Although most photographers are skilled in one type of photography, it is possible to experiment with other styles. Many photography styles require technical and creative skills that cross over multiple genres. You can also learn valuable techniques and lessons from one style to make yourself a better photographer in all styles. You can create a solid foundation for your photography career by learning and practicing these seven types of photography.
- Portrait Photography
Portrait photography, also known as portraiture, is a popular style of photography that aims to capture the mood and personality of an individual or group. Photographs can be candid, posed, full-body or close-ups. In any case, the subject’s eyes and face are usually in focus. The lighting and background help convey emotion and tone. There are many types of portraits that you can choose from: senior portraits and family portraits; engagement photos and professional headshots. Portrait photographers who make clients feel at ease and are natural with their emotions will be the best.
- Photojournalism
Photojournalism allows you to tell the story through photos of an important (and sometimes historic) event or scene. Photographic journalism should be objective and honest. It is important to capture candid moments as they occur, rather than taking perfect photos. Photojournalists often attend events in the hopes of photographing unplanned, unscripted moments. Their work is regularly published in newspapers and magazines.
- Fashion Photography
Fashion photography highlights and glamourizes fashion clothes, shoes, accessories, to make them more attractive to consumers. It is often published in magazines or online. This niche is more popular than other types of photography due to the possibility of being creative and making photos attractive and eye-catching. Fashion photographers are known for taking full body shots. They also work in a variety of settings, including studios with full lighting and streets or open fields. Photographers of fashion use many of the same skills and communicate well with models, shoot stylists, creative directors and photographers.
- Sport Photography
Sports photographs capture the drama and passion that fuels sporting events by capturing athletes, coaches, or fans in the right moment. To keep up with the action, sports photographers need to aim quickly and use a higher ISO. This will allow for faster shutter speeds and better focus. For zooming in on action, sports photographers often use heavy, long lenses. In this competitive field, interesting angles can make your work stand apart.
- Still Life Photography
Still life photography is, as it sounds. It features inanimate objects (natural and man-made). Still life photography can be either artistic or commercial. It is used frequently in stock photography and product advertising. Think of product images in magazines, catalogs, and billboards. To get great shots for still-life photographers, you need to be able to arrange objects and light well.
- Editorial Photography
Editorial photography is used to illustrate an article or story, usually for a newspaper or magazine. Editorial photography is subject to a wide range of topics, and it all depends on the topic of its accompanying text. For editorial photography, it is important to have shots that can be used in a variety layouts. You will likely work closely with editors and art directors when you are working in editorial photography. This is why it is important to demonstrate professionalism and good communication skills.
- Architectural Photography
Architectural photography captures both the interior and exterior design for buildings and structures. This genre includes a variety of structures, from warehouses to old country barns to city bridges. The photograph often shows the most visually appealing parts of the structure, such as beams or archways. You may also highlight interesting materials and colors. It can be difficult to photograph architecture with the right lighting. Photographers must also know how to use natural light for exteriors. Gearsuch a tripod, tilt-shift lenses, and a panoramahead are often helpful. Designers, architects, leasing companies and investors in buildings can benefit from architectural photographs.
Start Your Photography Career
These types of photography styles are available in fully online Digital Photography Programs at The Art Institute of Pittsburgh. They include bachelor’s, associate, and certificate programs. The Art Institutes around the country also offer digital photography programs.