Cover photo by k.2SSD
Camera lenses come in two colors: white and black, but it's more than just a color difference. Each color has different functionalities and roles, making them important choices for creators.
White lenses are primarily designed with heat management and durability in mind, while black lenses have their own unique advantages. Black lenses minimize reflections and help photographers blend into their surroundings, making them ideal for capturing natural moments.
Photo by tatsumi
This is the background of the competition among camera manufacturers known as the 'white and black war'. Let's take a closer look at the meanings and functionalities of each color, as well as their market strategies.
The Secrets of White Lenses
White lenses are predominantly used in Canon's telephoto lenses, largely due to 'heat management' in harsh shooting environments.
The white coating used by Canon reflects sunlight during outdoor shooting, preventing the internal temperature of the lens from rising. This helps control thermal expansion of components, maintaining optical performance and providing stable image quality even during extended shooting sessions.
Photo by *しー*
Additionally, since the lens doesn't get hot, it reduces the burden on the photographer's hands, making it an ideal choice for use in demanding environments such as sports or wildlife photography.
Advantages of Black Lenses
On the other hand, black lenses are often required to be 'inconspicuous'. One reason manufacturers like Nikon use black lenses is to help photographers blend into their surroundings, making it less likely for subjects to notice them. This is particularly beneficial in photojournalism and street photography, where capturing natural moments is possible because the photographer is less noticeable.
Photo by Koji Takasaki
Moreover, black lenses minimize light reflection, making them suitable for capturing clear photos in reflective scenes such as glass or water surfaces. Additionally, the tradition of black cameras and lenses from military cameras has influenced their role in reducing visibility in situations where stealth is required.
The Evolution of the 'White and Black War'
The 'white and black war' symbolizes the long-standing market share battle between Canon and Nikon. In the professional market, these two companies compete for share, and during major sports events like the Olympics, which manufacturer's lenses are used more becomes a significant topic.
Photo by masakun
However, in recent years, Sony has emerged as a new entrant with its mirrorless cameras, bringing a fresh breeze to this competition. At the Paris Olympics 2024, Sony's latest models have gained wide support among sports photographers, transitioning the 'white and black war' into an 'era of three giants'.
The Diversifying Market and the Dawn of New Competition
Currently, the camera market is rapidly changing with the evolution of mirrorless cameras. The 'white and black war' between Canon and Nikon is also changing in response to new technologies and market needs. Manufacturers will continue to compete by introducing high-performance yet lightweight lenses and cameras.
The new competitive structure brought by Sony's entry is expected to significantly impact future market trends. How camera shares will change at the next Olympics and international events remains a point of interest.
