Photograph Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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photograph
[หfษส.tษ.ษกrษหf ]
Definitions
capturing moments
A photograph is a picture that has been taken using a camera, typically to capture a moment, memory, or scene. Photographs can be printed or viewed digitally, and are often used to preserve memories or document events.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| photograph |
Use this term in formal or professional situations, such as in art galleries, exhibitions, or when discussing photography as a skill or profession.
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| picture |
A versatile word suitable for everyday conversation, informal contexts, or when referring to both photographs and drawings.
|
| image |
This word fits well in both general and technical contexts, such as when discussing digital media, computer graphics, or abstract portrayals.
|
| snapshot |
Best used in casual or informal contexts, often referring to a quick, unplanned photo, often taken with a phone or a simple camera.
|
Examples of usage
- The photographer took a beautiful photograph of the sunset.
- She keeps a photograph of her family on her desk.
- I love looking at old photographs and reminiscing about the past.
taking pictures
To photograph means to take a picture using a camera. This action involves capturing a moment or scene on film or digitally. Photographing is a common practice for preserving memories or documenting events.
Synonyms
capture an image, snap a photo, take a picture.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| photograph |
Often used in professional or formal settings to refer to the act of taking a picture using a camera or other device.
|
| take a picture |
General and commonly used in everyday language to refer to the act of photographing something, applicable in both informal and formal settings.
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| snap a photo |
Informal and casual, usually referring to taking a quick or spontaneous picture, often with a smartphone or point-and-shoot camera.
|
| capture an image |
Typically used in more technical or detailed contexts, often when describing the process of getting a digital or technical representation of something.
|
Examples of usage
- He loves to photograph nature and wildlife.
- She photographed the city skyline at night.
- They hired a professional photographer to photograph their wedding.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Development
- The first successful photograph was taken in 1826 by Joseph Nicรฉphore Niรฉpce, requiring an exposure time of about eight hours.
- The invention of the daguerreotype in 1839 by Louis Daguerre marked a significant milestone, providing the first practical method for capturing images.
- In the late 19th century, George Eastman revolutionized photography with the introduction of the Kodak camera, making it accessible to the public.
Cultural Impact
- Photographs have played a vital role in documenting history, from wars to civil rights movements, often influencing public perception.
- The rise of social media in the 21st century has transformed the way people share and consume photographs, making image-sharing a cultural phenomenon.
- Famous works like 'Migratory Cotton Picker' by Dorothea Lange in the 1930s illustrated the power of photography in evoking empathy and social change.
Scientific Perspective
- Photography involves the chemical reaction of light-sensitive materials, allowing for the creation and preservation of images.
- The development of digital photography replaced traditional film, using sensors to capture light and eliminate the need for chemical processing.
- Research in psychology indicates that photographs can influence memory recall, shaping how we remember and interpret experiences.
Pop Culture
- Famous photographers like Ansel Adams and Annie Leibovitz are celebrated for their unique styles and contributions to visual arts.
- Photography has been a central theme in popular songs and films, such as the iconic title song 'Photograph' by Ed Sheeran.
- Reality TV shows often center around photography contests, showcasing the skill and creativity of aspiring photographers.
Origin of 'photograph'
Main points about word origin
- The term combines the Greek words 'photos' meaning light and 'graphos' meaning to write, literally translating to 'drawing with light.'
- The word 'photograph' was first used in the early 19th century, around the time photography was invented.
- The concept of capturing images dates back to ancient times, but the term only came into widespread use with the development of photography techniques.
The word 'photograph' originated from the combination of two Greek words, 'phลs' meaning 'light' and 'graphรฉ' meaning 'drawing or writing'. The term was first used in the 1830s to describe the process of capturing images using light-sensitive materials. As technology advanced, photography became a popular medium for art, journalism, and personal documentation.
See also: photo, photocopy, photoflash, photographer, photographic, photography, photos.