Editorial photography is more than just taking pretty pictures; it’s about telling a story. If you’ve ever flipped through a magazine or scrolled through a feature article online and noticed images that feel meaningful, emotional, or narrative-driven, you’ve already seen editorial photography in action.
Unlike commercial photography, which focuses on selling products, editorial photography focuses on communicating ideas, moods, and stories. And the best part? You don’t need a big studio or expensive gear to start learning it.
Let’s break it down practically.
Editorial photography is a style of photography used to illustrate stories, articles, or concepts, usually in magazines, blogs, newspapers, or digital publications.
Instead of promoting a product, editorial photos are meant to support a narrative. They add depth to written content and help readers connect emotionally with the story.
For example:
The key idea is simple:
Editorial photography = storytelling through images
Sometimes the easiest way to understand editorial photography is by looking at real-world scenarios.
Here are some common examples:
Think of fashion spreads where models pose in a way that tells a story, not just showing clothes, but expressing a mood or theme.
Photos of people cooking, working, traveling, or relaxing that match the topic of an article.
Candid shots capturing real-life moments. Like a street vendor, a protest, or daily life in a city.
Images that visually represent abstract ideas like stress, success, or creativity.
A portrait of a person in their environment. Like an artist in their studio or a barista in a cafe.
The common thread? Each photo supports a story or message, not just aesthetics.
Editorial photography isn’t just one style; it’s a broad category with several sub-types. Here are the most common ones:
It is probably the most recognizable type. It goes beyond showcasing outfits and focuses on creating a narrative or theme.
Example: A vintage-inspired shoot set in an old train station.
This style captures real-life events and situations. It’s often raw, unfiltered, and emotionally powerful.
Example: Photos of daily life in a rural village or coverage of social issues.
These photos feel natural and relatable. They show everyday moments but with a storytelling angle.
Example: A young couple cooking together for a blog about relationships.
Used in business articles or company profiles, these photos tell stories about people at work.
Example: A startup team brainstorming in a modern office.
These images highlight places, cultures, and experiences, often used in travel blogs or magazines.
Example: A sunrise shot of a local market with people interacting.
Editorial photography and commercial photography are often confused because both can look visually similar. However, they have very different purposes, creative approaches, and goals.
Understanding the difference can help photographers choose the right style for their projects and communicate more effectively with clients.
Editorial photography focuses more on storytelling, emotion, and creative expression.
This type of photography is commonly used in:
Editorial photos are designed to support a narrative or concept rather than directly sell a product.
Photographers usually have more creative freedom with:
Editorial photography often feels more dramatic, cinematic, or emotional because the goal is to create a strong visual story.
For example, a fashion editorial photoshoot may focus on mood, character, or atmosphere instead of clearly showcasing clothing details.
Read also: Fashion Photography Tips
Commercial photography is created primarily to promote or sell products, services, or brands.
This style is commonly used for:
In commercial photography, the main goal is clarity and brand presentation.
Compared to editorial photography, commercial photography usually requires:
Creative freedom is often more limited because the visuals must align with marketing goals and brand guidelines.
For example, product photography for ecommerce focuses on making products look attractive, detailed, and trustworthy to potential buyers.
Here are the main differences between the two styles:
The best choice depends on your creative goals and project needs.
Editorial photography is ideal if you want to:
Commercial photography is better if your goal is to:
Many professional photographers eventually combine both styles by using strong storytelling techniques while still maintaining clear branding and marketing objectives.
If you want to start creating strong editorial photography, you don’t need to overcomplicate things. Focus on storytelling first, then technique.
Here are some practical tips you can apply right away:
Before picking up your camera, ask yourself first:
What story am I trying to tell?
Even a simple concept like “a productive morning” can guide your shots and make them more cohesive.
Editorial photography works best when it makes people feel something.
Try to capture:
Avoid overly stiff or “posed” shots unless they fit your concept.
You don’t always need studio lighting. Natural light can create a more authentic and relatable look. Perfect for editorial styles.
Pro tip: Shoot during golden hour for soft, warm tones.
Small elements can make a big difference in storytelling.
Think about:
Everything in your frame should support your story.
Read also: Creative Color Grading
If you’re working with models or friends, give them simple directions instead of rigid poses.
For example:
It creates more natural, believable shots.
Editorial photography often works best as a set of images rather than a single image.
Try capturing:
It gives more depth to your story.
Your editing style should match the mood of your story.
For example:
Consistency helps your photos feel like part of one narrative.
Editorial photography is one of the most creative and flexible photography styles you can explore. It’s not about having the best gear, it’s about having a clear idea and telling a story through your lens. If you’re a beginner, start simple:
Pick a small concept, use natural light, and focus on real moments. Over time, your storytelling skills will improve, and that’s what truly makes editorial photography stand out.
So next time you pick up your camera, don’t just think about taking a photo. Imagine the impact of sharing a compelling story.
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