Photo vs Image
The distinction between photo and image mainly lies in the meanings of the two terms. Although most people use the words photo and image to describe snapshots taken with digital cameras or paper photos from older cameras, both words have other meanings as well. It is important to consider the context in which either word is being used. For example, what does your identity proof contain, a photo or an image? In this article, we will explore the different meanings of photo and image and, based on that, identify the differences between a photo and an image.
What does Image mean?
When you see or look in a mirror, what you see is your image in the mirror, not your photo, even though it is an exact replica of yourself in 2D. Similarly, when you describe a person based on your memory, you try to visualize their image in your mind. You do not say that you have their photo in your mind, but come up with some details based on the image of the person in your iconic memory. An image is not always a photo. The word image is also used to refer to a characteristic trait or the personality of an individual, and people expect the person to behave according to their image, which is often based on media exposure. For example, an actor who plays serious roles or characters in movies has an image of a very serious person, and when they play a comic role, it does not suit their so-called somber image. Sometimes an actor who plays a very religious character is expected to behave accordingly in real life too. If they end up partying all the time and using drugs, that kind of behavior becomes a blow to their image.
What does Photo mean?
A photo, on the other hand, is like a replica of the object, which is why we talk about photocopies and not image copies. Photo is the word used mostly for pictures taken by a camera. The word “photo” means light, so when we take a picture with a camera, we use light to capture whatever is in front of the camera lens. The product of this light process is known as a photo. Without a camera, you cannot create a photo. However, a photo is always an image, but not vice versa.
Key Takeaways
- A photo is always an image, but an image is not always a photo.
- Image can refer to a person’s character or personality, while photo does not have such a figurative meaning.
- In software terminology, both image and photo behave similarly, and the distinction between them in real life does not matter as much as the image type (e.g., GIF, JPEG, PNG).
