* The Mechanism: Photography fundamentally relies on light. The light from a scene enters a camera and interacts with a light-sensitive surface (film or a digital sensor). This interaction captures the image. So, in a very literal sense, photography is the art of "drawing with light."
* The Result: The end product of photography is an image. Whether it's on film or a digital display, the image is a representation of the scene illuminated by light. It's like a "drawing" created by light itself.
* The Artistry: While the process is technical, photography is also a creative endeavor. Photographers choose how to use light to create mood, composition, and visual impact. Just like a traditional artist uses their tools, photographers use light as their medium to "draw" their vision.
The Greek definition emphasizes the fundamental principle of photography and highlights its artistic potential. It's a concise and elegant way to describe a complex process that has captured the world and our imaginations for over 170 years.