DUBLIN, Ireland -- June 14, 2006 -- Research and Markets ( http://www.researchandmarkets.com/reports/c38208 ) has announced the addition of Digital Cameras in the United States to their offering.

Digital cameras have universal appeal, and have moved rapidly from an early adopter phase to the early stage of mass-market appeal. Even though digital camera sales now outpace sales of traditional cameras, it is clear that Americans have a strong interest in photography, as a hobby and as a means of preserving memories. Consumer research shows that while ownership rates for digital cameras are growing, a majority of households own traditional cameras, and also use disposable, instant and APS cameras. However, the appeal of a camera that provides instant results, the ability to delete and manipulate images, and the easy sharing of digital images via the Internet has made inroads with a growing number of U.S. consumers, and this trend will continue.

This report clearly identifies the principal external factors driving or curtailing growth in the digital camera market. Exclusive consumer research reveals the attitudes, needs and behavior of consumers, with analysis broken down both by demographic characteristics and by camera type.

Six years of specific sales data provide a factual and impartial presentation of the market as a whole. The report also evaluates the performance of individual sectors in the market, and provides information about the major companies and brands. Using the SPSS forecasting package, a five-year forecast of U.S. retail sales is created, revealing potential opportunities for growth and product development.

For the purposes of this report, the following are included:

• digital cameras
• digital video cameras
• Accessories, such as compact flash cards, tripods, lens attachments, photo quality printers, ink, paper, software and professional photo finishing are discussed but are not included in the market size. Traditional camera products, such as 35mm, instant cameras, advanced photo systems (APS), and single-use disposable cameras, are also discussed, but are not included in the market size or segmentation.