CP+ 2026: Record Exhibitors, New Lenses and the Resurgence of Compact Cameras

The CP+ 2026 took place at Pacifico Yokohama from 26 February to 1 March. According to the Association of Camera and Imaging Products (CIPA), the event attracted a record 149 exhibitors—the highest number ever for the trade fair.

The show combined an on‑site exhibition with a robust online program that drew more than 420,000 virtual viewers in its previous edition.

While product launches do not always align with the calendar of fairs, CP+ 2026 showcased several notable optics:

• Nikon 70‑200 mm f/2.8 Z II—the latest telephoto zoom for Nikon’s Z system.
• Tamron 35‑100 mm f/2—a bright zoom aimed at landscape and portrait shooters.
• Samyang 60‑180 mm f/2.8—available for inspection, though not officially unveiled.

These releases illustrate the continued demand for high‑performance lenses in a market that is increasingly dominated by smartphones.

The fair’s most striking surprise was Canon’s retro‑style prototype, described as a “box‑type body with waist‑level viewfinder” that captures images on a digital sensor, reportedly 1.1 inches in size. The design blends analog nostalgia with modern digital capture.

Japan’s fascination with toy‑camera concepts also surfaced prominently. Kenko Tokina’s Pieni II—an 18‑gram ultracompact camera—features a 1.3‑megapixel sensor and is marketed to Lo‑Fi enthusiasts and fashion accessories.

CIPA data presented at CP+ 2026 indicate that the compact‑camera segment will grow 13.6 % year‑on‑year in 2026, reaching 277,000 units shipped. This rebound follows a seven‑year trend of increasing demand for distinct visual experiences.

Canon announced plans to raise production of its compact cameras by 1.5× the previous year’s volume, expanding component subcontracting to meet domestic and international demand.

Beyond products, CP+ 2026 reinforced its role as a cultural hub. Photographer Hiroshi Sugimoto led talks alongside Kyoichi Tsuzuki, exploring themes beyond technical photography. The fair also hosted the ZOOMS photo exhibition in partnership with the Salon de la Photographie de France and the popular Cat Photography Exhibition, featuring 100 images from across Japan.

To engage younger audiences and families, organizers offered 23 workshops ranging from smartphone vlog creation to hair‑and‑makeup techniques for photography. Spaces such as the Puppet Studio and the Giant Toy Train Diorama showcased how experiential visual trends are shaping consumer interest.

CP+ 2026 demonstrated that, even in a smartphone‑dominated era, there is still robust demand for dedicated imaging equipment—especially compact cameras—and innovative concepts that blend nostalgia with technology.