摄影

• Pinyin: shè yǐng
• Hanzi breakdown: 摄 = 扌(hand) + 聂 (phonetic); 影 = 日 (sun) + 京 (capital) + 彡 (hair/rays)

Meaning

Photography; to take photographs.

Traditionally refers to still photography as an art form or profession. Can function as verb (to photograph) or noun (photography). In modern usage, sometimes overlaps with 摄像 for video, but primarily means still photography. An artistic and technical discipline.

Examples

1. 他从小就喜欢摄影，现在成了专业摄影师。 He's loved photography since childhood and has now become a professional photographer.
2. 这张照片的摄影技术很高，构图和光线都很完美。 The photography technique in this photo is excellent — the composition and lighting are perfect.
3. 我想学摄影，你能推荐一些入门课程吗？ I want to learn photography — can you recommend some beginner courses?

Usage Guide

Context: art, hobby, professional

Tone: neutral

Do Say

• 你的摄影作品很棒！(Your photography work is great!)
• 摄影是一门艺术。(Photography is an art.)

Don't Say

• 我摄影了视频 — for video, use 摄像 or 拍摄; 摄影 primarily means still photography

Origin & History

Compound of 摄 (take/capture) + 影 (shadow/image), meaning to capture shadows/images — referring to the photographic process.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal