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
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The series follows photography student Max Caulfield (newcomer Tatum Grace Hopkins), who gains the ability to rewind time while saving her best friend, Chloe Price (Maisy Stella). — Angelique Jackson, Variety, 14 Aug. 2026 Working primarily with analogue photography, his practice explores youth culture, diasporic identity, and shifting landscapes. — Photovogue, Vogue, 13 Aug. 2026 During college, Cárdenas took a keen interest both in Mexican American student organizations, as well as in documenting the Chicano movement of Mexican American identity through photography. — Bob Goldsborough, Chicago Tribune, 13 Aug. 2026 The company recently wrapped principal photography on Scorpion, an action thriller starring Clive Owen, Alex Pettyfer, and Reda Elazouar. — Matthew Carey, Deadline, 13 Aug. 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

Phrases Containing photography

Rhymes for photography

See All Rhymes for photography

Browse Nearby Words

photographist
photography
photogravure
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Cite this Entry

“Photography.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/photography. Accessed 17 Aug. 2026.

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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

Nglish: Translation of photography for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about photography

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