- A picture is a visual representation or image that captures a moment or conveys information through visual elements. It can be a painting, drawing, photograph, or any other form of visual expression.
- A photograph is a visual image captured through the lens of a camera, typically preserving a moment in time with precision and detail. It involves the process of photography, utilizing light and technology to produce a tangible record of a scene or subject.
In this sentence, "pictures" refers to the vivid illustrations, drawings, or visual representations that accompany the text in the children's storybook.
📷 The photographer skillfully captured the ethereal beauty of the sunrise, producing a series of breathtaking photographs that left viewers in awe.
In this sentence, "photographs" refers to the visual images or representations of the ethereal sunrise that were skillfully captured by the photographer using a camera.
When to use picture vs. photograph
The terms "picture" and "photograph" are sometimes used interchangeably, but there is a subtle difference:
- Picture: A general term for any visual representation, including drawings, paintings, illustrations, diagrams, and yes, photographs.
- Photograph: Specifically refers to an image captured using a camera.
Therefore, the decision of whether to use "picture" or "photograph" depends on the specific type of image you're referring to:
Use "picture" when:
- You're talking about any type of visual representation, regardless of how it was created.
- You want to be more inclusive and not limit yourself to just photos.
- You're unsure of the exact origin of the image.
Use "photograph" when:
- You want to be specific and highlight the fact that the image was captured using a camera.
- You're emphasizing the realism or documentary nature of the image.
- You're talking about the technical aspects of photography.
Beyond the words:
The choice between using "picture" or "photograph" also goes beyond just technical correctness. Consider the context and your audience:
- Formal settings: In academic papers, news articles, or technical documents, using "photograph" might be more precise.
- Informal settings: In everyday conversations or social media posts, "picture" is generally understood and perfectly acceptable.
- Emphasis on style: If you want to emphasize the artistic or creative aspect of an image, even if it's a photo, "picture" could be more fitting.
"Photograph" refers specifically to images captured through photography, suggesting formality and realism. On the other hand, "picture" is a more general term encompassing various visual representations, including drawings or paintings, often used informally and allowing for a broader creative interpretation.
Example sentences
Picture
- I enjoy looking at pictures of beautiful landscapes to relax and unwind.
- She keeps a scrapbook filled with pictures of her travels around the world.
- Pictures of family gatherings adorn the walls of their cozy living room.
- My friend shared pictures of their adorable new puppy on social media.
- In art class, we learned how to create vivid pictures using watercolors and pastels.
Photograph
- I cherish the old photos capturing special moments with loved ones from years ago.
- Photographers often experiment with unique angles to capture compelling photos.
- Her Instagram is filled with stunning photos of exotic destinations she has visited.
- Photos from the wedding captured the joyous atmosphere and happy expressions of the couple.
- Digital technology allows us to instantly share photos with friends and family around the world.
Examples from the web
Picture
"The failure of The Hurricane to win a best picture nomination was a surprise." - The Guardian - Film
"The same was true of his classic picture of Seberg kissing Belmondo on the" cheek. - The Guardian - Arts
"Broadly, though, this study paints a discouraging picture." - The Guardian
Photograph
"The girls reportedly filmed the video to promote dancehall classes at a local school, Art Dance, and a photograph from the shoot on Radetskaya's social network page listed the times that the class meets." - The Guardian
"He won first prize in 2010 in the live news photograph of the year category for his work documenting the aftermath of the 2010 earthquake in Haiti." - The Guardian
"It also included every photograph I'd taken of my husband, Eoghan, who died from cancer three weeks after our wedding." - The Guardian - Lifestyle
Usage of picture vs. photograph
Examining the graph below, we can see that the use of "picture" and "photograph" differed, with "picture" occurring more frequently than "photograph."
Synonyms/Related Phrases
Picture
- Image
- Photo
- Photograph
- Snapshot
- Graphic
- Illustration
- Portrayal
- Representation
- Painting
- Drawing
Photograph
- Picture
- Image
- Shot
- Snap
- Portrait
- Photograph
- Pic
- Snapshot
- Shot
FAQ
Can a photograph be called a picture?
Yes, a photograph can be referred to as a picture. While "photograph" specifically denotes an image captured through photography, the term "picture" is a broader and more general term that encompasses various visual representations, including photographs, drawings, paintings, and digital images.
Do we take photos or pictures?
We commonly use both terms interchangeably, but technically, we "take photos" when using a camera or smartphone to capture images through photography. "Pictures" is a more general term encompassing various visual representations, including those created through photography or other artistic means.
Summary
In conclusion, while "picture" and "photograph" are often used interchangeably, understanding their subtle distinctions can enhance your ability to express yourself accurately. Use "picture" when referring to any visual representation, whether created by hand, stored in memory, or captured through a camera. Reserve "photograph" for images specifically taken with a camera, highlighting the art and process of photography. By incorporating these nuances into your language, you can communicate with precision and ensure that your words paint the right picture for your audience.
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