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A2 noun #2,000 most common 7 min read

カメラ

kamera Top 2,000

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips カメラ in 30 Seconds

Explanation カメラ in your Level:

At the A1 level, 'kamera' is introduced as one of the basic Katakana nouns. Students learn to identify the object and use it in simple 'Subject wa Noun desu' sentences. You might say 'Kore wa kamera desu' (This is a camera). The focus is on recognizing the word and understanding its direct English equivalent. Learners also begin to use the particle 'o' with the verb 'kau' (to buy) or 'motsu' (to have/hold). The concept of 'kamera' at this stage is purely functional and physical. It is often paired with 'shashin' (photo) in the most basic verb phrase 'shashin o torimasu'. At this level, the nuances of different types of cameras are not yet explored, and the learner uses 'kamera' for everything from a toy to a phone to a professional device. The goal is simply to be able to point at a camera and name it correctly in Japanese, and perhaps express a basic desire like 'kamera ga hoshii desu' (I want a camera).

At the A2 level, learners begin to use 'kamera' in more descriptive contexts. You start using adjectives to describe the camera, such as 'atarashii kamera' (new camera) or 'chiisai kamera' (small camera). You also learn the particle 'de' to indicate that the camera is the tool used for an action: 'Kamera de shashin o torimasu' (I take photos with a camera). This level introduces the idea of 'kamera' as a hobby. You might say 'Watashi no shumi wa kamera desu' (My hobby is photography/cameras). You also start to encounter compound words like 'dejikame' (digital camera) and 'bideo kamera'. The social aspect of using a camera, such as asking for permission ('Kamera de totte mo ii desu ka?'), becomes important. Learners can now describe where they bought their camera or why they like it using basic 'kara' (because) structures. The focus shifts from simple identification to basic utility and personal expression.

At the B1 level, 'kamera' is used in more complex sentence structures involving sequences of actions and more specific vocabulary. You might describe the process of using a camera: 'Kamera o motte, soto ni dete, hana o torimashita' (I took my camera, went outside, and took photos of flowers). You begin to understand the difference between 'kamera' and 'shashinki' in terms of register. Technical terms like 'zuumu' (zoom), 'furasshu' (flash), and 'shatta' (shutter) are introduced. You can discuss the performance of a camera using words like 'seino' (performance) or 'gaishitsu' (image quality). B1 learners can also handle situations like reporting a lost camera to the police or asking for a camera to be repaired at a shop. The word 'kamera' starts appearing in more abstract contexts, such as 'kamera-me' (an eye for photography). You can also use 'kamera' in potential forms, like 'Kono kamera de kirei na shashin ga toremasu' (You can take beautiful photos with this camera).

At the B2 level, the learner can discuss 'kamera' in the context of technology, industry, and art. You might talk about the history of Japanese camera brands and their global market share. Vocabulary becomes much more specialized, including terms like 'ichigan-refu' (DSLR), 'miraaresu' (mirrorless), 'shiborichi' (aperture value), and 'shouten kyori' (focal length). You can explain the pros and cons of different camera systems in detail. B2 learners can understand and participate in discussions about 'kamera' in professional settings, such as film sets or journalism. The word 'kamera' is also used in figurative ways, such as discussing the 'camera's perspective' in literature or film theory. You can use complex grammar to describe hypothetical situations, such as 'Moshi motto ii kamera o motteitara...' (If I had a better camera...). The focus is on precision, technical fluency, and the ability to discuss photography as a sophisticated field of study or industry.

At the C1 level, 'kamera' is integrated into high-level discourse about aesthetics, social impact, and advanced technology. You can discuss the 'kamera' as a medium that shapes human perception and memory. Vocabulary includes 'kougaku' (optics), 'shikaku-teki kouka' (visual effects), and 'kenshou' (verification, as in security camera footage). You can analyze how the ubiquity of smartphone 'kamera' has changed social norms and privacy in Japan. C1 learners can read technical manuals, professional photography journals, and academic papers regarding optical engineering or the sociology of the image. The word 'kamera' might be used in discussions about 'kamera-waaku' (camerawork) in cinema, analyzing complex movements and their emotional impact. You can express subtle nuances, such as the difference between 'capturing a moment' and 'constructing a reality' through the lens of a camera. The language is used with full autonomy and stylistic flexibility.

At the C2 level, 'kamera' is a springboard for philosophical and highly specialized professional dialogue. You can engage in deep critiques of 'kamera' technology's role in surveillance capitalism or the evolution of digital art. You are comfortable with the most obscure technical jargon and can discuss the physics of light as it relates to 'kamera' sensors at a near-native or expert level. The word 'kamera' is used effortlessly in metaphors about the human eye, memory, and the recording of history. You can navigate complex legal discussions regarding 'bohan kamera' (security cameras) and 'shouzouken' (portrait rights/privacy rights) with ease. C2 learners can appreciate and produce sophisticated wordplay or cultural references involving 'kamera', such as those found in high-level Japanese literature or avant-garde cinema. The mastery of the word is complete, allowing for its use in any register, from the most casual slang to the most rigorous scientific or philosophical context.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

カメラ in 30 Seconds

Kamera is the Japanese Katakana word for 'camera', used for all types of image-capturing devices.
It is a common noun (A2 level) and is frequently paired with the verb 'toru' (to take a photo).
Japan is a major producer of cameras, making the word culturally and economically significant.
Common variations include 'dejikame' (digital camera) and 'bohan-kamera' (security camera).

The word カメラ (Kamera) is a loanword from the English word 'camera'. In the Japanese language, it functions primarily as a noun and is written in Katakana, the script used for foreign loanwords. It refers to any device used for capturing photographs or recording video. Whether you are talking about a high-end digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) camera, a simple point-and-shoot, or the lens integrated into a smartphone, the term 'kamera' is universally understood and applied. Historically, the introduction of the camera to Japan during the Edo period (initially called 'shashinkyo') revolutionized how the Japanese people documented their lives and surroundings. Today, Japan is world-renowned for its camera industry, housing giants like Canon, Nikon, Sony, and Fujifilm, making the word 'kamera' not just a vocabulary item but a point of national technological pride.

Etymological Root: Derived from the Latin 'camera obscura' (dark chamber), the term entered Japanese through English influence in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, eventually replacing more archaic terms like 'shashinki' in casual conversation.

新しいカメラを買いました。(I bought a new camera.)

Grammatical Classification: It is a common noun (meishi). It does not change form based on plurality, as Japanese nouns generally do not have plural forms. Context determines if you are talking about one camera or many.

このカメラはとても高いです。(This camera is very expensive.)

Semantic Range: While 'kamera' usually refers to the physical device, it can also refer to the 'camera view' in video games or the 'camera angle' in cinematography, showing its versatility in modern media contexts.

スマホのカメラを使います。(I use my smartphone's camera.)

一眼レフカメラはプロ用です。(DSLR cameras are for professionals.)

防犯カメラが設置されています。(Security cameras are installed.)

Using カメラ in a sentence is straightforward for English speakers because the grammatical logic often follows the pattern of other nouns. However, the verbs associated with it are crucial. To 'use' a camera, you use the verb 'tsukau' (使う). To 'take' a photo with a camera, you use 'toru' (撮る). It is important to note that 'toru' is written with the specific kanji 撮 for photography, rather than 取 (to take an object) or 捕 (to catch). When describing the act of looking through a camera, you might use 'kamera o nozoku' (to peek through the camera). If you are buying or selling one, the standard 'kau' (buy) and 'uru' (sell) apply. In technical contexts, you might discuss 'kamera no kino' (camera functions) or 'kamera no seino' (camera performance).

Common Verb Pairings: カメラを向ける (kamera o mukeru) - To point the camera at something. カメラを構える (kamera o kamaeru) - To hold the camera in a ready position. カメラを回す (kamera o mawasu) - To start recording (literally 'to turn the camera').

彼はカメラを趣味にしています。(He has a camera as a hobby / He is into photography.)

Describing Quality: Use adjectives like 'atarashii' (new), 'furui' (old), 'takai' (expensive), 'yasui' (cheap), 'omoi' (heavy), or 'karui' (light) to describe the physical device.

このカメラは軽くて持ち運びに便利です。(This camera is light and convenient for carrying.)

Compound Words: デジタルカメラ (Dejitaru kamera) often shortened to 'dejikame'. ビデオカメラ (Bideo kamera). 水中カメラ (Suichu kamera - underwater camera).

旅行にカメラを持っていくのを忘れました。(I forgot to bring my camera on the trip.)

古いカメラを修理しました。(I repaired an old camera.)

そのカメラで私を撮ってください。(Please take a photo of me with that camera.)

You will encounter the word カメラ in a vast array of daily situations in Japan. One of the most common places is in electronics retail giants like Yodobashi Camera or Bic Camera, where the word is part of the store's very name. In these environments, you'll hear staff shouting about 'kamera no tokubetsu kakaku' (special camera prices). At tourist destinations like Kyoto's Kinkaku-ji or Tokyo's Shibuya Crossing, you'll hear people asking, 'Kamera de totte mo ii desu ka?' (Is it okay to take a photo with a camera?). On television, news anchors might mention 'bohan kamera' (security cameras) when reporting on incidents, or 'terebi kamera' when referring to the studio equipment. In the workplace, during a Zoom or Teams meeting, someone might say 'kamera o on ni shite kudasai' (please turn on your camera). The word is so ubiquitous that it transcends age groups, from children playing with toy cameras to elderly hobbyists carrying expensive gear in parks.

Retail Context: In stores, you will hear terms like 'shisaku' (trial use), 'zuumu' (zoom), and 'shatta' (shutter) used alongside 'kamera'.

ヨドバシカメラへ行きましょう。(Let's go to Yodobashi Camera.)

Online Meetings: 'Kamera o ofu ni suru' (to turn off the camera) is a very common phrase in modern Japanese office life.

会議中はカメラをオンにしてください。(Please turn on your camera during the meeting.)

News & Media: 'Kamera ga toraeta' (captured by camera) is a standard dramatic phrase used in news segments showing spectacular or criminal footage.

防犯カメラの映像を確認します。(We will check the security camera footage.)

このカメラはピントが合いやすい。(This camera focuses easily.)

テレビカメラの前で緊張しました。(I got nervous in front of the TV camera.)

While カメラ is a simple word, learners often make mistakes with the verbs and particles associated with it. A common error is using 'kamera o toru' when they mean 'take a photo'. In Japanese, 'kamera o toru' literally means to physically pick up or steal a camera. To say 'take a photo', you must say 'shashin o toru' (take a photo) or 'kamera de shashin o toru' (take a photo with a camera). Another mistake involves the kanji for 'toru'. While 'toru' (to take) can be written as 取る, for photography it should be 撮る. Confusing these in writing is a frequent slip-up for intermediate students. Additionally, learners sometimes confuse 'kamera' with 'shashinki'. While 'shashinki' is technically correct, it sounds very formal or dated; in 99% of modern conversations, 'kamera' is the preferred term. Finally, when using smartphone cameras, some might say 'sumaho o toru', but again, the correct phrasing is 'sumaho de toru' or 'sumaho no kamera o tsukau'.

Verb Confusion: Incorrect: カメラを撮る (Kamera o toru - to photograph a camera). Correct: カメラで撮る (Kamera de toru - to photograph with a camera).

✕ カメラを撮ってください。 (Please photograph the camera.)

Kanji Precision: 取る (general take) vs 撮る (photograph). Always use 撮る when cameras are involved in the action of capturing an image.

◯ 写真を撮るためにカメラを使います。(I use a camera to take photos.)

Loanword Pronunciation: English speakers often stress the first syllable (CA-mera). In Japanese, it is flat: ka-me-ra.

✕ カメラ機 (Kameraki - redundant). Correct: カメラ (Kamera).

✕ このカメラはいい写真をします。(This camera 'does' good photos.) Correct: ...いい写真が撮れます (...can take good photos).

◯ カメラのレンズを拭いてください。(Please wipe the camera lens.)

Understanding カメラ also requires knowing its related terms and synonyms. While 'kamera' is the broad term, more specific words exist for different types of equipment. 'Dejikame' is a very common abbreviation for 'dejitaru kamera' (digital camera). 'Ichigan-refu' refers to a DSLR, while 'ミラーレス' (miraaresu) refers to mirrorless cameras, which are currently very popular in Japan. For older film cameras, you might hear 'firumu kamera'. Another related word is 'shashinki' (写真機), which literally means 'photograph machine'. As mentioned before, this is formal and rarely used in speech but might appear in historical texts or legal documents. 'Bideo' or 'muubi' might be used for video cameras specifically. It's also worth noting 'sumaho' (smartphone), as most people use their phones as their primary 'kamera' today. When comparing these, 'kamera' remains the umbrella term that covers everything from a professional's tool to a security device.

Kamera vs. Shashinki: Kamera: Modern, casual, universal. Shashinki: Technical, old-fashioned, formal.

デジカメ（デジタルカメラ）で撮ります。(I'll take it with a digital camera.)

Kamera vs. Bideo: Kamera: Usually implies still photos but can be video. Bideo: Specifically for moving images.

一眼レフカメラは画質が良いです。(DSLR cameras have good image quality.)

Kamera vs. Lens: Kamera refers to the body/whole unit. Lens (renzu) refers specifically to the glass optics.

ミラーレスカメラが欲しいです。(I want a mirrorless camera.)

使い捨てカメラは懐かしいです。(Disposable cameras are nostalgic.)

隠しカメラに気をつけて。(Watch out for hidden cameras.)

How Formal Is It?

Difficulty Rating

Grammar to Know

Tool particle 'de'

Object particle 'o'

Counter 'dai'

Verb 'toru' (撮る)

Desire 'hoshii'

Examples by Level

これは私のカメラです。

This is my camera.

Uses the possessive 'no' and the 'wa...desu' structure.

カメラを買います。

I will buy a camera.

Basic object-verb structure with 'o'.

カメラはどこですか。

Where is the camera?

Standard question for location.

そのカメラは大きいです。

That camera is big.

Using an i-adjective to describe a noun.

カメラが好きです。

I like cameras.

Expressing preference with 'ga suki'.

カメラをください。

Please give me the camera.

Requesting an object.

カメラが二台あります。

There are two cameras.

Using the counter 'dai' for machines.

父のカメラは古いです。

My father's camera is old.

Possessive 'no' with an adjective.

カメラで写真を撮りました。

I took a photo with a camera.

Uses 'de' for the tool and '撮る' for photography.

新しいカメラが欲しいです。

I want a new camera.

Adjective + noun + 'ga hoshii'.

このカメラは使いやすいです。

This camera is easy to use.

Verb stem + 'yasui' (easy to do).

旅行にカメラを持っていきます。

I will take a camera on the trip.

Indicates purpose/destination with 'ni'.

カメラを忘れないでください。

Please don't forget the camera.

Negative request 'nai de kudasai'.

スマホのカメラは便利です。

Smartphone cameras are convenient.

Compound noun phrase with 'no'.

カメラを修理に出しました。

I sent the camera for repair.

Compound action 'shuri ni dasu'.

安いカメラを探しています。

I am looking for a cheap camera.

Present continuous '-te iru'.

カメラを趣味にしている人が多いです。

There are many people who have photography as a hobby.

Relative clause describing 'hito'.

もっといいカメラを買えばよかったです。

I should have bought a better camera.

Conditional 'ba' + 'yokatta' (regret).

カメラの使い方が分かりません。

I don't know how to use the camera.

Verb stem + 'kata' (way of doing).

このカメラは暗い場所でも撮れます。

This camera can take photos even in dark places.

Potential form 'toreru' and 'demo' (even).

カメラを落として壊してしまいました。

I dropped the camera and unfortunately broke it.

'-te shimau' expressing regret.

デジカメより一眼レフの方がいいです。

A DSLR is better than a digital camera.

Comparison 'A yori B no hou ga'.

カメラを三脚に固定してください。

Please fix the camera onto the tripod.

Specific technical verb 'kotei suru'.

プロのカメラマンに頼みました。

I asked a professional photographer.

Using 'kameraman' for the profession.

カメラの性能が飛躍的に向上しました。

Camera performance has improved dramatically.

Formal adverb 'hiyaku-teki ni'.

防犯カメラの設置が義務付けられた。

The installation of security cameras was made mandatory.

Passive voice 'gimu-zukerareta'.

このカメラは動画撮影に特化している。

This camera specializes in video recording.

The verb 'tokka suru' (specialize).

カメラのレンズを交換する必要があります。

It is necessary to change the camera lens.

Noun + 'no hitsuyo ga aru'.

カメラを向けると、彼女は恥ずかしがった。

When I pointed the camera at her, she acted shy.

Conditional 'to' indicating immediate reaction.

最新のカメラはAI機能を搭載している。

The latest cameras are equipped with AI functions.

Technical verb 'tousai suru' (equip/load).

カメラ越しに見る景色は違って見える。

The scenery looks different when seen through a camera.

Suffix 'goshi' (through/across).

カメラの市場シェアが変動している。

The camera market share is fluctuating.

Business terminology 'shiea' and 'hendo'.

カメラは単なる記録媒体ではない。

A camera is not merely a recording medium.

Formal negation 'dewa nai' and 'tannaru' (mere).

カメラが捉えた決定的瞬間の美しさ。

The beauty of the decisive moment captured by the camera.

Literary expression 'ketteiteki shunkan'.

監視カメラ社会の是非を問う。

Questioning the pros and cons of a surveillance camera society.

Abstract noun 'zehi' (right or wrong).

カメラの絞りを調整して背景をぼかす。

Adjust the camera's aperture to blur the background.

Technical photography term 'bokasu'.

彼のカメラワークには独特の美学がある。

There is a unique aesthetic in his camerawork.

Loanword 'kamera-waaku' used in artistic critique.

カメラの普及がプライバシーの概念を変えた。

The spread of cameras has changed the concept of privacy.

Noun 'fukyu' (spread/diffusion).

光学的な限界に挑戦するカメラ開発。

Camera development that challenges optical limits.

Adjective 'kougaku-teki' (optical).

カメラを構える姿が様になっている。

The way he holds the camera looks very professional/cool.

Idiomatic 'sama ni natte iru'.

カメラというレンズを通して世界を再構築する。

Reconstructing the world through the lens of the camera.

Philosophical use of 'to iu' and 'saikouchiku'.

隠しカメラの存在が倫理的議論を呼んでいる。

The existence of hidden cameras is sparking ethical debates.

Formal 'giron o yobu' (spark debate).

カメラの解像度は人間の眼を凌駕しつつある。

Camera resolution is starting to surpass the human eye.

Advanced verb 'ryoga suru' (surpass).

戦場カメラマンが直面する過酷な現実。

The harsh reality faced by battlefield photographers.

Compound noun 'senjo-kameraman'.

カメラのシャッター音一つに歴史が刻まれる。

History is carved into a single click of the camera shutter.

Metaphorical 'kizama reru' (be carved/engraved).

デジタルカメラの台頭により銀塩カメラは衰退した。

With the rise of digital cameras, silver halide (film) cameras declined.

Technical term 'gin-en' (silver halide).

カメラのファインダー越しに真実を追求する。

Pursuing the truth through the camera's viewfinder.

Abstract 'shinjitsu o tsuikyu suru'.

カメラのオートフォーカス機能のアルゴリズム解析。

Algorithm analysis of the camera's autofocus function.

Highly technical academic phrasing.

Common Collocations

カメラを向ける (point a camera)

カメラを構える (hold a camera)

カメラを回す (record video)

カメラを修理する (repair a camera)

カメラを忘れる (forget a camera)

カメラを買う (buy a camera)

カメラを設置する (install a camera)

カメラを操作する (operate a camera)

カメラを覗く (look through a camera)

カメラを隠す (hide a camera)

Common Phrases

カメラ目線 (looking at the camera)

カメラ小僧 (camera enthusiast/geek)

カメラ女子 (female photography hobbyist)

カメラマン (photographer)

防犯カメラ (security camera)

ウェブカメラ (webcam)

使い捨てカメラ (disposable camera)

水中カメラ (underwater camera)

隠しカメラ (hidden camera)

テレビカメラ (TV camera)

Often Confused With

カメラ vs カメ (Kame - turtle)

カメラ vs カメラマン (Kameraman - the person, not the device)

カメラ vs 写真 (Shashin - the photo, not the device)

Idioms & Expressions

"カメラに収める (to capture on camera)"

"カメラが回る (the camera is rolling)"

"カメラの目 (the camera's eye/perspective)"

"カメラを止めるな (don't stop the camera)"

"カメラに捉えられる (to be caught on camera)"

"カメラ映りがいい (to be photogenic)"

"カメラのピントを合わせる (to focus the camera)"

"カメラのシャッターを切る (to press the shutter)"

"カメラを向ければ (if you point a camera...)"

"カメラは嘘をつかない (the camera doesn't lie)"

Easily Confused

カメラ vs

Sentence Patterns

How to Use It

plurality

Japanese doesn't distinguish between 'camera' and 'cameras' unless a counter is used.

smartphone

People often say 'sumaho' instead of 'kamera' when referring to their phone's lens.

Common Mistakes

Saying 'Kamera o toru' to mean 'take a photo'. (It means 'pick up a camera'.)
Using the wrong 'toru' kanji (取 instead of 撮).
Stressing the first syllable like in English.
Using 'kamera' to refer to the photographer.
Forgetting the counter 'dai' when counting cameras.

Tips

Use the 'De' Particle

When using a camera as a tool, always use 'de'. For example, 'Kamera de toru' (Take with a camera). This is a common point of confusion for beginners who might try to use 'o'. 'De' indicates the means or instrument of the action. Mastering this will make your basic sentences much more accurate.

Learn 'Dejikame'

In casual conversation, 'dejikame' is much more common than 'dejitaru kamera'. Using the shortened version will make you sound more like a native speaker. It's a classic example of how Japanese loves to abbreviate long Katakana words. Practice saying it quickly: de-ji-ka-me.

Respect Privacy

Japan has a strong culture of privacy. Always ask before pointing your camera at someone. Even in public, be mindful of 'shouzouken' (portrait rights). Many shops and restaurants have 'no photography' signs. Looking for these signs is a good way to practice your Kanji reading (禁撮 or 撮影禁止).

Flat Pitch

Avoid the English habit of putting a strong stress on the first syllable. Japanese syllables have relatively equal length and a specific pitch pattern. For 'kamera', try to keep your voice steady. If you stress it like 'KA-mera', it might be harder for Japanese people to understand you quickly.

Katakana Practice

Since 'kamera' is one of the most common Katakana words, use it to practice your stroke order. The 'ka' (カ), 'me' (メ), and 'ra' (ラ) are all very basic and important characters. Writing them correctly will help you with many other loanwords. Remember that 'me' (メ) looks like a 'X' and 'ra' (ラ) looks like a '7' with a hat.

Asking for Photos

When you want someone to take your photo, say 'Sumimasen, shashin o totte moraemasu ka?'. This is slightly more polite than 'totte kudasai'. It literally means 'Can I receive the favor of you taking a photo?'. It's a great way to use your A2/B1 level grammar in a real-world situation.

Store Names

Listen for 'kamera' in the names of big stores like Yodobashi Camera. They often have catchy theme songs that repeat the word. This is a fun way to get the word stuck in your head. You'll hear it thousands of times if you spend a day in Akihabara or Shinjuku.

Verb Precision

Remember the specific verb '撮る' (toru). While 'tsukau' (use) is okay, 'toru' is the most natural verb for the actual act of photography. If you are recording a video, you can also use 'utsusu' (映す) or 'recordingu suru'. Being precise with your verbs shows a higher level of fluency.

Smartphone vs. Camera

If you are using a phone, you can say 'sumaho no kamera'. However, most people just say 'sumaho de toru'. If you specifically say 'kamera', people might assume you have a dedicated device like a DSLR. Knowing when to use which word helps clarify what equipment you are talking about.

Latin Roots

Knowing that 'kamera' comes from 'camera obscura' can help you remember it. The 'camera' part means 'room' or 'chamber'. In a way, every camera is a little dark room where light creates an image. This connection between the English and Japanese words makes it one of the easiest words to learn.

Memorize It

Word Origin

English 'camera'

Cultural Context

Japan has strict 'shouzouken' (portrait rights) laws, so be careful taking photos in public.

In Japan, it is polite to ask 'Totte mo ii desu ka?' before taking photos of people or inside shops.

Many Japanese people take pride in using domestic camera brands.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Conversation Starters

"どんなカメラを使っていますか？ (What kind of camera do you use?)"

"カメラが趣味ですか？ (Is photography your hobby?)"

"おすすめのカメラを教えてください。 (Please tell me a recommended camera.)"

"そのカメラ、どこで買いましたか？ (Where did you buy that camera?)"

"カメラで写真を撮ってもいいですか？ (Is it okay to take a photo with a camera?)"

Journal Prompts

今日、カメラで何を撮りましたか？ (What did you take a photo of today with your camera?)

新しいカメラを買ったら、どこへ行きたいですか？ (If you bought a new camera, where would you want to go?)

スマホのカメラと一眼レフ、どちらが好きですか？ (Which do you like better, smartphone cameras or DSLRs?)

カメラを持って旅行に行った思い出を書いてください。 (Write about a memory of going on a trip with a camera.)

将来、どんなカメラが発明されると思いますか？ (What kind of cameras do you think will be invented in the future?)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Yes, although 'bideo kamera' is more specific, 'kamera' is often used for both still and video devices in casual speech. Most modern digital cameras handle both, so the distinction is blurring. You will hear 'kamera o mawasu' specifically for recording video. However, for a dedicated video device, 'bideo' is common. In professional settings, 'terebi kamera' is used for broadcasting equipment.

The counter for cameras is 'dai' (台). This counter is used for most machines, vehicles, and electronic devices. For example, 'kamera ga ichi-dai' means one camera. You would not use 'ko' or 'hon'. Using the correct counter makes your Japanese sound much more natural and proficient. It is an important part of A2 level grammar.

No, 'kamera' only refers to the device. To refer to the person, you must use 'kameraman' (カメラマン) or 'shashinka' (写真家). 'Kameraman' is more common for commercial or news photographers, while 'shashinka' often implies an artistic photographer. Using 'kamera' to refer to a person would be a confusing grammatical error in Japanese. Always add 'man' or use the specific title.

It is very rare in daily conversation. You might see it in a museum, a very old book, or a legal document describing equipment. If you use it with friends, they will understand you, but it will sound like you are speaking from the 1920s. Stick to 'kamera' for all modern contexts to sound natural. Even elderly people in Japan use 'kamera' today.

You say 'kamera no renzu' (カメラのレンズ). 'Renzu' is also a Katakana loanword from 'lens'. In photography circles, people often just say 'renzu' if the context of the camera is already clear. For example, 'atarashii renzu o katta' (I bought a new lens). It is a key piece of vocabulary for anyone interested in photography as a hobby.

It literally means 'camera eye'. It can refer to someone who is very aware of where the camera is (like a model or actor) or someone who has a natural talent for finding good shots. It's a slightly more advanced idiomatic expression. You might hear it on TV variety shows. It's a compliment for someone who looks good on screen. It shows how 'kamera' is integrated into social descriptions.

No, 'dejikame' is a casual abbreviation of 'dejitaru kamera'. It's very common in daily speech, similar to how 'smartphone' became 'phone'. In a formal business report, you should use the full 'dejitaru kamera' or 'dejitaru ichigan-refu'. For talking with friends or family, 'dejikame' is perfectly fine and very common. It's a useful word to know for casual fluency.

The most common way is 'Shashin o totte kudasai' (Please take a photo). You don't usually mention the camera unless you are handing them a specific one: 'Kono kamera de totte kudasai' (Please take it with this camera). If you want to ask if photography is allowed, say 'Kamera wa daijoubu desu ka?' or 'Totte mo ii desu ka?'. This is essential etiquette at temples and museums.

It is a security or surveillance camera. 'Bohan' (防犯) means 'crime prevention'. You will see these everywhere in Japan, from convenience stores to street corners. They are a major part of Japan's public safety infrastructure. News reports often feature 'bohan-kamera no eizou' (security camera footage). It's one of the most common compound words involving 'kamera'.

It refers to young women who enjoy photography as a hobby, often using stylish or vintage-looking cameras. It became a trend in Japan in the late 2000s. These hobbyists often focus on 'kawaii' (cute) or 'oshare' (stylish) subjects. It's a specific cultural sub-group. You might see magazines or events dedicated to 'kamera-joshi'. It highlights the social aspect of the word.