Access to clean water is vital for human survival and societal advancement, especially amidst global challenges like environmental degradation. Photo catalytic technologies are increasingly prominent in wastewater treatment. The synthesis process significantly influences the properties and effectiveness of photocatalysts. This article focuses on various synthesis techniques, including synthetic and green methods, aiming to produce efficient and affordable catalysts for purifying water contaminated with dyes, pesticides, and other pollutants. Examples of recent photocatalysts highlight diverse approaches. Synthesis methods range from sol-gel to electro-deposition, with green synthesis gaining traction due to its environmental benefits. Biogenic approaches utilizing plant extracts and microorganisms offer sustainability and scalability. The article emphasizes recent advances in green synthesis, particularly in producing undoped and doped nanomaterials for water treatment. It also discusses future trends in synthesis methods and research directions, underscoring the importance of sustainable approaches in addressing water pollution challenges.