Difference Between
versus

Picture vs. Photo: Know the Difference

Shumaila Saeed
By Shumaila Saeed || Updated on December 25, 2023
A picture is a general term for any visual representation, while a photo specifically refers to an image created using photographic processes.
Picture vs. Photo

Key Differences

A picture encompasses a broad range of visual representations, including drawings, paintings, and photographs. On the other hand, a photo (short for photograph) specifically denotes an image captured by a camera through the photographic process.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 01, 2023
Pictures can be created through various artistic methods, such as sketching, painting, or digital illustration, offering a wide spectrum of artistic styles. Photos are the result of capturing real-life scenes or objects through a camera, relying on light and photographic technology.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 01, 2023
The term "picture" can be used to describe both physical and digital representations, and it is not limited to reality; it can also include imaginative or fictional visuals. A photo, by definition, is a representation of a real scene or subject, captured through the lens of a camera.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 01, 2023
Pictures have been a part of human expression since prehistoric times, evident in cave paintings and ancient drawings. Photography, and consequently photos, emerged in the 19th century with the development of photographic technology.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 01, 2023
In terms of usage, "picture" is a more versatile term and can refer to any visual depiction, whether it’s a child’s drawing or a professional painting. "Photo" is more specific and is always associated with photographic images, whether in print or digital format.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 01, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT

Comparison Chart

Definition

Any visual representation
An image captured by a camera
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 01, 2023

Creation Method

Can be drawn, painted, photographed
Captured through photographic process
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 01, 2023

Relation to Reality

Can be real or imaginary
Represents real scenes or subjects
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 01, 2023

Historical Emergence

Since prehistoric times
Since the 19th century
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 01, 2023

Physical/Digital Form

Both
Both
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 01, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT

Picture and Photo Definitions

Picture

A visual representation of a subject or scene.
She hung a picture of a landscape on her wall.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 22, 2023

Photo

Photo refers to photographic prints.
The old photo album was filled with black and white photos.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 22, 2023

Picture

Picture can refer to a painting.
The art gallery displayed an impressive array of pictures.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 22, 2023

Photo

Photo can denote a digital image.
She scrolled through the photos on her phone.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 22, 2023

Picture

A drawing can also be a picture.
The child's picture was proudly displayed on the refrigerator.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 22, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT

Photo

Photos are used in journalism.
The journalist captured a powerful photo of the event.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 22, 2023

Picture

A visual representation or image painted, drawn, photographed, or otherwise rendered on a flat surface.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Photo

A photo is an image captured through a camera.
They shared a photo from their vacation online.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 22, 2023

Picture

A visible image, especially one on a flat surface or screen
The picture reflected in the lake.
Focused the picture on the movie screen.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Photo

A photo captures real-life moments.
The photo of the sunset was breathtaking.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 22, 2023

Picture

A vivid or realistic verbal description
A Shakespearean picture of guilt.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Photo

A photograph.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Picture

A vivid mental image.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Photo

To photograph or take photographs.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Picture

A person or object bearing a marked resemblance to another
She's the picture of her mother.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Photo

(informal) A photograph.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Picture

A person, object, or scene that typifies or embodies an emotion, state of mind, or mood
Your face was the very picture of horror.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Photo

(informal) A photo finish.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Picture

The chief circumstances of an event or time; the situation
How does the new boyfriend figure in the picture?.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Photo

(informal) A digital picture of any kind.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Picture

A movie.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Photo

(transitive) To take a photograph of.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Picture

A tableau vivant.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Photo

A contraction of Photograph.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Picture

To make a visible representation of
In this photo, the mayor is pictured with several aides.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Photo

A picture of a person or scene in the form of a print or transparent slide; recorded by a camera on light-sensitive material
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Picture

To form a mental image of; visualize
I pictured my grandfather as a young man coming to America.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Picture

To describe vividly in words; make a verbal picture of
Pictured their heroism in glowing language.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Picture

A representation of anything (as a person, a landscape, a building) upon canvas, paper, or other surface, by drawing, painting, printing, photography, etc.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Picture

An image; a representation as in the imagination.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Picture

A painting.
There was a picture hanging above the fireplace.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Picture

A photograph.
I took a picture of the church.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Picture

A motion picture.
Casablanca is my all-time favorite picture.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Picture

Cinema as a form of entertainment.
Let's go to the pictures.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Picture

A paragon, a perfect example or specimen (of a category).
She's the very picture of health.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Picture

An attractive sight.
The garden is a real picture at this time of year.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Picture

The art of painting; representation by painting.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Picture

A figure; a model.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Picture

Situation.
The employment picture for the older middle class is not so good.
You can't just look at the election, you've got to look at the big picture.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Picture

(MLE) A sample of an illegal drug.
If you want me to buy your weed I’ll need a picture.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Picture

(programming) A format string in the COBOL programming language.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Picture

(transitive) To represent in or with a picture.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Picture

(transitive) To imagine or envision.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Picture

(transitive) To depict or describe vividly.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Picture

The art of painting; representation by painting.
Any well-expressed image . . . either in picture or sculpture.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Picture

A representation of anything (as a person, a landscape, a building) upon canvas, paper, or other surface, produced by means of painting, drawing, engraving, photography, etc.; a representation in colors. By extension, a figure; a model.
Pictures and shapes are but secondary objects.
The young king's picture . . . in virgin wax.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Picture

An image or resemblance; a representation, either to the eye or to the mind; that which, by its likeness, brings vividly to mind some other thing; as, a child is the picture of his father; the man is the picture of grief.
My eyes make pictures when they are shut.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Picture

To draw or paint a resemblance of; to delineate; to represent; to form or present an ideal likeness of; to bring before the mind.
I have not seen him so pictured.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Picture

A visual representation (of an object or scene or person or abstraction) produced on a surface;
They showed us the pictures of their wedding
A movie is a series of images projected so rapidly that the eye integrates them
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Picture

Graphic art consisting of an artistic composition made by applying paints to a surface;
A small painting by Picasso
He bought the painting as an investment
His pictures hang in the Louvre
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Picture

A clear and telling mental image;
He described his mental picture of his assailant
He had no clear picture of himself or his world
The events left a permanent impression in his mind
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Picture

A situation treated as an observable object;
The political picture is favorable
The religious scene in England has changed in the last century
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Picture

Illustrations used to decorate or explain a text;
The dictionary had many pictures
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Picture

A form of entertainment that enacts a story by a sequence of images giving the illusion of continuous movement;
They went to a movie every Saturday night
The film was shot on location
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Picture

The visible part of a television transmission;
They could still receive the sound but the picture was gone
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Picture

A graphic or vivid verbal description;
Too often the narrative was interrupted by long word pictures
The author gives a depressing picture of life in Poland
The pamphlet contained brief characterizations of famous Vermonters
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Picture

A typical example of some state or quality;
The very picture of a modern general
She was the picture of despair
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Picture

Imagine; conceive of; see in one's mind;
I can't see him on horseback!
I can see what will happen
I can see a risk in this strategy
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Picture

Show in, or as in, a picture;
This scene depicts country life
The face of the child is rendered with much tenderness in this painting
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Picture

Picture encompasses digital imagery.
He created a stunning picture using graphic design software.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 22, 2023

Picture

Pictures can be imaginative or abstract.
Her abstract pictures were open to interpretation.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 22, 2023

Repeatedly Asked Queries

Are all pictures photos?

No, pictures include more than just photographic images.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 01, 2023

Is a drawing considered a picture?

Yes, drawings are a form of picture.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 01, 2023

What is a photo?

An image captured through a camera using photographic technology.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 01, 2023

What is a picture?

Any visual representation, like a drawing, painting, or photo.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 01, 2023

Do photos always need a camera?

Traditional photos do, but digital images can vary.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 01, 2023

Can a photo be a picture?

Yes, a photo is a type of picture.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 01, 2023

How old is the concept of a picture?

It dates back to prehistoric times.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 01, 2023

When did photography start?

In the early 19th century.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 01, 2023

Are photos always based on real life?

Yes, they depict real scenes or subjects.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 01, 2023

Are pictures used in art?

Yes, they are a fundamental part of visual arts.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 01, 2023

What's the main use of photos?

To capture and preserve moments in time.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 01, 2023

Can pictures be abstract?

Yes, they can be abstract or realistic.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 01, 2023

Do pictures need to be realistic?

Not necessarily; they can range from realistic to abstract.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 01, 2023

Can pictures be digital?

Yes, both pictures and photos can be in digital form.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 01, 2023

Can a picture be fictional?

Yes, pictures can depict imaginary scenarios.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 01, 2023

Can photos be manipulated?

Yes, especially with digital technology.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 01, 2023

Can pictures convey emotions?

Yes, they can express a wide range of emotions.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 01, 2023

Are photojournalists artists?

They are artists in their own right, capturing reality.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 01, 2023

Is photography considered an art?

Yes, it's a widely recognized art form.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 01, 2023

What's the main purpose of pictures?

To visually represent or communicate ideas or scenes.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 01, 2023

Share this page

Link for your blog / website
HTML
Link to share via messenger
About Author
Shumaila Saeed
Written by
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.

Popular Comparisons

Trending Comparisons

Spinosaurus vs. TyrannosaurusSpinosaurus vs. Tyrannosaurus
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Spinosaurus, a semi-aquatic dinosaur with a sail-like spine, was adapted for life in water, whereas Tyrannosaurus, known for its massive skull and short arms, was a land-based predator.
Pulley vs. SheavePulley vs. Sheave
Hifza NasirHifza Nasir
April 4, 2024
A pulley is a wheel on an axle designed to support movement and change of direction of a taut cable, while a sheave is the wheel part of a pulley system that specifically interacts with the cable.
MDI vs. SDIMDI vs. SDI
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
MDI (Multiple Document Interface) allows multiple documents within a single window; SDI (Single Document Interface) limits to one document per window.
Verbal Communication vs. Nonverbal CommunicationVerbal Communication vs. Nonverbal Communication
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Verbal communication uses words to convey messages, while nonverbal communication involves gestures, facial expressions, and body language.
Physical Weathering vs. Chemical WeatheringPhysical Weathering vs. Chemical Weathering
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Physical Weathering breaks down rocks mechanically without altering their chemical composition, while Chemical Weathering involves chemical changes that decompose or alter rock's mineral composition.
Federal Prison vs. State PrisonFederal Prison vs. State Prison
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Federal prisons house inmates convicted of federal crimes, while state prisons hold those guilty of state-level offenses.
Login vs. LogonLogin vs. Logon
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
"Login" and "Logon" are often used interchangeably to describe the process of gaining access to a computer system, but "login" can also refer to the credentials used for access.
Active Listening vs. Passive ListeningActive Listening vs. Passive Listening
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Active listening involves engaging and responding to achieve a deeper understanding, while passive listening is characterized by hearing without active engagement or response.
GHz vs. MHzGHz vs. MHz
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
February 12, 2024
GHz (Gigahertz) and MHz (Megahertz) are units of frequency; 1 GHz equals 1,000 MHz.
Pycharm Community vs. Pycharm ProPycharm Community vs. Pycharm Pro
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
February 4, 2024
PyCharm Community is a free, open-source IDE for Python development, while PyCharm Pro is a paid version with additional advanced features like web development support and database tools.
Formal Assessment vs. Informal AssessmentFormal Assessment vs. Informal Assessment
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Formal assessments are structured and standardized, while informal assessments are flexible and observational.
Slavic Facial Features vs. Germanic Facial FeaturesSlavic Facial Features vs. Germanic Facial Features
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
January 31, 2024
Slavic facial features often include high cheekbones and rounder faces, while Germanic facial features typically have sharper angles and stronger jawlines.
CISCO ISE vs. ForeScoutCISCO ISE vs. ForeScout
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
February 16, 2024
CISCO ISE is a network access control and policy management tool, while ForeScout offers device visibility and control across heterogeneous networks.
PPM vs. PPMVPPM vs. PPMV
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
February 10, 2024
PPM (parts per million) measures the concentration of one substance within a million parts of another. PPMV (parts per million by volume) expresses gas concentration as volume per million volumes of air.
Grand Opening vs. Soft OpeningGrand Opening vs. Soft Opening
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
A Grand Opening is a highly publicized and celebratory launch of a business or venue, while a Soft Opening is a more subdued trial opening, often with limited services or a smaller audience.
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate vs. Sodium Lauroyl SarcosinateSodium Lauryl Sulfate vs. Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) is a harsher surfactant used in cleaning products, while Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate is gentler, often used in personal care items.
Description vs. DefinitionDescription vs. Definition
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Description is a detailed account or portrayal of something. Definition is a precise statement explaining the nature, scope, or meaning of a word or concept.
3DS XL vs. 3DS LL3DS XL vs. 3DS LL
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
February 3, 2024
3DS XL is a larger version of the original 3DS, released in North America and Europe. 3DS LL is the same as 3DS XL, but marketed in Japan.
Matt vs. MatteMatt vs. Matte
Dua FatimaDua Fatima
May 14, 2024
Matt describes a dull, non-shiny surface finish, while matte refers to a specific flat, non-reflective texture in photography and printing.
Tatkal vs. Premium TatkalTatkal vs. Premium Tatkal
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
February 17, 2024
Tatkal is a scheme for last-minute train bookings in India with fixed quotas and prices, while Premium Tatkal offers dynamic pricing and fewer quotas for urgent travel.
Bebe vs. BebesBebe vs. Bebes
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
February 22, 2024
"Bebe" is the singular form in Spanish for "baby" or "drinks," while "Bebes" is either the second person singular present tense of "to drink" or the plural form of "baby."
Personnel Management vs. Human Resource ManagementPersonnel Management vs. Human Resource Management
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
January 2, 2024
Personnel Management is a traditional approach focusing on employee administration and basic management functions. Human Resource Management (HRM) is a modern approach emphasizing strategic integration of human resources with organizational goals.
Hydroscopic vs. HygroscopicHydroscopic vs. Hygroscopic
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
February 14, 2024
Hydroscopic is a common misnomer, often incorrectly used in place of hygroscopic. Hygroscopic refers to substances that absorb moisture from the air.
Term vs. SemesterTerm vs. Semester
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Term is a general period for any division of the academic year, while Semester specifically refers to half of an academic year.

Featured Comparisons

New Comparisons