Which of these 4 Categories of Photos Are You Focused On Making?

What category of images are you primarily creating, and is that in alignment with the photographer you aspire to be?

In conservation photography, our big aim is to make really compelling images that ALSO create awareness, understanding, and action around environmental issues.

This means we need to think deeply about the types of images we’re focused on creating.

There are four main categories of images.

Each category grows in impact as you add in storytelling elements, whether that’s the composition and moments captured in individual photos, or building portfolios of images to create full visual stories.

Lreview each of the four categories, and where you can focus energy depending on your aspirations and goals in conservation visual storytelling.

1. Bird on a Stick Images

First up, we have the “bird on a stick” images. These are those beautiful, standalone shots that look great on a wall but don’t necessarily tell a story. Think of a stunning portrait of a bird perched on a branch or a majestic landscape. They are visually appealing and garner plenty of likes on social media. These images are all about aesthetics but don’t usually push the needle forward in terms of storytelling or impact. They get the heart emojis and positive comments but don’t incite much action or change.

2. Prize Winners

Next, we move to the “prize winners.” These images go beyond mere beauty. They capture interesting behaviors, surprising moments, or complex scenes that draw us in and make us curious. Prize winners often have that storytelling element that resonates on a deeper level. They are the ones that win awards at competitions like Wildlife Photographer of the Year or Big Picture. These images earn applause and recognition for their ability to captivate and intrigue.

3. Conversation Starters

Then, we have the “conversation starters.” These are collections of images that, together, start a dialogue. They might not be full photo essays, but they have a thematic connection that piques curiosity and encourages viewers to engage more deeply. These images get people talking and clicking to learn more. They go beyond a single impressive shot to create a narrative that invites viewers into a broader story.

4. Change Makers

Finally, we arrive at the “change makers.” This is the category where impactful conservation visual storytellers thrive. Change makers combine the best elements of prize winners—those compelling, storytelling images—and group them into a cohesive portfolio that not only starts conversations but also drives action and creates impact. These images work together to tell a powerful story, engage a community, and inspire change. They are the photos that cause people to have an aha moment, prompting behavior changes that benefit species and places you care about.

Reflecting on Your Focus

There’s no wrong category to be working in, and we all move through different phases in our journey as photographers. Most of us start with those “bird on a stick” shots, aiming for beautiful, tack-sharp images to share with friends and family. But if your goal is to be an impactful conservation visual storyteller, you’ll likely want to move toward creating “change maker” images.

Think about where you are right now. Which category of images are you focusing on? Is that in alignment with your long-term vision as a photographer? If you aspire to create images that do more than decorate walls—that provoke thought, inspire action, and contribute to conservation efforts—then aiming for the change maker category is your path forward.

Moving Toward Change Makers

To help you move toward creating change maker images, I’ve linked to some additional resources and episodes with specific action items that can guide you on this journey. Here are a few steps to consider:

1. Start Small: Begin by focusing on conversation starters. Create small collections of images that tell a thematic story. This will help you build the skills needed to craft more complex narratives.

2. Analyze and Reflect: Regularly review your work to see which images resonate most with your audience and why. Use this feedback to refine your approach and deepen your storytelling skills.

3. Collaborate and Learn: Engage with other conservation photographers and storytellers. Collaborate on projects and learn from their experiences. This can provide new perspectives and techniques to enhance your work.

4. Stay Inspired: Keep your creative juices flowing by exploring new subjects, techniques, and stories. Stay curious and open to inspiration from unexpected places.

Conclusion

No matter where you are in your photography journey, it’s essential to reflect on the category of images you’re creating and whether it aligns with your goals. If you’re passionate about making an impact through your images, consider how you can shift toward creating change makers—those powerful portfolios that tell compelling stories and drive action.

Take a moment today to evaluate your current focus and think about where you want to go next.

Every step you take toward crafting impactful stories brings you closer to being the conservation visual storyteller you aspire to be.

Happy photographing, and I look forward to seeing the incredible stories you create!