1.
photography, taking photographs
The act of taking photographs with a camera.
2.
filming, shooting (video/movie)
The act of recording moving images with a video camera.
撮影 covers both photography (still images) and filming (video/movies). Functions as a noun or する verb.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 撮影する: to photograph, to film
- 撮影禁止: photography/filming prohibited
- 撮影現場: filming location/set
- 撮影監督: director of photography
- 記念撮影: commemorative photo
- 撮影許可: filming/photography permit
CONTRAST:
- 撮影: the act of taking photos/filming (more formal)
- 写真を撮る: to take a photo (everyday usage)
- 動画を撮る: to take a video (everyday usage)
USAGE NOTE:
Signs saying 撮影禁止 (no photography/filming) are common at museums, temples, and theaters in Japan.