Direct conversion of hydrocarbons into value-added chemicals can be realized through activation and functionalization of C-H bonds so as to meet the requirements of the atomic economy and sustainable development strategy of chemistry. By virtue of the mild reaction conditions and high product selectivity, heterogeneous photocatalysis has attracted considerable attention. In this feature article, we focus on the catalyst modification strategies developed in recent years for photocatalytic activation of C-H bonds. The influence of the modifications on reaction activity and selectivity is further discussed by analyzing the mechanism of photocatalytic C-H bond activation. We hope that this feature article would provide useful guidance for the preparation of new photocatalysts for hydrocarbon conversion.