photogenic

[foh-tuh-jen-ik]

adjective

1. forming an attractive subject for photography or having features that look well in a photograph.

   a photogenic face.

2. Biology.,  producing or emitting light, as certain bacteria; luminiferous; phosphorescent.

3. Medicine/Medical.,  produced or caused by light, as a skin condition.

photogenic

/ ˌfəʊtəˈdʒɛnɪk /

adjective

1. (esp of a person) having features, colouring, and a general facial appearance that look attractive in photographs

2. biology producing or emitting light

   photogenic bacteria

Other Word Forms

• photogenically adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of photogenic¹

First recorded in 1830–40; photo- + -genic

Example Sentences

As a photogenic woman, I can assure him that the grass isn’t always greener on our side of the lens.

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For while other actors were as photogenic on screen as Dean, including “Giant” costar Elizabeth Taylor, it’s difficult to think of another star who made such an impact with his still images.

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Horror franchises revolving around photogenic young people being stalked by a deadly murderer are hard to kill off.

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Amanda Greeley, owner of racket sports fashion brand Spence, argues tennis’ increased popularity is a result of the photogenic nature, but also society’s desire for connection.

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A photogenic patch of Yosemite Valley, with the soaring rock face of El Capitan in the background, had become his personal TV studio.

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Related Words

• attractive