<p>Photosynthesis converts solar energy into chemical energy through highly coordinated photosynthetic reactions. Inspired by natural systems, artificial photosynthesis aims to develop an efficient, sustainable, and cost-effective pathway for solar-to-chemical conversion. This review examines natural photosynthetic pathways, including retinal/rhodopsin-, bacteriochlorophyll-, and chlorophyll-based systems, highlighting their key components and mechanisms. Next, we outline reaction pathways in artificial photosynthetic systems constructed via heterogeneous, homogeneous, self-assembly, and semi-artificial strategies, focusing on water splitting, carbon fixation, and nitrogen fixation. Finally, we offer insights into future directions for artificial photosynthesis, emphasizing the importance of using self-assembly strategies and the potential of using primitive phototrophic microorganisms as models.</p>