photography

noun

pho·​tog·​ra·​phy fə-ˈtä-grə-fē How to pronounce photography (audio)
: 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.
All photography by Lorenze Davis and Marquez McCall. Victoria Uwumarogie, Essence, 22 Nov. 2025 Advertisements for reenactments of noteworthy murders; placards describing the exact location of old saloons; banners proclaiming Days of ’76; sepia photography studios; graveyards with entrance fees to visit the burial sites of those who created the myths of the Great American West. Literary Hub, 21 Nov. 2025 The team is targeting Q2/Q3 2026 start for principal photography. Andreas Wiseman, Deadline, 21 Nov. 2025 The drone photography shows them to be organized into roughly 60 distinct sections that are separated by empty spaces, Bongers said. Ashley Strickland, CNN Money, 21 Nov. 2025 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 23 Nov. 2025.

Kids Definition

photography

noun
pho·​tog·​ra·​phy fə-ˈtäg-rə-fē How to pronounce photography (audio)
: 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

More from Merriam-Webster on photography

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