photo opportunity

American  

noun

1. a brief period set aside for the media to take photographs of a high government official or celebrity, usually immediately before or after a newsworthy event.

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photo opportunity British  

noun

1. an opportunity, either preplanned or accidental, for the press to photograph a politician, celebrity, or event

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Etymology

Origin of photo opportunity

First recorded in 1975–80

Example Sentences

It was a similar story at another photo opportunity with world leaders including French President Emmanuel Macron and Brazil's Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva.

From Barron's • Feb. 20, 2026

All they would need to do is decline a photo opportunity.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 1, 2026

Standing between Trump and Eric in the photo opportunity afterward were Dang Thanh Tam, the developer’s chairman, and a 39-year-old Briton named Charles Boyd-Bowman, who has since become the project’s head.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 20, 2025

Now, that's a lot of Osbournes in one go and for the rare privilege - plus a photo opportunity and autographs - guests had to pay a thematically-fitting £666.

From BBC • Jul. 12, 2025

Traditionally, this is nothing more than a photo opportunity, but President Trump likes to shoot the breeze with the press pack.

From BBC • Mar. 10, 2025