How to distinguish between "photography" and "photography"

It doesn't really matter. From the linguistic point of view, this problem belongs to the category of "register". That is, the scope of vocabulary, grammar, etc. Used by people in specific social situations or professional fields.

Generally speaking, photography is more formal and written than photography. On the contrary, photography is more popular and colloquial than photography.

We can also get a glimpse from the definition of Modern Chinese Dictionary.

Photography:

(1) Through the photosensitive effect of the film, the camera is used to shoot the real image. It is called photography.

② Making a movie.

Take pictures:

A general term for photography.

To sum up, it is not wrong for you to say that you like "photography", and you will not be suspected of teaching others to swim. Just a formal tone.