59 Types of Photography You Need to Know
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Loading... - Rosie Payne
- 28 Apr 2022
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There are many different types of photography. And if you’re picking up a camera for the first time, it can be confusing. There are so many styles and categories that you might not know which to choose.
Expert Photography is here to give you all the information you need. We’ll use this article to detail all the types of photography you should know. There are links to more in-depth articles on each subject so you can explore with confidence.
59 Types of Photography You Need to Know
59 types of photography might seem like a lot to get your head around. But we’ve broken the list down into separate categories for easy digestion.
We’re starting the list with the types of photography defined by the camera you use—mainly digital and film. We’ll then look at people photography. This category looks at all the types of photography that involve people as the main subject.
The next step on our photography journey is nature photography. This theme looks at photography types that turn the lens to this wonderful world. The following capture dives into reportage photography. They’re the types of photography that involve exploration and discovery.
Artistic photography is the next step on our journey. The artistic types of photography search for aesthetic beauty and purity of image. And they often involve special photography techniques.
The final section of our list is photography for business. Any type of photography can become your business, but this section looks at the types of photography used to sell products or services.
Different Camera Types for Photography
While you can use any type of camera for any kind of photography, there are differences worth noting. These will help you decide which photography path you want to take.
1. Digital Photography
Digital cameras rule the photography world. Professional photographers use digital cameras for every type of photography. Digital technology is outstanding and produces superb results.
Beyond producing amazing images, digital cameras offer many conveniences for busy photographers. You’re not limited to 36 shots per roll, like analog cameras. You can shoot hundreds of shots, only worrying about filling your SD card.
Digital photography also has more editing options. Shooting in RAW gives you incredible options in an editing suite. You can enhance, adjust, and manipulate any characteristic you like.
2. Film Photography
Film photography looked like it was on the way out. Digital was taking over the world. But film is far from dead, and the analog revival is well underway.
Photographers of all types are returning to film. While many were turned off by the limitations and quirks of analog photography, the modern film shooter sees them as part of the fun.
Film photography has a magical quality digital can’t replicate. There’s a chemical reaction when light hits the film emulsion. And there’s a mystery when you have to wait to see the results. You can’t check and re-shoot after every shot. You have to trust your skills and hope for the best.
3. Pinhole Photography
With pinhole photography, you don’t even need a camera. You can make your own pinhole camera using an old tin or container. You need something lightproof, then make a hole with a pin in the side. You also need a piece of tape to put over the hole. But that’s your basic camera.
In a darkroom, place a piece of photo paper in your homemade camera. Close the lid and cover the hole with tape. Go outside and find something to take a picture of. Make sure the hole is facing the scene and remove the tape.
The light will go through the hole and expose the paper. After a second or two, cover the hole back up with the tape. Return to the darkroom and develop the paper. That’s it!
People Photography
This section looks at the types of photography with people as their main subjects. People play a huge part in our lives, so these are some of the most popular and profitable types of photography.
4. Portrait Photography
Portrait photography is one of the oldest types of photography. Since the invention of the camera, it’s been used to capture the characters of history.
The technology has changed, but portraiture remains one of the most popular types of photography. We love personal stories. And there aren’t many art forms more personal than portrait photography.
Portrait photography is a feature of other types of photography. Portrait photographers use portraits for fashion and fantasy photography. You’ll also find portraits in photojournalism and documentary photography.
5. Self-Portrait Photography
With the rise of social media, self-portrait photography lost some of its reputation. The self-portrait became the selfie. And now it’s associated with Instagram more than with the National Portrait Gallery.
But self-portraits still deserve our attention. They’re an excellent way of exploring yourself and creating characters. Here are some fabulous self-portrait photographers to get you inspired.
6. Wedding Photography
Weddings are big business. And so is wedding photography. This type of photography is one of the best ways to make money as a photographer. And it can be great fun too.
A wedding is a special day in people’s lives. And the bride and groom want excellent photos as a reminder of that magical day. This is something people will pay for if it’s done well.
Wedding photography involves portraits of families and friends. And there’s an element of documentary photography when recording the special day. You can also be creative with set design and poses.
7. Sports Photography
Sports are played by thousands and watched by millions. And the more popular sport becomes, the more sports photographers are needed.
Sports photography is about capturing the action on the field, track, or pitch. There’s a lot of skill in capturing the highs and lows of the sporting drama. You have to know your sport. And you need the correct settings on your camera.
8. Music Photography
Music photography can involve shooting live concerts or festivals. Or perhaps you might be doing promotional shots for a band or artist. Music photography work can be published in magazines and online. Or it can be used for album artwork.
Music photography can be great fun if you’re a music fan. Play your cards right, and you could get a front-row seat or a backstage pass. But it’s hard work, so you need to be dedicated.
