The Types of Photography

and How to Find Your Niche

Content
Introduction................................................................................................................................................................................................. 3
What is Photography?................................................................................................................................................................................ 4
Types of Photography Styles and Genres................................................................................................................................................ 5
Landscape Photography............................................................................................................................................................................... 6
Commercial Photography............................................................................................................................................................................. 8
Art Photography......................................................................................................................................................................................... 11
Portrait Photography................................................................................................................................................................................... 14
Macro Photography.................................................................................................................................................................................... 18
Architectural Photography........................................................................................................................................................................... 20
Aerial Photography..................................................................................................................................................................................... 22
What is a Niche in Business Photography?........................................................................................................................................... 25
Why is it important to find a niche?........................................................................................................................................................ 26
How to Find Your Niche in Photography?.............................................................................................................................................. 27
Where to Sell Your Niche Photos............................................................................................................................................................ 31
Conclusion................................................................................................................................................................................................ 32
 3

Introduction
Photography is a creative and flexible area. Exploring different
types of photography gives you pleasure and enhances your
skills. Also, you can try something new whenever you feel
bored taking the same types of photos. Bear in mind that
every photography has its own unique style. If you want to
become a pro-level photographer, be focused on your niche.

With a suitable niche, you can become a master of that genre

and can beat your business rivals by engaging more clients.
But the question is: how do you find your niche for an online
business?

In this Ebook, we will highlight different photography styles,

approaches, and relevant subjects so that you can find your
photography niche.
 4

What is Photography?
It is the art of processing a scene into an image by capturing
light using a sensor. But the beauty of photography is to treasure
moments in time with emotion, tell a story and share them with
the world. A meaningful photo is capable of changing people’s
perceptions.

And detailed observation can help to capture the essence of

your elective subject.
Types of Photography
Styles and Genres

Landscape Photography
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Landscape Photography • Forests Photography:

A famous type of landscape photography because

Landscape photography captures the beauty of nature and
forests provide an endless visual variety. Forest
highlights the mood, setting, and feeling of the location. That
photography is full of interesting lines and light
means a photographer’s main objective is to bring the viewers
conditions. Everything from rivers and streams to
into the scenery. The most unique and popular way to capture
changing leaves gives you an exciting scene.
sights while traveling. Also, you can get versatile options to
showcase your subject.
To capture the periphery and scale of the giant trees,
you need to use wide-angle lenses and a sturdy
• Mountains Photography:
tripod. Tripod will help you capture sharp images from
Mountains photography is considered one of the most the dimly lit forest scene.
iconic image in landscape photography. The heart of
these shots lies in their grandeur and timelessness. To
• Underwater Photography:
capture that essence, you need to go outside. It is difficult
to reach the vantage points if you want to get the best shot. This type of landscape photography allows you to
understand the lighting effects in the water. Also, you
And the most dramatic images you can find out at the can capture amazing seascapes and the dynamic
end of a grueling climb. So, get some good hiking shoes water motion depending on weather conditions and
and a quality backpack to carry the necessary gear. the timing of the day.
 7

To capture a seascape landscape, find a waterproof • Astrophotography Photography:

camera or housing for your camera and experiment with
Astrophotography is the art of taking images of the
long shutter times to capture the motion of water.
moon, planets, stars, or other astronomical objects.
This type of landscape also captures celestial events
• Beaches Photography:
like a solar or lunar eclipse and the night sky.
Beaches photography is the most challenging and
If you want to shoot star trails or night sky, use a full-
unique landscape photography. Here, you can explore
frame DSLR or mirrorless body to perform excellently
the bright sand and moving water. To capture bright
in low-light situations.
sand, you need to deal with overexposure. But to make
the waves dance slow shutter is the best option.

The beauty of beach landscapes is to capture the

essence of sunrise and sunset view that helps to draw
incredible lines and patterns
Commercial Photography
 9

Commercial Photography
• Products Photography:

This type of photography is mainly used to sell or promote, Do you want to sell your products online or showcase
highlight a feature, or tell a story of a product or service. But your images as you walk side by a store? Product
the styles and subjects of commercial photography may differ photography is the best pick for you. At first, you may
in sales and commercial purposes, including - feel bored shooting the same kind of object repeatedly.
But the beauty of this photography lies in mixed types
of lighting, textures, settings, suitable backgrounds,
• Food & Restaurants Photography:
and many more.
You may notice a delicious and fine-tuned decorated
meal on different social media like Facebook, Instagram,
• Fashion Photography:
or others. This type of photography engages with
editorial restaurant shots or highlights a home-cooked The most modern and creative photography is where
meal. By creating excellent lighting and decoration, you you can shoot a self-portrait with your favorite outfit
can give those foods an enticing look yet natural. or a multi-model shoot with additional staff. You may
need to focus on clothes, outfits, backdrops, lighting,
or creative aesthetic to evoke the mood.

Also, you can consult with a fashion designer to bring

out the best results or ask them to collaborate.
 10

• Events Photography:

Event photography is an informative visual asset to

provide insights. People love to purchase these photos
to commemorate those cherished memories or events.
Using these photos, you can get into your photography
business by building a portfolio.
You need to attend parties or concerts (if you get
permission) and capture the magic.
Art Photography
 12

Art Photography
The hidden beauty of art photography lies in evoking thought, • Composite Photography:
feeling, and emotion in the viewer. Photographers’ artistic
Do you want to explore more creativity and fun with
vision helps to draw these feelings or emotions. You need to
photography? Composite is the best option because
find your aesthetic vision when shooting art photos.
you can combine different elements from photos to
create a new one. Just like making a collage but in a
digital way.
• Abstract Photography:

Popular photography gives a diverse range of styles to

• Fantasy Photography:
represent a beautiful world. Some use filters, framing,
and movement to capture abstract photos. Others prefer Fantasy photographs can transport viewers to other
to use different editing tools like Photoshop, Lightroom, worlds or locations that may exist somewhere else.
etc. You can capture a unique piece using different lighting
combinations, costumes, and editing.

• Black and White Photography:

Black and white photography is the purest and most

real art of photography. Using different tones of grey,
you can highlight the hidden beauty of your subject.
 13

• Infrared Photography: • Surreal Photography:

Dramatic type photography that uses infrared light to Surreal photographs are unlikely to be found in the
create images. You can use infrared lenses, cameras, real world. The pictures represent abstract forms or
and film to make this type of photo. blasts of light to trick the viewer’s senses. This type
of photography is similar to fantasy photography.
To capture an awesome surreal photo, you need
costumes, sets, a combination of props, and editing.
Portrait Photography
 15

Portrait Photography
Portrait photography is the art of portraying a person or a • Headshots Photography:
group of people to capture the essence, personality, mood,
Are you searching for an exciting challenge and a
and stories into a single frame. Location and lighting play a
creative niche with marketing demand? You can try
vital role in capturing a successful portrait.
a headshot portrait. From actors to business people,
models everyone searches for a new way to introduce
their business or identity to the world.
• Self-portraiture Photography:

If you are full of creativity and don’t enjoy shooting And you will enjoy working with different lighting
people’s portraits, this style is for you. The focus of self- compositions, makeup styling, and many more. Be
portraiture is all about finding an exciting and unique aware of considering artistic choices to highlight their
way to represent yourself. unique personality.

You may apply incredible makeup for fun headshots or

• Pet Photography:
can go with artistic styles or poses because you are a
part of the subject. Pet photography is for you when you love animals but
don’t like to search for your subject through the jungle.
You need to capture the perfect moment of different
 16

types of pets like reptiles, dogs, and many more (as per
• Wedding Photography:
clients’ demands).
Wedding photography is the most precious art of
But the most challenging thing is interacting with animals capturing images of couples who start their lives
to capture their attention. together. If you are passionate about capturing
romantic tales, you can try various types of wedding
photography styles. Also, you can help them to
• Animal Photography:
capture their big and happy moments.
Do you love challenges and want to record the life of
animals with their nature? Animal photography gives you You need to be fast, creative, and master many
flexible options. You won’t get bored when you shoot photography styles because it is a versatile area.
animals. Also, you get versatile options to highlight their However, to capture every moment in one frame, you
beauty in one frame, like an elephant baby with its mom may need a broad range of gear and accessories
or a chameleon in mid-color change. (depending on spots and the client’s requirements).
In the United States, weddings have become a big
business.
 17

• Newborn Photography: • Boudoir Photography:

With this photo, you can document the miracle of birth This style is different from weddings and other portraits
that parents will cherish for the rest of their lives. Also, because you need to represent a perfect moment of
your work will be saved for many years, and eventually confidence, romance, and the fabulous presence of
shares your photos with their kids. From traditional to the subject.
fun costumes, you enjoy every heartfelt moment.

However, to shoot a baby or newborn photo, pick the

right gear because their eyes are sensitive to light. Also,
be selective when choosing mixed types of studio lights
for this photography.

• Family Photography:

From birthdays to reunions or holiday celebrations, family

photoshoots are a great way to create lifelong memories
in one frame. Also, you can apply new techniques by
experimenting with different types of lenses to make the
portraits unique and creative.
Macro Photography
 19

Macro Photography
Do you want to explore God’s tiny and beautiful creation in • Insects Photography:
detail? Macro photography helps you take these incredible
There are around six or ten million different species
images using special lenses because normal photos might
of insects on earth. And every insect is different from
miss little details.
each other. Using the right equipment and sharp
focus, a macro photographer can capture these
Here we mentioned some common macro subjects you may
features like complex eyes, intimidating fangs, etc.
try:

• Flowers Photography: • Waterdrops Photography (Dew, Rain, etc.):

The most popular subject for art and receives much Do you want to experience the beauty of long
more attention from macro photographers to highlight exposure? You can try these techniques when
its soft and tiniest details. If you love to document seeds capturing raindrops or dewdrops. Also, you can
and steams growing and the textures of petals after and explore creative and unique types of photography
before the rain, macro photography is the best pick for shots when capturing a single drop falling off a leaf.
you.
Architectural Photography
 21

Architectural Photography
Architectural photography is a mix of artistic and technical • Cityscapes Photography:
skills. The photographer captures lines, curves, patterns, and
Cityscape photography gives you interesting subjects
angles of the buildings or cityscapes in all their glory.
with lines, shapes, and more. Also, you can reveal the
character of a place on a grand scale by using this
photography. You can select the golden hour, middy
• Buildings Photography:
sun, or midnight lights to explore more fun.
Are you fond of capturing stunning buildings or
architects? With this photography, you can capture
ultra-modern skyscrapers or any fascinating buildings.
Choose your favorite one and wait for a memorable
moment to highlight its creative essence. Also, you can
capture photos at different times of the day.
Aerial Photography
 23

Aerial Photography
It is the blessing of modern technology. In the past, aerial images • Plane Photography:
were taken using a plane or helicopter. But using drones, you
Using drones, you get more flexibility to take aerial
can capture mind-blowing and sharp images compared to a
photos. But to reach too high, you need real wings.
bird’s eye view. Usually, the photos are used in cartography,
Also, you face many challenges like planning speed,
land planning, movie production, or other purposes.
engine vibration, and altitude when shooting images.

• Drone Photography: • Travel Photography:

A drone is the best option for creating an expressive Travel photography focuses on telling a particular
and unique aerial photograph. But you need to follow location’s story by showcasing scenery of its culture,
local drone laws before shooting the image. area, or landscapes. You can inspire people to visit
those places by representing their beauty. Also, you
can use this photography to capture memories so you
• Hot-air Balloon Photography:
can feel relive and enjoy after seeing them.
Do you want to explore new places and represent the
beauty of those places during your vacation? Hot-air
balloons are a great way that gives your more fun and
shooting knowledge. Make sure to carry a steady tripod
and stabilizer to keep your shots focused.
 24

• Sports Photography: • Forensic Photography:

This type of photography is full of actions and high energy. The style is entirely different from other types of
Here, you have the opportunity to work with local kid’s photography, and it needs courage. With this
teams, company teams, or big leagues to shoot games photography, you need to capture every crime
photos. If you can capture a perfect moment, your hard scene detail to provide evidence and support police
work will be rewarding. for further investigations. If you want to shoot these
photos, you need permission from the court.

• Documentary Photography:

Are you fond of storytelling? Then you may try

documentary photography by sharing every detail of
your vacation. Also, you can create a record by sharing
a specific situation, time, or place.
 25

What is a Niche in Business

Photography?
A niche is a focused and targetable segment of a larger
market with a unique identity, needs, and ideas. Each niche
has its own characteristics, technical skills, and challenges in
photography.

For example, a fashion photographer’s skills won’t match a

real estate photographer’s. Also, the niche will allow you to
hone in on your product or service positioning strategy.
 26

Why is it important to find a

niche?
To achieve the crown of success, you need to find your
speciality that focuses on the specific needs of identified
clients. Also, you can narrow your focus and find your style to
grow your photography business.

Let’s find out the core importance of having a photography

niche.

• It helps to invest your time and energy into one genre

and improve your technical skills to become an expert
in that area.
• Building an audience and connecting them to your
photography niche is a must thing.
• A niche allows you to build a network to achieve your
targeted client who prefers your particular genre.
• Develop your marketing strategy.
• It helps to find out what types of photography excite
you.
How to Find Your Niche in
Photography?
 28

We all know that photography is nothing but capturing light • Find out your photography strengths and apply your
and presenting it creatively with an image. But to show this photography skills.
• Keep practicing with patience.
creativity and to be a professional, it is essential to find your
photography niche. Also, it allows you to focus on what you
Try a Variety of Photography Genres
love to shoot and helps to become a better photographer.

Focusing on one area of photography is an intelligent

But the question is: what niche is right for you and how to find
decision for running a business. But without exploring
photography niche and trending topics in your niche?
diverse types of photography, you can not achieve your
goal. Shoot different subjects, use other techniques, and
Let’s get to the crux.
experiment with different camera settings and equipment to
find out what you love most.
Create Your Own Workout Plan
Also, you can research different photography types and
If you are an expert in your preferred niche, you can successfully
professional blogs to know their skills and favorable area of
build your photography market. But the secret of expert
photography.
photographers lies in an organized workout plan to focus on
their goals and go in the long run. For this, you should -

• Find your photography style and what motivates you

about photography.
• Figure out what you don’t like to shoot.
• Explore, experiment, and absorb new concepts to cope
with different photography techniques.
 29

Evaluate Your Passions, Skills, and Interests

Bear in mind that don’t choose a niche because you are Also, observe the market value for this niche to know the
interested in it. To be sustainable, you should focus on your competition and competitors’ strategies. And this observation
passion. Also, it is crucial to find out which photography genres will help you to get the pricing ideas.
you have special skills and experience in.
Start Learning Photography
Without interest, you will struggle in the long run. For this
reason, ask yourself what you love to capture. If you select a We know that the photography industry is changing rapidly.
niche for earning money or someone suggests you, then you And we explore something new from trends to technology,
won’t find your speciality and inner happiness to do it. like personal branding photography. This type of photography
refers to professional images (entrepreneurs, small business
Start figuring Out the Photography Market owners, etc.).

Figuring out the photography market is the most crucial point If you always are learning photography tactics, you can
for selecting your photography niche. With proper research incorporate new techniques into your own shooting style. For
and analysis of the market, you can understand people’s this reason, focus on adopting basics to advanced techniques
requirements from the photography business that you are that will help you see a pattern in what and how you like to
starting. And follow the websites of all photographers operating shoot your subject.
in your particular niche.
Find a Mentor 30

Learning skills and techniques are the most crucial thing for Engage yourself with a creative community and showcase
career growth. Whenever you practice and dive into different your works using your portfolio.
photography niches, you will be more explicit about which
niche suits your skill. Brainstorm, and Make a Final Decision

To narrow down your niche, you can talk with a photography You might have already made a final decision about what
mentor because they can give personalized critique and niche you want to fill.
feedback. These things are necessary to ensure that you are But do a little brainstorming and research to be more
on the right track. Also, your mentor or mentors can teach you confident and clear on your goals.
the integral part of photography.
Always prioritize what you love to do and find your passion
Never Stop Educating Yourself because it adds strengths to running your photography
business. Bear in mind that the client won’t feel confident
Evaluate your current skill set and immerse yourself in it perfectly about those photographers who specialize in different
to develop basic composition skills with lighting and shadows niches.
knowledge. Also, it helps to know your existing strengths and
weakness, which is important to figure out what areas you After brainstorming, do some online research to observe
need to focus on before diving into a particular niche. your particular niche’s potentiality because it may help to
know your competitors and marketing demand.
However, you can create a list of online courses, books,
articles, and blogs of experts that is helpful to nourish your skill. If you have done your research, narrow down your niche and
try all possible techniques to be an expert. With patience
and experimentation, you will find your visual style.
 31

Where to Sell Your Niche

Photos
Most photographers use their websites or portfolio to showcase
their photos on a different online marketplace. As a newbie,
you can choose free portfolio websites like Behance, Flickr,
Portfoliobox, etc. It helps to build a community, and you can
get photographers’ suggestions (if needed).

You may try photo stock websites like Shutterstock,

iStockPhoto, Dreamstime, and many more for online photo
selling options. Also, you may try free photo websites.

However, you may participate in different photo competitions

sites like Viewbug, Blur Magazine, Purify Awards, GuruShots,
Creative Motion Design, etc., to find out if your images are
up to scratch or not. Also, you can get different photography
techniques and knowledge by participating in these contests.
 32

Conclusion
Finding your niche is about discovering the hidden skills that
benefit you and gives you tremendous pleasure for the time
being. Be confident and focused no matter what genre you
choose to enhance your photography business.

Don’t waste your valuable time by trying so many types of

photography. Be precise and innovative in choosing one.