Hobbyists with cameras, informally NYT Crossword Clue
If you’re a crossword addict, you know these “informal” clues have a way of flipping between obvious and sneaky-crafty. “Hobbyists with cameras, informally” is exactly one of those—pushed into the NYT Mini for August 2, 2025, and likely tripping up anyone thinking too hard about technology or jargon. The clue’s cheeky nod is less about brand or gear type and all about that casual, in-the-know lingo.
Answer:
The word you’re hunting: PHOTOGS. Simple, straight-up, and fits perfectly when you start running those crossers. Seven letters, ends in “S”—NYT loves putting a little slang twist on classic hobbies.
Explanation:
So why “PHOTOGS” and not “SHUTTERBUGS” or “SNAPPERS”? It’s casual, fits the Mini grid perfectly, and is common shorthand among both the pros and enthusiasts in photography. “Photogs” nails that modern, slightly cheeky vibe—friends rib each other with it and you’ll hear it at events or online. It’s one of those NYT answers built for a fast fill, but you’ll second-guess it if you get stuck on the longer options. The trick: informal means ditch the formal “photographer” for something bite-sized and familiar.
Today’s NYT Mini Crossword Answers – August 2, 2025
Running through the rest of the clues? Here’s the down-low for August 2, 2025—all good for a keen double-check:

TikTok or Tinder | Show |
Lawyers' org. | Show |
Place with Bunsen burners and beakers, in brief | Show |
Product that can be sampled with a spray on the wrist | Show |
Visibly muscular | Show |
Groceries carrier | Show |
Self-indulgent "journey" | Show |
AOL alternative | Show |
Things that phone users might accidentally tap on webpages | Show |
Sports org. that now includes schools from Texas and California, strangely enough | Show |
Hobbyists with cameras, informally | Show |
Big name in exercise bikes | Show |
"Solve for x" subject | Show |
Temporary fix, so to speak | Show |
Pres. Lincoln | Show |
"Show me the ___" (punny request at an art museum) | Show |
President pro ___ | Show |
Road trip assistance, for short | Show |
About NYT Mini Crossword
The Mini really is a pocket-sized power-up for your brain. You get new clues fast, with just enough twist to keep it interesting—today’s about hobbyist “photogs” is a classic case. It’s only five by five, but the grid is where pop slang, everyday life, and the odd bit of history all mash together. Even if you’re not a photography buff, the Mini makes sure these little slices of life will trip everyone at least once.
How to Solve a Crossword
First tip: never go clue-by-clue straight through. Chase whatever pops instantly to mind; the letters you get unlock the weird ones. NYT loves informal clues—if “camera” is in the question but “informally” is in the mix, think short, casual, and modern. Crossings are your best friend for words ending in “S” or “G,” and don’t be afraid to erase and retry.
Breaks help more than you’d think—the right answer sometimes pops in while you’re making coffee. And don’t worry about speed; the daily Mini is about sharpening your wits, not setting records.
Tips for NYT Mini Crosswords
Easy wins first: fill the obvious, so the tricky bits get some help.
“Informally” means a short, slangy answer—ditch long or old-fashioned words.
Use crossing clues to rule out wrong options quickly.
Step back if you get stuck—fresh eyes catch what stubborn focus misses.
New day, new grid. Each solve builds skill. Tomorrow’s clue could be even trickier, but you’ll be ready.