How to Take Photos as a Solo Traveler: Your Guide

Capturing memorable moments while traveling solo can be challenging, but with the right techniques and tools, you can create stunning photos that tell your unique story. 

If you feel like leaving without your iconic shot is not an option, but asking a stranger or awkwardly setting up a tripod feels way too out there–this guide is for you.

Essential Equipment for Solo Travel Photography

Good photos start with good equipment, and that’s especially true for solo travellers. All you really have to rely on is your equipment, so make sure you’ve got the good stuff!

Aside from your camera or smartphone, these accessories can enhance your solo travel photography:

• Compact Tripod: A lightweight, portable tripod is essential.

• Bluetooth Remote Shutter: This small device lets you trigger your camera remotely, ideal for self-portraits or dynamic shots.

• Clip-On Lenses: Add versatility to your smartphone camera with clip-on lenses for wide-angle, macro, or fisheye effects. This also saves space compared to packing a full camera.

Tip #1. Always Use a Timer

Capturing yourself in the frame as a solo traveler can feel daunting, but these techniques make it manageable:

• Self-Timer: Built-in timers on smartphones (3-10 seconds) give you time to position yourself naturally within the frame.

• Remote Shutter Control: Devices like the Bluetooth Shutter Remote are compact and easy to use, giving you greater flexibility to capture the perfect moment.

• Voice Commands: Many phones now support voice-activated photography, enabling hands-free operation.

Tip #2. Get a Feel For Composition

Okay so, you used a self-timer… but now your shot is all out of wack since you couldn’t place yourself properly. This is due to the composition of your photo. 

If someone was taking a photo of you, they may naturally place you in the frame, but with a self-timer, it’s your responsibility.

Start by understanding the basics of good composition, and then get a feel for it. Practice setting up your camera and seeing how you feel in front of it. Practice moving yourself around and finding out what positions make for the best framing. Practice makes perfect, so do it before you’re out and about, not during an important shot.

During your practice, keep the essentials in mind:

• Rule of Thirds: Position yourself at the intersection points of a 3x3 grid on your camera to create dynamic and visually interesting images.

• Leading Lines: Use roads, pathways, or architectural features to naturally guide the viewer's eye to your subject.

Tip #3. Learn How to Spot and Use Good Lighting

Lighting plays a crucial role in creating captivating photos, and you can really set yourself up for success by choosing the right times and conditions to shoot your content:

• The first hour after sunrise and the last hour before sunset provide soft, warm light perfect for portraits and landscapes. This is the renowned “golden hour,” and it will make taking photos a lot easier!

• It’s generally best to avoid taking photos during midday. If you need to take a photo but there’s harsh sunlight, seek shade or use features like umbrellas or overhangs to diffuse the light. HDR mode can balance brightness and shadows in challenging conditions.

It’s especially useful to understand and know your lighting when you’re a solo traveller, since you may only get one chance to get the shot you were dreaming of!

Bonus: Visiting popular landmarks early in the morning is a win-win, since the lighting won’t be harsh, and the crowds are likely more sparse!

Tip #4. Get Creative

As a solo traveller, you may not always have the option to take the same picture as everyone else–use that to your advantage!

A compact tripod or strategic question to a stranger can get you far, but you can also use creative techniques to get difficult shots.

• Use reflections (mirrors, puddles, or windows) to get yourself in the picture even if you can’t do it directly.

• Take photos of tiny details that really represent your experience. A small treat or random street corner can sometimes say more than the iconic spots.

• Use elevated angles or hold your camera above your head to avoid crowds. 

• Using the 0.5 camera is a fun and easy way to take selfies that show more of your surroundings.

• Showcase more of the ambiance and surroundings by taking videos instead of photos, especially when it’s difficult to set up a shot.

Tip #5. Ask Strangers Strategically

Asking people to take your photo is not only awkward, it’s kind of risky! You want to avoid getting your phone stolen, but there are still times where another set of hands would really come in handy.

If you’re going to ask a stranger, be mindful of your surroundings. Are you in an area that’s known for pickpockets? Are there authorities nearby?

Consider who to ask ahead of time, and consider striking up a conversation for a few minutes before making your request.

Tip #6. Stay Safe

As a solo traveler, safety is your top priority. 

• Keep your gear secure. If you’re planning to use tools like tripods, try to avoid extremely crowded areas and peak times.

• Be mindful of your surroundings and avoid unsafe locations for photos. Don’t risk it all for the shot! Keep in mind that many top tourist locations are also known for high rates of thievery.

• Back up your photos regularly or set up automatic cloud backups on your phone.

Taking photos as a solo traveler doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right tools combined with the techniques, you can document your adventures beautifully. Remember to experiment, practice, and enjoy the process of capturing your unique journey.