Why do camera manufacturers insist on providing both still and video capabilities? I wonder why they don't focus on one or the other. I never use video, and some probably never use...

Urnst Loc: Brownsville, Texas

I wonder why they don't focus on one or the other. I never use video, and some probably never use still. Perhaps if manufacturers concentrated on one of the two functions they could develop better products. I appreciate any input you may offer.

leftj Loc: Texas

Urnst wrote:

I wonder why they don't focus on one or the other. I never use video, and some probably never use still. Perhaps if manufacturers concentrated on one of the two functions they could develop better products. I appreciate any input you may offer.

It’s not about you. They are providing what the customers in mass want.

Quixdraw Loc: x

Simply to broaden the base of potential users / purchasers and at the same time, reduce production and inventory costs. I never use Video either, but only my Df is without video capability.

Linda From Maine Loc: Yakima, Washington

First two responses pretty much say it all, but I'll add a point about marketing of another camera feature:

MORE pixels mean BETTER pictures 😁 😁

bleirer

They do specialize as well. Canon for example makes cinema cameras. But it probably costs very little to add video to a still camera or to a phone. It's the same sensor and a subset of the same shutter system, so mostly a software issue. Broaden the appeal without increasing production costs much: win, win. I don't shoot much video, but enjoy knowing I can shoot the family singing happy birthday to grandma if I wanted.

https://www.usa.canon.com/internet/portal/us/home/products/list/cameras/cinema-eos

Craigdca Loc: California

I agree 100%. I have a video camera for videos with better results than I get from my stills camera.

Longshadow Loc: Audubon, PA, United States

"Not only can I take pictures with the camera, I can take movies too!
Now I don't have to go get a video (only) camera."

Maybe???

I suppose it depends on which side of the fence you live.

Architect1776 Loc: In my mind

bleirer wrote:

They do specialize as well. Canon for example makes cinema cameras. But it probably costs very little to add video to a still camera or to a phone. It's the same sensor and a subset of the same shutter system, so mostly a software issue. Broaden the appeal without increasing production costs much: win, win. I don't shoot much video, but enjoy knowing I can shoot the family singing happy birthday to grandma if I wanted.

Tomfl101 Loc: Mount Airy, MD

Good old fashioned supply/demand/competitive forces I suppose. If you build a better mouse trap the world will beat a path to your door. Right now the better device has dual functions without compromising on quality or functionally.

anotherview Loc: California

As solely a still photographer, I have no need of the video capability of my DSLR camera. I presume Canon and other camera-makers, however, design their products with this capability for business reasons. I used to crab about it, but now just accept it. I have plenty else to concern me.

Picture Taker Loc: Michigan Thumb

it is better for manufactures to have broader use items. It becomes more cost effective (1 item that does 4 things tea 4 items that each do one) and easier to control. It helps you and them.

CHG_CANON Loc: the Windy City

Why do cars have 4 seats, even 2, when only one is needed?

rmalarz Loc: Tempe, Arizona

Camera manufacturers produce cameras the majority of the uses will use. They don't focus on the few that could care less about a feature. It's also a matter of what the competitors are doing, as well.
--Bob

Urnst wrote:

I wonder why they don't focus on one or the other. I never use video, and some probably never use still. Perhaps if manufacturers concentrated on one of the two functions they could develop better products. I appreciate any input you may offer.

JFCoupe Loc: Kent, Washington

I appreciate the fact that Olympus and Canon (and others) offer both still and video features in DSLRs and Mirrorless digital cameras.
For example in 2019 in Tanzania, several times I switched and shot video that continue to provide wonderful memories of the trip.

Craigdca Loc: California

Linda From Maine wrote:

First two responses pretty much say it all, but I'll add a point about marketing of another camera feature:

MORE pixels mean BETTER pictures 😁 😁

Your link to what’s important is excellent. I had seen it once before but this time I finally decided to post my Friendly Horse in the Photo Gallery. Have a good day!