Hydrogen production from aqueous solutions using semiconductor particles as photocatalysts has been reviewed highlighting the experimental techniques and mechanistic aspects. Several factors which influence the hydrogen production efficiency of semiconductor particles have been critically analysed with specific examples from literature. Photocatalytic efficiencies of individual semiconductors such as, CdS, TiO2, WO3 have also been assessed with reference to hydrogen production in the presence and absence of loaded metals, electron-donors/acceptors and hole scavengers. The main focus of this overview is to provide literature-based information on hydrogen production reactions using semiconductor particles in the presence of light energy.