Photography is the art and practice of capturing images using light, typically through a camera. The term derives from the Greek words “photos,” meaning light, and “graphé,” meaning drawing or writing. Photography involves the manipulation of light to create still pictures, where cameras can capture scenes, subjects, or events. The process can involve various techniques, including adjusting camera settings, using different lenses, and applying filters.
Photography can be both a creative pursuit and a technical skill, with applications ranging from artistic expression to documentary and commercial use. It encompasses various genres, such as portrait, landscape, wildlife, fashion, and street photography, each with its distinctive styles and methodologies. Photographers often manipulate factors like composition, exposure, and lighting to evoke emotions, tell stories, or communicate specific messages through their images.
In modern contexts, photography also includes digital technologies, enabling the editing and sharing of photographs across various platforms. The evolution of photography has significantly impacted visual culture, making it an essential aspect of communication and representation in contemporary society.