Although 2011 was a difficult year for the photography industry, with the disastrous earthquake and tsunami on 11 March in Japan and the catastrophic floods in Thailand in the autumn, the Salon de la Photo 2011 at the end of the year remained the top photography event in France and in Europe. It provided a huge forum for exhibitors and visitors, reflecting the continuing dynamism of photographic equipment manufacturers, and showing that all the major brands have confidence in the future.

2012 has started off on a more positive note, and there is little doubt that we will see a host of new products and technological innovations designed to respond to the needs and new approaches created by new communication tools and social networks. Whether these are increasingly practical and efficient cameras, innovative and original printing solutions, or tools whose performance and quality are ever more outstanding, what is on offer - in terms not only of equipment but also of software and services - is both highly attractive and perfectly adapted to the needs of photography professionals, enlightened amateurs, or beginners.

A place for photographers and manufacturers to come together, the Salon de la Photo has become an eagerly awaited event drawing an ever-increasing number of enthusiasts and professionals eager to meet and share their passion for photography. 
 
A unique venue where all aspects of photography can meet and mix, and where technology rubs shoulders with art, the Salon de la Photo is a place for discovering state-of-the-art technology, sharing experiences, and enjoying artworks. The Salon lasts for five fascinating days, beginning at 10 a.m. every day (9 a.m. on Saturday).
 
A number of workshops and studios enable photographers to share their expertise with visitors. The "Grandes Rencontres" are now a familiar event at the Salon where visitors can listen to and talk to top photographers and explore aspects of photography that go beyond the technical performances on show at the exhibitors' booths. 
 
The Salon de la Photo now also shows its ongoing support for professional photography by highlighting the work of emerging photographers with the "Zooms" awards, one given by public vote, the other by the photography press. Photographs by award-winners are exhibited in the outstanding setting of the Salon.

There is every reason to think that the Salon de la Photo 2012 will be a "fine vintage": held just a few weeks after Photokina, it enables visitors to discover countless new products and, if they wish, to buy them at the "Sales Village" featuring the Salon's partner brands. As it is also held during the Paris Month of Photography, it will be "THE place to be" for photography enthusiasts.

We manufacture equipment designed to help photographers achieve their artistic and quality goals, but we also know that a good photograph is impossible without the eye of a good photographer...

So let's make sure our eyes meet at the Salon de la Photo 2012!

 Baudouin Prové
 Chairman of SIPEC, Syndicat des entreprises de l’Image, de la Photo Et de la Communication
 
 Welcome on the website www.sipec.org