March 2026 was a busy month in the camera industry, with major announcements from Leica, Canon, and Sony shaping the landscape for the rest of the year. From Leica's controversial price increases to Canon's new lens roadmap, here is everything you need to know about the month's most significant developments.
Leica Announces 15% Price Hike Across M and SL Lines
Leica stunned the photography world on March 12, 2026, by announcing a 15% price increase across its entire M and SL camera and lens lineup, effective April 1. The company cited rising costs for precision German manufacturing, raw materials, and currency fluctuations. The M11 body, previously €8,500, will now retail for €9,775 — pushing it further into luxury territory. Leica dealers reported a rush of pre-increase orders, with some stores selling out of popular lenses like the Summilux 35mm F1.4 before the deadline.
Canon RF Lens Roadmap: Six New Lenses Confirmed
Canon revealed its 2026-2027 RF lens roadmap at a private dealer event in Tokyo. The standout announcements include an RF 24-105mm F2.8L IS USM Z — a hybrid photo/video zoom with a power zoom adapter — and an RF 50mm F1.2L II with improved optical performance and lighter weight. Also confirmed: RF-S 11-20mm F2.8 for APS-C users and an RF 100-400mm F5.6-7.1L compact telephoto.
Sony A7V Production Begins
Sony reportedly began mass production of the A7V in March 2026, with sources in the supply chain confirming that components for the 33MP full-frame body are being assembled at factories in Thailand. The A7V is expected to feature the Bionz XR processor, Real-Time Recognition AF, and 4K 120p video. An announcement is rumored for Photokina 2026 in September.
Nikon Z9 II Delayed to Q4
Nikon quietly pushed back the Z9 II launch from June to October 2026, citing supply chain constraints for its new 46MP stacked sensor. The delay gives Canon's EOS R3 Mark II a clear runway in the professional sports camera market, though Nikon representatives insist the wait will be worth it for the improved autofocus and 60fps RAW shooting.
Film Photography Continues Its Surge
March also saw continued momentum in analog photography. Ilford announced a new batch of HP5 Plus 400 in 220 roll format — the first medium-format film production from the company in five years. Kodak confirmed that its direct distribution model (launched June 1) is already reducing stock shortages in North America and Europe.
Bottom Line
March 2026 reinforced the camera industry's dual trajectory: mirrorless technology continues to advance at a breakneck pace, while film photography solidifies its position as a permanent — if niche — market segment. For photographers, the choices have never been more diverse, even if some of those choices are becoming more expensive.
