stillphoto

A still photo, or still image, is a single capture representing a moment in time, as distinct from motion pictures which consist of sequences of frames. Still photos are produced by cameras that expose a light-sensitive medium or sensor to form an image, which can be viewed on screens or printed.

The history traces to early experiments with cameras obscura and light-sensitive materials in the 19th century, with developments such as daguerreotypes and calotypes. The invention of flexible film and the popularization of 35mm cameras in the early 20th century expanded image capture. The late 20th century saw a shift to digital sensors and later smartphone cameras, which democratized still photography, while traditional film continued in art and archival work.

Techniques: Composition, exposure, focus, and lighting determine image quality. Photographers use the exposure triangle (aperture, shutter speed, ISO), depth of field, and white balance. Post-processing with software allows color correction, retouching, and conversion between RAW and compressed formats.

Formats and storage: common digital file formats include JPEG, TIFF, PNG, and RAW variants from camera manufacturers. Color spaces such as sRGB and Adobe RGB influence how colors are rendered. Metadata and EXIF data record camera settings. Prints and archives rely on physical media and digital backups.

Uses: Still photos are foundational in journalism, art, science, and documentation. They enable visual storytelling, evidence recording, and historical memory. Ethical considerations include consent, representation, and copyright; licensing determines reuse rights.