Visual anthropology is a field where the study of human culture and society is done through visual means. There are several synonyms for the term, including "ethnographic film," "cultural film," and "anthropological cinema." These terms are used to describe the use of film and video in studying culture and society and have been used since the earliest days of film. Another synonym for visual anthropology is "visual ethnography." This term emphasizes the use of film and photography to document and analyze cultures. Whatever the term used, visual anthropology remains a vital tool for understanding the diversity and complexity of human societies around the world.