Photochemical sensitization and photocatalysis have very similar definitions and are closely related. Each of the two terms are preferentially used in different scientific communities. Three types of processes are discussed: (1) sensitization involving energy transfer, (2) photocatalysis in which hydrogen abstraction plays a key role, and (3) photoredox catalysis in which electron transfer is involved. The processes are discussed in connection with [2 + 2] photo-cycloadditions and C–H activation, which are of particular interest for organic synthesis.