Adsorbent (n.) A material that can hold molecules of liquids, gases, or dissolved substances on its surface. In photography, adsorbents like silica gel are used to protect equipment from moisture damage. These materials are often found in small packets included with…
AI (Artificial Intelligence) Photography (n.) The application of artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms to enhance and automate various aspects of photography. In mobile devices, AI is used for tasks like scene recognition, automatic adjustments, and advanced image processing. AI can…
Animoji/Memoji (n.) Animated emojis or personalized avatars that mimic a user’s facial expressions and head movements. In mobile photography, these are often used in video messages or as fun overlays in photos. Animojis typically use a phone’s front-facing camera and facial…
Aperture (n.) The opening in a lens that controls the amount of light reaching the camera sensor, expressed as an f-number (e.g., f). In mobile photography, many phones have fixed apertures, while some high-end models offer variable apertures. A wider aperture…
AR (Augmented Reality) Stickers (n.) Digital overlays or 3D objects that can be added to photos or videos in real-time using augmented reality technology. In mobile photography, AR stickers have become a popular feature, allowing users to add fun, interactive elements…
Aspect Ratio (n.) The proportional relationship between an image’s width and height, typically expressed as two numbers separated by a colon (e.g., 4:3, 16:9). In mobile photography, different aspect ratios are used for various purposes. For example, 4:3 is common for…
Autofocus (n.) A camera system that automatically adjusts the lens to bring the subject into sharp focus. In mobile photography, autofocus systems use various methods like contrast detection and phase detection. Most smartphone cameras allow users to tap on the screen…
Bokeh (n.) The aesthetic quality of the out-of-focus areas in an image, often appearing as soft, circular blurs. In mobile photography, bokeh is frequently simulated through software in portrait modes, as the small sensors and lenses typically produce less natural bokeh.…
Burst Mode (n.) A camera function that captures a rapid sequence of photos in quick succession. In mobile photography, this is often activated by holding down the shutter button. Burst Mode is particularly useful for action shots, sports photography, or capturing…
Color Temperature (n.) A characteristic of visible light that describes its warmth or coolness, measured in Kelvin (K). In mobile photography, color temperature is closely related to white balance. Different light sources have different color temperatures; for example, candlelight is very…
Composition noun Comprehensive Explanation Introduction Composition is a cornerstone of photography that refers to the arrangement and relationship of visual elements within a photograph. More than just placing subjects in the frame, composition involves an understanding of balance, emphasis, harmony,…
Computational Photography (n.) The use of digital computation to enhance or extend the capabilities of digital photography. In mobile devices, this technology combines hardware with advanced algorithms to improve image quality and create effects that were previously impossible with small camera…
Contrast (n.) The degree of difference between the light and dark areas in an image. In mobile photography, contrast affects the overall mood and visual impact of a photo. High contrast images have strong differences between light and dark areas, creating…
Crop (v.) The process of removing outer parts of an image to improve framing, change aspect ratio, or emphasize certain elements. In mobile photography, cropping is a fundamental editing tool available in most camera and photo editing apps. It allows photographers…
Depth of Field (n.) The range of distance in a photo that appears acceptably sharp. In mobile photography, depth of field is often controlled through software due to the small sensor size. Many smartphones offer a “portrait mode” that simulates a…
Depth Sensor (n.) A specialized camera or sensor that captures depth information in a scene. In mobile photography, depth sensors are often used to create more accurate bokeh effects in portrait mode. They help the phone distinguish between the subject and…
Digital Image Stabilization (DIS) (n.) Also called Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS). A software-based approach to reducing blur and shake in images and videos. Unlike OIS, DIS works by processing the image after it’s captured. In mobile photography, DIS often complements OIS,…
Digital Noise (n.) Random variation of brightness or color information in images, usually most visible in shadow areas or when using high ISO settings. In mobile photography, digital noise is often more pronounced than in larger cameras due to smaller sensor…
Dynamic Range (n.) The range of light intensities a camera can capture in a single exposure, from the darkest shadows to the brightest highlights. Mobile phone cameras typically have a more limited dynamic range compared to larger cameras due to their…
EXIF Data (n.) Stands for Exchangeable Image File Format, a standard that specifies the formats for images, sound, and ancillary tags used by digital cameras. In mobile photography, EXIF data includes information such as camera settings, date and time the photo…