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Entertainment • Music

Photograph (Ed Sheeran song)

"Photograph" is a song by English singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran from his second studio album, *x* (2014).

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

"Photograph" is a song by English singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran from his second studio album, *x* (2014). It was released as the fifth and final single from the album on 11 May 2015 and became one of Sheeran's best-known ballads. The song was co-written by Sheeran and Johnny McDaid, and produced by Jeff Bhasker and Emile Haynie.

Background

"Photograph" was written by Ed Sheeran and Johnny McDaid, with production credited to Jeff Bhasker and Emile Haynie. The song was included on Sheeran's second studio album, *x*, and later released as a single in 2015.

Composition and themes

The song is generally described as an acoustic pop ballad. Its lyrics focus on preserving a relationship through photographs and memories during periods of separation. The track has a length of 4 minutes and 19 seconds.

Release and reception

Released as the fifth and final single from *x*, "Photograph" charted internationally and became one of Sheeran's signature songs. It achieved strong chart performance in multiple countries and also received attention for its official music video and award recognition.

Music video

An official music video was released for the single in 2015. The video is associated with the song's promotion and contributed to its visibility as a major album track.

Key facts

  • "Photograph" is a song by Ed Sheeran from his second studio album *x*.
  • It was released as the fifth and final single from the album on 11 May 2015.
  • The song was co-written by Ed Sheeran and Johnny McDaid.
  • It is an acoustic pop ballad centered on memory, distance, and love.
  • The song achieved strong chart performance in multiple countries.
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Canadian context

Ed Sheeran has had substantial airplay and commercial success in Canada, and "Photograph" is part of the mainstream pop repertoire familiar to Canadian audiences.

Frequently asked questions

What album is "Photograph" on?
It is on Ed Sheeran's second studio album, *x* (2014).
Who wrote "Photograph"?
The song was written by Ed Sheeran and Johnny McDaid.
When was "Photograph" released as a single?
It was released as a single on 11 May 2015.
What is "Photograph" about?
The lyrics are commonly understood as reflecting love, memory, and separation, using a photograph as a symbol of preserved connection.
Was "Photograph" a major hit?
Yes. It charted in several countries and reached notable positions in major markets, including the US and UK.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Photograph_(Ed_Sheeran_song)
    Supports: Song is by Ed Sheeran and appears on the album *x* (2014).
  2. Songfacts — https://www.songfacts.com/facts/ed-sheeran/photograph
    Supports: Album and chart information for "Photograph".
  3. Wikipedia — https://nl.wikipedia.org/wiki/Photograph_(Ed_Sheeran)
    Supports: Single release date and role as fifth and final single from *x*.
  4. Wikipedia — https://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Photograph_(canci%C3%B3n_de_Ed_Sheeran)
    Supports: Songwriters, producers, and promotional single release information.
  5. Wikipedia — https://fi.wikipedia.org/wiki/Photograph_(Ed_Sheeranin_kappale)
    Supports: Release date, songwriting credit, and B-side information.
  6. Kiddle — https://kids.kiddle.co/Photograph_(Ed_Sheeran_song)
    Supports: Chart performance and single release summary.
  7. Dork — https://readdork.com/track/ed-sheeran-photograph
    Supports: Track length, release role, and nomination for Best Video at the 2016 Brit Awards.
  8. YouTube — https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nSDgHBxUbVQ
    Supports: Official music video for "Photograph".