American male 58, single, what type of visa should I apply?

Visiting Pearl River Delta area, (most areas), also hope to visit Shanghi via HS Rail. What would I need?
Is there a general entry permit that covers everything? I will be a tourist....staying in a Zhuhai hotel first few days (to be determined). I hope to arrive at HK Intl, on Sept 3rd, 2016 (American Airlines or EVA air - airfare not purchased yet) and leave from HK Intl on Sept 22nd. My intentions are to gamble in Macau, photo/video my travels for documenting my life long dream of visiting China's best locations. Do I need permits? ( I am not a professional photographer, I am a hobbist photographer [not so good]).