Photography is the art and practice of capturing images using light. It involves the use of a camera to create photographs, which can be two-dimensional representations of scenes, objects, or people. The process of photography encompasses various techniques and styles, including but not limited to portraiture, landscape, documentary, and abstract photography.
At its core, photography relies on the principles of optics and chemistry, where light is focused onto a photosensitive surface, traditionally film or a digital sensor, to create an image. The resulting photographs can serve a multitude of purposes, including artistic expression, communication, documentation of events, and personal or commercial use.
Photography can also be categorized into various genres based on subjects or techniques, such as macro, aerial, street, and wildlife photography, each focusing on different contexts and elements. Additionally, the digital age has significantly transformed photography, introducing advanced technologies that allow for easier manipulation, editing, and sharing of images. Ultimately, photography is both a creative and technical endeavor that captures moments in time, providing viewers a window into different perspectives and realities.