Paul wrote: > I could be wrong, but I suspect that most shoppers will try to read about > the various DSLRs on the Web before buying. Most will find hands-on reviews > that evaluate the cameras strictly in terms of functions, value, ease of > use, and accessories. Few will find PDML and other user forums in which > people bash Pentax for substandard support.
I think you are being naive. If you look at all the various photography newsgroups or forums you'll see countless of Nikon vs. Canon question regarding every model in their line up. They haven't reduced the numbers of manufactures to Nikon and Canon after careful research of everything available, but decided on these two brand s bacuse they have the brand value and names they want to be associated with. Most haven't the faintest idea of what Pentax is offering and probably believe that Pentax only offer 10 consumer lenses cause that what they see on B&H adverising in Pop Photography. The fact is that if you're after a BMW or a Mercedes your not likely going to check out what Kia is offering in the price level or even Nissan. Canon long time ago figured out that the key to market domination was the professional market segment and its spin-off value. They have now 40% market share for conventional SLR's and probably more for DSLR. Theres no way Pentax is going to beat them on price or by copying. Nikon, on the other hand, is by far the most valuable name associated with photography there is according to marketing and branding specialists. Forget Hasselblad and Carl Zeiss, they aren't even in the ballpark. Canon is nowhere near Nikon in this regard but the brand name is now almost as well known as Coca-Cola and Sony. P�l
