写真を撮る
The English phrase "take a photo" is translated into Japanese as 写真を撮る.
When using a camera or smartphone, the specific verb 撮る is the correct choice for the action of capturing an image.
What does it mean word for word?
The verb 撮る means "to take (a photo)".
How does it change in a sentence?
To ask for permission to take a photo, you can use the pattern 写真を撮ってもいいですか？ To ask someone to take a photo of you, use the polite request form 写真を撮ってください.
Did you know?
- The word 写真 literally means 'copying the truth'. It is composed of 写 meaning 'copy' and 真 meaning 'truth' or 'reality'.
- While the verb 撮る is specifically for photos, you use the much more common verb 取る for 'to take' almost every other physical action, such as 'taking' a seat or 'taking' medicine.
- The verb 撮る can also be used for recording video or audio, not just still photos. If you are 'taking' a video, you still use the same core verb as you do for 写真を撮る.
Examples in context
- 失礼ですが、写真を撮っていただけますか？Excuse me, but could you take a photo?
- もちろん、喜んでどうぞ。Of course, with pleasure.
- 写真を撮ってくれる？Will you take a photo?
- いいよ、ちょっと待ってね。Sure, wait a moment.
- ここで写真を撮る。Koko de shashin o toru.I will take a photo here.
Example conversation
Yui and Youta are visiting a beautiful shrine.
- 結衣 Yui陽太さん、写真を撮ってもいいですか？Youta-san, shashin o totte mo ii desu ka?Youta, may I take a photo?
- 陽太 Yotaもちろん。いいですよ。Mochiron. Ii desu yo.Of course. Go ahead.
- 結衣 Yuiじゃあ、ここで写真を撮るね。Jaa, koko de shashin o toru ne.Then, I'll take a photo here.
- 陽太 Yotaはい、笑って！Hai, waratte!Okay, smile!
