photography

noun

: the art or process of producing images by the action of radiant energy and especially light on a sensitive surface (such as film or an optical sensor)

Examples of photography in a Sentence

He studied both film and still photography. Landscape photography is her hobby.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Words have been parsed over, ideas about location, production design, costume, lighting have all been carefully massaged even up to the day of photography. Rachel Elspeth Gross, Forbes.com, 10 July 2026 No phones or photography were allowed at the wedding, and invitees were asked to sign NDAs in order to attend. Ethan Shanfeld, Variety, 10 July 2026 Mickalene Thomas makes collages using acrylics, enamel, and rhinestones—often based in photography. News Desk, Artforum, 9 July 2026 Principal photography has begun in Cyprus on the movie, which is being directed by Richard Hughes (The Enforcer). Andreas Wiseman, Deadline, 9 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for photography

Word History

First Known Use

1839, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of photography was in 1839

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Cite this Entry

“Photography.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/photography. Accessed 11 Jul. 2026.

Kids Definition

photography

noun
: the art or process of making pictures by means of a camera that directs the image of an object onto a surface (as film) that is sensitive to light

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