Cover photo by masa
※ cizucu認定ライター masa による寄稿マガジンです。
2025 saw the release of numerous new products in the photography industry. While mirrorless cameras and various mounts for lenses dominated the announcements, compact digital cameras also garnered significant attention this year.
Although the demand for compact cameras (or 'compact digicams') has long been replaced by smartphones, their charm is being rediscovered. From beginner-friendly models to cameras rivaling professional-grade equipment, a wide variety of compact cameras have emerged.
The Value of Being 'Different from Smartphones'
In 2025, Kodak, a renowned film manufacturer, launched the PIXPRO C1 compact digital camera. Equipped with a 13-megapixel 1/3-inch CMOS sensor, it undeniably falls short in resolution and image quality compared to modern high-end smartphones.
Photo by Koji Takasaki
One of the reasons to buy a camera today is the value of capturing photos that are 'different from smartphones.' Modern smartphone photography is, in a sense, flawless and leaves no room for imperfection. For a generation accustomed to such perfect images, photos taken with low-resolution cameras evoke a nostalgic charm.
Kodak's compact cameras are helping the smartphone generation rediscover this unique appeal.
The Strength of Dedicated Lens and Body Design
Meanwhile, 2025 was also a year that saw high-end compact cameras, often referred to as 'premium compacts,' capturing the attention of users.
FUJIFILM introduced the GFX100RF, featuring a 102-megapixel medium-format sensor, making medium-format digital cameras more accessible than ever. Additionally, SONY unveiled the RX1R III, equipped with a full-frame sensor and a Zeiss prime lens. The release of this successor to the RX1 series after nine years created a significant buzz.
Photo by bbb
Compared to interchangeable lens systems, compact cameras with dedicated lens and body designs optimize optical and mechanical structures. Many models offer features that meet professional needs, showcasing the unique advantages of compact cameras.
The Rise of Compact Cameras in the Age of Social Media
In 2025, RICOH's iconic GR series saw the release of its successor, the GR IV. This series has been highly regarded by photography enthusiasts since the film era, establishing itself as a highly portable and reliable secondary camera.
Photo by masa
In recent years, models like the GR III have gained popularity on social media platforms such as Instagram, appealing to casual users as well. Compact cameras, free from the constraints of lens mounts, offer an all-in-one solution. They may even be more suited for social media trends than interchangeable lens cameras.
