What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
photographed
Example
I photographed the sunset over the ocean. [photographed: past tense]
Example
The photographer spent hours photographing the wildlife in the national park. [photographing: gerund or present participle]
shot
Example
He shot a beautiful landscape with his camera. [shot: past tense]
Example
The filmmaker spent months shooting the documentary in different locations. [shooting: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Shot is more commonly used than photographed in everyday language and is more versatile in its usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between photographed and shot?
Photographed is generally considered more formal than shot, making it more appropriate for formal contexts such as academic writing or professional settings.
