The Various Types of Photography

By WhiteWall Editorial

Photo: Daniel Zielske

Multifaceted photography

Photography is a diverse, varied and captivating art form that encompasses a wide range of genres and styles. From majestic landscape photography to intimate portrait photography, from documentary street photography to surprising, artistic photography, there are countless ways to capture the world through the lens of a camera. However, it is important to pay attention to the requirements of the relevant photographic genre in order to capture the perfect shots with the camera. We present the most popular photo subjects and reveal what you should definitely pay attention to.

The world of photography is as diverse as it is fascinating and offers a wide range of genres to discover. Each genre has its own technical requirements and challenges that need to be mastered. Landscape photography, for example, requires patience, planning and an understanding of light and composition, while portrait photography requires sensitive interaction with the model and a mastery of lighting techniques.

Authentic and spontaneous street photography, on the other hand, requires the photographer to be quick, observant and discreet in order to capture truthful moments, while classic and traditional documentary photography requires a sensitive approach and an understanding of social and political contexts. Experimental, abstract photography, on the other hand, encourages creative experiments and unconventional approaches - here it is important to know and master the photographic rules in order to break them skillfully.

For beginners in photography, it is also advisable to try out different genres and always be open to new things. It is generally important to familiarize yourself with the basics of camera technology such as exposure, focusing and composition.

In addition, newcomers to photography can benefit from observing and studying the work of established photographers - such as the WhiteWall Ambassadors - to find inspiration and develop their own vision. Practice, experimentation and constant learning are the keys to success in the world of photography.

Typical photographic equipment usually consists of a digital single-lens reflex camera (DSLR) or a modern mirrorless camera (DSLM) with a simple lens. A versatile zoom lens with a focal length of around 18-55 mm - often known as a kit lens - is a good choice to start with as it provides solid coverage for a variety of shooting situations, from landscapes to portraits and everyday photography. Numerous cameras are already offered with this typical standard zoom as a "kit". However, if you prefer a different focal length to start with - such as the classic fixed focal length of 35mm for reportage photography - you should choose the camera body only and select the lens of your choice according to your needs.

A tripod is also recommended to ensure stability for long exposures and sharp shots, especially in low light or landscape photography. Novice photographers can also benefit from an external flash to extend their exposure options and add extra light to the shot if required.

A memory card with sufficient capacity and a spare battery for the camera are essential to ensure that you have enough space for your shots and are not left without power. A camera bag or backpack is recommended to carry your equipment safely and comfortably, especially when you are on the move.

Classic landscape photography

Landscape photography focuses on the beauty and vastness of nature. Through skillful composition and exposure, landscape photographers capture breathtaking scenery, from majestic mountain peaks to picturesque coastal landscapes and lush forests. However, landscape photography requires patience, planning and often the ability to play with the elements of nature to capture the perfect moment. It is therefore essential to pay attention to the weather forecast and avoid taking pictures during midday when the sun is high. This would create a harsh and flat light. Shooting in the morning or afternoon is better. Then the sun is lower and the landscape is given a wonderful depth of image.

Typical shooting parameters for landscape photography are a medium aperture setting (e.g. f/8 to f/16) to achieve a large depth of field and to keep both the foreground and background in focus. A low ISO sensitivity (e.g. ISO 100 to 400) is often used to minimize image noise and the exposure time varies depending on the lighting conditions and the desired effect. Tip: Landscape pictures do not always have to be taken in landscape format. Add variety to your portfolio and also take pictures in portrait format. With a longer focal length, such as 200mm, wide landscapes can also be compressed first-class and the image effect enhanced.

Expressive portrait photography

The aim of portrait photography is to capture a person's personality and expression. Through skillful staging, lighting and poses, portrait photographers can highlight the uniqueness and beauty of their models. Whether formally in the studio or spontaneously on location in natural, artificial or mixed light, portrait photography allows emotions, character traits and stories to be told through a person's face and expression.

Photo: Mary Ruffinony

Typical shooting parameters for portrait photography are a medium aperture setting (e.g. f/4 to f/8) to ensure an adequate depth of field and to focus on the model's face (eye!). A low ISO sensitivity (e.g. ISO 100 to 400) is often used to optimize image quality. You can also use your camera's intelligent autofocus to keep the eyes in focus, for example, or to have your camera automatically recognize faces. You can also play around with the aperture. A very open aperture such as f/2.8 or larger reduces the depth of field of your shot and exposes the person from the camera in front of a blurred background.

Spontaneous street photography

Street photography is a form of documenting urban life and human interaction in public spaces. Street photographers capture spontaneous moments, interesting characters and unexpected scenes that reflect the vibrant life in cities around the world. This type of photography often requires a high degree of observation, empathy and the skill to remain unobtrusive in order to capture authentic images.

Typical shooting parameters for street photography vary depending on the lighting conditions and movement of the subject. A medium aperture setting (e.g. f/5.6 to f/8) is often used to achieve a balanced depth of field, while a fast shutter speed (e.g. 1/250 second or faster) reduces motion blur and freezes spontaneous moments. The ISO sensitivity is adjusted to the lighting conditions in order to achieve optimum exposure - it is best to use your camera's automatic ISO function here. Important: Pay attention to the right to your own image. After taking a spontaneous, candid photo of a stranger, speak to them and ask for permission to use the photo. A friendly conversation opens up many possibilities here. Further tips on the right to one's own image can also be found on the website of the Federal Agency for Civic Education.

Documentary photography

Documentary photography deals with the documentation of real events, people and places, often with the aim of shedding light on social or political issues. Documentary photographers are often at the forefront of capturing historical moments, portraying human destinies and exposing injustices. Accordingly, numerous photographic icons belong to this genre. Such as Steve McCurry, Robert Frank, Vivian Maier, Walker Evans, Elliott Erwitt and Thomas Höpker. This form of photography often requires close collaboration with the people depicted and a deep understanding of the situations that are to be documented.

The classic shooting parameters for documentary photography greatly vary depending on the specific conditions and requirements of the situation. However, a flexible aperture setting (e.g. f/4 to f/11) often makes it possible to quickly react to changing lighting conditions and capture the desired sharpness. The typical focal length for documentary photography is 35 mm with a high aperture such as f/1.8. This focal length has a slightly wider angle of view than 50 mm (roughly corresponding to the field of vision of the human eye) and requires flexibility and mobility from the photographer. The reward of the fixed focal length is authentic images from a short distance. We often feel this closeness in the corresponding images.

Close, closer, macro photography

Macro photography makes it possible to capture small details and fine structures in impressive proximity and sharpness. It focuses on enlarging objects that are normally difficult to see with the naked eye. For example, close-ups of insects, flowers, jewelry or textiles. This opens up completely new and impressive worlds for photographers - right on their doorstep, on the balcony, in their own garden or in a nearby forest or park. In this way, photographs can be taken that captivate the viewer.

Special macro lenses (or initially inexpensive close-up lenses) are required for high-quality macro shots. Some zoom lenses also offer a macro mode, even if this is not comparable to the magnification of a specific macro lens. However, you can also use a macro-compatible zoom lens to get started. In any case, the so-called close-up limit is important. This indicates the distance from which your lens can focus (usually only a few centimetres for macro lenses) and the magnification factor, such as 1:1 or 2:1.

Typical shooting parameters for macro shots are in most cases a high aperture setting (e.g. f/2.8 or smaller) to achieve a sufficient depth of field and a fast shutter speed to minimize motion blur. Also important: sufficient light. Here, for example, flexible and small LED lights help to set the small lenses perfectly in scene.

The still life

Still life photography is concerned with the staging and photography of still lifes consisting of arranged objects such as fruit, flowers, books or other everyday objects. Still lifes can be photographed in both natural and artificial light, whereby the lighting and image composition are decisive for a harmonious composition. Examples of still lifes are classic arrangements of paintings or modern minimalist compositions. Still life photography can also be implemented regardless of the weather. For example, in your own photo studio or in a quiet corner.

It is best to shoot from a tripod in order to perfect the composition and optimally adjust the lighting to the subject. Play with light and shadow to create tension in your shot. A medium aperture setting (e.g. f/8) and a low ISO sensitivity (ISO 100) are recommended for your camera to ensure optimum image quality.

Art photography - from classic to abstract

Fine art photography encompasses a wide range of styles and techniques that aim to create a creative and often abstract interpretation of reality. It can range from experimental techniques such as double exposure and color manipulation to surreal stagings. Whatever you like is allowed. Examples of artistic photography include abstract landscapes, emotional portraits and concept photography.

Typical shooting parameters vary greatly depending on the desired effect, but creative freedom and experimental thinking are key components of fine art photography.

Breathtaking night photography

Night photography offers breathtaking images from dusk to deep and dark night. It is important to master the challenging lighting conditions and play skillfully with light and shadow. For example, when shooting a street lamp in a dark alley or staging light trails at night with a long exposure. Creative light paintings can also be created in the evening and at night. This involves taking photos from a tripod with a very long exposure time and painting with light in front of the camera using flashlights, color effects, etc. Another classic of night photography is taking pictures of landscapes under a starry sky. For these technically challenging shots, you need a fast wide-angle lens (e.g. 24 mm f/1.8), a stable tripod and a suitable exposure time. The result is magical shots that inspire.

Recommended shooting parameters for taking pictures in the dark are generally a low ISO sensitivity (e.g. ISO 100), a medium to high aperture setting (e.g. f/5.6 to f/11) and an exposure time of a few seconds to several minutes, depending on the desired amount of light and movement effects. A tripod is almost always a must when shooting in the dark - especially if you are working with low ISO values to avoid noise in your images.

Action photography

The aim of action photography is to capture dynamic and moving scenes, whether in sports, at events or in everyday life. Examples of action photography include fast-paced sports such as soccer, motor sports, ice hockey, skateboarding or extreme sports, but also fleeting moments in everyday life such as children playing or animals in motion. In order to master this technically demanding genre, you should have a good command of your camera and the corresponding image settings so that you can concentrate fully on what is happening in front of the camera. You should also shoot with continuous autofocus and in continuous shooting mode. Both will increase your yield of successful pictures.

For the best possible action shots, fast shutter speeds and continuous focus tracking are essential to freeze the movement and keep the subject in focus. Use a fast shutter speed (e.g. 1/500 second or faster), a medium to high ISO sensitivity (e.g. ISO 400 to 1600) and a medium aperture setting (e.g. f/4 to f/8) to ensure sufficient depth of field. You can also try so-called tracking shots. Here you follow the fast-moving subject with the camera and release the shutter while the camera is moving. With a slightly slower shutter speed (e.g. 1/250 to 1/60 second), you can capture your subject relatively sharply, while the movement in front of and behind the subject is immersed in a dynamic blur.

Conclusion

Overall, the variety of photographic genres offers photographers endless opportunities to express their creativity and capture the world around them in a unique way. From majestic landscape photography and intimate portraiture to documentary street photography and experimental art photography, there is a genre to suit every taste and interest. Each photographic genre requires its own skills, techniques and approach, and the choice of the appropriate genre depends on the photographer's personal preferences and goals.

No matter which genre you choose, the end goal is always the same: a picture that evokes emotions, tells stories and fascinates the viewer. A picture that is worth hanging on the wall to show its beauty and meaning.

As an expert in high-quality photo products, WhiteWall offers a wide range of products and services to present your photos in the best possible quality. From high-resolution images on premium photo paper to elegant canvas prints and modern acrylic glass images, WhiteWall offers the perfect solution for presenting your photographic masterpieces. Because only the picture on the wall completes the photograph - and WhiteWall is your premium partner in achieving this goal.