Rephotography is spelt as /riːfəˈtɒɡrəfi/, with emphasis on the second syllable. The word is derived from the Latin prefix "re-", meaning "again", and "photography", meaning "the art or practice of taking photographs". Rephotography refers to the act of taking a photograph of a subject, location or scene that has already been photographed in the past. This technique is used in various fields such as architecture, archaeology and environmental conservation to study changes and transformations over time.
Rephotography is a term that refers to the act, process, or technique of recreating or reproducing a photograph, often in the same or a similar location, with the intention of comparing, documenting, or analyzing changes or differences over time. It involves capturing a new photograph that replicates the composition, framing, and subject matter of an original photograph taken previously. Rephotography can be undertaken to visually document and demonstrate the effects of natural or human-made transformations, such as urban development, landscape alterations, environmental changes, architectural modifications, or historical progress.
Rephotography usually entails meticulous research, including studying the original photograph, investigating historical records, maps, and documents, and identifying precise locations and perspectives to create an accurate replica. The process often involves aligning and matching elements of the old and new photographs, taking into account focal length, camera position, angle, light conditions, and other factors that may affect the composition.
This technique has been extensively employed in documenting urban changes, preserving cultural heritage, documenting environmental impacts, and examining historical events. Rephotography serves as a valuable tool for researchers, historians, urban planners, conservationists, and others seeking to understand transformations and shifts in time and space. By visually comparing photographs, rephotography enables a deeper understanding of the dynamic nature of the world around us, offering insights into the evolution of human societies, landscapes, and individual places.
The word "rephotography" is a combination of the prefix "re-" and the noun "photography".
The prefix "re-" is of Latin origin, meaning "again" or "back". It is often used to indicate repetition or renewal. In the context of "rephotography", it implies the act of photographing something again or taking a new photograph of something.
The noun "photography" is derived from the Greek words "phōs" (light) and "graphē" (drawing or writing). It refers to the art, science, and practice of creating still or moving images by recording light on a photosensitive surface or sensor.
Therefore, the term "rephotography" signifies the process of taking new or updated photographs of a subject or scene that has previously been photographed. It is commonly used in historical or documentary projects where old photographs are compared or replicated.