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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People have used Muse to hunt for niche photography gear, shop for new car tires and guide them through Burgundy’s vineyards. — Marty Swant, Washington Post, 27 Oct. 2026 This is the last interview in a day of interviews and photography. — Whitney Friedlander, Los Angeles Times, 26 Oct. 2026 For Raad, persona, theory, and photography were starting to converge. — Emily Watlington, ARTnews.com, 25 Oct. 2026 Its scientists understood the future of digital photography, but the company could not bring the right product to market. — Rick Lazio, Fortune, 24 Oct. 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 27 Oct. 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

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about photography

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