What defines a megapixel in photography?

A megapixel is defined as a unit measuring image resolution in photography. Specifically, it refers to one million pixels and is used to quantify the detail an image holds. The more megapixels an image has, the higher its potential resolution, meaning it can display finer details. In practical terms, this can affect the size of prints that can be produced from a digital image without losing quality; higher megapixel counts allow for larger prints while maintaining clarity.

Understanding this concept is vital because it directly influences the image quality produced by cameras, particularly in digital photography. Higher megapixels can be advantageous for professional use where high detail is required, such as in large format photography or cropping images while retaining sharpness.