This year promises to be another super-interesting one for all kinds of cameras and lenses, as we see kit both evolve and devolve. So we’ve rounded up the biggest photographic trends we’re expecting to see, along with one we’re optimistically hoping for. 

Hybrid photo and video shooters will continually reap the benefit as mirrorless cameras and lenses evolve from photo-centric design, but anyone buying new will consequently feel the pinch as kit becomes more expensive. 

Smartphone cameras will continue to get better with some of the most exciting developments at the hardware, rather than the software, stage. Expect bigger sensors and zoom lenses, complimented by ever-sophisticated computational photography smarts. 

Yet there is also a genuine sense of growing interest in film cameras again. Young audiences in particular are turning to analogue photography, while Pentax offered us a ray of hope by announcing development of new film cameras. We’d love to see simpler cameras appear in the digital realm, too. Let’s take a closer look at each of these emerging camera trends for 2023.

1. Cameras and lenses will get more expensive 

Many think cameras and lenses are getting more expensive. Is this true? The answer is both yes.. and no. Like-for-like cameras across DSLR and mirrorless cost largely the same at launch, when adjusting for inflation. 

2. More hybrid lenses for photo and video 

Lenses are also evolving to reflect that the best mirrorless cameras are increasingly hybrid models that are equally adept shooting photo and video. This means that user needs are changing. We are beginning to see more standard zoom lenses (kit lenses) being wider at one end.

3. Analogue photography makes a comeback

Mirrorless cameras and lenses might well be getting more sophisticated, but there is a photography movement in the other direction. Gen Z is embracing film cameras like the trending Kodak Ektar 35. The Ricoh-owned Pentax announced it will make film cameras again. There’s a genuine sense that film could make a comeback on a wider scale. 

4. Smartphone cameras get better hardware

Smartphone cameras have pitfalls at the hardware level compared to dedicated cameras, such as a small sensor and lens design that limit true image quality.

Computational modes and AI go a long way to address smartphone camera shortcomings, and the progression in these areas continues to amaze. That said, there are signs on the horizon of progression at the hardware level, too.

5. One thing we want to see: simpler cameras

Almost all mirrorless and DSLR cameras are produced in Japan and largely exhibit a certain design and performance philosophy – to do it all. Plentiful controls, dense menus packing a wide array of shooting modes for photo and video in all scenarios, and sophisticated autofocus options are all common. It’s a philosophy that dominates cameras and defines what we expect.