6 Genres in Photography:
1. Still Life - Still life’s are images of small objects arranged by the photographer or captured as they are found.
- This can be challenging because it is up to the photographer to arrange the objects for a successful composition.
- Effective lighting is also necessary for creating interesting patterns and shadow.
- Work with a theme
- Avoid capturing your reflection or flash on shiny surfaces
- Experiment with texture and color
2. Portraiture This includes any photographs of a person or an object. Usually are headshots but can incorporate other features.
- Portraits are more elaborate than a snapshot because they convey something about the subject.
- A self portrait is a photograph of the photographer; this requires a timer and tripod.
- Straight-on flash photography is not the best way to get portraits because it flattens the features and makes for a dull photo.
- Natural light is best, especially the right conditions outdoors
- Early morning or afternoon light is softer; light coming from the sides gives depth to a photo and accentuates the subject
- Watch for strong backlighting outside so there is no halo effect
3. Landscape (Seascape/Cityscape) - These three genres all focus on landforms, both natural and man-made.
- Each is a genre by itself, but they all have the rule of thirds in common.
- The rule of thirds is used for capturing images that have horizontal lines.
4. Nature (Wildlife) - This genre refers to images of plants and animals although it can incorporate landscape too.
- Images of flowers, plants, and insects fall under the genre of nature photography
- Wildlife photography mainly refers to images of wild, non-domestic animals
5. Architecture - This refers to photography that looks at buildings and architectural features.
- The depth of field is usually shorter and the background elements are not emphasized
6. Photojournalism (Documentary/Sports/Action) Timing is extremely important in this genre.
- Put your camera on continuous shooting mode so you don’t miss a shot.
- Point of View is also important. A different angle or tilt can add dimension or depth.
- One way to deal with an action subject is to freeze its motion by shooting at a fast shutter speed.
- Another way to deal with an action subject is to blur it by shooting at a slower shutter speed.
- Try panning when following your subject.
7. Abstract
- Look for shapes, not for subjects.
- Play with post-processing.
- Isolate a slide of life.
- Embrace the mystery.
- Be willing to experiment.
8. Motion
1. Still Life - Still life’s are images of small objects arranged by the photographer or captured as they are found.
- This can be challenging because it is up to the photographer to arrange the objects for a successful composition.
- Effective lighting is also necessary for creating interesting patterns and shadow.
- Work with a theme
- Avoid capturing your reflection or flash on shiny surfaces
- Experiment with texture and color
2. Portraiture This includes any photographs of a person or an object. Usually are headshots but can incorporate other features.
- Portraits are more elaborate than a snapshot because they convey something about the subject.
- A self portrait is a photograph of the photographer; this requires a timer and tripod.
- Straight-on flash photography is not the best way to get portraits because it flattens the features and makes for a dull photo.
- Natural light is best, especially the right conditions outdoors
- Early morning or afternoon light is softer; light coming from the sides gives depth to a photo and accentuates the subject
- Watch for strong backlighting outside so there is no halo effect
3. Landscape (Seascape/Cityscape) - These three genres all focus on landforms, both natural and man-made.
- Each is a genre by itself, but they all have the rule of thirds in common.
- The rule of thirds is used for capturing images that have horizontal lines.
4. Nature (Wildlife) - This genre refers to images of plants and animals although it can incorporate landscape too.
- Images of flowers, plants, and insects fall under the genre of nature photography
- Wildlife photography mainly refers to images of wild, non-domestic animals
5. Architecture - This refers to photography that looks at buildings and architectural features.
- The depth of field is usually shorter and the background elements are not emphasized
6. Photojournalism (Documentary/Sports/Action) Timing is extremely important in this genre.
- Put your camera on continuous shooting mode so you don’t miss a shot.
- Point of View is also important. A different angle or tilt can add dimension or depth.
- One way to deal with an action subject is to freeze its motion by shooting at a fast shutter speed.
- Another way to deal with an action subject is to blur it by shooting at a slower shutter speed.
- Try panning when following your subject.
7. Abstract
- Look for shapes, not for subjects.
- Play with post-processing.
- Isolate a slide of life.
- Embrace the mystery.
- Be willing to experiment.
8. Motion