Ed Sheeran’s “Photograph” has become one of the most cherished tracks in his discography since its release in 2014. This emotive ballad, featured on his second studio album, x (Multiply), resonates deeply with listeners, drawing upon themes of love, distance, and the power of memories. But what lies beyond its soulful melody and heartfelt lyrics? Below, we’ll explore the story, inspiration, and deeper meaning of “Photograph,” uncovering why it remains a standout in Ed Sheeran’s illustrious career.
What is “Photograph” About?
At its core, “Photograph” is a song about the challenges and resilience of a long-distance relationship. Sheeran paints a picture of love preserved in a snapshot, a metaphorical reminder of cherished moments shared between two people separated by miles. The lyrics explore the emotional struggles of being apart while clinging to tangible keepsakes, like photographs, that help bridge the physical distance.
Sheeran drew from personal experience for this song. During his relationship with fellow musician Nina Nesbitt, the couple spent significant time apart—three months while Sheeran toured with Snow Patrol and another two months during his solo tour. The song transforms these personal memories into a universal portrait of love, longing, and hope.
How “Photograph” Was Written
The story of how “Photograph” came to life is as captivating as its lyrics. Sheeran co-wrote the song with Johnny McDaid of Snow Patrol in May 2012. The seed of the track came from McDaid’s simple three-note piano loop, which played on his laptop as Sheeran hummed the iconic opening line, “Loving can hurt.”
What’s fascinating is the casual and spontaneous environment in which the song was created. The duo worked on the track in a Kansas City hotel room, with Sheeran building a LEGO set while McDaid tinkered with the music on his computer. Within hours, the melodies and lyrics organically evolved, and the foundation of “Photograph” was completed.
Sheeran later refined the song in Denver, Colorado, and experimented with over 60 recorded versions before arriving at the final cut. This layering of ideas, producers, and instruments speaks to Sheeran’s meticulous craftsmanship and dedication to perfecting his work.
The Music and Production
“Photograph” is an acoustic pop ballad that relies on a stripped-down, heartfelt melody. Its instrumentation centers on an acoustic guitar, complemented by piano, strings, organ, and a soft drumbeat. Producer Jeff Bhasker helped elevate the track, spending months refining its sound to maximize its emotional impact, alongside contributions from additional producers Jake Gosling, Rick Rubin, and Emile Haynie.
With a tempo of 108 beats per minute, the song’s rhythm evokes a delicate balance between melancholy and warmth. Its placement in E major, along with Sheeran’s soothing vocals, creates a sense of intimacy, making “Photograph” feel like a personal conversation.
The Themes of “Photograph”
1. Love and Vulnerability
One of the standout lines in the song reads, “Loving can hurt, loving can hurt sometimes.” These words acknowledge not just the beauty of love but also its inherent challenges. Sheeran doesn’t shy away from portraying relationships as complex and bittersweet.
2. The Universal Power of Memories
A key element of “Photograph” is its reliance on the metaphorical importance of photos. Sheeran uses the image of a photograph to explore how people hold onto memories, especially when physical separation limits connection. The phrase “We keep this love in a photograph” highlights how moments frozen in time can serve as a bridge to lost experiences and emotions.
3. Distance and Endurance
The lyrics, “You can keep me inside the pocket of your ripped jeans,” delicately tap into how couples find comfort and connection despite being apart. The imagery speaks to intimacy and closeness symbolized through small tokens and everyday objects.
Reception and Popularity
Following its release, “Photograph” gained widespread acclaim, with critics praising its heartfelt lyrics and Sheeran’s raw, emotional delivery. The track became the fifth and final single from the x album, peaking at number 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 and topping charts across multiple countries, including Canada and Australia.
Its accompanying music video, released in May 2015, added another layer of personal touch. The video is a collection of home footage showcasing Sheeran’s childhood, growing up, and coming of age. This montage of intimate moments—captured lovingly by his family—resonated with fans, further cementing the song’s appeal.
“Photograph” has also achieved significant sales and certifications worldwide, turning it into a commercial success. It was certified quadruple platinum in the United Kingdom and triple platinum in the United States, underscoring its broad impact and continued relevance.
The Legacy of “Photograph”
Years after its release, “Photograph” remains one of Sheeran’s most beloved tracks, a testament to its universal themes and authenticity. It continues to be a go-to song for weddings, anniversaries, and heartfelt moments, showcasing its timeless power to connect listeners.
Ed Sheeran’s ability to craft lyrics that feel both deeply personal yet universally understood makes “Photograph” a standout example of his artistry. By intertwining raw emotion, evocative imagery, and a beautiful melody, Sheeran created a song that resonates across ages and experiences.
Final Thoughts
What makes “Photograph” so special is its ability to capture complex human emotions in a way that feels honest and relatable. It’s a song that reminds us of the power of love and the ways we preserve it—even when distance and time challenge our connections.
If you’d like to explore more of Ed Sheeran’s music or learn songwriting techniques from his work, now is a great time to start discovering the intricate layers of his artistry. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a new listener, “Photograph” is a song that truly deserves a spot on your playlist.