noun
Historical or formal term for a professional photographer, especially in the context of early photography studios. In modern Japanese, カメラマン or フォトグラファー are more common.
明治時代、写真師は町で評判の職業だった。
In the Meiji era, a photographer was a well-regarded profession in town.
Loanword from English, often used for artistic or freelance photographers. Carries a modern, sometimes stylish nuance.
Compound of 写真 (photograph) and 師 (master, specialist). The term reflects the historical status of early photographers as skilled artisans.