Photo Glossary

Handles

Handles in graphics software are special points placed around an active object that are used to manipulate the object when clicked and dragged with the mouse or other pointing device.

Hard

This term defines a scene, negative or print with high contrast.

Hard disk

The part of the computer that stores all the programs and files.

Hard gradation

Term denoting the quality of harsh contrast in a photograph.

High Key

High contrast with large areas of light tones and little shadow detail.

Highlights

The bright to white parts of an image.

Histogram

A chart with a vertical scale showing the contrast and dynamic range of a digital photo.

Hologram

A hologram is a three-dimensional photograph made with the aid of a laser.

Honeycomb

An attachment for studio flash that looks like a honeycomb mesh and is use to obtain a hard lighting effect with distinct shadows.

Hot shoe

The fitting on the top of many cameras that holds a flash. It has the necessary electric contacts to communicate with a dedicated speedlight.

HSB color space

A color model that describes color in terms of Hue, Saturation, and Brightness.

HSL color space

A color model that describes color in terms of Hue, Saturation, and Lightness.

HSV color space

A color model that describes color in terms of Hue, Saturation, and Value.

Hue

The distinct characteristics of color that permits them to be classed as red, yellow, green, blue, etc.

Hyperfocal distance

The distance of the nearest point in the photograph that is acceptably sharp when the lens is focused on infinity.

Hyperfocal point

Nearest point to the camera which is considered acceptably sharp when the lens is focused on infinity.