This article explains photography genres, divided into subject-based genres (e.g., landscape, portrait, architecture) and overarching genres (e.g., night, travel, event photography). Genres can overlap, demonstrating the versatility of photography. Artistic genres emphasize impact and meaning. Travel photography is well suited as an introduction because it combines many genres.
Category: Photography Basics > 7. Genres & Subjects Article ID: 7.1 Created: May 2026
The Essentials at a Glance
- Photography genres can be divided into subject-based (what is being photographed) and overarching (how or where) genres
- The most important genres often overlap – a travel photo can simultaneously be landscape, architectural, and street photography
- There is no rigid classification – many photographers deliberately move between several genres
Explanation
Subject-Based Genres
Subject-based genres are defined by the main subject of the image:
| Genre | Main subject | Typical subgenres |
|---|---|---|
| Landscape Photography | Nature, environment, expanses | Nature, wildlife, underwater photography |
| Portrait Photography | People (character, expression) | Children's, wedding, fashion, nude photography |
| Architectural Photography | Structures, buildings, forms | Interior, industrial, detail photography |
| Object Photography | Objects, products, items | Product, food, still life photography |
| Street Photography | Everyday life in public spaces | Photojournalism, documentary photography |
| Astrophotography | Celestial bodies, outer space | Moon photography, star photography |
| Macro Photography | Small subjects shown in extreme magnification | Insects, blossoms, technical details |
Overarching Genres
Overarching genres are defined by technique, time, or context – regardless of the specific subject:
| Genre | Definition | Typical subjects |
|---|---|---|
| Night Photography | Photographed at night or dusk | City lights, starry skies, illuminated buildings |
| Travel Photography | Photos taken while traveling | Landscapes, architecture, people, culture |
| Aerial Photography | Photographed from above (drone, airplane) | Cities, landscapes, events |
| Panoramic Photography | Extremely wide angle of view | Cityscapes, landscapes, 360° images |
| Event Photography | At events and occasions | Concerts, weddings, city festivals |
| Documentary Photography | Factual documentation | Photojournalism, social issues |
Genres Can Overlap
The classification is not a rigid system. Examples:
- An animal photo is simultaneously nature, landscape, and macro photography (depending on the distance)
- A concert photo is simultaneously event and portrait photography
- Travel photography can contain elements of landscape, architecture, street, and portrait photography
These overlaps are not a problem – they demonstrate the versatility of photography.
Artistic Genres
In addition to realistic depictions, there are artistic genres that focus less on the subject and more on the impact or meaning:
- Abstract Photography: Forms, patterns, colors, and structures take center stage – the actual subject recedes or is barely recognizable
- Concrete Photography: The image is meant to be interpreted; meaning takes precedence over depiction
- Subjective Photography: The personal impact of forms and structures on the viewer is the focus
Practical Tip
For anyone who has not yet found a preferred genre: Travel photography is an ideal introduction because it encompasses almost all other genres – landscapes, architecture, portraits, street scenes, and night shots are part of every trip. This allows you to learn many techniques and perspectives before specializing.