15 Most Popular Types of Photography

Types of photography, it is such a vast concept, where does one begin? For amateur photographers like us, we might not know exactly the extent of how extensive the field of photography can be. But ask any professional photographer, he/she will sure to have a detailed explanation armed and ready.

Expert photographers often have their own niches. Some have talent in all kinds of photography, but most prefer to perfect their niche.

Are you a beginner in photography? Then you have come to the right place! In this article, you will find the 15 most popular photography styles there are. Hopefully, you will be able to find the one that suits you best. However, if you desire to become an expert in photography, you will need plenty of practice of course.

1. Still-life Photography

What is still life photography? Well, it involves photography of still objects or groups of objects depicting any particular theme. Tabletop photography, food photography, found object photography, and product photography are all examples of still-life photography.

When taking still-life photos, the object should be neither too far nor too close. One secret for taking the best still-life photos is to have proper lighting. Whether you are indoors or outdoors, having the proper lighting is extremely important.

Here’s an insiders’ tip: use a lightbox to eliminate any harsh shadows.

2. Wildlife Photography

This is the most exciting photography niche among youngsters. Unfortunately, this type of photography involves many challenges and, of course, safety concerns. It is not at all easy to capture images of wild animals without disturbing their natural habitat. 

Because wildlife photography is so dangerous, it is a highly lucrative business. Due to the dangers involved in such kind of photography, it is highly paid. It is not every photographer’s cup of tea. It is only for the strong-hearted.

3. Macro Photography

Macro photography is also known as close-up photography. In Maco photography, the photographer takes extremely close-up shots of their subject. These subjects can be something as small as a grain of rice. The result is an image that portrays the subject to be larger-than-life. To get the perfect shot, a special lens is used. This lens is often referred to as the macro lens.  

If you are artistic in nature and have the patience to wait for the best shot, then macro photography is the best niche for you.

4. Newborn Photography

Newborn photography is one of the cutest amongst all the different types of photography. Who can resist scrolling through hundreds of baby photos when they are so adorable! However, taking photos of babies has its own set of challenges. A baby’s eyes and body are extremely sensitive to light and heat. Any prolonged exposure to strong lights is sure to make them cry. So, the photographer needs to constantly make sure that the baby is comfortable.

5. Weather photography

If you love the different weather, then weather photography might just be the one for you! However, this field of photography is definitely not for the faint-hearted. Professionals brave extreme weather conditions just to get that perfect shot. Hence, they can reflect the beauty of hurricanes even amidst the chaos. Naturally, because of how dangerous this field is, the pay is naturally greater.

6. Architectural Photography

Architectural photography is a unique one. It generally refers to taking images of buildings and building structures. This can include both the interiors or exteriors of any building, as well as bridges. The main purpose is to showcase the exquisite work of designers and architects. To get some immaculate shots, you do need to have a thorough knowledge of elements of art and its composition.

Most professional photographers suggest you use a tripod. This helps you create the best image you can get.

7. Astro-Photography

Have you seen beautiful images of the stars at night? That is the work of astrophotographers! These professionals are attracted by the beauty of the night sky. Astrophotographers often assist researchers in recording images of stars. Astrophotography is an extreme niche that is difficult to master. Furthermore, because of how specialized this field of photography is, you may need special equipment that can be extremely costly.

8. Black and White Photography

Black and white photography is nostalgic. Before the advancement in technology, black and white photography is all there is. Nowadays, this type of photography is about playing with black and white tones to create compelling images.

This type of photography is relatively simple to learn. You can achieve a b&w image easily through camera settings, or by editing. Hence, many youngsters have hopped onto the trend of black and white photography. It is a fun way to capture the sense of nostalgia.

9. Event photography

This is one of the most popular types of photography. It is carried out during various events like birthday parties, weddings, concerts, and many more. Thus, an event photographer is essentially someone who specializes in taking photos of events.

It also involves candid photography in which photos are taken of people unaware, to capture a natural moment.

10. Commercial Photography

Commercial photography is one of the different types of photography that aims to promote any product or service. Many companies hire commercial photographers to take impeccable shots of their products for marketing purposes. Commercial photography can include food photography, fashion photography, and so on.

11. Composite photography

The next in the list of types of photography is composite photography. Composite images are constructed from two or more different photos. Most composite images are created by layering one image on top of another. However, there are other techniques to create layered shots. This style of photography is unique, creative, and artistic.

12. Creative photography

Creative photography, requires the use of a huge range of concepts and techniques. To master it requires an out-of-the-box way of thinking. Creative photography often contains extra elements such as filters, to intentionally improve the photo quality. This is what separates it from everyday photography.

13. Documentary photography

Documentary photography refers to images of historically significant events. It is supposed to provide a straightforward and accurate representation of events.

Conservation photography and street photography are also considered documentary photography.

14. Film Photography

Film photography is the precursor to the birth of digital photography and has been gaining in popularity in recent years. However, it is also more difficult to master than digital photography. You would need to have a thorough knowledge of your camera and its functions to excel. Despite its complexity, film photography can be extremely rewarding. If you can master film photography, mastering digital photography will hence, be easy.

15. Golden Hour photography

In photography, the golden hour is the period of daytime shortly after sunrise, or before sunset. During which a warm golden color appears, thereby casting a warm hue across the image.

Many love taking photos during golden hours because of its beauty and who can blame them!