Photon scattering by magnetic solids is discussed and reviewed at a fairly basic level, with an emphasis on concepts and theoretical developments for the interpretation of experimental results. Achievements to date are illustrated by reference to some experiments reported in the past few years, and all performed with photon beams produced by electron synchrotron facilities. The review covers photon (Bragg) diffraction, Compton scattering, elastic resonant scattering and linear and circular dichroism.