About Photography
Photography began as a chemical and optical process and later became digital. Photographs can document evidence, preserve memory, advertise products, report news, support science, or function as fine art.
Camera
A camera controls how light reaches a recording surface.
Learn MoreFilm
Photographic film uses light-sensitive chemistry.
Learn MoreDigital Sensors
Digital cameras use electronic sensors instead of film.
Learn MoreLenses
Lens choice changes field of view and perspective relationships.
Learn MoreExposure
Exposure depends on light, aperture, shutter time, and sensitivity.
Learn MoreComposition
Framing controls what is included and excluded.
Learn MoreDocumentary Photography
Photography can record people, events, landscapes, and social conditions.
Learn MoreEditing
Photographs have always been edited in some form.
Learn MoreCamera
A lens focuses light while an aperture and shutter help control exposure.
Film
Different films vary in color response, grain, speed, and format.
Digital Sensors
Millions of light-sensitive sites measure brightness and color information.
Lenses
Wide, normal, telephoto, macro, and specialized lenses create different possibilities.
Exposure
Photographers balance these factors for brightness, motion, depth of field, and image quality.
Composition
Position, timing, angle, background, light, and moment all shape interpretation.
Documentary Photography
Ethics matter because images can influence public understanding.
Editing
Darkroom choices, cropping, color correction, and digital processing can range from minor adjustments to major manipulation, so context matters.