Translation guide
The English word 'camera' generally refers to a device for taking photographs or videos. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is カメラ, a loanword from English. However, depending on context, other terms like 写真機 (still camera) or ビデオカメラ (video camera) may be used. This guide covers how to express 'camera' naturally in Japanese.
カメラ
camera
Referring to a camera in general, including digital cameras, smartphone cameras, and traditional film cameras.
The most common and versatile word for 'camera'. It covers both still and video cameras in everyday conversation.
新しいカメラを買った。
I bought a new camera.
このカメラは画質がいい。
This camera has good image quality.
A more formal or technical term for a still camera. Often used in written contexts or product descriptions.
この写真機はプロ向けだ。
This camera is for professionals.
Specifically refers to a video camera or camcorder. Use when you need to distinguish from a still camera.
ビデオカメラで撮影した。
I recorded it with a video camera.
Talking about the built-in camera on a phone, tablet, or computer.
Same word as general camera. Context makes it clear you mean the built-in one.
スマホのカメラで写真を撮る。
I take pictures with my smartphone camera.
パソコンのカメラが壊れた。
The computer's camera broke.
Short for 'inner camera', meaning the front-facing camera on a phone. Casual term.
Referring to a camera used for monitoring or security purposes.
Standard term for security camera. Literally 'crime prevention camera'.
店に防犯カメラが設置されている。
Security cameras are installed in the store.
Means 'surveillance camera'. Slightly more formal or technical than 防犯カメラ.
Specifically a camera used for filming movies or professional video production.
Literally 'movie camera'. Used for cameras that shoot films.
彼は映画カメラを回している。
He is operating the movie camera.
A loanword from 'cinema camera'. Used in professional or enthusiast contexts.
シネマカメラで撮影された作品。
A work shot with a cinema camera.
In casual conversation, カメラ can refer to both still and video cameras. If you need to be specific, use 写真機 for still cameras and ビデオカメラ for video cameras.
このカメラは写真も動画も撮れます。
This camera can take both photos and videos.
カメラマン means 'cameraman' or 'photographer', not the device itself. Use カメラ for the equipment.
彼はカメラマンです。
He is a cameraman.
インカメラで自撮りした。
I took a selfie with the front camera.
監視カメラの映像を確認する。
Check the surveillance camera footage.