Among all the question types on the Duolingo English Test, “Write About the Photo” often feels deceptively simple. You look at an image, describe what you see, and move on. But anyone who has taken the test knows that this short task can set the tone for the entire exam. So, to help you with that, here is a guide for the Duolingo Image Description task.
What is Write About the Photo (a.k.a Duolingo Image Description)
You are shown a single image and asked to describe it in one minute. The photo may contain people, places, objects, or everyday scenes—nothing unusual.
The test simply checks how clearly you can explain what you see.
Effective Practice Tips for Duolingo Image Description
Start by training your observation skills:
- Start by scanning the entire image for a few seconds before you start writing. Take note of background elements, surroundings, and visible actions.
Describe in simple and steady structure:
- Following a simple template will help in writing the description easily. Start by introducing the subject, then write a few lines introducing the main details, and close it by summarizing it. If you cannot see something clearly, don’t guess. Accuracy matters more than creativity in this task.
Write in your natural tone:
- Overly formal or forced vocabulary can make the response sound stiff. Simple, direct sentences are usually more effective and more accurate.
Practice writing within a one-minute limit:
- Time pressure changes everything. Training with a timer helps you learn how long you can spend looking and how quickly you should start writing.
Use a variety of images:
- While practicing for this task, describe different kinds of photos, such as buildings, objects, markets, classrooms, etc. This will build flexibility. You can also practice with the DET mock test.
Try to complete the description:
- Focus on completing the paragraph, as a bit imperfect response is better than a half-written paragraph.
Always read your description after practice:
- Reading your response helps in noticing where you are lacking and what needs to be improved.
Describe Image Duolingo Template
Start with a clear overview (1–2 lines)
- Describe what you see in the simplest, most direct way.
Add details about the people or objects
- Expand on what stands out most.
Mention the setting or background
- Show that you can interpret context.
Add an action or possible activity
- Even if you’re not sure, write what’s likely happening.
Wrap up with a closing line
- This keeps your description complete.
Duolingo Picture Description Examples
Below are images with Duolingo picture description answers, which you can start practicing with.
The photo shows a lively park with a large multi-tiered fountain at its center. People are sitting on benches while others stroll around the pathways. The bright, sunny weather makes the whole place feel relaxed and pleasant. Tall green trees surround the park, creating a calm backdrop. A colorful flower bed in the foreground adds a vibrant touch to the scene.
The photo shows a cozy café with large windows looking out onto a busy street. Inside, several people are seated at wooden tables, working on laptops or chatting over coffee. A barista at the counter is preparing a drink, giving the place an active yet relaxed atmosphere. Warm lighting and brick walls add to the café’s comfortable and modern feel. Overall, it captures a calm moment in a lively urban setting.
The photo shows a bright playground with children enjoying a sunny autumn day. One child is swinging happily while another sits at the top of a yellow spiral slide. The ground is covered with wood chips, and colorful trees with orange leaves surround the area. A group of adults sits on a bench in the background, watching the kids play. The scene feels cheerful and relaxed, capturing a lively moment outdoors.
The photo shows a clean and modern home office with a wooden desk and a large monitor. A black ergonomic chair is placed neatly in front of the workstation. Small plants and a few books add a simple, organized touch to the space. Natural light comes in through the large window on the left. Overall, the room looks calm and ideal for focused work.
The photo shows a busy outdoor farmers’ market with long tables full of fresh vegetables. Several people are browsing the produce, holding reusable bags as they make their choices. The vendors behind the tables are arranging and selling items like tomatoes, peppers, greens, and squash. White canopy tents cover the stalls, providing shade for both buyers and sellers. The lively scene reflects a community setting where people come to buy fresh, local food.
The photo shows a peaceful beach at sunset, with the sun sitting low on the horizon. Several people are walking along the shore, leaving footprints in the wet sand. A few individuals appear to be picking something up or looking closely at the ground. The sky is filled with soft shades of orange, pink, and purple, creating a calm atmosphere. Birds flying across the scene add to the sense of quiet evening beauty.
The photo shows a large, quiet library where many students are seated at a long wooden table. They are studying with laptops, books, and notebooks spread out in front of them. Warm desk lamps line the center of the table, creating a focused and calm atmosphere. Tall bookshelves filled with books surround the room, and a librarian stands at the back desk. The scene reflects a serious and dedicated study environment.
The photo shows a busy professional kitchen where several chefs are preparing dishes. One chef in the foreground is cooking over a high flame, creating a dramatic burst of fire from the pan. In the background, other chefs are focused on plating food and handling different tasks. The stainless-steel equipment and organized workspace highlight the fast-paced environment. Overall, the scene captures the intensity and teamwork required in a high-end restaurant kitchen.
This photo shows a vibrant, fenced-in dog park where a diverse group of dogs, including a Golden Retriever and a German Shepherd, are enthusiastically playing on the grass with tennis balls. In the background, four owners are casually supervising their pets near a bench and water station. The sunny, well-kept environment creates a perfect setting for canine socialization and outdoor recreation.
This image beautifully captures a typical family grocery trip in a brightly lit supermarket aisle. A mother and father are guiding their two young children, with the youngest seated in the cart and the older boy pointing to a product. The scene is filled with warmth and smiles, highlighting a shared, ordinary moment of domestic life amidst the tall, fully stocked shelves.
This image showcases a yoga class taking place in a modern studio with warm, diffused lighting. A group of women, primarily dressed in black and white athletic wear, are holding the Warrior I or High Lunge pose, with their arms extended overhead. Large wall-to-wall mirrors reflect the participants, helping them check their form, while potted plants add a natural, calming element to the light wood-floored space.
This image depicts a busy, multi-story construction site under a blue sky with scattered clouds. A towering red crane is actively lifting a steel beam above the structure, which is entirely encased in scaffolding and green safety netting. On the muddy ground, a yellow excavator, a cement mixer truck, and workers in safety vests are busy, with a pile of metal pipes and a city skyline visible in the distance.
This image features an artist deeply focused on painting a landscape on an easel in a sunlit, industrial studio. The space is characterized by exposed brick walls, a large window, and light wooden floors. Numerous finished and in-progress portrait paintings are displayed around the room, leaning against the walls and filling the space with creative energy.
This photo captures a busy train station platform covered by an impressive arched glass roof structure. Travellers with luggage are waiting, some seated, beneath departure boards listing services like trains to Paris. A fast-moving train is arriving at the platform, creating a sense of dynamic motion against the static crowd. The image conveys the organized rush of modern urban transit.
This image portrays a busy, well-equipped bicycle repair shop with an industrial-chic aesthetic, featuring exposed brick and hanging wheels. Four mechanics are actively engaged in repairing and servicing bikes, utilizing various tools neatly hung on a pegboard wall. The warm lighting and a large window creating natural light, along with a relaxed dog on the floor, establish a focused yet comfortable workspace dedicated to cycling maintenance.
This image portrays a peaceful night campsite nestled in a dark forest under a moonlit, starry sky. A warm, crackling campfire is contained within a ring of stones, illuminating a nearby olive-green tent and two lightweight camping chairs. Backpacks, a cooler, and other gear are neatly arranged around the area, suggesting a quiet, remote outdoor adventure in the wilderness.
This image depicts a warm, inviting bakery scene where a male baker, smiling, is presenting freshly baked goods to two female customers. The display case is overflowing with an appetizing variety of pastries, including croissants, cinnamon rolls, and decorated cakes. The rustic baskets and soft overhead lighting create a cozy atmosphere, highlighting the quality and abundance of the sweet treats.
This image features a busy outdoor swimming pool on a clear, sunny day, likely at a resort or community center. A lifeguard sits attentively on a tall chair, supervising the swimmers in the clean, blue-tiled water. Several people are swimming laps and wading, while others are relaxing on white lounge chairs under bright blue umbrellas by the poolside.
This image features a four-person rock band performing live in a dimly lit, industrial-style venue, possibly a rehearsal space or small club. The band, all dressed in black, consists of a vocalist, two guitarists, and a drummer positioned at the back. Bright spotlights create dramatic backlighting and smoke effects, highlighting the intensity of the performance, with Marshall Amplifiers visible on the left.
This image captures a bright, bustling plant nursery and garden center under a large glass greenhouse roof. Several employees in green aprons are helping customers navigate the rows of vibrant flowering plants displayed on wooden tables. The scene is active, with staff moving wheelbarrows and pointing out items, while a wall of gardening tools hangs in the background.
This atmospheric image captures a lively street food vendor operating in a bustling city at dusk. Beneath a yellow canopy, a vendor prepares food, generating steam, while a line of customers waits for service. A prominent chalkboard sign lists the menu: Spicy Tacos – $8, Loaded Fries – $7, and Churros – $5. Motion blur on passing cars emphasizes the busy urban environment.
This image depicts a modern, busy hospital ward or emergency department. Several people in blue scrubs, including nurses at a central station, are working while a doctor speaks to a patient in a bed. In the foreground, concerned family members and staff in scrubs are seated, creating a sense of tension and waiting common in a high-activity medical environment.
This image portrays a bright, airy floristry workshop or class with several women arranging flowers at rustic wooden tables. The room features high, arched windows and exposed white brick walls, creating a charming, vintage atmosphere. Abundant fresh flowers, arranged on shelves and in buckets on the floor, highlight the creative focus on floral design.
This image captures a brightly lit, sterile commercial laundry facility featuring long rows of washing machines. Two women are diligently folding clothes on a large central metal table, surrounded by laundry baskets. In the background, a man and an older person are seated on a bench, either waiting or reading, highlighting the blend of routine activity and downtime in this utilitarian space.
This image showcases a vibrant indoor rock climbing gym with high walls covered in multicolored climbing holds. Two climbers, secured by ropes, are actively ascending a steeply angled section of the wall bathed in sunlight from tall windows. Other climbers and spotters are visible below on the blue matting, indicating a dedicated space for training and bouldering activities.
This image depicts a veterinarian examining a small Golden Retriever puppy on a stainless steel table, while the dog’s owner looks on with concern. A veterinary technician is working at a computer in the background of the bright, pale-green examination room. The scene captures a routine check-up, emphasizing the care and professionalism of the modern animal clinic setting.
This image beautifully captures an outdoor wedding ceremony held in a grassy field bordered by mature trees during the golden hour. The couple stands under a rustic wooden arch adorned with white flowers and draped fabric, exchanging vows. Rows of guests in formal attire are seated on white chairs, with a central aisle scattered with white rose petals, creating a romantic and picturesque setting.
This image captures a warm, dedicated pottery studio where several students are intently working at electric wheels. A central instructor is guiding a student’s hands on a spinning piece of clay, demonstrating the technique. The wooden shelves in the background are filled with finished and drying bisque ware, highlighting the productive and creative atmosphere of the pottery class.
This image captures a busy airport security checkpoint where a long line of travelers is preparing their belongings for screening. Passengers place bags and plastic tubs onto the conveyor belt leading to the X-ray machine. Two security officers in blue uniforms monitor the screens and the flow of people in the bright, modern, and crowded terminal area.
This cozy image shows an ice cream parlor bathed in warm sunlight, where a vendor is cheerfully handing a scoop to a mother and her four attentive children at a brightly lit display counter. The glass case is filled with many colorful tubs of ice cream and toppings, while other customers enjoy their treats at tables in the inviting background.
This image shows a modern, drive-through car wash facility with cars moving along a track, being covered in suds. Employees in blue uniforms are visible, either directing cars or wiping them down. Large rainbow-colored brushes and spray nozzles are actively cleaning the vehicles. A bright, glass-enclosed waiting area lets customers observe the process or relax.
This picture shows an older tailor working hard in a classic shop. He is carefully measuring dark blue cloth on a wooden table. The room has brick walls, old sewing machines, and shelves full of different colored fabrics. A dressed mannequin stands next to him, showing off a perfectly made white shirt and gray pants. This is a place where high-quality, custom clothes are made.
The photo captures a group of five hikers ascending a rocky, winding trail through a lush, dense evergreen forest. Each person wears a large backpack and uses hiking poles, suggesting a multi-day trek. The path is bordered by moss-covered trees and thick undergrowth. In the background, majestic, snow-dusted mountain peaks rise sharply against a bright blue sky, revealing the stunning alpine destination of their journey.
The image shows a dentist, wearing scrubs, a mask, and gloves, examining a female patient in a modern dental office. The patient is reclined in the chair under a bright overhead lamp. On the wall, a monitor displays a panoramic X-ray of teeth , and a tray of sterilized dental tools is visible nearby. The scene depicts a professional and typical dental examination or procedure.
The photo shows two people working inside a bright, modern glass greenhouse filled with various plants, including ferns, orchids, and large banana plants. A woman is carefully watering trays of seedlings with a hose, while a man tends to a nearby bench. The structure features metal supports and environmental monitoring devices. This active scene suggests the dedicated, hands-on care required for commercial plant cultivation in a controlled, indoor environment.
The photo captures a warm, traditional Japanese sushi restaurant where three chefs in white uniforms are meticulously preparing sashimi and nigiri behind a counter. In front of them, patrons sit at a wooden bar, enjoying plates of sushi and drinks while watching the culinary process. The counter displays fresh cuts of tuna and other fish, creating an intimate and immersive dining experience focused on fresh ingredients and craftsmanship.
The image depicts a busy, large-scale recycling plant where a line of workers in yellow vests and hard hats are actively sorting waste on conveyor belts. They are picking out items like plastic bottles, paper, and metals, dropping them into labeled bins below. In the background, heavy machinery, stacked bales of processed materials, and a truck indicate a major industrial operation focused on material recovery and environmental sustainability.
The photo captures a young female pianist performing a recital on a grand piano on a stage. She is formally dressed and focused on the sheet music, framed by dramatic, deep red velvet curtains. A large floral arrangement sits to her left. The audience, visible in the foreground, is seated in a darkened auditorium, silently watching the performance during this formal classical music event.
The image shows the warm, cluttered interior of an antique shop filled with wooden furniture, ceramics, and numerous clocks, including several grandfather clocks by the large windows. An older man, likely the proprietor, is engaged in a friendly conversation with a younger couple in the center of the room. The space is illuminated by soft lamplight, suggesting a cozy atmosphere for browsing and purchasing collectible historical items.
The photo captures a massive crowd of runners nearing the finish line of a large city marathon, extending far down the tree-lined street. Participants wear bright athletic gear, and the street is lined with enthusiastic spectators cheering them on. A large banner marks the course, and a digital clock shows the running time, emphasizing the competitive and energetic atmosphere of this major sporting event.
The photo captures a large group of people, including families and children, captivated by a massive aquarium tank. The exhibit features a vibrant coral reef backdrop and numerous species of fish, a stingray, and a shark swimming overhead. An interpreter stands left, pointing to an informational screen. The dark room setting dramatically highlights the brightly lit underwater world, creating an engaging and educational public display.
The image depicts a nighttime scene in a dimly lit, organized auto repair garage. A dark blue sedan is elevated high on a hydraulic lift for maintenance. Below, a mechanic in blue overalls is lying on his back on the concrete floor, examining the vehicle, while tools are scattered nearby. In the background, a red pickup truck and shelves stocked with oil and tires confirm this is an active workspace.
The photo captures a sunny day at a bustling apple orchard where several families are enjoying the harvest. Adults and children, using baskets and ladders, are actively picking bright red apples from the heavily laden trees lining the row. Full baskets of fruit are scattered across the green grass, and a red tractor is visible in the distance, highlighting the seasonal, agricultural activity and wholesome fun.
The photo displays a bright, contemporary hair salon with large, ornate, illuminated mirrors lining the walls. Several stylists are actively working: one woman is cutting a male client’s hair, while two others are mirrored as they cut and wash hair respectively. The clean, minimalist space features polished floors, professional products on shelves, and cut hair scattered on the ground, indicating a busy and stylish professional grooming environment.
The photo features a bright, modern science classroom where a mature teacher in a lab coat is instructing several high school or university students, also in lab coats. They are gathered around workbenches, conducting chemical experiments with beakers, Bunsen burners, and brightly colored liquids. Safety goggles are worn by students, emphasizing the controlled and educational environment for practical science learning.
The photo displays a lively outdoor market held beneath a canopy of large, leafy trees. Numerous white vendor tents line a central pathway, where a diverse crowd of people browses various handmade goods like pottery and jewelry displayed on tables. The bright, pleasant atmosphere suggests a community event focused on supporting local artisans and enjoying a sunny day outdoors.
The image captures a bright, contemporary hotel lobby featuring a stylish marble reception desk where two staff members are greeting a couple with luggage. The couple appears to be checking in. The lobby provides a comfortable seating area with modern gray chairs and a sofa, alongside large potted plants. A shiny metal elevator is visible near the reception, signifying convenience for newly arrived guests.
The photo captures a joyous scene at a farm where a group of children and adults are gathered around a wooden fence. The children are happily feeding milk or formula to several sheep and goats, which eagerly crowd the fence line. A large red barn stands in the background under a sunny blue sky, creating a wholesome, educational, and fun family day out at the petting zoo.
The photo displays the interior of a clean, modern fire station where two large red fire trucks are parked beneath open bay doors. Firefighters in uniform are busy preparing and checking the equipment. The walls are neatly organized with hanging yellow and black turnout gear, helmets, and a large display of firefighting tools, emphasizing the readiness and professionalism of the crew and the station.
The image shows a bright, spacious plant nursery with a vaulted, industrial ceiling. Rows of potted indoor plants, including ferns and snake plants, are displayed on wooden benches. A store employee is talking to a female customer in the aisle, while other shoppers browse the abundant greenery. The scene emphasizes a thriving retail environment focused on domestic horticulture.
The photo captures a large group exercise class taking place on a sunny day beneath the shade of large trees in a park. A male instructor stands central, motivating over a dozen participants who are performing push-ups and planks on yoga mats. The atmosphere is energetic and focused, highlighting a popular outdoor bootcamp session designed to promote health and community fitness under the natural canopy.
The photo features a high-end jewelry boutique with rich wood paneling and illuminated display cases. A young couple, dressed in formal attire, is leaning over a glass counter while a professional, suited sales associate presents a piece of jewelry, likely a ring. The scene suggests a personalized and important purchase in a luxurious, exclusive retail setting.
The photo captures the thrilling action at an outdoor skate park on a bright, sunny day. A young male skateboarder, wearing a helmet and pads, is performing a high-flying trick off a concrete ramp against the sunlight. Below and to the right, another skater descends a small set of stairs. A crowd of spectators watches from the edges of the park, creating a vibrant, energetic atmosphere for the extreme sport competition.
The image features a modern electronics shop with shelves stocked with phone accessories. A technician in the foreground is intently micro-soldering on a circuit board, using a multi-meter and desk lamp. In the background, two other staff members are assisting customers or checking devices, indicating a high-activity environment for gadget sales and technical repair services.
The photo captures a warm, lively family gathering in a sunny park under large trees. A man wearing an apron is grilling sausages and burgers on a charcoal barbecue while two children excitedly receive plates of food. In the background, a large picnic table is covered with food and drinks. Other family members are playing lawn games nearby, creating a relaxed, wholesome atmosphere for a communal outdoor summer meal.
The photo displays a bright, spacious, and modern car dealership with large windows that let in ample natural light. Several sleek, high-end gray sedans are showcased on the polished white floor. Two salesmen in suits are interacting with a potential customer near the back vehicles. The minimalist design emphasizes the luxury and sophisticated retail environment for new car sales.
Practice more of these Duolingo Image description questions through our expert-designed mock test. Our full-length DET mock test mimics the real exam environment and provides accurate instant AI-scores. To score high in your DET exam, start practicing now.
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