade, when compared to others in the Fuji line up, we’d wager this is nevertheless also one for photo enthusiasts who love to get hands on – witness its rangefinder styled dials and knobs. It doesn’t have a selfie friendly flip-up back screen either – here the screen is flat to the rear plate and fixed. This tempts use of the eye level viewfinder with embedded dioptric adjustment wheel, whilst the larger screen below displays chosen settings. Again, this to us at least makes the camera feel like it’s been engineered for someone who likes to take their time over framing and capturing a photograph – rather than the point-and-shoot brigade.

Obviously street photographers and photojournalists would be an ideal audience for the X-E3.

The £849 body only suggested price also feels to us like something that would be more acceptable to the photo enthusiast than the casual photographer, especially when

factoring in a lens to go with it. We got to shoot with the camera in an interior space lit mainly by daylight via an overhead skylight on an overcast day. Photographing hand held, and bumping up the ISO to ISO1600 and beyond to compensate for any potential camera shake, we were rewarded with impressively sharp results, whether shooting with standard 18-55mm zoom or 23mm prime lens. The camera also feels the part in the hand; well built, without being prohibitively clunky or heavy.

So, in summary, if you have customers who have been waiting to move from a mid range consumer SLR to a mirror-less camera for a while, the X-E3 might just be the camera to finally help them make the switch. www.fujifilm.co.uk

Just our ‘type’: the X-E3 hits all the right keys when it comes to spec, build and performance, as these sample shots show

BPI News | October 2017 27

BPI NEWS BUSINESS ADVICE

BLACK

Black Friday that is… immediately followed in next month’s calendar by Cyber Monday.

Resident business expert Adam Bernstein explores 10 ways your business can win during this increasingly crucial trading period. We also canvas leading trade figures about what Black Friday means to them, and their businesses. Additional reporting by Gavin Stoker.

B

lack Friday – some love it, some hate it, most have little choice but to take part in it.

So considering that this American import is not going away, how can the trade meet the opportunity (or threat, depending on your perspective) face-on, to really make the most of the potential sales bonanza?

Open early, shut late There’s no doubt that while online commerce has cut a swathe through the physical sales channel, people still like to get touchy-feely with more discretionary purchases, especially those which are emotional, of which cameras and accessories are perfect examples.

We’ve all seen the TV coverage where retailers have opened early (or stayed open later) to meet the challenge of Black Friday; why not do the same? Assuming your offers

28 October 2017 | BPI News

are genuine and well publicised, you may get your hands on your customers’ spend before other traders do.

More and better online deals Black Friday is on 24th November this year. But there’s nothing to stop you having a week-long Black Friday promotion. In 2016, the Interactive Media in Retail Group (IMRG) found that of the top 100 retailers, 26 ran a promotion on the preceding Monday, 29 on the Tuesday, 37 on the Wednesday, 44 on Thursday, and 66 on Black Friday itself. Those that started early, would, one assumes, have sold more at the expense of others. This year IMRG is predicting Black Friday to be worth £7bn, so use the weeklong promotion to offer deals on a wider range than normal. If you don’t, someone else will.

“Black Friday is on 24th November this year. But there’s nothing to stop you having a week-long Black Friday promotion. Consider also exploiting ‘omni- channel’ retail, so that consumers can buy online, and, if necessary, return in-store.”

Consider also exploiting ‘omnichannel’ retail, so that consumers can buy online, and, if necessary, return in-store. While returns aren’t the ideal, they are a given feature of retail and those that make it easy for customers stand a better chance of a repeat visit in the future.

Focus on advertising Unless the world knows about your deals and Black Friday promotions, they’re not going to buy from you, no matter how good your offerings are. With the universal availability (and transparency) of the web, consumers are more acutely aware

of the power of retail advertising – they know Black Friday deals are to be had and may well actively hunt them down.

So don’t bury your offers in-store or online; have them screaming from the window, or your home page, preferably with an easy to navigate, no-nonsense section of their own. Consider being pro-active with your social media and see if Twitter, FaceBook and Instagram can help signpost your offers. Listen out carefully for any gripes that customers may have (grumpy sales staff, slow despatch, goods damaged in transit) and address them quickly and fairly.

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BLACK FRIDAY/ CYBER MONDAY SPECIAL

‘The busiest day of our year...’ The trade talk Black Friday & Cyber Monday

Barnaby Sykes, Head of Imaging Marketing at Panasonic UK

Barnaby Sykes, Head of Imaging Marketing at Panasonic UK, says it’s important to watch and monitor for trends, but, from a manufacturer’s perspective, “whether we need additional promotions during this period is sometimes hard to predict.” He’s quite clear, though, that while the world is moving online: “The event is still a big event for in-store business – especially in photo where touching and trying the products is important.”

But has Black Friday altered the buying season? Possibly he thinks, especially if demand is pulled forward from December, or, from early November, consumers simply delay their spend, in anticipation that possible bargains are on the way.

So is Black Friday worth getting involved in? Barney says ‘yes’, depending on your goals and ambitions as a brand, especially if you want to grow market share or profit.

Interestingly, Panasonic says it doesn’t try to influence Black Friday pricing because, as Barney puts it, “retailers are free to set their own pricing. In terms of marketing, we just always aim to ensure we are a brand on the consumers’ shopping list, so we are considered during the busy period.”

Theo Georghiades, General Manager, Electronic Imaging, Fujifilm UK, doesn’t overly worry about the impact of Black Friday: “Black Friday isn’t crucial to our business. We do not incorporate such events into budget planning, as offers for this period are decided closer to the time.” From his position, he sees Black Friday as leaving sales split relatively evenly – “I would say its approximately 50/50 in-store versus online.”

Despite recent rises in the popularity of Black Friday as a

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Theo Georghiades, General Manager, Electronic Imaging, Fujifilm UK

time to spend, Georghiades still considers that Christmas is much bigger and much more important overall, as “the Christmas period is spread over a wider timeframe.”

So, should manufacturers and retailers get involved with Black Friday? Fuji’s General Manager thinks so: “Of course, if there’s a strong offer a brand wants to promote, then there’s no better time to do this than Black Friday.

However, we try not to sacrifice products if we don’t need to.” He adds that Black Friday competition doesn’t seem to affect Fujifilm’s offering, because: “we concentrate on the best offer we have, rather than worrying too much about our competition.” Similarly, Georghiades says Black Friday doesn’t affect marketing plans for this period as “we leave this to the retailers to promote as they wish.”

The retail perspective Speaking of retailers, David Parkinson, MD of Wilkinson Cameras which hosts its own Digital Splash trade show this October, offers added insight: “Over the past couple of years we have seen a significant increase during this period, making it an important week for business and usually a good kick-start to Christmas; though, due to the bad press Black Friday has received in previous years, we now tend to market this period as ‘Winter Sale’, giving the POS a ‘Black’ look. We see 60% of business on the Black Friday/ Cyber Monday promotions transacted through our web site, with the rest through the stores.

With a little forward planning and buying, your pricing and more importantly margin does not need to be affected too much as many suppliers have stock they want to move.We decide on our own

David Parkinson, Managing Director of Wilkinson Cameras

strategy, plan it and activate it with as much professionalism as we can, making sure customers are aware of the promotions and offers. Putting a poster in the shop window and hoping for extra business is not a strategy.

David says the changing profile of products being sold means his company’s peaks in trading are changing. “Black Friday/ Cyber Monday generates a good level of interest with the bargain hunters and as many extra discounts are supported by the brands (for example double cash back / extra trade-in allowances). This can show the customers some genuine extra savings, resulting in some sales being brought forward. So use the brand offers as your headliners, plan key category offers across a limited range of products and you’ll be surprised how much extra business this will generate.

“The run up to Christmas no longer has the same level of interest, as many of our hardware products are out of the usual gift values. Our next key focus area will be the week between Christmas and New Year, as this can be a bigger week for business than the run up to the big day. With online sales starting on Christmas Day, customers always seem to find time to shop for a bargain.”

Fellow leading independent retailer CameraWorld, which has just opened its third store (see News this issue) and also hosts its own day-long event this month, likewise gets heavily involved in the Black Friday / Cyber Monday fourday bonanza. Director Tony Stent tells us: “You cannot avoid it really, so we fully embrace it and have done for the past few years. Black Friday is probably the busiest day of our year when hundreds of orders come flooding in. It’s all hands to the pumps! Proactive suppliers

Tony Stent, Director at CameraWorld

support it and we run our own offers in addition. Business is mostly done on the Friday, naturally, and it carries on over the weekend with a last minute peak on the Monday. If I was to pull a figure out of my head I would say 80% of business is done online – it probably is an online biased event generally.”

Tony notes that it’s crucial therefore to get your offers right.

“You’ve got to predict what everybody else is doing and try to be better. But there is such a buying frenzy on that day that you find yourselves selling things that aren’t even on offer. Customers think: ‘I’m going to buy on this day’ and already have in their mind what they want and the day they’re going to buy it. It has a positive effect in that it’s a massively successful event, even if everything is jammed into one narrow time period and it distorts your Christmas business.

I find it interesting when analysts say ‘December sales are down’. Well of course they’re down, because business has shifted to November!

“Although we start promoting Christmas in November, it’s probably halfway through December before it starts really picking up. And that’s only a week or two after Black Friday weekend. It’s the two weeks before Christmas it starts to go manic and then sales now start on Christmas eve. We switch into sales mode automatically at midnight, so the first few weeks of January are also manic.

“The difficult thing about Black Friday though is it’s so manic and it’s difficult to predict what’s going to fly, in terms of stock. You’ve got to have the right numbers.

Huge amounts of sales go through overnight. So it’s a tricky game to play, yet ultimately a tricky game worth playing. If it wasn’t worth doing we wouldn’t do it.”

BPI News | October 2017 29

BLACK FRIDAY/ CYBER MONDAY SPECIAL

Dress your shop/s While retail is about selling as much as possible at the highest possible margin – that’s capitalism for you – it’s also about the experience for the shopper. So tidy the shop, make the displays more enticing, use light to attractively showcase the special deals and place appropriate posters and advertising in the window.

World-renowned retailer Harry Selfridge once said: “Excite the mind, and the hand will reach for the pocket.” Make the in-store event as special as you can – with the caveat that you don’t want to have consumers fighting over product. You could offer free tea or coffee while they browse, or have something on hand to ‘entertain’ young bored children who, if they nag, will drag a parent out of your store without making a purchase.

Instil loyalty Black Friday is to some an unnecessary margin giveaway they’re forced to endure. However, it’s also an opportunity. Use it as a method to learn more about your customers, especially for online orders. In exchange for loyalty and the sharing of personal information that, with consent, can be used for marketing, offer consumers some form of loyalty scheme – say a 100 points for every £100 spent which they can convert into something useful at a rate that suits your business. So long as the consumer can see a realistic chance of getting some benefit, you’ll legitimately grow an email-able customer list.

Another option here is to send ‘existing customer only’ offers before the event. This could involve a sneak-peak on upcoming deals, together with extra discount (or future incentive) for buying from you rather than the competition.

“If consumers have logged in, but abandoned an online shopping cart, get the system to prompt them to complete the purchasing process with, say, a small discount or free shipping. Yes, you’ll lose some margin, but it’s better than 100% of nothing.”

Beat ‘showrooming’ Most retailers will have lost out to ‘showrooming,’ where expert in-store knowledge is sought before the consumer then buys elsewhere for less. You’ll never beat it entirely, but you can minimise your exposure to it by granting access to in-store promotions widely and in different ways. So offer unique products (with unique product codes), price match if you have to, give consumers free wi-fi so that they can see you’re the best deal (or that goods are out of stock elsewhere) – don’t give them a reason to leave. And make the checkout process as fast and simple (and easy on the eye) as possible, all so that consumers stay with you and spend with you.

‘Toys’ for all No doubt you’ll have products in different categories and at different price points. Your Black Friday deals should be spread among them all. There’s precious little point having only high-end SLRs on sale when consumers may also need filters and bags.

30 October 2017 | BPI News

Look at what your competitors are (temporarily) discounting and see if you can either match or beat them.

However, it’s worth keeping in mind that consumers are more likely to go to an independent for quality of service (unless they’ve already decided and need no advice). Here price will be a consideration but so will knowledge, your time and a friendly happy-to-help approach.

Make recommendations Black Friday is a great time to make suggestions and recommendations to customers who are on your mailing list. It’s entirely possible to spend thousands on printed catalogues, but it’s equally possible to spend minimal amounts with simple, well-prepared online communications. To do this well though, requires an insight into purchase histories – it’s exactly what Amazon does based on either purchases or viewing and search histories. And if consumers have logged in, but abandoned an online shopping cart, get the system to prompt them to complete the purchasing process with, say, a small discount or free shipping.

Yes, you’ll lose some margin, but it’s better than 100% of nothing.

Consider free shipping for Black Friday and Cyber Monday The ‘issue’ with Black Friday is that at this point in the calendar, more than at any other time, people are after ‘cheap’ and ‘free’. Like it or not, shoppers do like free shipping on goods (even if the cost is made up by slightly higher prices, albeit ones that are lower than normal overall).

Free shipping sells, as Amazon knows with its Prime membership programme. Alternatively, see what inexpensive (and low cost to you) yet related goodies you can throw in to sweeten deals and get the shopper to buy.

Be available Black Friday may create extra work for your business, but customers will still want to get in touch with questions. Whether by phone, email or online chat, make yourself available. The impatience quotient rises the more purely ‘digital’ society becomes; we’re all guilty of this.

Consumers who can’t get in touch lose confidence or go elsewhere.

Finally, do you want to know why it’s called Black Friday? Back in the day, when businesses used ink and paper to keep track of their profits and losses, red ink meant losses, black ink meant profits. Good luck.

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