If you’ve ever commissioned photography for your business or brand, you’ll likely have come across the terms commercial photography and editorial photography. At first glance, they can sound interchangeable — after all, both involve creating striking images that tell a story. But the purpose, style, and end use of each are quite different.
What is Commercial Photography?
Commercial photography is all about selling. Its main goal is to promote a product, service, or brand in the most engaging way possible. These are the images you’ll see in advertising campaigns, brochures, websites, product launches, and across social media.
The focus is always on the client’s message. Everything — from lighting and styling to composition and post-production — is carefully crafted to resonate with the target audience and encourage action. In other words, commercial photography is visual marketing.
Examples of commercial photography include:
- Product photography for e-commerce
- Lifestyle shoots showing a service in action
- Branding images for websites and social media
- Campaign visuals for advertising
Commercial Photography Services
What is Editorial Photography?
Editorial photography, on the other hand, is about storytelling. These images are typically commissioned by magazines, newspapers, or blogs to support written content. The aim isn’t to sell directly, but to illustrate an idea, capture a mood, or give readers a deeper sense of a subject.
Editorial shoots are often more creative and narrative-driven. They allow for a looser, sometimes more artistic style that helps bring an article or feature to life.
Examples of editorial photography include:
- Portraits accompanying interviews
- Event coverage for industry publications
- Conceptual imagery to illustrate a story or opinion piece
- Fashion or lifestyle features in magazines
Branding and Events Photography services
Why the Difference Matters
Understanding the distinction helps you choose the right approach for your project.
- If you’re looking to boost sales, launch a new product, or build your brand image, commercial photography is the way to go.
- If your aim is to contribute to a publication, tell a story, or support editorial content, then editorial photography will be the right fit.
At CD Photography, I work across both styles — always with the same commitment to high-quality, purposeful imagery. Whether your goal is to sell or to tell, I’ll help you capture the visuals that make the right impact.