Shenzhen – October 08, 2026 -- SmallRig hosted its 3rd Visionary Storytellers Industry Forum in Shenzhen, releasing the "2025-2026 Top 12 Global Imaging Scenarios Report" that projects peripheral equipment growth will reach 9.2% annually over the next five years, outpacing host device sales.
Report identifies 12 core imaging scenarios reshaping creator markets
The report, based on user research and market analysis, maps 12 scenarios including everyday life content, unscripted livestreaming, extreme sports, micro-dramas, wildlife photography, and specialized imaging. It flags four structural trends: mobile cinematography, decentralization of professional resources, democratization of creators, and AI-powered video generation.
SmallRig frames AI and human judgment as complementary, not competing
The report advances a philosophy of "AI for efficiency, humans for warmth," arguing that as algorithmic content becomes more realistic, real-world experience, on-site judgment, and creator accountability will become the scarcest resources in the industry.
SmallRig CEO cites 30% average annual growth over five years
Zhou Yang, Founder and CEO of SmallRig, said the company has sustained roughly 30% average annual growth over the past five years. "The professional and consumer imaging markets are now rapidly merging," Zhou said, describing the shift as the start of a golden era for the imaging scenario industry.
Forum sessions target hardware validation, IP value, and talent pipelines
The event ran three parallel tracks. Technology & New Frontier covered AI vision, intelligent tracking, robotics, and hardware market entry from concept to mass production. Product & Cultural Creativity examined how aesthetics, industrial design, and IP shape product value from an investment lens. Talent & Future addressed academia-industry collaboration models to train professionals spanning technology, product, and content.
SmallRig positions supply chain and DTC platform as ecosystem connector
Zhou noted that fragmented, fast-changing user needs make it difficult for any single company to manage the full cycle from need identification to product launch. SmallRig said it will open its supply chain to R&D teams and innovators for proof of concept, pilot testing, prototyping, and mass production, while using its global direct-to-consumer brand platform for product validation, joint marketing, and pre-sales. The company will also back new projects through dedicated angel and industrial investment funds.