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Photographic vs. Photography — What's the Difference?

By Tayyaba Rehman & Fiza Rafique — Updated on March 21, 2024
Photographic relates to the art or practice of taking and processing photographs, while photography is the act or art itself of creating images using a camera.
Photographic vs. Photography — What's the Difference?

Difference Between Photographic and Photography

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Key Differences

Photographic serves as an adjective describing anything pertaining to photography or photographs, emphasizing the technical, aesthetic, or practical aspects involved in creating photographic images. On the other hand, photography, a noun, specifically refers to the process, art, and science of making images through the capture of light on light-sensitive surfaces, either digitally or on film.
The photographic process encompasses a wide range of activities, including taking pictures, developing film (in the case of analog photography), editing digital images, and printing photographs. Photography, as a discipline, involves understanding and applying various techniques and principles to effectively capture and produce images that convey emotions, tell stories, or record events.
Photographic equipment and materials—such as cameras, lenses, film, and digital sensors—are essential tools in the practice of photography. These tools and materials have evolved significantly over time, influencing the techniques and styles of photography.
The role of photographic composition, lighting, and subject matter is crucial in determining the aesthetic and technical quality of the photographs produced. In contrast, photography as a whole encompasses not only the technical aspects but also the creative and interpretive processes involved in making photographic works of art or documentary records.
Photographic techniques and technologies have a significant impact on the development and evolution of photography, pushing the boundaries of how images are captured, processed, and perceived. Meanwhile, photography itself is a dynamic and ever-changing field that continues to explore new possibilities in visual storytelling and artistic expression.
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Comparison Chart

Definition

Relating to the process and art of taking photographs.
The art, process, and science of creating images through the capture of light.

Focus

Emphasizes aspects of the process and equipment used.
Centers on the act and art of image creation.

Nature

Adjective describing the qualities, techniques, or materials associated with photography.
Noun referring to the discipline or activity itself.

Application

Used to describe techniques, equipment, and effects in photography.
Refers to the practice, study, and occupation of taking and processing photographs.

Key Elements

Involves composition, lighting, equipment, and processing techniques.
Encompasses both the technical and creative aspects of making images.

Compare with Definitions

Photographic

Relating to the process of taking pictures.
He has a keen photographic technique that captures stunning landscapes.

Photography

The creative process involved in producing photographs.
His approach to photography emphasizes emotion and storytelling.

Photographic

Of or relating to photography as an art or practice.
His photographic work has been published in numerous magazines.

Photography

A method of recording images by the action of light on a sensitive material.
Digital photography has revolutionized the way we capture moments.

Photographic

Characterized by the clarity or detail of a photograph.
She has a photographic memory, recalling details with incredible accuracy.

Photography

The study or use of equipment for taking photographs.
He teaches photography, focusing on both theory and practical application.

Photographic

Involving photographic materials or equipment.
The exhibition showcased the latest photographic technology.

Photography

Photography is the art, application, and practice of creating durable images by recording light, either electronically by means of an image sensor, or chemically by means of a light-sensitive material such as photographic film. It is employed in many fields of science, manufacturing (e.g., photolithography), and business, as well as its more direct uses for art, film and video production, recreational purposes, hobby, and mass communication.Typically, a lens is used to focus the light reflected or emitted from objects into a real image on the light-sensitive surface inside a camera during a timed exposure.

Photographic

Pertaining to or using photographs.
Photographic evidence was crucial in the court case.

Photography

The art or practice of taking and processing photographs.

Photographic

Relating to or resembling photographs
High-tech digital photographic equipment

Photography

The art or process of producing images of objects on photosensitive surfaces.

Photographic

Of, relating to, or consisting of photography or a photograph.

Photography

The art, practice, or occupation of taking and printing photographs.

Photographic

Used in photography
A photographic lens.

Photography

A body of photographs.

Photographic

Resembling a photograph, especially representing or simulating something with great accuracy and fidelity of detail.

Photography

The art and technology of producing images on photosensitive surfaces, and its digital counterpart.
Go on a photography course

Photographic

Capable of retaining accurate or vivid impressions
A photographic memory.

Photography

The occupation of taking (and often printing) photographs.

Photographic

Pertaining to photographs or photography.
This shop stocks all the latest photographic equipment.

Photography

The science which relates to the action of light on sensitive bodies in the production of pictures, the fixation of images, and the like.

Photographic

(figurative) accurate

Photography

The art or process of producing pictures by this action of light.

Photographic

Of or pertaining to photography; obtained by photography; used ib photography; as a photographic picture; a photographic camera.

Photography

The act of taking and printing photographs

Photographic

Relating to photography or obtained by using photography;
Photographic equipment

Photography

The process of producing images of objects on photosensitive surfaces

Photographic

Representing people or nature with the exactness and fidelity of a photograph

Photography

The occupation of taking and printing photographs or making movies

Common Curiosities

How has digital technology affected photographic techniques?

Digital technology has expanded photographic techniques, allowing for greater experimentation, immediate feedback, and advanced editing capabilities, thus broadening the scope of photography.

Can something be photographic without being related to photography?

The term "photographic" is primarily used in contexts related to photography; however, it can describe anything that resembles or has qualities of a photograph, such as clarity or detail.

Is photography considered an art or a science?

Photography is both an art and a science. It involves creative expression and aesthetic considerations (art) as well as understanding light, optics, and technology (science).

What is the difference between a photographic image and a photograph?

A photographic image refers to the result of the photographic process, emphasizing the qualities or techniques used, while a photograph is the physical or digital image produced through photography.

Can the same scene be captured differently in photographic terms?

Yes, the same scene can be captured in various ways depending on the photographic techniques, equipment, and perspectives used, resulting in distinct interpretations and emotions.

How do professionals enhance their photographic skills?

Professionals enhance their skills through continuous learning, practice, experimentation with different styles and techniques, and staying updated with technological advancements in photography.

What is meant by photographic composition?

Photographic composition refers to the arrangement of visual elements in a photograph, such as line, shape, texture, and color, to create a harmonious and compelling image.

How do photographic styles influence photography?

Photographic styles, defined by techniques, composition, and subject matter, significantly influence the creative direction and interpretation of photography, contributing to its diversity and richness.

Why is lighting important in photography?

Lighting is crucial because it affects the atmosphere, mood, and clarity of the photograph, influencing how the subject is perceived and the overall impact of the image.

What role does post-processing play in photography?

Post-processing involves editing photographs to adjust elements like exposure, color balance, and contrast, playing a vital role in achieving the final artistic vision or correcting imperfections in the image.

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Author Spotlight

Written by
Tayyaba Rehman
Tayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Fiza Rafique
Fiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.

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