June 13, 2006 -- A study published earlier this year by InfoTrends projects that by the end of the decade, 90% of professional pictures will be taken with digital cameras, and less than 40% of professional photographers will still use film cameras. The study, North American Professional Photography Market, reports that over 131,000 professional photographers in North America spend nearly $800 million annually on cameras, lenses, printers, ink and media, software, and other accessories. Approximately 65% of these professional photographers use film cameras for some of their shoots, but InfoTrends estimates that 70% of all professional photos are taken with digital cameras. The transition to digital is changing the economics and profile of the professional photography industry and is also lowering the barriers to entry and increasing competition. However, many professional photographers are struggling with photo editing, management, and printing issues due to the volume of digital pictures taken, the learning curve associated with software, and demands from their clients. Many photographers struggle with pulling all the pieces together to get the most out of digital technology, especially after taking the shot.