hobby is photography essay

Essays About Photography: Top 5 Examples Plus Prompts

Discover the joy of photography by reading our guide on how to write essays about photography, including top essay examples and writing prompts. 

It is truly remarkable what pictures can tell you about the time they were taken and their subjects. For example, a well-taken photograph can expose the horrors of conflict in a war-torn country or the pain endured by victims of racial persecution. At the same time, it can also evoke a mother’s joy after seeing her newborn baby for the first time. Photography is crucial to preserving precious moments that deserve to be remembered.

Photography can be considered a form of art. So much intent is put into a picture’s composition, subject, angle, and lighting. There is a lot of talent, thought, and hard work that goes into photography to produce such thought-provoking images, 

If you are writing essays about photography, you can start by reading some examples. 

5 Essay Examples To Inspire You

1. why photography is a great hobby by lillie lane, 2. the importance of photography by emily holty, 3. why i love photography by bob locher.

• 4.  The Shocking History Of Death Photography by Yewande Ade
• 5. ​​Fashion photography by Sara Page

5 Helpful Prompts On Essays About Photography

1. what is your favorite thing to photograph, 2. why is photography so important, 3. should photography be considered an art form, 4. different types of photography, 5. interpretations of photographs.

“Be imaginative when writing your shots. Photography is about the impact of your chances. The odds are good that nobody will care to check over your picture When it is an item in a background. Discover how to produce a fantastic photograph, and take these skills and use them.”

Lane gives readers tips on taking better photos in this essay. These include keeping balance, choosing a subject widely, investing in certain pieces of equipment, and using the appropriate settings for taking pictures. She stresses that photos must appear as natural as possible, and following her advice may help people to get good pictures. 

“No matter where you go photography plays into your life somehow. We don’t realize how big of an impact photography truly has on us until we see the details of our life hidden in a photograph. When you flip through your photo album and start looking for those details you suddenly realize you are truly blessed. A photograph keeps a moment frozen in time so we have it forever. Something like joy becomes clearer as we look deeper into the photograph.”

Holty does an excellent job of describing what makes photography so appealing to many people. You can take a picture of anything you want if you want to remember it, and photos help us look at the intricacies and details of what we see around us every day. Photography also helps us keep memories in our heads and hearts as time passes by, and most of all, it allows us to document the greatness of our world. It is ever-present in our lives, and we will keep taking photos the more adventures we have. 

“Every day in normal circumstances people take thousands of pictures of the Grand Canyon. It takes very little thought to realize that few if any of these pictures will be in any way noteworthy above pictures already taken. But that said, they are OUR pictures, our personal affirmation of the wonderful scene stretched out below us, and that gives them a special validity for us.”

Locher reflects on the role photography played in his life and why he enjoys it so much, partly due to his spirituality. He previously worked in the photographic equipment business and rekindled his love for photography in his 60s. Photography, to him, is a way of affirming and acknowledging God’s creations around him and appreciating the natural world. He also briefly discusses the importance of equipment and post-editing; however, no photo is perfect. 

4.   The Shocking History Of Death Photography by Yewande Ade

“In fact, it was easier for the photographer if the dead person was in a sleeping position because there would be no need to put him or her in an appropriate position or prop the eyes open. The restful pose gave some families comfort because it made them believe that their loved one(s) had passed on happily and to a more peaceful realm. It gave the semblance of death as a painless act like sleep.”

An interesting phenomenon in the history of the camera is post-mortem photography, in which deceased people, usually children, were posed and made to look “alive,” to an extent, so their loved ones could remember them. This was done as a way of mourning; the subjects were made to look as if they were merely asleep to give their loved ones comfort that they had passed on peacefully and happily. Eventually, a reduction in the death rate led to the end of this practice. 

5. ​​ Fashion photography by Sara Page

“Modern fashion photography differs because photographers aim to be extraordinary with their work, they know that extra ordinary will interest the audience much more It is extremely evident that fashion photography has changed and developed throughout the years, however there is not just reason. It is clear that fashion photography has changed and developed because of advancements in technology, change in attitudes and the introduction of celebrities.”

Page’s essay focuses on the history of fashion photography and some techniques used in practice. It dated back to 1911 and astonished the public with glamorous photos of people wearing perfectly-styled outfits. As the years have gone on, photographers have taken the lighting of the photos more into account, as well as their settings. In addition, editing software such as Photoshop has allowed even better photos to be produced. Fashion photography has only become more extravagant with the current social culture. 

In your essay, write about your favorite subject when you take pictures- is it people, landscapes, objects, or something else? Explain why, give examples, and perhaps elaborate on your camera settings or the lighting you look for when taking photos.  

Photography is an important invention that has helped us immensely throughout the years- how exactly? Explain why photography rivals painting and why it is essential. Then, write about its importance to you, the entire world, and humanity. 

Some say photography pales compared to the intricacies of music, painting, sculpture, and even cinema and should not be considered a form of art. For an interesting argumentative essay, determine whether photography is genuine art or not and defend your position. Explore both sides of the topic and give a strong rebuttal against the opposing viewpoint. 

From street photography to food photography to portraiture, many different types of photography are classified according to the subject being captured. Write about at least three types of photography that interest you and what they entail. You may also discuss some similarities between them if any. Check out our list of the top CreativeLive photography courses .

Like other works of art, a photograph can be interpreted differently. Choose a photo you find exciting and describe how you feel about it. What is being portrayed? What emotions are being evoked? What did the photographer want to show here? Reflect on your chosen work and perhaps connect it with your personal life. 

For help with your essays, check out our round-up of the best essay checkers . If you are interested in learning more, check out our essay writing tips !

16 Powerful Reasons to Choose Photography as a Hobby (in 2024)

A Post By: Stacey Hill

If you’re searching for a hobby that combines creativity, relaxation, and even a chance to make a little extra cash, then photography might just be your perfect match. In a world filled with fast-paced routines and endless distractions, taking photos offers an escape – one where you can tell stories, record key events, and share experiences.

In this article, I explore 16 compelling reasons why you should pick photography as a hobby. From the therapeutic powers of capturing stunning images to the joy of sharing visual stories with your loved ones, you’ll learn the unique benefits of photography and what makes taking photos so special.

I might be a little biased, but here’s my guarantee: By the time you’re finished reading, you’ll be itching to pick up a camera and start snapping photos!

1. Photography will help you record events and memories

Photography allows you to create images of special events, times, and places. It lets you record the specifics of an event – and it also allows you to  share  that event with friends and family, long after it’s done and gone.

By capturing a special moment in time, you can always remember it in crisp detail, even as your mental memories begin to fade. Plus, those memories will eventually become part of your history, perhaps even family lore. And they won’t just be passed down through stories; they’ll be passed down through images, too.

2. You’ll have fun

You can have  so much fun  with a camera.

You can head out with the family to the beach or on a picnic, shoot a local sports games , randomly roam your city streets photographing strangers , stalk wildlife , hike up a mountain for a stunning view, or stand under the stars at 2 AM and watch the Milky Way slowly move across the heavens.

In other words: Photography offers many opportunities to do new, interesting, and fun things with your camera – things you may not have done otherwise.

Plus, all sorts of things become interesting when they can provide you with material for photographic adventures. Cultural festivals, parades, sports events, a wander along the beach, exploring parts of your city previously undiscovered, architectural details on buildings, intricate details of flowers, people-watching, wildlife, meeting people who have different interests and hobbies, and much more; thanks to photography, it’ll be tons of fun.

3. Learning a new skill is good for your brain

Research shows that learning a new skill helps the brain and improves memory. And the more difficult the skill, the more you benefit.

Given that photography has so many elements – the science of light, the technology of the camera, the creative artistic side – there is a lot to learn.

So whatever your age, now is the perfect time to start a photography hobby.

4. Photography is a great stress-reliever

Let’s face it: Life can get pretty hectic sometimes. Whether you’re juggling a demanding job, dealing with family responsibilities, or simply navigating the ups and downs of daily life, stress seems to be a constant companion.

But photography offers a unique escape, a chance to disconnect from the chaos and reconnect with your inner self. It’s a mindful practice that encourages you to be fully present in the moment. As you frame a shot, adjusting your focus and composing the elements just right, the rest of the world fades into the background. Your attention shifts to the details, the interplay of light and shadow, and the subtle nuances that make each scene come alive.

Engaging in slower-paced forms of photography, like capturing delicate flowers up close, architectural marvels, or sweeping landscapes, can be especially soothing. These moments of stillness can become your sanctuary, and the act of creating something beautiful with your camera can become an act of self-care.

Some describe the act of photographing as if they’re in a trance, completely absorbed in the process. Whether you’re venturing into the great outdoors or photographing everyday scenes in your own backyard, photography offers a portal to serenity.

5. Photography will improve your health and fitness

Photography won’t just keep your brain in shape; it’ll keep your body in shape, too!

Getting out of the house, walking, and even hiking are common side effects of interest in photography. Do you like landscape photography ? Then you’ll need to go where the landscapes are, and that often means some form of exercise. Do you want to photograph people? Then you’ll need to walk the streets, which requires plenty of physical activity.

Of course, not all forms of photography require strenuous exercise. If you prefer a more easygoing approach, that’s okay, too; genres such as macro photography and portrait photography will get you out of the house, but won’t make you feel like a marathon runner. Make sense?

One caveat: Camera gear is heavy, so it’s important to be aware of any health or safety concerns. Carrying a camera on a strap around your neck (plus a backpack on your back) for a long time can be quite painful. Fortunately, there are many lightweight cameras available, not to mention excellent camera-carrying devices, compact tripods, and other burden-easing equipment.

6. You get to be creative

In her book, Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear , Elizabeth Gilbert writes about creativity and inspiration. She says that creativity is good for us as individuals, and that the feeling you get when you finally capture an awesome sunrise photo, the feeling you get when you finally capture the image , is a wonderful thing.

But being creative is something we rarely do as adults. Enter photography, which is hugely creative and allows for endless flexibility in shooting and artistic style. That style can grow as you learn more and start to experiment with different genres.

Bottom line: Creativity is fun, and it provides a necessary counterbalance to the stressful demands of a modern lifestyle.

7. Photography will help you communicate with friends and family

As the saying goes, a picture is worth a thousand words. And let’s face it, sometimes finding the time to share what’s happening in your life with friends and family can be a challenge. Whether it’s due to busy schedules, distance, or simply feeling disconnected, photography can bridge those gaps and help you communicate in a meaningful way.

When you embrace photography as a hobby, you start capturing moments that matter. From your daily routines and workplace to your home, kids, or even your garden, you can use your camera to tell the story of your life. Then, instead of struggling to find the right words, you can share those photos with your loved ones, giving them a window into your world.

With each photo you capture, you’re giving your friends and family a chance to see what’s going on in your life. They can experience the joy, the challenges, and the beauty that surrounds you. It’s a way to strengthen those connections and ensure that distance or time constraints don’t hinder your ability to stay in touch.

8. Photos make the best gifts

If you’re the kind of person who always wants to give the perfect gift, then photography will help you succeed beyond your wildest dreams! After all, who doesn’t love receiving prints and other photo products as gifts? They’re highly meaningful because they took real love and care to produce, and they’re personal because they came directly from you.

Photography offers plenty of options, too. You can give canvas prints of your favorite shots; thoughtful photo books featuring your kids, vacations, or special occasions; and even mugs and t-shirts with family photos or other captivating images.

So next time you’re wracking your brain for the perfect gift, pick up that camera. It’s a surefire way to offer presents that’ll be treasured for a lifetime!

9. Photography will get you traveling

Here’s another likely outcome of taking up photography:

You’ll travel all over the place, from different parts of your own city or country all the way to the other side of the globe. There is so much interesting stuff to photograph in other places, including landscapes, wildlife, architecture, and people from other cultures.

Now, travel broadens the mind and exposes you to new concepts and ideas, plus it’s an excellent learning opportunity. It provides so much creative variety and possibilities for personal growth.

Also, travel is just tons of fun!

So if you do take up photography, make sure you jump on the opportunity to travel, even if you only go a couple of hours away. It can provide entirely new situations and vistas! Be brave and venture forth.

10. Photography will keep you busy

Feel like you have too much time on your hands and don’t know what to do with it all? Well, photography might just be the perfect solution. Instead of spending hours mindlessly watching YouTube videos or endlessly scrolling on your phone, why not channel your energy into a fulfilling hobby?

In my experience, photography gives you a purpose, something to strive toward. Whether it’s capturing beautiful images of your grandkids, documenting the world around you, or creating breathtaking landscape shots that generate buzz on social media, photography keeps you engaged and motivated. It’s a wonderful feeling to have a creative pursuit that constantly pushes you to improve and learn new techniques.

The best part is that photography is flexible and fits into your schedule. You can grab your camera and shoot at any time of the day, allowing you to indulge in your hobby whenever you have a free moment. From the early morning golden hour to the quiet serenity of night photography , there’s always an opportunity to capture something remarkable.

Plus, you’ll never run out of subjects to photograph! From the smallest details in nature to bustling city streets, every scene holds the potential for a captivating image.

11. You’ll meet lots of new people

Looking to meet new people and make new friends? Well, meeting interesting people during your photographic adventures is pretty common. For instance, you might ask a local for advice on how to find a certain viewpoint – and they’ll end up showing you the way!

Or you might start talking with someone who is curious about your photography, which can lead to a great afternoon of conversation.

Once you get serious, you can even consider organizing a meetup with local photo enthusiasts in your area. And who knows? You might make a new adventure buddy and a new friend!

By the way, if you are friendly and courteous with your camera, many people are often happy to pose. Engaging with other people ensures you make more of a connection, and the resulting images are often powerful and emotional. So while keeping personal safety in mind, be brave and say hello.

12. You can become part of a community

The photography community – both online and in person – can be very supportive. After all, sharing your passion with other people around the world who speak your language, understand your challenges, and have had similar experiences can be very helpful.

So I highly recommend you engage with a photographic community of  some sort .

What communities are best? Well, online forums and social media platforms can be good places to find those secret local waterfall spots, where certain rare birds might be nesting, etc. People may be willing to give assistance with problems, critique your images, and provide an all-around welcoming place to hang out and chat about your hobby. (The dPS community on Facebook is a great place to start!)

Of course, you can also look at in-person options, such as camera clubs, meetup groups, photowalks, and more.

13. Photography can make you some money

If you’re looking for a way to earn a little extra cash each month, then a photography hobby can be your ticket. While it may not make you a millionaire, it can certainly help you cover small expenses or treat yourself to little indulgences.

There are various approaches you can take that fit your schedule and interests. One option is shooting stock photos and uploading them online, allowing you to earn passive income as they get purchased by others. Another option is offering portrait sessions to your family and friends, capturing their special moments and creating lasting memories. And hey, if you have a soft spot for animals, you can even offer your photography services to capture the adorable antics of your neighbors’ dogs and cats.

If you’re feeling more adventurous, why not try selling prints of your best shots at local arts and craft shows? It’s a rewarding experience that lets you showcase your work and interact with fellow art enthusiasts.

Photography as a side hustle can be a fun way to monetize your skills and passion while keeping things manageable and enjoyable. So why not start that photo hobby and turn it into a little money-making venture?

14. Photography will help you appreciate your surroundings

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to get caught up in the rush and miss the beauty that surrounds us every day. But photography has a way of changing that.

You see, when you pick up a camera, you start to see the world differently. You become attuned to the play of light and shadow, the intricate details that might have gone unnoticed, and the captivating moments that unfold in the blink of an eye.

Whether you’re strolling through a bustling city street or exploring the serenity of nature, photography helps you slow down and appreciate the beauty that often gets overlooked. It encourages you to pause, observe, and capture those fleeting moments that make life extraordinary.

As a photographer, you become a keen observer, finding inspiration in the simplest of things – the way sunlight filters through the trees, the laughter of children playing, or the delicate petals of a flower. Through the lens of your camera, you’ll uncover hidden gems in familiar places, finding beauty in the everyday and transforming ordinary scenes into extraordinary photographs. This newfound appreciation for your surroundings will not only enhance your photography but also bring more joy and fulfillment to your life.

15. You can do photography on a budget

You might think that photography is an expensive hobby, but it doesn’t have to be! You can capture amazing photos without breaking the bank.

First off, if you have a smartphone, you’re already armed with a powerful camera. Those little devices have come a long way and can now snap sharp and detailed images with just a tap . So don’t underestimate the camera in your pocket, especially when you’re just getting started.

If you want to dive deeper into photography and have more control over settings and subjects, you can opt for a used DSLR and an older lens . With the rise of mirrorless cameras, secondhand DSLR gear has become more affordable, yet it’s still incredibly powerful.

So if you’re thinking about delving into photography, don’t let money stop you. You can jump into this hobby without emptying your wallet. Look for deals and explore secondhand options. You don’t need the latest and greatest equipment to take captivating photos. It’s all about your eye for composition, lighting, and capturing the moment.

16. You can develop a style that is uniquely  yours

No matter your passion, you can explore it via photography in whatever creative way you want. When starting out, it pays to have an understanding of the basic guidelines for composition and light , but don’t let them limit you. Challenge them, break them, and see what happens. It might work, it might not, but either way, it will be a learning experience.

Eventually, you’ll start to approach the world in a way that is specific to you. That’s when you’ll have developed a style of your own (which is a wonderful feeling, by the way!).

There are many different types and styles of photography, and you can adapt whatever you do to your individual desires and needs. There is space for all different approaches, from the classic landscape, nature, wildlife, street, portrait, and sports styles, to all the different variations in between. So don’t feel like photography constrains you – instead, you shape it!

Reasons why photography is a great hobby: final words

Photography adds so much value to our lives – by recording special events, people, and places, while also helping us learn and grow as people. It allows us to share our lives and experiences in meaningful ways, and it allows us to engage and have fun with other people.

Choosing photography as a hobby will offer so many possibilities for creative expression and technical expertise. Age is certainly not a barrier here, and if all you have is the camera on your phone, that’s okay; you can start with that.

So here’s my challenge to you:

Head out sometime today and take your first photo.

Now let us know your thoughts:

Which of these reasons speaks to you the most? Do you plan to start a photography hobby? If so, why? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Read more from our Tips & Tutorials category

invested in her first DSLR back in 2007. While having many adventures out and about in the South Island of New Zealand, Stacey took to blogging about her experiences learning photography. Recently she discovered the fun and creative possibilities to be had with Photoshop. She can be found having an opinion all over the place here .

• Guaranteed for 2 full months
• Pay by PayPal or Credit Card
• Instant Digital Download

• All our best articles for the week
• Fun photographic challenges
• Special offers and discounts

• Descriptive
• Imagination
• My Favourite
• Famous Personality

Essay on My Hobby Photography | [My Hobby Essay]

Hello, friends today we have come up with an essay on My Hobby Photography . In this essay, I have told about how I got into this hobby and have explained why photography is my passion.

My Hobby Photography

There are always many interesting activities going on all around us, and among such activities, one may be our hobby, the thing we love to do the most without getting bored is our hobby. And my hobby is photography.

Photography is my favorite hobby. I got into photography when I was given my first camera as a gift from my parents on my 13th birthday. At first, I didn't know much about how to use a camera, but I was very much interested in the camera. I quickly started learning more about photography and started experimenting with different techniques. As days passed I kept on mastering new things about photography and I am still learning new things as it excites me the most.

One of the things I love about photography is how it allows me to be creative. I enjoy capturing moments and objects in an interesting and unique way. I also enjoy editing my photos and adding different filters and effects to create a particular mood or atmosphere.

In a world that can often feel overwhelming and chaotic, taking photos allows me to slow down and focus on the beauty and detail in the world around me in just one frame of a picture. It also allows me to express myself in a way that words often cannot do.

My passion for photography has been appreciated by others as well. I often upload my pictures on social media like Instagram and Facebook, I had some of my photos featured in local exhibitions and I have even sold a few of my prints. It is always a great feeling to know that others enjoy and appreciate my work. It makes me feel happy when others appreciate me and follow me for photographs I post.

In addition to being a creative outlet, photography is also a great way to document the world around us. I love taking photos of landscapes, cityscapes, and interesting architecture. Photography allows me to capture moments and places that I can look back on and remember fondly.

Photography is not just a hobby but one can make leaving out of it by just being creative and taking decent photographs. I have been paid by many brands for their product photoshoot. Good quality and unique pictures have demand in the online market where good value is provided for the art. My passion for photography has been paying for what I love to do, it's just like a cherry on the cake for me.

Overall, photography has been a deeply rewarding hobby for me, and I look forward to continuing to explore and grow in this field. Whether I am capturing a stunning landscape, a candid portrait, or a still-life composition, I am always striving to create beautiful and evocative images that tell a story and inspire emotion. I am grateful for the opportunities that photography has given me, and I am excited to see where this passion will take me in the future.

Friends, do you like to click photos? and is it your hobby to do so, do tell us in the comment section below.

This essay on my hobby photography can be used by students of class 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th, 8th, 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th. This essay can be used by students for their educational purpose.

If you need an essay on any topic in the English language then do tell us in the comment section below.

You may like these posts

Post a comment.

Very nice 👍

• Autobiography 8
• Descriptive 235
• Educational 68
• Experience 60
• Famous personality 27
• Festivals 16
• Imagination 10
• My favourite 27
• Pollution 6
• Spiritual 3

Menu Footer Widget

Essay on Photography

Students are often asked to write an essay on Photography in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Photography

What is photography.

Photography is the art of capturing pictures using a camera. A camera is like a box that keeps a moment from running away. When you take a photo, you save a memory that you can see later.

Types of Photography

There are many kinds of photography. Some people take photos of nature, like mountains and rivers. Others click pictures of cities or people. Some even capture stars at night. Each type tells a different story.

The Importance of Photography

Photos are important because they help us remember past times. They show us how things were and how they have changed. Photos can make us feel happy or sad by reminding us of different moments.

Learning Photography

Anyone can learn photography. You start by learning how to use a camera. Then you practice taking photos. Over time, you get better at making your pictures look nice. It’s fun to learn and can become a hobby or a job.

Also check:

250 Words Essay on Photography

Photography is the art of capturing light with a camera to create a picture. This can be done using a digital camera or even a phone today. In the past, people used film cameras that had to be developed in a dark room.

The Magic of Cameras

A camera is a tool that takes in light through a lens and saves the image. In old cameras, light hit a film to create a photo. Now, digital cameras use electronic sensors to record the image. The sensors work like our eyes, catching light and colors.

There are many kinds of photography. Some people take pictures of nature, like forests and animals. Others like to take photos of cities and buildings. There are also photographers who take pictures of people and capture their emotions and moments.

To be good at photography, you need to learn how to use a camera well. You also need to understand light and how it affects your photos. Practice is important. The more you take pictures, the better you get at it.

Sharing Photos

After taking pictures, people often share them with others. They might put them on the internet, in a photo album, or hang them on a wall. Sharing photos lets others see the world through your eyes.

Photography is a fun and creative way to show how you see the world. It can be a hobby or a job, and it helps us remember special times and places.

500 Words Essay on Photography

Photography is the art of capturing light with a camera to create an image. This can be done using a digital camera that stores pictures electronically or an old-fashioned film camera that records them on film. When you take a photo, you freeze a moment in time, which you can look back on later.

The History of Photography

The story of photography began hundreds of years ago with simple cameras called pinhole cameras. Over time, inventors created better cameras and ways to make pictures clearer and more colorful. In the past, taking a photo was not easy; it took a long time for the picture to be ready. But now, thanks to modern technology, we can take pictures instantly with digital cameras and even our phones.

How Photography Works

A camera works a bit like our eyes. When we look at something, light enters our eyes and helps us see. Similarly, when you take a picture, light comes into the camera through a hole called the lens. Inside the camera, the light hits a part that is sensitive to light, either film or a digital sensor, and creates an image.

Photography is important for many reasons. It helps us remember special moments like birthdays or holidays. It also lets us see places we’ve never been to and learn about different people and animals. Newspapers and websites use photos to show us what is happening in the world. Photography can even be a way for people to express their feelings and tell stories without using words.

The Fun of Photography

Photography can be a lot of fun. It lets you be creative and can even turn into a hobby or a job. You can take pictures of your friends, pets, or trips you go on. With photography, you can explore new places and meet new people. The best part is, you can start at any age and keep learning and enjoying it your whole life.

In conclusion, photography is a powerful form of art that lets us capture memories, explore the world, and share stories. It’s a skill that anyone can learn and enjoy. Whether you’re taking a picture of a beautiful sunset or snapping a photo of your best friend laughing, photography helps us save those special moments forever.

That’s it! I hope the essay helped you.

If you’re looking for more, here are essays on other interesting topics:

Happy studying!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• Student Successes
• My Learning

Top 12 Reasons to do Photography as a Hobby

You can also select your interests for free access to our premium training:

Pursuing photography as a hobby can be very fulfilling, inspiring, and relaxing. No matter what kind of equipment or camera you have, you have the potential to become a great photographer . Even a smartphone camera is enough!

Here are a few reasons why adding photography as a hobby to your list is a wonderful idea.

Reasons to Pursue Photography as a Hobby

1. photography can help you capture memories.

Knowing how to use your camera in any situation is a superpower. You can use this ability to document your life and capture beautiful pictures wherever you like.

The more you work on these abilities, the more you’ll improve. You can think of it as a constant cycle of personal development.

Make sure that you experiment with lots of genres. You can start with landscape , macro , portrait , and street photography. The more skills you develop, the more confident you’ll feel.

2. Taking Photos for Yourself Is Stress Relieving

While pursuing photography as a career has its perks, it can get stressful. If you only take photos for yourself, you’ll be able to enjoy the wonders of photography without having to worry about money.

In general, photography as a hobby can be a great source of comfort, especially if you do it on your own. For example, going for a walk to take landscape photos will expose you to fresh air and help you connect with nature.

Going out to take photos with friends will let you socialise and be creative at the same time.

When you take photos, you can’t look at your Instagram feed or answer e-mails. Your camera forces you to be present and focus on your creative side only. This is one of the best ways to refresh your mind and get rid of stress.

3. You Can Express Yourself in New Ways

Every art form has its unique advantages. Even if you’re already an artist or love working on DIY projects, you’re bound to discover something new in photography.

Photography as a hobby can be instantly gratifying, especially if you find the perfect moment to capture. It can challenge you in many ways, depending on the genre you choose.

For example, macro photography can help you notice more beauty in details.

4. You Can Connect With a Whole World of New People

The photography community is very large and diverse. There are Facebook groups, Instagram pages, and international meet-ups for photographers.

If you’re an absolute beginner, you could find it helpful to join a specific group for beginners in portraiture, for example. You can also reach out to your favourite photographers and ask for advice when you feel lost.

Being a part of a group will make you feel important, supported, and involved. It might also help you get through creative blocks and make you more comfortable with the idea of sharing your work online.

5. Taking Photos Might Inspire You to Go out More Often

Spending more time outside for yourself is rarely a bad idea.

No matter what you decide to photograph, you’ll probably have to go outside to have a photoshoot. You might have a specific location in mind you want to shoot in, a friend you’d like to have a photoshoot with or any other motivation.

Photography as a hobby can bring more excitement to your life. You’ll be more active, more creative, and more knowledgeable about photography .

You’ll also become more aware of what’s going on outside of your usual routine.

6. You’ll Be a Lifelong Photography Student

There are many experienced photographers out there, but there is always room for more improvement.

You’ll always discover more things to learn and understand in photography. This could be anything from new photography camera equipment to new shooting techniques .

Being a lifelong photography student doesn’t mean taking tests for the rest of your life. It means that no matter how much you learn, there will always be something new to inspire and motivate you.

This will inevitably make your photography journey an endless and exciting one.

7. Photography Skills Can Help You in Other Areas of Life

You’ve probably already noticed that photography is way more than just taking pictures with a camera. The more photos you take, the more open-minded and creative you’ll become.

If you work in an office, photography might improve the way you communicate with others. It can also help you get through boring days if you take a few shots with your camera in your coffee lunch break. Also, it makes you appreciate things you didn’t notice before in your office space.

If your job is somehow related to art , photography as a hobby might help you approach your work from a different perspective.

The techniques you learn can influence the way you design products, paint people, and so on.

8. Photography Will Force You to Be More Curious

There are many inspiring photographers, techniques, and ideas available, both online and offline. As soon as you become a photographer , you’ll have access to all these perks.

The more styles, documentaries, and artists you discover, the more curious you’ll be. This curiosity will drive you to pursue this form of art even more.

This can have significant long-term effects. The more curious you are, the more creative opportunities you’ll find.

9. Your Photos Might Make Someone’s Day

Even as a hobby, photography has the power to lift people’s spirits and help them look at things from a different perspective . Your photography can also inspire people to start taking photos themselves.

This doesn’t mean that you have to take conceptual or controversial photos . As long as you’re passionate about what you do, it’s likely that you’ll inspire someone out there.

You can take this further by writing short captions for your pictures. A caption could be an inspirational quote, stories about your shooting process, or a simple introduction.

This can help you connect with other photography enthusiasts on a deeper level.

10. You Can Make Some Extra Money by Selling Your Photos Online or Having Photoshoots

Hobbies need to be relaxing and fulfilling, so money isn’t every hobbyist’s top priority. However, you can earn some extra money when you have even a little photography experience.

You can sell your photos to stock photo agencies or private individuals. This might increase your chances of getting featured in magazines or on book covers.

If you’re a portrait photographer , you can take photos of couples and families for some money. If you’re a fan of wedding photography , you can work as a second shooter (or a photographer’s assistant). This will give you both experience and extra money.

With time, you might notice that this is more fulfilling than taking photos for yourself. In that case, you might want to consider becoming a professional photographer .

11. Photography Will Teach You How to See Potential in Seemingly Insignificant Things

When you take photos, you focus on compositions, details, and other technical factors. These things determine whether your images end up looking dull or outstanding.

By focusing so much on things like framing, you’re rewiring your brain. The more you do this, the easier it will be to find interesting details in places that others don’t pay attention to.

Portrait photographer Kai Böttcher is a great example of someone who sees potential in props and locations that might seem ugly at first.

Most of his props are very cheap, even though his images suggest otherwise.

12. Your Camera Will Be Your Lifelong Companion

Inspiration may come and go, and life may completely change, but your camera will always be with you. Photography as a hobby is an opportunity to document every part of your journey, no matter how small it may be.

Painting, drawing, or sculpting are also great ways to express yourself, but photography is one of the quickest ways to document something important.

As long as your camera is with you wherever you go, it will be your lifelong companion for life.

No matter what kind of job you have, where you live, or what camera you have, you can pursue photography as a hobby. If you’re already interested in it, you can become a photographer anytime.

Embrace your creative side and take photos of everything you love. You’ll quickly discover a whole new world of exciting possibilities out there.

For more creative tips, why not check out how to make a photo journal or shooting nighttime event photography next!

Popular Content

Home — Essay Samples — Arts & Culture — Photography — What Is The Importance Of Photography Essay

What is The Importance of Photography Essay

• Categories: Creativity Photography

About this sample

Words: 498 |

Published: Mar 5, 2024

Words: 498 | Page: 1 | 3 min read

Cite this Essay

To export a reference to this article please select a referencing style below:

Let us write you an essay from scratch

• 450+ experts on 30 subjects ready to help
• Custom essay delivered in as few as 3 hours

Get high-quality help

Verified writer

• Expert in: Arts & Culture

+ 120 experts online

By clicking “Check Writers’ Offers”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy . We’ll occasionally send you promo and account related email

No need to pay just yet!

Related Essays

1 pages / 408 words

6 pages / 2877 words

6 pages / 2830 words

3 pages / 1151 words

Remember! This is just a sample.

You can get your custom paper by one of our expert writers.

121 writers online

Still can’t find what you need?

Browse our vast selection of original essay samples, each expertly formatted and styled

Related Essays on Photography

In the rapidly evolving realm of visual arts, photography has carved out a significant niche, enabling artists to capture moments that are both ephemeral and eternal. Ed Sheir, an accomplished photographer, utilizes this medium [...]

Grundberg, Andy. 'The Crisis of the Real: Photography and Postmodernism.' October, vol. 5, 1978, pp. 74-91. JSTOR.Michael, Tim. 'Photography's Evolution: A Brief Overview.' PhotographyLife, 27 May 2021, 1989.

From the very first moment I held a camera in my hands, a world of boundless creativity and storytelling unfolded before me, igniting my passion for photography. The art of capturing fleeting moments and immortalizing them in a [...]

Photography, a medium that has transformed the way we perceive and record the world, has a rich and fascinating history. From its humble beginnings as a scientific curiosity to becoming an art form and a ubiquitous part of [...]

In the year 2017, the birth of artist Beyoncé’s twins was what social media was raving about. The anticipation and excitement of the release of the photographs and the birth announcement of her new born twins were leaving social [...]

One flawless Californian summer day, my uncle and I went on a photography excursion. In the moments I spent with my uncle my entire view of photography changed. He explained to me that photography is the art of capturing [...]

Related Topics

By clicking “Send”, you agree to our Terms of service and Privacy statement . We will occasionally send you account related emails.

Where do you want us to send this sample?

By clicking “Continue”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy.

Be careful. This essay is not unique

This essay was donated by a student and is likely to have been used and submitted before

Download this Sample

Free samples may contain mistakes and not unique parts

Sorry, we could not paraphrase this essay. Our professional writers can rewrite it and get you a unique paper.

Please check your inbox.

We can write you a custom essay that will follow your exact instructions and meet the deadlines. Let's fix your grades together!

Get Your Personalized Essay in 3 Hours or Less!

We use cookies to personalyze your web-site experience. By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy .

• Instructions Followed To The Letter
• Deadlines Met At Every Stage
• Unique And Plagiarism Free

Forgotten password

Please enter the email address that you use to login to TeenInk.com, and we'll email you instructions to reset your password.

• Poetry All Poetry Free Verse Song Lyrics Sonnet Haiku Limerick Ballad
• Fiction All Fiction Action-Adventure Fan Fiction Historical Fiction Realistic Fiction Romance Sci-fi/Fantasy Scripts & Plays Thriller/Mystery All Novels Action-Adventure Fan Fiction Historical Fiction Realistic Fiction Romance Sci-fi/Fantasy Thriller/Mystery Other
• Nonfiction All Nonfiction Bullying Books Academic Author Interviews Celebrity interviews College Articles College Essays Educator of the Year Heroes Interviews Memoir Personal Experience Sports Travel & Culture All Opinions Bullying Current Events / Politics Discrimination Drugs / Alcohol / Smoking Entertainment / Celebrities Environment Love / Relationships Movies / Music / TV Pop Culture / Trends School / College Social Issues / Civics Spirituality / Religion Sports / Hobbies All Hot Topics Bullying Community Service Environment Health Letters to the Editor Pride & Prejudice What Matters
• Reviews All Reviews Hot New Books Book Reviews Music Reviews Movie Reviews TV Show Reviews Video Game Reviews Summer Program Reviews College Reviews
• Art/Photo Art Photo Videos
• Summer Guide Program Links Program Reviews
• College Guide College Links College Reviews College Essays College Articles

Summer Guide

College guide.

• Song Lyrics

All Fiction

• Action-Adventure
• Fan Fiction
• Historical Fiction
• Realistic Fiction
• Sci-fi/Fantasy
• Scripts & Plays
• Thriller/Mystery

All Nonfiction

• Author Interviews
• Celebrity interviews
• College Articles
• College Essays
• Educator of the Year
• Personal Experience
• Travel & Culture

All Opinions

• Current Events / Politics
• Discrimination
• Drugs / Alcohol / Smoking
• Entertainment / Celebrities
• Environment
• Love / Relationships
• Movies / Music / TV
• Pop Culture / Trends
• School / College
• Social Issues / Civics
• Spirituality / Religion
• Sports / Hobbies

All Hot Topics

• Community Service
• Letters to the Editor
• Pride & Prejudice
• What Matters

All Reviews

• Hot New Books
• Book Reviews
• Music Reviews
• Movie Reviews
• TV Show Reviews
• Video Game Reviews

Summer Program Reviews

• College Reviews
• Writers Workshop
• Regular Forums
• Program Links
• Program Reviews
• College Links

My Favorite Hobby: Photography

Photography has always been one of my favorite hobbies. When I take pictures, it’s like seeing things in a new perspective literally and figuratively. you can go up to a flower and see the texture of the petal or put a caterpillar on your finger and see the little hairlike things on it’s body. Thing about the camera and the lens is that it lets you see people, places, etc. in a whole new perspective and it helps to see things from a different view. From photography, I realized that getting a different view of things means you have a more open mind to the world. Which is why it’s always been my favorite hobby.

I hope people will read my article and will take what i say and try to see for themselves how photography gives you a new persepective.

Similar Articles

Favorite Quote: "I've missed more than 9000 shots in my career. I've lost almost 300 games. 26 times, I've been trusted to take the game winning shot and missed. I've failed over and over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed." ~Michael Jordan

Favorite Quote: "To each his own" "Love is being stupid together"

JOIN THE DISCUSSION

This article has 0 comments.

• Subscribe to Teen Ink magazine
• Submit to Teen Ink
• Find A College
• Find a Summer Program

Share this on

Send to a friend.

Thank you for sharing this page with a friend!

Tell my friends

Choose what to email.

Which of your works would you like to tell your friends about? (These links will automatically appear in your email.)

Send your email

Delete my account, we hate to see you go please note as per our terms and conditions, you agreed that all materials submitted become the property of teen ink. going forward, your work will remain on teenink.com submitted “by anonymous.”, delete this, change anonymous status, send us site feedback.

If you have a suggestion about this website or are experiencing a problem with it, or if you need to report abuse on the site, please let us know. We try to make TeenInk.com the best site it can be, and we take your feedback very seriously. Please note that while we value your input, we cannot respond to every message. Also, if you have a comment about a particular piece of work on this website, please go to the page where that work is displayed and post a comment on it. Thank you!

Pardon Our Dust

Teen Ink is currently undergoing repairs to our image server. In addition to being unable to display images, we cannot currently accept image submissions. All other parts of the website are functioning normally. Please check back to submit your art and photography and to enjoy work from teen artists around the world!

How To Create a Meaningful Photography Essay In 5 Steps

The storytelling nature of photography is no secret. It has been used for a century to narrate stories in a very peculiar and effective way. Narrative photographic projects have great power, and regardless of the level of experience and maturity of the photographer, they are very appealing. Find out how to create a meaningful photography essay in 5 steps.

Photography is an amazing art form that portrays interesting stories, events, adventures, life stories, experiences, history and has been around for a very long time having great influence in human life and emotions. Photography freezes the moment and records real life happenings that can be cherished for a lifetime and beyond. To make a good photograph, the photographer needs to look for perfect locations, light, subjects and add a little creativity to it.

Rather than a single image, a set or collections of images are always more powerful in telling a story, bringing in emotions within the viewer and taking/guiding the viewer through the path of the story. It is self consistent, self explanatory and doesn't another person to help with any form of narration. Besides these, photography essays can be a powerful source to bring out suppressed problems in the societies and other issues that are often overlooked.

Photographic essays invite us to research a topic or a theme in depth. Documentary photography is perhaps one of the closest things to “narrative” as we traditionally know it. Even though times have changed, and photography has been open to more independent photographers who don't have the same resource bonanza as the editorial or journalistic photographers of previous decades, this new democracy opens the door to the freedom of speech – a freedom that doesn't have to obey any media interests whatsoever.

Alright, But What Is A Photography Essay In The First Place?

A photo essay is a narrative that uses a group or series of photographs to tell a story, evoke emotions or emphasize a specific concept. The camera plays a utilitarian role, and is pretty far from what the final result can convey to those who read it (either completely or just partially). Photography essays can be either just photographs or photographs with comments, captions or text that accompany them to complete the story.

Some examples of photography essays include collage (simplest form of telling a story), an article, a book, an art show or exhibition, part of a website or a dedicated website and so on. Earlier photography essays were printed in the printing press, but in recent times they have moved to the web which is better in terms of easy access, but will not have a similar effect to looking and reading one physically.

What Elements Should A Photography Essay Include?

Being a narrative in a very holistic form, a photography essay should include the following elements in the most extreme cases:

• Introduction
• Contextualization
• Development
• Continuation

Not all essays will allow such a complex storyline, but we can take some of these elements to formulate an idea of what an essay should include. Therefore, a photo essay is a way to tell a story from beginning to end, with substance and a meaningful content.

Most photographic essays require preparation, organization and direction. Photographic essays began to be published in the 1930s after magazines saw that a story could best be told if text was accompanied by photographs. It is no coincidence that, by this time, cameras had evolved such that they could capture images quickly enough to freeze motion.

Also around this time, portability came into the picture, thanks to the practical nature of 35mm film . It was LIFE magazine that coined the term “Photographic Essay”. One of the most classic photography essays they published is “ Country Doctor ” by W. Eugene Smith . This essay documented Dr. Ceriani’s working life as a traveling doctor in rural areas of the United States.

An essay can be short, mid- or long-term according to various factors that can affect the image recording process. After achieving a certain number of images, the editing process can take place and the story can begin its narrative course. Some things that can affect the recording process are the limited resources we endure while working abroad, and limited access to the subject or the circumstances-recurrence ratio.

Here Are The 5 Steps Involved In Creating A Photography Essay:

1. pick a topic.

Obvious indeed, but choosing a good topic can be difficult without prior research. This is perhaps the hardest part of creating a photographic essay.

The wisest way to approach this is to select a topic that won't be so hard to access – not just because it might be easy. Since it will be accessible, the risk of frustration will be lower than it is when handling a difficult topic. Experience will eventually lead us into working with trickier subjects.

A photo essay doesn't need to always be dramatic and dense. They can be done just for the fun of it, or to discover new possibilities for the photographic narrative. Some topics that are generous when they are addressed are:

• Everyday Work  

2. Choosing The Subjects Correctly

When working on a photographic essay, it is important to choose subjects correctly to keep ourselves within a certain scope. Check to see if your subjects are suitable or the story you are planning to tell and if the stories made with them will be interesting for your target audience.

Even if you don't have a human subject to portray, making use of personification can always be a good guide to avoid losing course. For example, you can focus on silence by stating that the images attempted to capture the presence of silence.

Also, solitude can be addressed without any human elements, but still maintain the purpose of capturing “the human footprint”, for example.

3. Quantity Of Images

It is important to define the number of pictures we are willing to present on our final essay. Defining that number is important for a couple of reasons.

• The first one is because it will set the bar of our project's scope (critical when we start to consider our resources).
• The second one is our readers. The story should be told from start to finish with high impact, just like a short novel or a story. If we stuff our essay with “filler” images, it will ultimately lose its power.  

4. Execution

Let the fun part begin! After defining the previous three elements, we can start shooting to create a great storytelling essay.   Shooting story telling photographs for a photography essay need to be powerful just like how you would shoot individual images to tell a story. Look for perfect light, relevant locations relating to the story to be told, perfect subjects for the story and also compositional guidelines.

Always have introductory and closing images just like how you would have an introduction and conclusion to any essay. Shoot at different light, angles, perspectives, etc. and finalise during the editing part the images that will work together to complete the photography essay.

Editing must not be confused with post-processing, which is an important element of the production of the final photographs. Editing refers to the precise selection of the images that will be included in the essay. There is no perfect quantity or order. You (or your editor) will have to be very objective to select the perfect mix to tell the story the way you want it to be told.

Ak yourself questions like, do the photographs speak the story or will they require accompanying text, is the sequence or series logical, do they stand together and complete the story from start to finish, etc. Try and tell the story with minimal images by avoiding repetition as that can bore the viewers.

Who Can Create A Photography Essay?

Some photographers believe that only photojournalists or documentary photographers can create photography essays. That is not the case – photo essays can be created on any topics like nature, wedding, events, portraits, travel, etc.

Constant planning, execution and checking can and should be applied to all the stages discussed above. You will need to have a powerful title and written text that is strong and concise. Sometimes longer text may be required.

Photo essays are a great way to improve not just as photographers, but as storytellers, too. Viewing photo essays with a reader's mindset will give you a better feeling of photography’s storytelling power.

About Author

Federico has a decade of experience in documentary photography , and is a University Professor in photography and research methodology . He's a scientist studying the social uses of photography in contemporary culture who writes about photography and develops documentary projects. Other activities Federico is involved in photography are curation, critique, education, mentoring, outreach and reviews. Get to know him better here .

Dear Federico, this is a very informative, to the point article for everyone who wants to enter the world of creating photo essays. Currently, I am teaching photography at one of the well known institutes in India and I am playing a role of a honeybee. I am creating a blend of my experience along with such articles and letting the student know what are the pros and cons of various genres of photography and how to go about it. I am obviously giving you credit for this article. Thanks and you are welcome to India. You will love my country!

Frederico, thank you for this article about photo essays! I am both a digital photographer and a freelance writer, and this idea combines both of my passions. What are the most successful photo essays that you have done that you can share?

Hi, Thank you for the article, very interesting, something I would really love to try. I do have one question though, how do I know whether a photo essay would be a success, who would judge it?

I have emailed Frederico asking permission to reprint this article in my photo club’s digital newsletter (www.spsphoto.org). I would like your permission as well. We are having a photo essay competition this month. I will include links to the original article, as well as yours and Federico’s website. Thank you.

Fine by us, Linda. Thanks for asking first.

Thank you, and Federico, for permission to reprint. I am sure my photo club members will appreciate this timely article for our annual photo essay competition !

Leave a Reply Cancel

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Table of Contents

Latest Posts

Get Going – How to Motivate Yourself To Shoot At The Best Times

Understanding Diffraction – The Silent Killer Of Your Photos’ Sharpness

Drone Safety and Etiquette: Responsible Aerial Photography

How to Shoot Panoramic Photographs

Student Sign In

How to Create a Photo Essay in 9 Steps (with Examples)

Photo Editing & Creativity , Tutorials

This post contains affiliate links. If you use these links to buy something, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. We only recommend products we fully support or use ourselves.  Our full disclaimer

What is a photo essay?

• Photo essays vs photo stories
• How photo essays help you
• 9 Steps to create photo essays

How to share your photo essays

Read Time: 11 minutes

Gather up a handful of images that seem to go together, and voila! It’s a photo essay, right? Well… no. Though, this is a common misconception.

In reality, a photo essay is much more thoughtful and structured than that. When you take the time to craft one, you’re using skills from all facets of our craft – from composition to curation.

In this guide, you’ll learn what makes a photo essay an amazing project that stretches your skills. You’ll also learn exactly how to make one step by step.

• Photo essay vs photo story

A photo essay is a collection of images based around a theme, a topic, a creative approach, or an exploration of an idea. Photo essays balance visual variety with a cohesive style and concept.

What’s the difference between a photo essay and a photo story?

The terms photo essay and photo story are often used interchangeably. Even the dictionary definition of “photo essay” includes using images to convey either a theme or a story.

But in my experience, a photo essay and a photo story are two different things. As you delve into the field of visual storytelling, distinguishing between the two helps you to take a purposeful approach to what you’re making .

The differences ultimately lie in the distinctions between theme, topic and story.

Themes are big-picture concepts. Example: Wildness

Topics are more specific than themes, but still overarching. Example : Wild bears of Yellowstone National Park

Stories are specific instances or experiences that happen within, or provide an example for, a topic or theme. Example: A certain wild bear became habituated to tourists and was relocated to maintain its wildness

Unlike a theme or topic, a story has particular elements that make it a story. They include leading characters, a setting, a narrative arc, conflict, and (usually) resolution.

With that in mind, we can distingush between a photo essay and a photo story.

Themes and Topics vs Stories

A photo essay revolves around a topic, theme, idea, or concept. It visually explores a big-picture something .

This allows a good deal of artistic leeway where a photographer can express their vision, philosophies, opinions, or artistic expression as they create their images.

A photo story  is a portfolio of images that illustrate – you guessed it – a story.

Because of this, there are distinct types of images that a photo story uses that add to the understanding, insight, clarity and meaning to the story for viewers. While they can certainly be artistically crafted and visually stunning, photo stories document something happening, and rely on visual variety for capturing the full experience.

A photo essay doesn’t need to have the same level of structured variety that a photo story requires. It can have images that overlap or are similar, as they each explore various aspects of a theme.

Photo essays can be about any topic. If you live in a city, consider using your nature photography to make an essay about the wildlife that lives in your neighborhood . 

The role of text with photos

A photo story typically runs alongside text that narrates the story. We’re a visual species, and the images help us feel like we are there, experiencing what’s happening. So, the images add significant power to the text, but they’re often a partner to it.

This isn’t always the case, of course. Sometimes photo stories don’t need or use text. It’s like reading a graphic novel that doesn’t use text. Moving through the different images that build on each other ultimately unveils the narrative.

Photo essays don’t need to rely on text to illuminate the images’ theme or topic. The photographer may use captions (or even a text essay), or they may let the images speak for themselves.

Definitions are helpful guidelines (not strict rules)

Some people categorize photo essays as either narrative or thematic. That’s essentially just calling photo stories “narrative photo essays” and photo essays “thematic photo essays.”

But, a story is a defined thing, and any writer/editor will tell you themes and topics are not the same as stories. And we use the word “story” in our daily lives as it’s defined. So, it makes far more sense to name the difference between a photo essay and a photo story, and bask in the same clarity writers enjoy .

Photo stories illustrate a particular experience, event, narrative, something that happened or is happening.

Photo essays explore an idea, concept, topic, theme, creative approach, big-picture something .

Both photo essays and photo stories are immensely powerful visual tools. And yes, the differences between them can certainly be blurred, as is always the case with art.

Simply use this distinction as a general guideline, providing extra clarity around what you’re making and why you’re making it.

To dig into specific types of images used to create powerful photo stories, check out this training: 6 Must-Have Shots for a Photo Story. 

Meanwhile, let’s dig deeper into photo essays.

Capturing amazing wildlife photos requires not only passion and skill but also the right equipment.

This guide breaks down the best options so you can find the perfect camera for your specific needs , whether you're a beginner or pro.

Photo essays are a chance to try new styles or techniques that stretch your skills and creativity. This image was part of an essay exploring simplicity and shape, and helped me learn new skills in black and white post-processing.

How photo essays improve your photography

Creating photo essays is an amazing antidote if you’ve ever felt a lack of direction or purpose in your photography. Photo essays help build your photographic skills in at least 3 important ways.

1. You become more strategic in creating a body of work

It’s easy to get stuck in a rut of photographing whatever pops up in front of you. And when you do, you end up with a collection of stand-alone shots.

These singles may work fine as a print, a quick Instagram post, or an addition to your gallery of shots on your website. But amassing a bunch of one-off shots limits your opportunities as a photographer for everything from exhibits to getting your work published.

Building photo essays pushes you to think strategically about what you photograph, why, and how. You’re working toward a particular deliverable – a cohesive visual essay – with the images you create.

This elevates your skills in crafting your photo essay, and in how you curate the rest of your work, from galleries on your website to selecting images to sell as prints .

2. You become more purposeful in your composition skills

Composition is so much more than just following the rule of thirds, golden spirals, or thinking about the angle of light in a shot.

Composition is also about thinking ahead in what you’re trying to accomplish with a photograph – from what you’re saying through it to its emotional impact on a viewer – and where it fits within a larger body of work.

Photo essays push you to think critically about each shot – from coming up with fresh compositions for familiar subjects, to devising surprising compositions to fit within a collection, to creating compositions that expand on what’s already in a photo essay.

You’re pushed beyond creating a single pleasing frame, which leads you to shoot more thoughtfully and proactively than ever.

(Here’s a podcast episode on switching from reactive shooting to proactive shooting .)

3. You develop strong editing and curation skills

Selecting which images stay, and which get left behind is one of the hardest jobs on a photographer’s to-do list. Mostly, it’s because of emotional attachment.

You might think it’s an amazing shot because you know the effort that went into capturing it. Or perhaps when you look at it, you get a twinge of the joy or exhilaration you felt the moment you captured it. There’s also the second-guessing that goes into which of two similar images is the best – which will people like more? So you’re tempted to just show both.

Ultimately, great photographers appear all the more skilled because they only show their best work. That in and of itself is a skill they’ve developed through years of ruthlessly editing their own work.

Because the most powerful photo essays only show a handful of extraordinary images, you’re bound to develop the very same critical skill (and look all the more talented because of it).

Photo essays are also a great stepping stone to creating photo stories. If you’re interested in moving beyond stand-alone shots and building stories, shooting photo essays will get your creative brain limbered up and ready for the adventure of photo stories.

A photo essay exploring the natural history of a favorite species is an exciting opportunity for an in-depth study. For me, that was a photo essay on emotive images of the American dipper (Cinclus mexicanus) as it hunts in streams. 

9 Simple steps to create your photo essays

1. clarify your theme.

Choose a theme, topic, or concept you want to explore. Spend some time getting crystal clear on what you want to focus on. It helps to write out a few sentences, or even a few paragraphs noting:

• What you want the essay to be about
• What kinds of images you want to create as part of it
• How you’ll photograph the images
• The style, techniques, or gear you might use to create your images
• What “success” looks like when you’re done with your photo essay

You don’t have to stick to what you write down, of course. It can change during the image creation process. But fleshing your idea out on paper goes a long way in clarifying your photo essay theme and how you’ll go about creating it.

2. Create your images

Grab your camera and head outside!

As you’re photographing your essay, allow yourself some freedom to experiment. Try unusual compositions or techniques that are new to you.

Stretch your style a little, or “try on” the style of other photographers you admire who have photographed similar subjects.

Photo essays are wonderful opportunities to push yourself outside of your comfort zone and grow as a photographer .

Remember that a photo essay is a visually cohesive collection of images that make sense together. So, while you might stretch yourself into new terrain as you shoot, try to keep that approach, style, or strategy consistent.

Don’t be afraid to create lots of images. It’s great to have lots to choose from in the editing process, which comes up next.

3. Pull together your wide edit

Once you’ve created your images, pull together all the images that might make the cut. This could be as many as 40-60 images. Include anything you want to consider for the final essay in the wide edit.

From here, start weeding out images that:

• are weaker in composition or subject matter
• stand out like a sore thumb from the rest of the collection
• Are similar to other stronger images in the collection

It’s helpful to review the images at thumbnail size. You make more instinctive decisions and can more easily see the body of work as a whole. If an image is strong even at thumbnail size to stand out from similar frames while also partnering well with other images in the collection, that’s a good sign it’s strong enough for the essay.

4. Post-process your images for a cohesive look

Now it’s time to post-process the images. Use whatever editing software you’re comfortable with to polish your images.

Again, a photo essay has a cohesive visual look. If you use presets, filters, or other tools, use them across all the images.

5. Finalize your selection

It’s time to make the tough decisions. Select only the strongest for your photo essay from your group of images.

Each image should be strong enough to stand on its own and make sense as part of the whole group.

Many photo essays range from 8-12 images. But of course, it varies based on the essay. The number of images you have in your final photo essay is up to you.

Remember, less is more. A photo essay is most powerful when each image deserves to be included.

6. Put your images in a purposeful order

Create a visual flow with your images. Decide which image is first, and build from there. Use compositions, colors, and subject matter to decide which image goes next, then next, then next in the order.

Think of it like music: notes are arranged in a way that builds energy, or slows it down, surprise listeners with a new refrain, or drop into a familiar chorus. How the notes are ordered creates emotional arcs for listeners.

How you order your images is similar.

Think of the experience a viewer will have as they look at one image, then the next, and the next. Order your images so they create the experience you want your audience to have.

7. Get feedback

The best photographers make space for feedback, even when it’s tough to hear. Your work benefits from not just hearing feedback, but listening to it and applying what you learn from it.

Show your photo essay to people who have different sensibilities or tastes. Friends, family members, fellow photographers – anyone you trust to give you honest feedback.

Watch their reactions and hear what they say about what they’re seeing. Use their feedback to guide you in the next step.

8. Refine, revise, and finalize

Let your photo essay marinate for a little while. Take a day or two away from it. Then use your freshened eyes and the feedback you received from the previous step to refine your essay.

Swap out any selects you might want to change and reorder the images if needed.

9. Add captions

Even if you don’t plan on displaying captions with your images, captioning your images is a great practice to get into. It gives context, story, and important information to each image. And, more than likely, you will want to use these captions at some point when you share your photo essay, which we dive into later in this article.

Add captions to the image files using Lightroom, Bridge, or other software programs.

Create a document, such as a Google or Word doc, with captions for each image.

In your captions, share a bit about the story behind the image, or the creation process. Add whatever makes sense to share that provides a greater understanding of the image and its purpose.

Photo essays allow you to explore deliberate style choices, such as a focus on shapes, patterns, textures, and lines. Since each photo is part of a larger essay, it encourages you to be bold with choices you might not otherwise make. 

5 Examples of amazing nature photo essays

1. “how the water shapes us” from the nature conservancy.

This gorgeous essay, crafted with the work of multiple photographers, explores the people and places within the Mississippi River basin. Through the images, we gain a sense of how the water influences life from the headwater all the way to the Gulf of Mexico. Notice how each photographer is tasked with the same theme, yet approaches it with their own distinct style and vision. It is a wonderful example of the sheer level of visual variety you can have while maintaining a consistent style or theme.

View it here

2. “A Cyclist on the English Landscape” from New York Times’ The World Through A Lens series

This photo essay is a series of self-portraits by travel photographer Roff Smith while “stuck” at home during the pandemic. As he peddled the roads making portraits, the project evolved into a “celebration of traveling at home”. It’s a great example of how visually consistent you can be inside a theme while making each image completely unique.

3. “Vermont, Dressed In Snow” from New York Times’ The World Through A Lens series

This essay by aerial photographer Caleb Kenna uses a very common photo essay theme: snow. Because all images are aerial photographs, there’s a consistency to them. Yet, the compositions are utterly unique from one another. It’s a great example of keeping viewers surprised as they move from one image to the next while still maintaining a clear focus on the theme.

4. “Starling-Studded Skies” from bioGraphic Magazine

This beautiful essay is by Kathryn Cooper, a physicist trained in bioinformatics, and a talented photographer. She used a 19th century photographic technique, chronophotography, to create images that give us a look at the art and science of starling murmurations. She states: “I’m interested in the transient moments when chaos briefly changes to order, and thousands of individual bodies appear to move as one.” This essay is a great example of deep exploration of a concept using a specific photographic technique.

View it here   (Note: must be viewed on desktop)

5. “These Scrappy Photos Capture the Action-Packed World Beneath a Bird Feeder” from Audubon Magazine

This photo essay from conservation photographer Carla Rhodes explores the wildlife that takes advantage of the bounty of food waiting under bird feeders . Using remote camera photography , Rhodes gives viewers a unique ground-level perspective and captures moments that make us feel like we’re in conversation with friends in the Hundred Acre Woods. This essay is a great example of how perspective, personality, and chance can all come into play as you explore both an idea and a technique.

25 Ideas for creative photo essays you can make

The possibilities for photo essays are truly endless – from the concepts you explore to the techniques you use and styles you apply.

Choose an idea, hone your unique perspective on it, then start applying the 9 simple steps from above. 

• The life of a plant or animal (your favorite species, a species living in your yard, etc)
• The many shapes of a single species (a tree species, a bird species, etc)
• How a place changes over time
• The various moods of a place
• A conservation issue you care about
• Math in nature
• Urban nature
• Seasonal changes
• Your yard as a space for nature
• Shifting climate and its impacts
• Human impacts on environments
• Elements: Water, wind, fire, earth
• Day in the life (of a person, a place, a stream, a tree…)
• Outdoor recreation (birding, kayaking, hiking, naturalist journaling…)
• Wildlife rehabilitation
• Lunar cycles
• Sunlight and shadows
• Your local watershed
• Coexistence

As you zero in on a photo essay theme, consider two things: what most excites you about an idea, and what about it pushes you out of your comfort zone. The heady mix of joy and challenge will ensure you stick with it. 

Your photo essay is ready for the world! Decide how you’d like to make an impact with your work. You might use one or several of the options below.

1. Share it on your website

Create a gallery or a scrollytelling page on your website. This is a great way to drive traffic to your website where people can peruse your photo essay and the rest of the photography you have.

Putting it on your website and optimizing your images for SEO helps you build organic traffic and potentially be discovered by a broader audience, including photo editors.

2. Create a scrollytelling web page

If you enjoy the experience of immersive visual experiences, consider making one using your essay. And no, you don’t have to be a whiz at code to make it happen.

Shorthand helps you build web pages with scrollytelling techniques that make a big impression on viewers. Their free plan allows you to publish 3 essays or stories.

3. Create a Medium post

If you don’t have a website and want to keep things simple, a post on Medium is a great option.

Though it’s known for being a platform for bloggers, it’s also possible to add images to a post for a simple scroll.

And, because readers can discover and share posts, it’s a good place for your photos to get the attention of people who might not otherwise come across it.

4. Share it on Instagram

Instagram has changed a lot over the last couple of years, but it’s still a place for photographers to share their work thoughtfully.

There are at least 3 great ways to share your photo essay on the platform.

– Create a single post for each image. Add a caption. Publish one post per day until the full essay is on your feed. Share each post via Instagram Stories to bring more attention and interaction to your photo essay.

– Create a carousel post. You can add up 10 photos to a carousel post, so you may need to create two of them for your full photo essay. Or you might create a series of carousel posts using 3-4 images in each.

– Create a Reel featuring your images as a video.  The algorithm heavily favors reels, so turning your photo essay into a video experience can get it out to a larger audience.

I ran a “create a reel” challenge in my membership community. One member created a reel with her still images around a serious conservation issue. It gathered a ton of attention and landed her opportunities to share her message through YouTube and podcast interviews and publishing opportunities. Watch it here.

5. Exhibit it locally

Reach out to local galleries, cafes, pubs, or even the public library to see if they’re interested in hanging your photo essay for display. Many local businesses and organizations happily support the work of local artists.

6. Pitch your photo essay to publications

One of the best ways to reach an audience with your work is to get it published. Find publications that are a great fit for the theme and style of your photo essay, then pitch your essay for consideration. You gain a fantastic opportunity to share your work widely and can earn a paycheck at the same time.

Remember that if you want to get your photo essay published, you may want to hold back from sharing it publicly before you pitch it to publications.

5 Strategies to Find the Positive Angle In Every Conservation Photo Story

Photo Stories and Essays , Tutorials

  Training your brain to see the silver linings and solutions is essential in several ways, from engaging your audience to gaining the interest of editors.  If you've been watching the news pretty much at all over the past couple of months, you know there's...

How to Make Time for Photography (Even When Life Gets Busy)

Photography Business , Tutorials

  It's easy to let your creative time slip to the back burner... or slip off the stove entirely. This surprisingly powerful tool will help you both make time for your photography AND make great forward progress on your projects.  Contents Use timed focus...

How to Create Personal Narrative Photo Stories That Viewers LOVE

  Your personal perspective and experiences can be a powerful storytelling strategy. But there are ways to do it right (and wrong). Here are my top 3 tips for what to keep in mind when photographing a story that's your own personal narrative so that your story is...

6 Books That Forever Changed My Wildlife Conservation Photography

  From how you approach being in the field and scouting locations, to how you approach the stories you photograph and communicate conservation issues, these 6 books are the (unconventional) must-read list for every conservation photographer.  An...

PIN THIS FOR LATER

Jaymi Heimbuch

Next up….

How to train your brain to see solutions in photo stories so that you can engage your audience and gain the interest of editors.

This surprisingly powerful tool will help you both make time for your photography AND make great forward progress on your projects.

If you do these 3 things, you’ll have a share-worthy story your viewers feel connected to and inspired by.

WHAT DO YOU WANT TO READ TODAY?

POPULAR SEARCHES:  Best Cameras   |    Location Guide   |  Best Lenses   |  Wildlife  

Privacy Overview

The leading authority in photography and camera gear.

Become a better photographer.

12.9 Million

Annual Readers

Newsletter Subscribers

Featured Photographers

Photography Guides & Gear Reviews

How to Create an Engaging Photo Essay (with Examples)

Photo essays tell a story in pictures. They're a great way to improve at photography and story-telling skills at once. Learn how to do create a great one.

Learn | Photography Guides | By Ana Mireles

Shotkit may earn a commission on affiliate links. Learn more.

Photography is a medium used to tell stories – sometimes they are told in one picture, sometimes you need a whole series. Those series can be photo essays.

If you’ve never done a photo essay before, or you’re simply struggling to find your next project, this article will be of help. I’ll be showing you what a photo essay is and how to go about doing one.

You’ll also find plenty of photo essay ideas and some famous photo essay examples from recent times that will serve you as inspiration.

If you’re ready to get started, let’s jump right in!

Table of Contents

What is a Photo Essay?

A photo essay is a series of images that share an overarching theme as well as a visual and technical coherence to tell a story. Some people refer to a photo essay as a photo series or a photo story – this often happens in photography competitions.

Photographic history is full of famous photo essays. Think about The Great Depression by Dorothea Lange, Like Brother Like Sister by Wolfgang Tillmans, Gandhi’s funeral by Henri Cartier Bresson, amongst others.

What are the types of photo essay?

Despite popular belief, the type of photo essay doesn’t depend on the type of photography that you do – in other words, journalism, documentary, fine art, or any other photographic genre is not a type of photo essay.

Instead, there are two main types of photo essays: narrative and thematic .

As you have probably already guessed, the thematic one presents images pulled together by a topic – for example, global warming. The images can be about animals and nature as well as natural disasters devastating cities. They can happen all over the world or in the same location, and they can be captured in different moments in time – there’s a lot of flexibility.

A narrative photo essa y, on the other hand, tells the story of a character (human or not), portraying a place or an event. For example, a narrative photo essay on coffee would document the process from the planting and harvesting – to the roasting and grinding until it reaches your morning cup.

What are some of the key elements of a photo essay?

• Tell a unique story – A unique story doesn’t mean that you have to photograph something that nobody has done before – that would be almost impossible! It means that you should consider what you’re bringing to the table on a particular topic.
• Put yourself into the work – One of the best ways to make a compelling photo essay is by adding your point of view, which can only be done with your life experiences and the way you see the world.
• Add depth to the concept – The best photo essays are the ones that go past the obvious and dig deeper in the story, going behind the scenes, or examining a day in the life of the subject matter – that’s what pulls in the spectator.
• Nail the technique – Even if the concept and the story are the most important part of a photo essay, it won’t have the same success if it’s poorly executed.
• Build a structure – A photo essay is about telling a thought-provoking story – so, think about it in a narrative way. Which images are going to introduce the topic? Which ones represent a climax? How is it going to end – how do you want the viewer to feel after seeing your photo series?
• Make strong choices – If you really want to convey an emotion and a unique point of view, you’re going to need to make some hard decisions. Which light are you using? Which lens? How many images will there be in the series? etc., and most importantly for a great photo essay is the why behind those choices.

9 Tips for Creating a Photo Essay

Credit: Laura James

1. Choose something you know

To make a good photo essay, you don’t need to travel to an exotic location or document a civil war – I mean, it’s great if you can, but you can start close to home.

Depending on the type of photography you do and the topic you’re looking for in your photographic essay, you can photograph a local event or visit an abandoned building outside your town.

It will be much easier for you to find a unique perspective and tell a better story if you’re already familiar with the subject. Also, consider that you might have to return a few times to the same location to get all the photos you need.

2. Follow your passion

Most photo essays take dedication and passion. If you choose a subject that might be easy, but you’re not really into it – the results won’t be as exciting. Taking photos will always be easier and more fun if you’re covering something you’re passionate about.

3. Take your time

A great photo essay is not done in a few hours. You need to put in the time to research it, conceptualizing it, editing, etc. That’s why I previously recommended following your passion because it takes a lot of dedication, and if you’re not passionate about it – it’s difficult to push through.

4. Write a summary or statement

Photo essays are always accompanied by some text. You can do this in the form of an introduction, write captions for each photo or write it as a conclusion. That’s up to you and how you want to present the work.

5. Learn from the masters

How Much Do You REALLY Know About Photography?! 🤔

Test your photography knowledge with this quick quiz!

See how much you really know about photography...

Your answer:

Correct answer:

SHARE YOUR RESULTS

Your Answers

Making a photographic essay takes a lot of practice and knowledge. A great way to become a better photographer and improve your storytelling skills is by studying the work of others. You can go to art shows, review books and magazines and look at the winners in photo contests – most of the time, there’s a category for photo series.

6. Get a wide variety of photos

Think about a story – a literary one. It usually tells you where the story is happening, who is the main character, and it gives you a few details to make you engage with it, right?

The same thing happens with a visual story in a photo essay – you can do some wide-angle shots to establish the scenes and some close-ups to show the details. Make a shot list to ensure you cover all the different angles.

Some of your pictures should guide the viewer in, while others are more climatic and regard the experience they are taking out of your photos.

7. Follow a consistent look

Both in style and aesthetics, all the images in your series need to be coherent. You can achieve this in different ways, from the choice of lighting, the mood, the post-processing, etc.

8. Be self-critical

Once you have all the photos, make sure you edit them with a good dose of self-criticism. Not all the pictures that you took belong in the photo essay. Choose only the best ones and make sure they tell the full story.

9. Ask for constructive feedback

Often, when we’re working on a photo essay project for a long time, everything makes perfect sense in our heads. However, someone outside the project might not be getting the idea. It’s important that you get honest and constructive criticism to improve your photography.

How to Create a Photo Essay in 5 Steps

Credit: Quang Nguyen Vinh

1. Choose your topic

This is the first step that you need to take to decide if your photo essay is going to be narrative or thematic. Then, choose what is it going to be about?

Ideally, it should be something that you’re interested in, that you have something to say about it, and it can connect with other people.

2. Research your topic

To tell a good story about something, you need to be familiar with that something. This is especially true when you want to go deeper and make a compelling photo essay. Day in the life photo essays are a popular choice, since often, these can be performed with friends and family, whom you already should know well.

3. Plan your photoshoot

Depending on what you’re photographing, this step can be very different from one project to the next. For a fine art project, you might need to find a location, props, models, a shot list, etc., while a documentary photo essay is about planning the best time to do the photos, what gear to bring with you, finding a local guide, etc.

Every photo essay will need different planning, so before taking pictures, put in the required time to get things right.

4. Experiment

It’s one thing to plan your photo shoot and having a shot list that you have to get, or else the photo essay won’t be complete. It’s another thing to miss out on some amazing photo opportunities that you couldn’t foresee.

So, be prepared but also stay open-minded and experiment with different settings, different perspectives, etc.

5. Make a final selection

Editing your work can be one of the hardest parts of doing a photo essay. Sometimes we can be overly critical, and others, we get attached to bad photos because we put a lot of effort into them or we had a great time doing them.

Try to be as objective as possible, don’t be afraid to ask for opinions and make various revisions before settling down on a final cut.

7 Photo Essay Topics, Ideas & Examples

Credit: Michelle Leman

• Architectural photo essay

Using architecture as your main subject, there are tons of photo essay ideas that you can do. For some inspiration, you can check out the work of Francisco Marin – who was trained as an architect and then turned to photography to “explore a different way to perceive things”.

You can also lookup Luisa Lambri. Amongst her series, you’ll find many photo essay examples in which architecture is the subject she uses to explore the relationship between photography and space.

• Process and transformation photo essay

This is one of the best photo essay topics for beginners because the story tells itself. Pick something that has a beginning and an end, for example, pregnancy, the metamorphosis of a butterfly, the life-cycle of a plant, etc.

Keep in mind that these topics are linear and give you an easy way into the narrative flow – however, it might be difficult to find an interesting perspective and a unique point of view.

• A day in the life of ‘X’ photo essay

There are tons of interesting photo essay ideas in this category – you can follow around a celebrity, a worker, your child, etc. You don’t even have to do it about a human subject – think about doing a photo essay about a day in the life of a racing horse, for example – find something that’s interesting for you.

• Time passing by photo essay

It can be a natural site or a landmark photo essay – whatever is close to you will work best as you’ll need to come back multiple times to capture time passing by. For example, how this place changes throughout the seasons or maybe even over the years.

A fun option if you live with family is to document a birthday party each year, seeing how the subject changes over time. This can be combined with a transformation essay or sorts, documenting the changes in interpersonal relationships over time.

• Travel photo essay

Do you want to make the jump from tourist snapshots into a travel photo essay? Research the place you’re going to be travelling to. Then, choose a topic.

If you’re having trouble with how to do this, check out any travel magazine – National Geographic, for example. They won’t do a generic article about Texas – they do an article about the beach life on the Texas Gulf Coast and another one about the diverse flavors of Texas.

The more specific you get, the deeper you can go with the story.

• Socio-political issues photo essay

This is one of the most popular photo essay examples – it falls under the category of photojournalism or documental photography. They are usually thematic, although it’s also possible to do a narrative one.

Depending on your topic of interest, you can choose topics that involve nature – for example, document the effects of global warming. Another idea is to photograph protests or make an education photo essay.

It doesn’t have to be a big global issue; you can choose something specific to your community – are there too many stray dogs? Make a photo essay about a local animal shelter. The topics are endless.

• Behind the scenes photo essay

A behind-the-scenes always make for a good photo story – people are curious to know what happens and how everything comes together before a show.

Depending on your own interests, this can be a photo essay about a fashion show, a theatre play, a concert, and so on. You’ll probably need to get some permissions, though, not only to shoot but also to showcase or publish those images.

4 Best Photo Essays in Recent times

Now that you know all the techniques about it, it might be helpful to look at some photo essay examples to see how you can put the concept into practice. Here are some famous photo essays from recent times to give you some inspiration.

Habibi by Antonio Faccilongo

This photo essay wan the World Press Photo Story of the Year in 2021. Faccilongo explores a very big conflict from a very specific and intimate point of view – how the Israeli-Palestinian war affects the families.

He chose to use a square format because it allows him to give order to things and eliminate unnecessary elements in his pictures.

With this long-term photo essay, he wanted to highlight the sense of absence and melancholy women and families feel towards their husbands away at war.

The project then became a book edited by Sarah Leen and the graphics of Ramon Pez.

Picture This: New Orleans by Mary Ellen Mark

The last assignment before her passing, Mary Ellen Mark travelled to New Orleans to register the city after a decade after Hurricane Katrina.

The images of the project “bring to life the rebirth and resilience of the people at the heart of this tale”, – says CNNMoney, commissioner of the work.

Each survivor of the hurricane has a story, and Mary Ellen Mark was there to record it. Some of them have heartbreaking stories about everything they had to leave behind.

Others have a story of hope – like Sam and Ben, two eight-year-olds born from frozen embryos kept in a hospital that lost power supply during the hurricane, yet they managed to survive.

Selfie by Cindy Sherman

Cindy Sherman is an American photographer whose work is mainly done through self-portraits. With them, she explores the concept of identity, gender stereotypes, as well as visual and cultural codes.

One of her latest photo essays was a collaboration with W Magazine entitled Selfie. In it, the author explores the concept of planned candid photos (‘plandid’).

The work was made for Instagram, as the platform is well known for the conflict between the ‘real self’ and the one people present online. Sherman started using Facetune, Perfect365 and YouCam to alter her appearance on selfies – in Photoshop, you can modify everything, but these apps were designed specifically to “make things prettier”- she says, and that’s what she wants to explore in this photo essay.

Tokyo Compression by Michael Wolf

Michael Wolf has an interest in the broad-gauge topic Life in Cities. From there, many photo essays have been derived – amongst them – Tokyo Compression .

He was horrified by the way people in Tokyo are forced to move to the suburbs because of the high prices of the city. Therefore, they are required to make long commutes facing 1,5 hours of train to start their 8+ hour workday followed by another 1,5 hours to get back home.

To portray this way of life, he photographed the people inside the train pressed against the windows looking exhausted, angry or simply absent due to this way of life.

You can visit his website to see other photo essays that revolve around the topic of life in megacities.

Final Words

It’s not easy to make photo essays, so don’t expect to be great at it right from your first project.

Start off small by choosing a specific subject that’s interesting to you –  that will come from an honest place, and it will be a great practice for some bigger projects along the line.

Whether you like to shoot still life or you’re a travel photographer, I hope these photo essay tips and photo essay examples can help you get started and grow in your photography.

Let us know which topics you are working on right now – we’ll love to hear from you!

Check out these 8 essential tools to help you succeed as a professional photographer.

Includes limited-time discounts.

Ana Mireles is a Mexican researcher that specializes in photography and communications for the arts and culture sector.

👋 WELCOME TO SHOTKIT!

🔥 Popular NOW:

Unlock the EXACT blueprint to capture breathtaking iPhone photos!

What is a Photo Essay in Photography (13 Examples You Can Try)

Do you know what a photo essay is?

If not, that’s okay. Many photographers aren’t even familiar with the term. I didn’t know until a few years back myself after doing many of them unknowingly.

A photo essay is an interesting form of visual storytelling that presents a narrative through a series of images.

Powerful photo essays communicate emotions and understanding without using words.

You’re guiding the viewer through your narrative journey.

In this article, I’ll be going over the important parts of a great photo essay idea, 13 interesting photo essay ideas you can try, and a few photo essay tips.

What is a Photo Essay?

A photo essay is a powerful form of visual storytelling in which a narrative is presented through a series of images.

Unlike a written essay, a photo essay relies on visuals to tell a story and evoke emotions within the viewer. When you create a photo essay, you can stretch your creative limits and explore new ways of connecting with your audience.

In a photo story or essay, the images are carefully selected.

They’re arranged in order to create a coherent and engaging narrative.

Each photograph should contribute to the overall theme of the story and maintain visual and technical consistency throughout.

As the photographer, you play a big role in coming up with interesting photo essay ideas, the narrative, and providing context for the images.

To create a good photo essay, here are a few guidelines:

Choose a Strong Theme: Select a subject that resonates with your audience and communicates a clear message or emotion.

Curate the Images: Carefully select the photographs that best represent your theme and arrange them logically.

Maintain Consistency: Your images should have a consistent visual style, color palette, and framing. You want to create a cohesive narrative.

Provide Context: Include captions or short text descriptions to give the viewer a better understanding of the story being told.

Other Important Elements of a Photo Essay

These other components help provide a clear narrative and evoke emotions that keep the audience engaged in your story.

Storytelling : The primary purpose of a photo essay is to tell a story through your images. You must carefully choose your photos to convey a coherent and interesting narrative. The flow of your images should guide the viewer through your perspective or various viewpoints on the subject.

Emotion : A strong photo essay evokes emotions that resonate with the viewer. As you select your photos, consider how they touch the viewer emotionally. The emotions your images evoke can differ, ranging from happiness and love to fear and sadness.

Idea : Your photo essay idea should revolve around a central idea or theme. This foundation not only provides direction for your work but also ensures your images remain focused and relevant. Before starting your photo essay, you need a well-defined idea that’ll guide your photography and narrative.

Style : For your photo essay to be visually cohesive you need a consistent style. This can include using a particular color palette, choosing images with a distinct composition, or using a specific technique in each photo. As you curate your images, make sure they’re consistent in their visual qualities to create a harmonious presentation.

Composition : The composition of each photo plays a significant role in guiding the viewer’s eye within the image. Pay attention to elements like leading lines, patterns, and framing.

Technique : Using specific photography techniques can create a unique style for your photo essay. Experiment with different techniques like long exposures, shallow depth of field, and post-processing methods. Doing so will enhance the visual impact of your images.

Want to Book Clients and Earn Money as a Photographer?

Learn how with our easy-to-follow, hands-on video course. It’ll teach you how to take better photos so you can turn your passion for photography into income!

Why Create a Photo Essay

Creating a photo essay allows you to merge your passion for photography with the art of storytelling.

By focusing on a specific narrative, you have a purpose and direction while capturing images. This can lead to a deeper connection with your subject and inspiration to create an interesting visual story.

And as a photographer, you can use photo stories to experiment with various styles, techniques, and compositions.

This not only challenges your creativity but also helps improve your skills as a photographer. The process encourages you to explore new perspectives and angles while conveying your message.

The images you choose can make people feel happy, sad, or even angry. By doing so, you harness the power of visuals to communicate a message beyond words.

Photo essays also serve as an opportunity for reflection.

By picking a topic or theme close to your heart, you can ponder, look back, analyze, and dive deeper into a subject matter. It can be a powerful tool for personal growth and self-expression, allowing you to learn more about your own emotions and perceptions.

This is valuable if you intend to share your photography with a wider audience.

You can use a photo essay to show your skills in composition, storytelling, and emotional impact, making it a powerful way to gain recognition.

13 Photo Essay Examples

There are so many great photo essay examples, and I might try all of them myself!

But here are 13 not-too-hard photo essay ideas you can try.

1. Local Event Photo Essay

This is one of the most popular photo essay examples. You’re capturing the joy of local events by focusing on the participants’ emotions and interactions.

Doing so shows the diversity of the people and the range of activities taking place. From stall setups to exciting performances. Document memorable moments and unique aspects of the event that make it stand out.

2. A Day in the Life Photo Essay

Highlight a typical day in the life of a person, family, or community.

This photographic essay gives you an opportunity to capture the reality of daily life and routines. Focus on the small moments that give insight into the subject’s personality and relationships.

3. Transformation Photo Essay

Transformation photo essay topics are popular. This photo essay project showcases the power of change through photographs that depict the transformation of a person, place, or object. Include before and after pictures.

You want shots with angles and perspectives that show change and development. One of the most common transformation photo essay examples is weight loss before and after.

4. Family Photo Essay

Tell the story of a family’s life together by capturing candid moments, daily routines, and special occasions.

Focus on the relationships between family members and the unique characteristics that make them a cohesive unit.

5. Education Photo Essay

An educational photo essay shows the educational process in action by documenting classes, workshops, or seminars.

You can capture students’ learning and applying new skills. Observe interactions between teachers and students. Or show off diverse educational settings, from schools to informal learning environments.

6. Urban Renewal Photo Essay Examples

Explore the renewal of urban spaces with your photography.

Take pictures as the city improves, new developments go up, and the impact it has on local communities. Include images of old and new architecture, as well as scenes that feature revitalization efforts.

7. The Changing Seasons of a Park Photo Essay

Make a transformation essay showing the changing seasons in a park. With this photo story, you want to capture the elements of the atmosphere that make each season of the year unique.

Highlight the features and activities that define each season, from the colors of the leaves to the snow-covered landscapes.

Bonus points if you can shoot the same shot for each photo!

8. City Artwork and Murals Photo Essay

Another great photo essay example is celebrating the urban art scene by showcasing striking murals and street art found in cities and towns. Take photos that show the diverse styles, colors, and messages conveyed by the artists.

9. Historic Landmarks: Then and Now Photo Essay

Compare historic landmarks and sites in their current state with photographs from the past. This photo essay can show the changes and preservation efforts of these important cultural and historical places.

10. Coffee Shop Chronicles

Photograph coffee shops or the unique atmosphere of your favorite local coffee shop. Then document with your essay the diverse customers, staff members, and aesthetic elements that make it special.

Focus on the details that give it character and the emotions it evokes in visitors and customers.

11. Through The Lens of a Photographer

Be a photographer for another photographer and provide insight into their creative process. It can be a friend, another professional photographer, or even someone you want to learn from.

You can showcase their work, techniques, and equipment with your photo story. Include behind-the-scenes shots of the photographer in action, as well as their perspective on their craft.

12. Recipes From Your Favorite Local Restaurant

Do a photo shoot and partner with a local restaurant to create a visually appealing photo essay featuring their signature dishes.

You can include photographs of the cooking process, finished plates, and behind-the-scenes shots of the kitchen and staff.

13. Behind The Scenes Photo Essay

Offer a glimpse into the hidden aspects of various locations, professions, or events. Capture the unseen scenes and the people who make them happen by providing a unique and rarely seen perspective.

Tips for Creating Your Own Photo Essay

Choose Something You Love: Do something that sparks emotion in you and others. Tell a story that’s personal and meaningful to you. Whether it’s a social issue, an event, or a day in the life of a specific person, make it a subject you love.

Develop Your Own Style: Your unique photography style plays a role in keeping your audience engaged. And having a signature style can help you carve out a niche for yourself. This will attract clients who appreciate and seek your unique perspective.

Plan Your Shots: Photo essays are like storytelling, so take time to compose and plan out each image carefully. Each photo communicates an essential part of your story. Without a story, there’s nothing to captivate your viewers.

Keep The Story Cohesive: Maintain a clear narrative throughout your photo essays. Each image contributes to the story’s flow. So, organize your photos logically for effective communication of your message.

The Power of Sequence: Plotting the Narrative Arc for Your Photo Essay

Just like a traditional narrative, your photo essay should have a beginning, middle, and end.

The opening image sets the stage and draws your audience in. It’s similar to the hook in written storytelling.

As you progress towards the middle of your essay, develop your theme or subject further. This may involve using contrasting images or presenting different aspects of your topic to maintain viewer interest. And finally, end with an impactful image that leaves a lasting impression or delivers a powerful message.

View these steps as the equivalent of crafting plot points in written narratives:

Beginning : Set up your story.

Middle : Develop the main characters or themes.

End : Resolve any conflicts or deliver the final message.

Linking Images Together: The Art of Transitions in Photo Stories

Transitions are super important.

They’re key elements that string individual photos together. Photo essay transitions are like the transitions between paragraphs in writing. They help maintain flow and continuity.

A transition might be thematic, such as moving from color-filled scenes. Or black-and-white images to represent shifting moods or timescales.

It might even be visual: you can focus on common shapes, patterns, or subjects across several photographs.

To create effective photo transitions:

Identify common themes between photos.

Look for similarities in colors, textures, shapes, and lighting.

Experiment with gradually shifting the mood of your photos too.

How to Create a Photo Essay in 7 Steps

Step 1: choose a topic.

Select an engaging topic for your photo essay.

Reflect on your interests, the emotions you want to evoke, and the story you want your landmark photo essay to tell. Topics can range from personal stories to cultural explorations or even school events. You want an angle and style that will make your essay stand out and resonate with your audience.

Step 2: Research Beforehand

Before shooting, conduct research on your chosen topic. Gather information and familiarize yourself with the theme, people, and culture involved. This will help you capture consistent and authentic images. And provide depth to your photo essay project.

Step 3: Capture a Wide Variety of Images

Experiment with different shooting techniques, angles, and perspectives. Photograph various images that reflect your subject’s emotions, moods, and environment. Cover every aspect of your story. And remember, quality shots are more important than quantity.

Step 4: Create a Storyboard With Your Ideas and Images

After shooting, review your images and develop a storyboard. Arrange the photos in a manner that portrays your story effectively. Consider composition, techniques, and the flow of your narrative.

Step 5: Narrow Down, Edit, and Organize Your Photos to Tell a Story

Select the images that best illustrate your story, and edit them for style and consistency. Then organize your images in a sequence that connects with your audience emotionally. And make sure your photo essay is visually appealing and reflects the essence of your topic.

Step 6: Use Captions for Your Images as Needed

Captions can help tell your story without overwhelming your audience with text. So, if necessary, include captions to provide context and explain your images. But keep them short, concise, and informative.

Step 7: Ask for Feedback

Before publishing your photo essays, ask for feedback from friends, family, mentors, or even strangers. Then listen to their insights and suggestions, and make adjustments as needed. Getting a variety of perspectives can help ensure your photo essay is engaging, clear, and relatable to your audience.

The Importance of Photo Essays in Photography

Photo essays tell an intriguing story.

We’ve all heard the phrase, “A picture is worth a thousand words.”

But have you ever thought about how true this statement is?

When photographs are thoughtfully grouped together, they can weave a captivating narrative. A photo essay allows you to explore subjects deeply and from various angles, telling stories that may not be possible with just one image.

For instance, highlighting the daily life of a particular subject.

Or showcasing the transformation of an abandoned building into a vibrant community center. These narratives become more profound and interesting when illustrated not just through words but through the lens of a camera.

Photo Essays Can Connect With an Audience

They’re powerful tools for connecting on an emotional level with your audience.

They allow viewers to walk in someone else’s shoes, experiencing situations and emotions that might be entirely different from their own lives.

For example, a well-executed photo essay on local environmental pollution could stir up feelings of concern and urge viewers to take action.

A Good Photo Essay Can Market Your Products or Services

Photo essays offer businesses a unique way to promote products and services in a visual world.

But you aren’t simply showing off your offerings. Instead, you’re telling engaging stories around them. These stories make it easier for potential customers to relate and respond positively.

Take Airbnb as an example.

They’re pairing photos of hosts’ homes with local attractions or experiences to create mini-photo-essays. Potential customers feel like they’re getting a sneak peek at their vacation experience.

Can Convey a Wide Range of Emotions

One image may evoke joy. While another stirs up sadness.

By grouping these images together, a photo essay lets you create an emotional rollercoaster for your viewers. You’re not just showing them what’s happening—you’re making them feel it.

Consider a photo essay documenting the journey of a cancer survivor. From the initial shock and fear to the strength found in treatment, and finally, the joy of remission.

Such a powerful narrative can touch hearts and inspire action like no other medium can.

They Bring Life to an Otherwise Ordinary Collection of Photos

A random assortment of photographs might be visually appealing, but without context or purpose, they may lack depth or meaning.

That’s where photo stories come into play.

They provide structure to these collections, turning them into interesting narratives. Ones with clear themes and messages.

Imagine a series of seemingly unrelated photos—portraits of people from different walks of life.

When presented as part of a photo essay that explores societal diversity within cities, these portraits become more than just faces. They turn into symbols of unity and diversity.

Kyra Chambers (KyraTheCreative) is the Co-Founder of Red October Firm. And a photographer, artist, and graphic designer. She has been in the photography industry since 2015 and loves making photography easy for everyone.

Similar Posts

The Best Budget Friendly Cameras for Beginners in 2024

If you’re reading this, you’re probably new to photography and excited to jump into shooting. Well, I’m excited…

What is Shutter Speed in Photography? (The Complete Guide)

Shutter speed matters a lot in photography. It’s responsible for capturing images with specific levels of motion, blur,…

Understanding Metering Modes and How They Affect Photos

Have you ever taken a photo only to find they are too bright or dark? I’m sure we’ve…

Shadow Photography (Tips and Secrets You Need to Know)

Isn’t it cool that in shadow photography, the absence of light is just as important as its presence?…

Photography at Home: Tips for Capturing Great Shots Indoors

Photography at home can be an enjoyable and rewarding activity. You can capture beautiful moments, experiment with your…

Auto vs. Manual Mode: What Photographers Should Know

You’re out with your camera, ready to capture the world through your lens. But then, frustration hits. Your…

• Follow PetaPixel on YouTube
• Follow PetaPixel on Facebook
• Follow PetaPixel on X
• Follow PetaPixel on Instagram

How to Create a Photo Essay

The photographic essay, also called a photo essay or photo story, is a powerful way for photographers to tell a story with their images. If you are interested in creating your own photo essay, this article will guide you through the whole process, from finding a story to shoot to the basics of crafting your first visual narrative.

Table of Contents

What is a photo essay.

A photo essay tells a story visually. Just like the kind you read, the photo essay offers a complete rendering of a subject or situation using a series of carefully crafted and curated images. Photo stories have a theme, and each image backs up that overarching theme which is defined in the photo essay’s title and is sometimes supported with text.

From documentary to narrative to essay, photo stories are designed to move their audience, to inspire a certain action, awareness, or emotion. Photo stories are not just a collection of cool photos. They must use their visual power to capture viewers’ attention and remain unforgettable.

History of the Photo Story

In the “old days”, that is, before 1948, magazines ran photo stories very different from what we know today. They were staged, preconceived by an editor, not a truthful observation of life. Along came a photographer named W. Eugene Smith, who worked for Life magazine.

Deciding to follow a rural doctor for six weeks, he gathered material for a photo essay that really showed what it was like to be in that doctor’s shoes, always on the go to help his scattered patients. Smith’s piece, “ Country Doctor ,” shook other photographers out of their scripted stupor and revolutionized the way photographers report what they see.

From then on, photojournalism gained life and an audience through the lenses of legends like Robert Capa, Dorothea Lange, David “Chim” Seymour, Gordon Parks, Werner Bischof, and Henri Cartier-Bresson. The Vietnam War provided many examples for photo stories as represented by Philip Jones Griffiths, Catherine Leroy, and many more.

More recently, photo stories have found a sturdy home online thanks to the ease of publishing a series of photos digitally versus in print. Lynsey Addario, Peter Essick, and Adam Ferguson represent a few of the photographers pushing visual storytelling today.

Ways to Find Photo Stories and Themes

Photo stories exist all around, right in the midst of everyday life and in the fray of current events. A good place to begin developing a photo essay is by choosing a general theme.

Topics that Interest You

The best expression comes from the heart, so why not choose a topic that interests you. Maybe it’s a social issue, an environmental one, or just something you’re curious about. Find what moves you and share that with the world.

Personal Experiences

The more you’ve lived, the more you have to tell. This doesn’t necessarily mean age, it can also refer to experiences, big and small. If you know a subject better than most, like what it’s like to recover from a car crash, you’re an expert on the matter and therefore you have a story to tell. Also, consider the things you read and see or watch, like news or history, and incorporate that into your search for a story.

Problem/Solution

Problems abound in the world. But so do solutions. Photojournalists can present either, or both. Have a look at something that’s wrong in society and show why it’s a problem. Or find a problem that’s been resolved and show the struggle it took to get there. Even better, take your time shooting your story — sometimes it can take years — and document how a wrong is righted.

Day-in-the-Life

One of the most popular formats, day-in-the-life photo stories present microcosms of life that relate to the bigger picture. In a similar vein, behind-the-scenes photo stories show viewers what life is really like for others, especially in situations that are difficult or impossible to access. Events represent another simple yet powerful theme for documenting and storytelling with a camera.

Types of Photo Stories

Most photo stories concern people. If it’s about something like the environment, for example, the photo story can showcase the people involved. In either case, the impactful photo story will present the challenges and dilemmas of the human condition, viscerally.

There are three general types of photo stories.

Narrative Story

Narrative deals with complications and their resolution, problems, and solutions. If there appears to be no resolution, at least the struggle to find one can provide material for a photo essay. Some sort of narrative thread must push the story from beginning to middle to end, just like what you see in a good movie.

A good story also requires action, which in this case must be visual. Good stories are page-turners, whether they’re a Kerouac tale or a series of photos demonstrating the difficulties of single parenting. Adventure stories are one good example of photographic narrative storytelling.

The term “photo story” is generally used interchangeably with “photo essay”, but some photographers hold that there are subtle differences between the two. The essay type of photo story implies opinion, they argue. Essays make a point. They are the opposite of facts-only news. A photo story essay makes a case for something, like showing the danger and consequences of illegal fireworks or advocating for the preservation of a forest.

Documentary

On the other hand, documentaries lack opinion. Their purpose is to inform without adding judgment. Documentaries present the facts and let viewers decide. They illustrate something that’s occurring but they don’t always include a narrative story or an opinionated approach. Historical places, current events, and unique lifestyles always make for good documentary photo stories.

How to Craft a Photo Essay

Several elements come into play when putting together a photo essay. Once you’ve found a theme, it’s time to give your project a name. While out shooting, jot down titles that come to mind. Consider the title a magazine headline that explains in few words what the whole story is about.

Choose your photos according to whether or not they relate to and support the photo essay’s title. Reject those photos that don’t. If your collection seems to suggest a different angle, a different title, don’t be afraid to rename it. Sometimes stories develop organically. But if your title can’t assemble and define your selection of photos, maybe it’s too vague. Don’t rush it. Identify the theme, take the photos and the photo essay will take shape.

Certain techniques help tell the photo essay.

A photo essay is composed of a diversity of views, angles, and focal lengths. While masters like Henri Cartier-Bresson could capture a photo essay with a single prime lens, in his case a 50mm, the rest of us are wise to rely on multiple focal lengths. Just like what we see in the movies, a story is told with wide shots that set the scene, medium shots that tell the story, and close-ups that reveal character and emotion.

Unique angles make viewers curious and interested, and they break the monotony of standard photography. Consider working black-and-white into your photo essay. The photo essay lends itself well to reportage exclusively in monochrome, as the legends have demonstrated since W. Eugene Smith.

Visual Consistency

The idea of a photo essay is to create a whole, not a bunch of random parts. Think gestalt. The images must interact with each other. Repetition helps achieve this end. Recurring themes, moods, styles, people, things, and perspectives work to unify a project even if the photos tell different parts of the story.

Text can augment the impact of a photo essay. A photo may be worth a thousand words, but it doesn’t always replace them. Captions can be as short as a complete sentence, as long as a paragraph, or longer. Make sure to take notes in case you want to add captions. Some photo stories, however, function just fine without words.

Tell a Story as a Photographer

Few genres of photography have moved people like the photo essay. Since its inception, the art of visual storytelling has captivated audiences. Photo stories show viewers things they had never seen, have moved masses to action, and have inspired video documentaries. Today, photo stories retain their power and place, in part thanks to the internet. Every photographer should experiment with a photo essay or two.

The method of crafting a photo essay is simple yet complicated, just like life. Careful attention must be paid to the selection of images, the choice of title, and the techniques used in shooting. But follow these guidelines and the photo stories will come. Seek issues and experiences that inspire you and go photograph them with the intention of telling a complete story. The viewing world will thank you.

Image credits: Header photo shows the May 13, 1957 story in LIFE magazine titled, “ The Tough Miracle Man of Vietnam .” Stock photos from Depositphotos

Photo Gallery:  Shabry Quarry (Shabrovsk Quarry), Shabry village, Yekaterinburg , Sverdlovsk Oblast , Russia  

Xk6-nqj hematite fe 2 o 3.

D9K-57L Dravite NaMg 3 Al 6 (Si 6 O 18 )(BO 3 ) 3 (OH) 3 (OH) , Chlorite Group , Talc Mg 3 Si 4 O 10 (OH) 2

7NH-2PJ Talc Mg 3 Si 4 O 10 (OH) 2

Y1J-Q06 Hematite Fe 2 O 3 , Talc Mg 3 Si 4 O 10 (OH) 2

5XU-8R5 Talc (Var: Steatite ) Mg 3 (Si 4 O 10 )(OH) 2 , Talc Mg 3 Si 4 O 10 (OH) 2

7RM-YW3 Talc Mg 3 Si 4 O 10 (OH) 2 , Hematite Fe 2 O 3

Q4C-359 Hematite Fe 2 O 3 , Talc Mg 3 Si 4 O 10 (OH) 2

2M7-XTH Hematite Fe 2 O 3

XPM-RGM Hematite Fe 2 O 3

FX5-1JW Talc Mg 3 Si 4 O 10 (OH) 2

• Travel Guides
• Sverdlovsk Oblast
• Yekaterinburg-City

30 Best Things To Do In Yekaterinburg, Russia

You've searched in Airbnb, why don't you search in Booking?

Car Rentals

  Search the best Airbnb Vacation Rentals

Still searching see more options from these partners.

Search the best hotel deals

Search for car hire.

Located east of the Ural Mountains, Yekaterinburg is the fourth largest city in Russia and is famous for the golden-domed Church on the Blood in Honour of All Saints Resplendent in the Russian Land. Vysotsky, the business center, offers so much to those who are new to the city and if you are looking to get the perfect view of the city and at the same time learn about the city’s history then Plotinka is the place to be. The keyboard monument is also another spot for a tranquil walk as you get to explore the city. Take a look at this list of the top recommended things to do while in Yekaterinburg, Russia.

Why Trust Trip101?

✅ Over 50,000 articles reviewed and published by our experienced team

✅ Over 50 years of combined experience researching, writing and reviewing travel articles

✅ Over 40,000 hours spent on research and fact-checking from credible sources (last year’s data)

✅ Optimizing content from data-driven insights collected directly from users on our platform

✅ Focus on authentic and up-to-date information by collaborating with local guides, global travelers and other industry experts

✅ Long-standing partnerships with credible brands like Airbnb, Booking.com, Agoda, Expedia, GetYourGuide, Viator, RVShare and more

✅ Full disclosure on any partnerships or sponsored content

Trip101’s team of writers , editors, and content managers oversees the publication of all travel content, including destination guides, accommodation recommendations, and travel tips. They have extensive experience in the travel industry and no content, written or visual, gets published without a review. Many of our team’s work has also been featured in Travel+Leisure, National Today, The Indian Express, The Telegraph (India), Robb Report, The Adventure Handbook, Tripoto, Korea Tourism Organization, and Korean Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism. Some of them are also members of professional organizations like the Society of American Travel Writers and the International Travel Writers and Photographers Alliance.

Each member of the team follows Trip101's methodology and strict editorial guidelines to ensure accuracy, authenticity, and relevance.

Top 10 Muslim-Friendly Hotels In Moscow, Russia

• 8 Vacation Rentals By The Beach In St. Petersburg, Russia - Updated 2024
• 10 Best Hotels In Kemerovo, Russia By Customer Reviews

Table Of Contents

• 1. Visit the commemoration site of Romanov sainthood
• 2. Celebrate technology at Keyboard Monument
• 3. Enjoy the masterpieces at Ekaterinburg Museum of Fine Arts
• 4. Explore the grand Rastorguyev-Kharitonov Palace
• 5. Catch a show at Ekaterinburg State Academic Opera and Ballet Theatre
• 6. Go back in time at Black Tulip War Memorial
• 7. Check out exquisite pieces at Museum of Hardstone Carving and Jewelry History
• 8. Offer a prayer at Church of Ascension
• 9. Enjoy the tranquility of Victory Park
• 10. Tour the Ganina Yama Monastery
• 11. Take a stroll along the Iset River Dam
• 12. Create memories at the Beatles Monument
• 13. Check out the exhibits at Ural Geological Museum
• 14. Visit the Old Water Tower
• 15. Order classic Russian dishes at Restaurant Podkova
• 16. Stop by the Monument to the Founders of Yekaterinburg
• 17. Visit the 19th-century mansion showcasing historical photography
• 18. Swing by the Museum of Sverdlovsk Railway
• 19. Take a relaxing stroll through Literary Quarter
• 20. Visit the Chapel of the Revered Martyr Grand Princess Yelizaveta Fyodorovna
• 21. Shop at Grinvich
• 22. Enjoy summer days at the lively Istorichesky Skver
• 23. Head to Memorial House - Museum Reshetnikov for fascinating exhibits
• 24. Tour the Ural Vision Gallery
• 25. Visit the monument of Alexander Stepanovich Popov
• 26. Check out Yekaterinburg's unique subway system
• 27. Enjoy the views from Vysotsky Viewing Platform
• 28. Explore the Nevyansk Icon Museum
• 29. Book a historical military tour of Yekaterinburg
• 30. Visit sites of the city related to Russia's first president, Boris Yeltsin

The perfect to-do list for Yekaterinburg

Come and visit the site of the commemoration of the Romanov sainthood – the Church on Blood in Honour of All Saints Resplendent in the Russian Land. This is where Russia’s last emperor, his family, and house staff were executed during the Russia Civil War. A memorial chapel is the only symbol left of the horrific tragedy that once occurred here. This beautiful complex now houses a belfry, a museum, two churches, and a patriarchal annex.

Church on Blood in Honour of All Saints Resplendent in the Russian Land Address : ul. Tolmacheva, 34, Yekaterinburg, Sverdlovskaya oblast’, Russia, 620075 Website : Church on Blood in Honour of All Saints Resplendent in the Russian Land

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Luiz Pryzant (@pryzant)

Featuring a QWERTY/JCUKEN keyboard, the Keyboard Monument is an outdoor sculpture created by Anatoly Vyatkin. This unique monument is considered one of the top spots that attract visitors, both local and foreign, to the city. On the last Friday of July, on Sysadmin Day, tourists flock to this spot to celebrate science and computers at this spectacular monument. It is the perfect spot for tech lovers!

Keyboard Monument Address : Ulitsa Gor'kogo, Yekaterinburg, Sverdlovskaya oblast’, Russia, 620075 Opening hours : 24 hours (daily)

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Pálinkás Balázs (@balazs.palinkas)

Considered to be the largest fine arts museum in the Urals, the Ekaterinburg Museum showcases exhibits some as old as the 14th century. Marvel at exquisite masterpieces from Western Europe, applied modern art and Russian exhibits. This amazing museum brings together a robust collection of culture, art, and history under one roof.

Ekaterinburg Museum of Fine Arts Address : Ulitsa Voyevodina, 5, Yekaterinburg, Sverdlovskaya oblast’, Russia, 620014 Website : Ekaterinburg Museum of Fine Arts Opening hours : Tue - Thu: 11am - 8pm; Fri - Sun: 11am - 7pm (closed on Mon)

You might be interested in these Airbnbs!

New apartment on the 24th floor.

136 reviews

Railway VOKZAL, Eastor. CENTER. Lermontova, 15

109 reviews

Yekaterinburg, Sverdlovskaya oblast', Russia

29. Book a historical military tour of Yekaterinburg (from USD 200.3)

Book an informative historical military tour and get to learn about the military history of Yekaterinburg. You will be taken around interesting military sites in the city and will also be accompanied by a knowledgable tour guide. This tour generally lasts three hours as you get to see the Soviet Army Square and the Black Tulip Memorial where the brave soldiers who died in the Afghanistan war are commemorated. Wind up your tour by visiting the Museum of Arms of UMMC to see an array of grand arms exhibition.

Military History Tour of Yekaterinburg Duration: 3.5 hour from USD 200.3 Book Now

30. Visit sites of the city related to Russia's first president, Boris Yeltsin (from USD 178.05)

In this three-hour, half-walking, half-driving tour, you get to enjoy an exhilarating adventure while visiting the best city sites that Boris Yeltsin, the first president of Russia used to frequent. As you head to the Yeltsin Center, which is home to an art gallery, café and a museum among many more, pick up some souvenirs to take home with you. Finish off your tour by visiting the Boris Yeltsin Museum and marvel at its nine halls exploring the nuances of Russian history.

The First Russian President Tour in Yekaterinburg Duration: 3 hour from USD 178.05 Book Now

If you are new to Yekaterinburg, it is easy for you to assume that the city holds many treasures for you to explore. Avail this list of amazing things to do in this beautiful city. With it in hand, you will surely enjoy your visit to Yekaterinburg.

Report a problem

Get trip101 in your inbox.

Unsubscribe in one click. See our Privacy Policy for more information on how we use your data

A seasoned travel journalist, Thomson Joe is a free spirit with a fiery need for discovery and exploration of new attractions, culture, and heritage. With a passion for travel writing that can be... Read more

Save to Bookmarks

LET'S CONNECT

Become Our Local Expert Want to contribute to our content as a Local Expert ? Register Here

• Top 10 Muslim-Friendly Hotels In Moscow, Russia 07 May 2023
• 8 Vacation Rentals By The Beach In St. Petersburg, Russia - Updated 2024 25 June 2024
• 10 Best Hotels In Kemerovo, Russia By Customer Reviews 05 May 2023
• 13 Famous Buildings In Moscow, Russia - Updated 2024 23 July 2024
• 10 Best Airbnb Vacation Rentals In Moscow, Russia - Updated 2024 08 July 2024
• 15 Things Russia Is Famous For 01 March 2023
• Top 30 Things To Do In Hot Springs, Arkansas 10 October 2022
• 20 Things To Do In Batam, Indonesia - Updated 2024 23 August 2024
• 23 Best Things To Do In Thunder Bay, Canada 12 August 2021
• Omsk, Russia (1)
• Ufa, Russia (1)
• Astana, Kazakhstan (1)
• Chelyabinsk Oblast, Russia (25)
• Yekaterinburg-City, Russia (2)
• Top 9 Vacation Rentals In Lake Havasu City, Arizona - Updated 2024 24 August 2024
• Top 10 Stayz Accommodations In Mission Beach, Australia 13 July 2022
• 9 Vacation Rentals In Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina - Updated 2024 24 August 2024
• Top 10 Self-Catering Accommodations In Port Edward, South Africa - Updated 2024 24 August 2024
• Top 6 Water Sports And Activities In Krabi, Thailand - Updated 2024 24 July 2024

Don’t miss out on the best price for your ideal accommodation in Yekaterinburg-City

Was this article helpful?

Thanks for your feedback

Create an account to

• Bookmark our articles
• Give your favorite local expert tips a thumbs up
• Receive great stories in your inbox
• Follow writers and topics that you love