Start in the SH4 MODS WORKSHOP forum. They're all there.
I'm not sure of any mods that actually remove photo missions. TMO makes them a tad more realistic (ie. you're NOT sent into Tokyo Bay at the beginning of the war). You are sent to take pics of possible landing sites etc.
Play a little longer with 1.4 until you're familiar with everything then I'd recommend TMO and RSRD as two keys mods for gameplay. Pacific Environments mod improves the eye-candy aspect. There are various mods out there and it's basically your choice as to what you want.
