What is the Difference Between Photography and Digital Photography?

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The main difference between photography and digital photography lies in the technology and processes used to capture and store images. Here are the key differences:

  1. Image Capture: In film photography, images are captured using a photosensitive material made with silver that reacts to light, capturing the image on various sized grains of silver. In digital photography, an electronic sensor reacts to the light, capturing the images on identically sized pixels.
  2. Image Storage: Film photography uses physical film strips to store images, while digital photography stores images in digital format on memory cards or other digital storage devices.
  3. Image Processing: In film photography, images are processed in a darkroom or photo lab, while digital photography allows for instant image viewing and editing on the camera or computer.
  4. Convenience: Digital photography offers more flexibility and convenience, as images can be easily edited, shared, and stored on various digital devices. Film photography, on the other hand, requires physical development and storage, making it less accessible and more time-consuming.
  5. Camera Technology: Digital cameras often have embedded software that provides various effects and settings, making it easier to focus, compose, and switch between black and white and color. Film cameras, in contrast, require manual adjustments and have limited adaptability for different lighting conditions.

In summary, digital photography has become the dominant form of photography in recent years due to its convenience, flexible editing options, and ease of use. Film photography, while still used by some photography purists, is considered the exception rather than the norm.

Comparative Table: Photography vs Digital Photography

Feature Photography Digital Photography
Definition Photography refers to the process of capturing images using a photosensitive material, such as film or a digital sensor. Digital photography is a specific type of photography that uses digital sensors to capture images, store them, and modify them on a computer.
Storage Film photography captures images on light-sensitive film, which must be developed and printed to view the images. Digital photography captures images electronically and stores them as image files on a computer or storage device, allowing for easy editing and sharing.
Cost Film photography is more expensive due to the cost of film, developing, and printing. Digital photography is generally less expensive, as it does not require film, developing, or printing costs.
Turnaround Time Film photography requires time for developing and printing, which can extend the time between capturing and viewing an image. Digital photography allows for instant viewing and editing of images on a computer, greatly reducing the time between capturing and viewing an image.
Editing Film photography has limited options for post-processing, unless using specialized equipment or techniques. Digital photography offers extensive editing options and software, such as Adobe Photoshop, to enhance and manipulate images.
Hardware Compatibility Film photography relies on analog cameras, film, and light-sensitive chemicals for processing. Digital photography uses digital cameras and sensors, making it compatible with computer software and technology for storage, editing, and sharing.
Portability and Accessibility Film photography is less portable and accessible, as it requires specialized equipment and chemicals for processing. Digital photography is more portable and accessible, as images can be easily stored, edited, and shared on computers and mobile devices.