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Wanderlust Movement | A South Africa Travel Blog

The Ultimate Solo Travel Photography Guide: 20+ Secrets for Taking Photos Alone

March 5, 2023 by Lauren Melnick

Last Updated on September 3, 2023 by Lauren Melnick

“You want me to take travel photos of myself by myself? In public!?”

A sentence I uttered way back in 2016, followed by a wave of anxiety, fear, and cold sweaty palms.

If you scroll far back enough on my Instagram feed , you’ll see that my first foray into the world of solo travel photography consisted of only landscapes.

I was  waaaay  too terrified and shy to take photos of myself when travelling solo.

Ask someone to take my photo?  The level of awkwardness and cringe is too damn high.

Do it myself with a tripod?  People will stare, laugh, and I might die of embarrassment. No, I definitely  will  die of embarrassment.

After repeating this cycle for about a year into my solo travels, I realised something while scrolling through my gallery.

I had been to  sooo  many incredible places, but I wasn’t in any of my photos. I was missing out on capturing memories because I was concerned about what other people thought.

Sound familiar?

If so, it’s time to give your insecurities (and anyone who has made you feel small) a giant f**k you. Learning how to take better photos of yourself is not vapid, vain, or cringy.

It’s empowering. It will boost your confidence. 

And when you get home from your next holiday, you’re going to have banging photos of yourself instead of a suitcase of regret.

Without further adieu, I present my findings on everything I know about how to take travel photos. This is the only solo travel photography guide you’ll need to master your camera and start capturing your memories like a pro. 

No Insta Husband required!

Psst…Want more solo travel photography tips? Check out these other posts:

• Gifts for Travel Photographers: The Ultimate Photographer Gift Guide
• How to Photograph the Milky Way (Step by Step!)
• 20+ Most Instagrammable Places in Cape Town
• 10 of the Best Camera Bags for Women Who Love to Travel

Table of Contents

What Camera Lens Should You Use for Solo Travel Photos?

The best dslr tripod for solo travel photos, the best smartphone tripod for solo travel photos, get an attachment for your smart phone, buy a remote bluetooth shutter, download the camera app for your dslr, buy an intervalvalometer, start shooting on continuous self-timer, shoot on 4k video & take screenshots, how to get epic travel photos from strangers, go early, like sunrise early, shoot at golden hour, research locations for photos, practice your posing at home, use movement in your photos, safety tips for taking solo travel photos, the most important thing for solo travel photos have fun, try the classic back-to-camera, make triangles with your body, editing your solo travel photography, taking photos when travelling alone: final thoughts, how to take photos of yourself when travelling solo.

The best part about solo travel photography? There are so many methods you can use to get the perfect shot.

Below you’ll find all the different gear and all my solo travel photography tips I use when travelling alone.

Choose The Best Camera for Solo Travel for Your Budget

One of the top questions I get in my DMs?

“What camera do you use?”

It’s a valid question, but the answer is not as important as you think.

The best camera for solo travel is the one you have.

Let me explain.

You don’t need to have the most expensive DSLR cameras to take incredible solo travel photos.

Smartphones these days are more than capable of snapping jaw-dropping pictures. Both can give you high-resolution photos as long as you know how to use them.

So whether you have a smartphone or a DSLR, take the time to watch YouTube tutorials and learn how the camera works. Your photos will improve with a basic understanding of the functions, settings, and things like an  exposure triangle .

But if you’re in the market, here are some of the best cameras for solo travel:

• Best action travel camera:  GoPro Hero 11
• Best mirrorless travel camera:   Sony A7 III or A7 IV
• Best travel vlogging camera:   Sony RX100 VII
• Best budget travel camera:   Canon 2000D (my first DSLR)
• Best smartphone camera for travel:   iPhone 13 Pro
• Best travel drone: DJI Spark or DJI Mavic Mini 2

In case you’re curious, I currently shoot with a Canon D80 and a Sigma Art 1.8f/s 18-35mm . 

However, it’s a BULKY set-up for solo travel photography. When my next upgrade is due, I’ll be moving towards a mirrorless range as I do believe a lightweight option is the best camera for solo travel.

When travelling and taking photos, you want to keep your set-up lean. You don’t need five different types of lenses to get a good shot.

All that’s going to do is weigh you down.

Instead, invest in a versatile wide-angle lens you can use in 80% of your shooting conditions.

What does that mean?

You want a lens with a decent range to zoom in on far-away features and zoom out to fit everything into the frame.

At the moment, I shoot with a 18-35mm lens, which I love. However, I’ve noticed I need a bit more focal length and don’t want to lug around a second lens. So I’ve started saving up to upgrade to the more versatile  Sigma Art 24-70mm 2.8 f/s .

Invest in a Tripod

A tripod is your BFF as a solo traveller.

It wakes up at the same time as you. It doesn’t complain when you ask for “just one more photo”. Most importantly, your trusty tripod won’t give you blurry photos, cut off your head, or move your frame.

There’s only one problem…

…Which tripod should you buy for solo travel photography?

I highly recommend the  Manfrotto Element Traveller tripod . I bought mine in Bali , and it’s incredibly lightweight, sturdy (which is super important because my lens and body weigh about 2-3kg) and packs up small.

It isn’t the cheapest tripod on the market, but the quality is worth the investment.

You have a few tripod options for smartphones to match your travelling style.

• Want something that can fit in your handbag and requires ZERO set-up? Pick up a gorilla pod . It’s a small, lightweight tripod that can grip almost any surface. While you won’t have the height, you can still get the shot if there is something tall to wrap it around.
• What about the best selfie stick for solo travel? The  Andowl Selfie Stick  is the perfect camera accessory for solo trips. It can open its feet to form a cellphone tripod, or you can extend the only upper portion into a selfie stick.
• But if you want something more traditional with height, the  Manfrotto Element MII Mobile  is the best iPhone tripod for solo travel. It reaches up to 160 cm and folds down to 42.5 cm. Plus, you get a Bluetooth remote and a clamp to connect your phone to the tripod.

Again, Manfrotto’s aren’t cheap cellphone tripods, but the quality is unmatched. If it’s out of your price range, Takealot has a range of more affordable brands.

And remember, you don’t need top-of-the-range photography gear to take amazing pictures . As your skills improve, you’ll want to invest in more high-quality equipment, but start with what you can afford.

I started with a cheap as chips Fuji stand-and-shoot camera. I only upgraded to a DSLR two years into my travels.

If you have a tripod for a DSLR camera, you don’t need to buy a second one for your smartphone.

All you need is a cellphone attachment.

I use the  LASA Tripod Phone Mount Holder Screw Rotatable Bracket . It makes it easy for me to switch between my different cameras and get the shots no matter where I am.

Do you know what’s a workout?

Setting up a timer and running into the frame for every. single. photo.

It’s time-consuming, and it takes you out of the zone.

One of the best investments I made was buying a remote Bluetooth shutter for my DLSR and iPhone.

I use the  Photographic Wireless Remote Control for Canon DSLR Cameras  and this smartphone  Remote Shutter .

Tip:  If you don’t use a Canon, search [camera brand name] + remote shutter on Takealot. But before adding it to your cart, double-check it supports your camera make!

Here are some photos I’ve taken with my remote shutter. You can easily hide the remote by cupping it, holding it behind your back, or concealing it in a pocket.

Does your DSLR have a WiFi feature?

Then there’s a good chance your camera brand has an app you can use, which WILL change your life.

Do you find yourself getting frustrated with setting up a shot? Maybe it’s figuring out how far or close to stand from the camera or if you need to change the angle.

Are your photos out of focus? Maybe your DLSR keeps focusing on things in the foreground or background, and it’s taking you too damn long to get the perfect shot.

The camera app will solve all your solo photography woes.

You can see in real-time what your camera sees and adjust your settings like:

• Focus points

Here are some photos I’ve taken with my camera app. I usually hold the phone and angle my body so you can’t see it, or I put it on the floor.

There are times when I’ve tried to take a photo of myself with the above methods, and it’s FAILED.

I was too far away from the camera, and my phone or remote lost signal. 

As someone who lives for tiny humans in epic landscapes, I knew I needed to invest in an intervalometer.

…Errr a what now?

An intervalometer, also called an interval meter or interval timer, is a device that allows you to operate the shutter at regular intervals over a specific period.

As a solo traveller, you can set up your frame, adjust all your settings, and jump into the frame. Your camera will continue to take photos every 2 seconds, 10 seconds, or 60 seconds – it’s up to you!

I love this because it lets you move around and capture a candid moment without having to remember to click a button or hide your remote. Plus, you can stand further away from the camera and get the shot.

Love taking photos of the stars? You can use your interval meter for time-lapse photography and create epic star trails!

Tip:   Some cameras will have built-in interval timers. Check your camera model before deciding to invest in another gadget.

Shooting on continuous mode is a game-changer.

If you’re someone like me who loves movement in your photos, this feature will help you capture that perfect candid moment.

So what is it?

It’s a setting on your phone or DSLR camera that will give you 2 to 10 seconds to run into the frame and then shoot 3+ rapid-fire pictures in a row.

Basically, it’s the equivalent of burst mode WITHOUT finding someone to tap the shutter button on your phone furiously.

The only downside?

You may need to run back and forth between your camera.

Here are some photos I’ve taken with self-timer continuous:

One of the best tips for taking travel photos by yourself in public is to shoot on 4k video.

It gives you the freedom to move around and pose without worrying about remotes or timers.

You can let the video roll, and when you’re done, grab screenshots.

And bonus! You have some rad video content for TikTok or Reels.

…But what about the photo quality?

Shooting in 4k means, you’re getting the equivalent of 8.8 MP in each still frame (depending on the camera you use).

Now, if you’re a pro photographer, that 8.8 MP file is probably not enough, but the rest of us? Most of our images are going up on Instagram, and you’re not blowing them up for canvas prints.

Do you need a DSLR to shoot in 4k? Absolutely not! Most smartphones like the iPhone 12 pro let you toggle between 4k and HD video quality.

Sometimes you might need to ask a stranger to take a photo of you, or maybe you’re travelling with a friend or partner.

The only problem?

9/10, you’re going to get a kak photo.

How do you solve this problem? With these three tips:

• Use burst mode on your phone or high-speed continuous on your DSLR : This will allow you to move around while the shutter goes off. You’ll get dozens of photos to choose from instead of one blurry image you hate.
• Set up the shot beforehand:  I usually take an example photo to show the person and leave the gridlines on. Then I use these lines to explain where I want to be in the frame.
• Lay down the laws of the land:  Before going into the frame, tell the person not to move your frame and not to zoom in or use any weird features like Portrait Mode. Zooming in reduces your image quality, and the Portrait Mode on phones usually ends up blurring something it shouldn’t, and it looks fake.

Photography Tips for Solo Travellers 

When you’re learning how to take pictures when you travel alone, there are a few things you can do it nip fear and anxiety in the bud.

If there’s one thing that will quickly turn you into a morning person, it’s photography. The more you do it, the more you’re going to chase that good light, and nothing beats sunrise (sorry, sunset).

Besides the gorgeous soft light, no other humans are awake. You’ll have some of the world’s most beautiful natural wonders and tourist attractions all to yourself.

That deals a quick one, two punch to the horror of having people watch you take travel photos alone.

As I mentioned above, the best time for photos is between sunrise and sunset. 

An hour before the sun dips or comes over the horizon – the light is spectacular. This is known as golden hour, and I’ll wake up at 4:00 every single day for it.

If you’re not sure when golden hour starts, download an app called  Photo Pills . It is a paid app, but if you’re starting to take travel photography seriously, it’s well-worth the R200.00 investment.

The quiet morning hours are my favourite for two reasons:

• Fewer photo bombers
• I prefer the softer light to the more intense orange you get at sunset photoshoot

Read More: 10 Magnificent Sunset Spots in Cape Town You Need on Your Bucket List

Before I go to a new destination, I spend a good chunk of time collecting reference shots.

Why go through this effort? It eliminates “ I don’t know what the f**k I’m doing ” syndrome.

You’ll know exactly what to expect from the location, what angles you like and what poses you want to try out.

I collect reference photos on Pinterest and in a folder on Instagram. The night before, I’ll screenshot or download my favourites onto my phone in case I don’t have data or signal at any of the photo locations.

Dust off your smartphone or DSLR and have a mini photoshoot at home. Figure out what poses flatter your body the best and what movements you like in your pictures.

When it comes to shooting in the real world, you’ll have a posing bank to draw from, and you’ll avoid the trap of “ I don’t know what to do with my hands!”

If you look at my Instagram, you’ll see that I reuse the same poses all the time. I have no shame in that. I like what I like, and no one expects me to drop a pose like Kendall Jenner.

Adding movement to your photos does two things:

• It makes your photo more visually appealing.
• It creates beautiful candid shots (and takes the stress out of posing).

I still feel like an awkward potato in m photos unless I’m moving around. It’s where I am most comfortable because I’m in the moment and not hyper-focused on what my face looks like.

Before you set up your camera and run into frame, here are some things to keep in mind to make sure you (and your belongings) stay out of harm’s way.

• Keep your valuables nearby: Don’t leave your bag or jacket unattended with your passport, credit card and money. Use it as a prop or keep it out of frame without breaking your line of sight.
• Listen to your spidey senses: If you’re getting the “ick” feeling from being in a quiet area or the people around you – leave. Trust your intuition. A photo is never worth your safety.
• Stay close to your camera: I’m usually only a few steps away from my tripod. Using a wide-angle lens helps me capture more of the screen without having to leave my camera far behind.

Seriously, your photos will come out 10x better if you’re genuinely having fun. 

We can all pick up on stiff body language and forced smiles.

Let go and enjoy the moment. Emote the emotions you’re feeling at the destination, whether it’s excitement, bewilderment, or amazement.

I continuously work on this because I’m someone who lives in my head…a lot. It holds me back, and it’s not a pattern I like to reward.

Remember, solo travel is fun . Keeping that mind brings me back to the present moment, and I always end up liking those images way more than the ones I’m trying really hard.

How to Take Travel Photos Alone: Solo Travel Photography Poses

Need some pose ideas for your next trip? Here are some tried and true tips that are easy to do and instantly make taking photos alone easier.

This is my all-time favourite pose. As someone with a lot of social anxiety, I feel the most comfortable looking away from the camera.

Try running away from the camera, looking to the side, or twirling on the spot.

If you’re a victim of the “OMG, I have hands! Now what?” pandemic, always bring a prop. It will give you something to hold or play with and take your mind off your hands doing weird things.

My go-to is a hat or playing with a flowy dress.

Want to *instantly* improve your posing as a solo traveller? Create triangles with your body.

Making shapes with your body elevates your photos, and you’ll effortlessly look like a fancy model.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by LAUREN | SOUTH AFRICA TRAVEL (@thewanderlustmovement)

Now that you know how to take amazing travel photos, let’s discuss the final and most important step: EDITING!

This is where the magic happens.

With a dash of adjusting your exposure, a sprinkle of raising your shadows, and a seasoning of a preset, you can take almost any photo from drab to fab.

My go-to editing app for my photos is Adobe Lightroom. I have the desktop version and mobile app and use photo editing preset packs to colour-grade my images.

Adobe Lightroom Mobile is free to download, but the desktop app does require a monthly subscription. However, you don’t need the desktop app unless you want more control over your edits.

Some other editing options:

There you have it.

All the solo travel photography tips I’ve picked up over the years while travelling the world.

Hopefully, you feel more confident and prepared to go out into the world and snap your dream travel photos WITHOUT having to always rely on an Insta Husband.

Got more questions about how to take travel photos of yourself or the best camera for solo travel? Did I leave out any good solo photography ideas? Hit ya gurl up in the comments and let me know! 

If you like it, then you better put a pin on it

About Lauren Melnick

Lauren Melnick is the founder of Wanderlust Movement, Wander to Here and is a South Africa travel blogger. She's been travelling the world as a full-time freelance writer since 2016 and has visited over 40 countries.

When she isn't typing up a storm, you can find her conquering overnight hikes around the Western Cape, rock climbing, and hosting sold out group travel trips around South Africa, Namibia and Morocco.

Reader Interactions

September 14, 2022 at 9:08 pm

I have noticed that I get asked a lot more to take photos of people when I am holding a “serious” looking camera than when I am holding a compact point-and-shoot or a phone. Maybe that would be another small tip for when you ask a stranger to take a photo for you: look for someone who looks like an experienced photographer (ideally with the same camera as you).

September 20, 2022 at 8:09 am

Yes! That is a winner for making sure your feet or head don’t get cut off lol

October 15, 2022 at 1:15 pm

You are doing a fantastic job, helping us all with your ….. EVERYTHING YOU POST

March 16, 2023 at 8:55 pm

Loved the post! Keep it up.

January 2, 2024 at 6:20 pm

Great post! Going on my first solo trip in March and this is fab advice.

March 5, 2024 at 10:48 am

Thanks Tim! Hope you have an amazing solo trip this month!

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12 Epic Ways to Take Photos of Yourself When Travelling Solo!

By: Author Sophie Pearce

Posted on Last updated: August 18, 2023

Categories SOLO TRAVEL , BLOGGING

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure policy for details.

I’ve been meaning to write this post for as long as I can remember. The number one question I get asked on my Instagram is “how do you take photos of yourself when travelling solo?”

Sorry to burst your bubble guys but I don’t have a little fairy hanging around, hire professional photographers or have an Instagram husband. Although admittedly, sometimes it would make things a hell of a lot easier.

90% of the travel photos you see of me on my blog or Instagram, are taken by me!

Since I have started to travel solo and I run a travel blog that requires epic photos (selfies just don’t cut it on the gram), I’ve been taking photos of myself on a regular basis for over two years now.

In this post, I’m going to share everything I know about self-tography with you including:

• Different ways to get epic travel photos when by yourself
• Tips for travelling with a tripod
• How to set up your tripod or gear to get the photo with you in it
• Ways to limit your camera from getting stolen
• How to stop caring what people think (but that’s mostly down to you!)

We’re going to cover all the ways of taking photos by yourself, but how to take them too!

So, are you ready to join the ranks and become a self-tographer? Sweet! Let’s go.

1. A tripod and a timer mode

Although not the most effective option in my opinion; setting up your tripod, mounting your camera in the position you want it, and letting it run on a timer is a great option to take photos of yourself if you’re just starting out.

Most cameras will have self-timer modes and, if you’re in the market for a camera, I would check the capabilities of the timer modes on the camera first.

A big tip I have is to read your camera manual thoroughly or experiment with the timer modes available first before you set out on your travels.

You don’t want to turn up at your photo location all set to go and then struggle with setting up the timer.

The best way is to set your camera up on a continuous mode. This is where the camera will keep taking photos for you. This means you don’t have to keep running back and forth to start the timer each time.

For example, you could set up your camera to take a photo every one or two seconds. That way, you can change positions up each time without having to worry!

Another way is to buy a remote shutter that works with your camera. But, this could prove expensive.

Top tip: when choosing the right tripod, try to get one that can hold your camera in portrait mode – perfect for 8×10 editing for Instagram.

2. A tripod with a remote shutter (where you can see yourself)

The first option is a common way of getting photos but to really level up, this is what I suggest.

For me, not only do I like to set up my tripod in the position I want it, mount my camera and compose it for a beautiful photo; I like to see what I look like in the picture as well while taking it. 

That way you can make sure you’re not getting half your body in it, your hair doesn’t look messy etc. (although for me it’s a given lol) and you can use see if the pose or facial expression makes it an attractive photo.

After all, there’s no point in posing for 30 minutes to find out the photos look wrong or you’re cut out of the frame! Or, you’re not happy with your pose, you’re too far away etc.

How I do this is by using a camera that has WiFi capability and using a remote shutter through a smartphone to take photos of myself.

How to set up your camera with a smartphone WiFi App

Most of the big camera companies like Olympus, Canon, Sony, Nikon, and Lumix have an app that you can download for free to connect your phone with your camera.

It’s really simple to set up. You just turn on your WiFi mode on your camera, connect your phone via an app and away you go!

Not only does having this app and the WiFi setting allow you to see yourself on the screen and press the shutter to take a photo while you’re by yourself. You can instantly download those photos to your phone to edit for Instagram or post to stories, Snapchat, Twitter etc. It’s genius!

You just have to be a little creative with where you hide your phone so it doesn’t show in the photo.

Sometimes I sit on my phone, hide it behind my body if I’m facing away, press and throw away the camera, or use it as a prop etc.

3. Burst mode option with your camera (guess what, tripod again!)

I always used to take photos of myself while travelling solo with option number two (WiFi-connected smartphone shutter) for the first year or so. But, I found that this limited my options and gave a ‘static’ photo.

I would either need to sit, turn away, or stand super still to make sure I could press the shutter. And, although there’s nothing wrong with that, I was craving something more…

Motion in my photo!

You know, that twirly dress, spinning around candidly, jumping in the air, walking in the distance motion-type pictures you see on Instagram.

So, I decided to up my game once more and started to play around a little bit on my Olympus camera features.

Well, I’m happy to say that I discovered a little breakthrough. Burst Mode!

How to take photos of yourself using your camera in Burst mode

This is similar to a timer. But, instead of taking one photo, it takes multiple photos in a really short space of time! I.e. 10 photos in 2 seconds.

What this means is that it will take multiple photos for you in one sitting so you have a better chance. For example, if you were twirling around in your dress or skirt, the burst mode would capture that better in 5 photos a second than just one photo per second.

So now, my photoshoot set up goes like this:

• Firstly, I set up my tripod and mount my camera
• Then, I connect my camera to my smartphone via the Olympus App
• I will then set my camera to burst mode on the app where it will take 15 photos in 2 seconds
• Next, I set that to repeat every 2 seconds
• I position myself where I want to be in front of the camera by looking in my phone
• I’ll press the button to release the shutter
• Hide my phone somewhere (or keep it near the tripod)
• I have fun!

This is the way I take all my photos now as it not only means I can get creative. It also means I can leave my phone by the tripod if I don’t want it to be in my photo… Winner, chicken dinner!

4. Use a smart phone with a timer mode or invest in a Bluetooth shutter for it

Although limited, most smartphones on the market have a timer mode built into the camera.

For example, an iPhone has the option of a 3 or 10-second countdown before it takes the photo. Leaving you with enough time to get in position and pose where you want!

What’s more, is you could put it on selfie mode so you can see yourself on the screen too and get yourself into position properly.

Blue Tooth Shutters for Smart Phones

Even the most basic, cheap selfie sticks have Bluetooth shutters so you can press a button on the stick and the smartphone will take a photo when pressed.

How you set this up is by connecting the blue tooth shutter to your phone, similar to a Bluetooth speaker.

Then you can connect it to your phone and press the Bluetooth shutter to take your photo without timer mode. Giving you more flexibility and not having to go back and forth to your phone! The power of modern technology aye?

5. Get crafty with propping up your camera or phone

In some instances, the use of a tripod is not allowed. For example, in most tourist sites in India, Istanbul or Egypt tripods were prohibited.

This is a nightmare for the self-tographer to be sure. But, it just means getting a little more creative with how you take your photo.

I took this by propping up the camera against a step

Some top tips I have for utilising your surroundings as a makeshift tripod or prop for your camera:

• To gain height, use your bag/coat to rest the camera on
• Look for stairs, surfaces, walls or even bins to prop up your phone (just make sure it doesn’t fall in/over lol)
• Put your camera in the top pocket of your backpack to rest the camera
• Use your drink bottle

There are so many ways to be creative and still get a good photo without a tripod and no hands to help you!

6. Get your GoPro out but make sure it has a selfie stick

A GoPro is a travel bloggers ultimate weapon. It can survive the test of time and take photos in any situation no matter how messy.

Whether scuba diving in the ocean, throwing colours for holi , mud wrestling, tubing in Laos, chucking tomatoes for La Tomatina , sandboarding, skydiving , Bungy jumping , surfing, or riding in an air balloon.

You can rest assured your camera won’t break and you can take some epic action photos in the process.

They’re also made for self-tography as they have a wide-angle lens. Meaning you can get more of yourself in the photo.

To avoid getting your arm getting in the way, I would invest in a GoPro stick. This means you can get more in the frame and even have the GoPro behind you to take some awesome photos.

They don’t have to be expensive either, my first was a Monopod from eBay for £1.99! Although it got rusty in the water so I wouldn’t recommend it. You can also get floatable ones here.

There are also tonnes of other accessories for the GoPro like head and chest brackets, mounts for bikes, and surfboards, you name it.

You can get really creative and it’s so lightweight, meaning it will save you from lugging around loads of heavy equipment.

It does take practice however and again, you’ll need to play around with timer functions but it’s so worth it.

7. Ask a stranger to help you out

This is not my favourite option as I like to compose photos myself (and I’m picky) but, sometimes it’s just easier to ask someone to take one for you.

Sometimes this can be great and sometimes it can be a complete fail.

It’s a gamble you take. I mean I totally get it, not everyone is travelling to get perfect photos haha!

But sometimes when a stranger takes it, the composition is all off or parts of the landmark are missing etc. it can be frustrating and there’s a limit on how much time you have.

At the end of the day, this stranger is kind enough to help you out! Let’s not take up more of their time than necessary.

The trick is learning to communicate what you want and your vision to the person you ask.

Some tips for asking strangers to take your photos:

Firstly, look for someone with a DSLR, they may know more about photography

Before you hand someone your camera/phone explain what you want in the photo.

Explain what pose you’ll be pulling. If it’s meant to be a smize or you’re looking away, it could help them understand. Or else, you could be told to turn around and ‘smile’ or, they may not think you’re ready for the photo. Hey, not everyone gets the blogger life!

Alternatively, take a photo of what you want without you in it. Or show them the Pinterest pin that inspired you or the photo you’ve saved from Instagram. Then, they may understand what you’re looking for a little better.

8. Get creative with capturing your body

Of course, you don’t have to always capture all of yourself in the photo. It could be just a certain part of you.

Whether it be your hands with a nice coffee or some yummy food (the perfect excuse to buy ice cream), your feet against a pretty tiled floor, or your legs with a breathtaking view – there are countless ways to get creative photos without letting the camera go.

A big inspiration for me when I first started travel blogging was @girleatworld who takes stunning colourful captures of food she eats around the globe.

She holds it in her hand against an iconic background and it’s genius! Now she has almost 400k followers on the gram. Go follow for some inspiration, but don’t if you’re hungry ;)

9. Smile in the mirror

A common one but one that still works and can be quite effective!

Taking a picture on a reflective surface, mirror or even mirrored road signs does still make for a great photo at a different angle.

10. Buy a drone

Not a cheap option, but can bring a whole new level to your photography game!

A drone is essentially a flying camera and it allows you to take photos of yourself from heights you never thought possible.

But this doesn’t come without complications.

A drone can cost way over a thousand pounds and they are easily fickle when the weather isn’t so great. For example, if it’s windy, it could easily be blown away never to be seen again!

Also, a lot of countries (Morocco, Egypt etc.) have banned drones all together which means you may have to leave it at home or get someone to drone-sit while you travel.

Don’t even think about flying this near an airport or air travel space. Recently, Gatwick Airport in London had to delay flights due to drones flying overhead .

Which resulted in hundreds of people not being able to go home for Christmas and came with a 5 jail year sentence for the culprit.

A lot of the high-end drones will have a nifty feature warning you whether you can fly it (or won’t take off at all) so you’re all clear. 

But, if you are caught flying it in an illegal zone, you could lose a ton in fines. Some countries make a lot of money this way! They’re epic, but be careful.

11. Screenshot your vlogs/videos

This may not be as good in terms of quality, but sometimes taking a screenshot of your vlogs or videos can be a great way to get still content.

For example, when I wrote about Holi in my blog post . Some, if not all of these photos were grabbed from my GoPro footage. The reason being is the colours would have destroyed my DSLR.

This is also a great way to capture movement and present a moment in time that you may have missed on your camera.

You can easily do this in iMovie or any other video editing software by using the Screengrab option.

GoPro also provides an awesome app in which you can transfer your videos/photos from your GoPro to your phone using the handy WiFi feature. From here, it easily allows you to screen grab any photo from a video.

12. Collab with other bloggers or join travel groups

Travelling solo doesn’t mean you need to be alone and if you want to be part of the travel blogging community, we’re a really nice bunch (promise)!

Many travel bloggers will love to meet up and collaborate together. Whether that be arranging a meet-up in a city or specifically meeting to shoot a location together. It can be a super fun way to meet and network with other bloggers.

Another way to do this is on press trips where all of you are sponsored to travel together with a tourism board or tour company. You can create some really awesome content of each other for your blogs or Instagram accounts.

Alternatively, travelling in a group tour to a country with companies like  Topdeck or Contiki  can open up more possibilities for photo opportunities. That and you could make travel friends for life!

Travelling with a tripod

Travelling with a tripod in your luggage or on your back while exploring a city can be tiresome.

Although my tripod weighs less than a kilo, if I carry it on one shoulder – it kills by the end of the day!

Here are some of my top tips for tripod travel:

Check the weight of a tripod before you buy it. You’d be surprised how much they can weigh, If it weighs 3 kilos, it’s going to take up a lot of luggage allowance and weigh you down.

Try and buy a tripod that folds up small or a compact tripod for travel

Invest in a proper photography backpack for your equipment and carry it on two shoulders for support.

Setting up your tripod

• So, you’ve got your tripod, you’re all set to go, you arrive at the location and… now what?!
• Well, there’s a couple of things that I check first before I get my tripod out to take the photos:
• Check a composition with your phone first, no point setting it up to find out that you hate how it looks.
• Decide what height you want your tripod. 9 times out of 10, I extend to full height but a lower angle could create a more effective composition
• Check you can balance your tripod in the location. If it’s in sand/mud, plant the tripod deep enough so it won’t topple
• Check your surroundings and the weather, if it’s windy it could fall over and hurt your camera! The last thing you want is for your camera to break.
• If you’re planning to shoot a few photos while you’re here, you may want to leave the tripod set up and carry it around like that. To save you time.

A handy checklist to limit your camera from getting stolen

Another question I get asked a lot is “Don’t you worry about your camera being stolen?”

Of course, that is a worry. Especially if I’m doing a photo that requires me to be far away from my camera. Not the mention my stuff like my handbag with my phone, wallet, hotel room key, etc!

But, touch wood I have never had anything happen to my equipment while filming alone. I think people think I’m crazy and are more confused than wanting to steal my camera.

But, that doesn’t mean you can be reckless. So here’s some of my advice. These may seem obvious but it needs to be said:

• Check your surroundings, does it look dodgy? Are there any dodgy characters eyeing up your stuff? If so, choose a new location
• Are you in a place where it could easily be stolen? A busy street, a popular attraction etc. Maybe don’t shoot there
• Is there any security around that would help you if someone tried to run away with it?
• How far are you stepping away from the camera? The further away the more risk
• Put your bags closer to you hidden from view. Not near your tripod! Don’t put all your eggs in one basket

How to stop caring what people think!

At first, posing in front of a tripod is downright weird! I know, I’ve been there.

But now, my tripod is pretty much my boyfriend when I travel. My very own (rather stiff) Insta husband. He’s been with me around the world now, capturing my best moments as I go haha.

The big trick is just not to care!

Sure, you may look a little silly. Posing in front of your camera while people are looking.

But, you’re never going to see these people again after you’ve taken your photos.

So, ten minutes of awkwardness can get you a lifetime of memories. I think that’s a good trade-off.

The way I think of it is I’ll regret not getting my photo and I’m not going to have regrets while I travel because a few randoms made fun of me.

More often than not, after I’ve taken my photos, they’ll go and do the exact same! Some people will be impressed, some people will think you’re crazy, some will just not get it.

But, forget about them, rise above them and just concentrate on you and your awesome photos. You’ve got this!

If this article helped you out or if you’re an avid self-tographer, don’t forget to tag me in your photos on Instagram or contact me. I’d love to see your self-made creations. 

Read more solo travel guides

75 Inspiring Solo Travel Quotes

Common Solo Travel Problems and how to avoid them

How to boss eating by yourself in restaurants

Why you need to travel solo this year!

Like it? Pin it!

Wednesday 13th of December 2023

Great tips! Where is your backpack from? Love that is doesn't look like a typical camera bag.

Sophie Pearce

Sunday 17th of December 2023

Hi Jodi, thank you :) It's from Gaston Luga! But, I would say if you want to keep camera and lenses in a bag I would look for one with padding as that one was quite thin :) Sophie x

Sunday 30th of July 2023

This is such an excellent article and I really enjoyed reading it. And your tips are fantastic. I also enjoy travelling solo and absolutely consider the tripod to be the the 'ultimate selfie stick'.

I do feel a little bit awkward when people are around when I'm about to take a selfie using a tripod, but it's got to be done lol.

And your advice is about the awkwardness (and everything else) is awesome and I must try to remember that ten minutes of awkwardness for a lifetime of memories mantra.

Thank you for such a wonderful article and post.

Monday 31st of July 2023

Hi Jai, thank you for reading. Yes, I always feel you're going to regret not getting your photos. So, who cares if someone judges you for ten minutes haha :) Good luck with your self-portraits! Sophie x

Friday 4th of November 2022

LoL I also prefer asking DSLR owner to take my pics. I usually use monopod due to safety concern leaving behind my camera/smartphones at tripod for my behind pics :D Got loads of selfies during traveling. But at least it less hassle if you have tight schedule or in a rush. In some country like Japan, even monopod is forbidden in theme park and museums because it can be blocking people way. I had to smuggling it by keeping it on my hidden pocket and using it when there's no staff around :'D But thank you for the Burst mode tips, will practice it before my next solo trips.

Monday 7th of November 2022

Hi Nana, yes it's great to take pictures with a monopod as well. I actually use my phone more nowadays but I still use a DSLR on occasion. I've noticed people are getting SO strict now this tripod rules it's annoying. Sometimes I use an octopus tripod and tie it to fences and barriers discreetly to get away with it ;) no worries. I also recommend an app called Lens Buddy that continually takes photos for you. It's Incredible! Thanks for reading. Sophie x

Wednesday 28th of October 2020

A must read for solo travellers

Thanks Amit! Sophie x

Tuesday 17th of March 2020

Love this article! Thank you so much for sharing it (and of course for your effort in writing it beforehand ?)! Really love your instagram account, too, and there are not many out there with constantly interesting content. You’re doing a really great job, keep on going! Best wishes from Germany, Rebecca

Tuesday 28th of April 2020

Hi Rebecca, thanks for your kind words. I'm so happy that you liked the post and I hope it helped you :) Sophie x

12 Fresh Ideas To Take Pictures Of Yourself While Traveling Solo

Spread the Word!

Are you a fellow lone explorer? Do you find yourself traveling alone and wanting to take pictures of yourself? Wondering how other Instagrammers make it seem so easy? Well, believe us, there is no impediment to capturing the best moments of your travel just because you travel alone. 

This post is about some of the foolproof techniques you can use to take photos of yourself without the help of anyone else. Additionally, these ideas will hopefully give you a few ideas to add to your photography repertoire. 

These 12 tips will aid in documenting your journey by becoming the best solo selfie ever.

Tip: Understand your equipment be it a mobile, GoPro, or DSLR in order to fully utilize it.

Disclaimer: We only recommend products that we use ourselves. This post might contain affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission when you click on the links at no additional cost to you. Read the full privacy policy here .

Solo Photography Ideas

Table of Contents

1. Place The Camera On The Ground

Put your camera or mobile on the ground or on any flat floor surface. Set the timer and face the camera upwards. You might end up getting a cool perspective.

2. Drone Shots For Aerial Views

Take pictures of yourself from a height you never thought possible. Bird-eye views can be captured using a drone . You can play around, try different angles, and get epic far-off shots. Drones are easy and fun to use. However, before you start snapping, it would be best if you know how to use them, so take them on plenty of test spins, to ensure that you get the hang of them.

Note: Check drone restrictions in the area as many countries banned drones and watch out for winds.

3. Using Monopod

Monopods are a longer version of selfie sticks on a single leg, unlike the 3 legs that are found in tripods. Monopods come in handy in places where drones are not allowed, as monopods can be extended to 3+ meters giving you an aerial look. With a monopod and a wide-angle lens, you can capture a lot of impressive scenes.

4. Self-Timer On A Tripod

Tripods are your best photography companion & travel buddy. Position the tripod facing the scene you would like to capture. Set the timer, hit the capture button, and run to place; Voila!

Make use of the “Burst Mode” or “continuous mode” (with desired time intervals). They look perfectly natural & candid. Also, you’ll have a lot of photo options, and you can choose the best from them.

5. Tripod With Phone/ A Bluetooth Remote

If you want to go farther or if you need some time to pose, a Bluetooth remote is very convenient to use in these situations. If you have mounted your camera on the tripod, you can use your mobile as a remote control. Most known camera brands have a compatible smartphone application that enables you to sync operations & and control the camera with your mobile. Once connected through WiFi, you can download the images instantly and post them on the Gram.

Pro tip : Make sure to hide your mobile or remote in such a way that it doesn’t come into the picture.

While it is debatable if the use of mobile phones makes for a rustic travel experience, it can never be overstated how reliable they are for taking pictures. So, take it out, point the camera towards you and click. Some people might stare at you when you take selfies. But pay them no heed. Do not let temporary bystanders’ unwarranted judgment ruin your travel experience. Ignore them and have the best time.

Pro tip : Wide-angle selfies make the scenes look more interesting. A selfie does not always have to be a picture of you covering head to toe. Try taking a cute pic of your hands and feet with the breathtaking view behind them.

7. Balance With Something/ Anything

If you don’t own fancy camera equipment, all you have to do is balance your mobile on anything nearby like a wall, rock, tree branches, or with the things that you own – a backpack or water bottle. Set the timer, click, and pose. Ta-da, your self-portrait is ready. 

Call it a ‘rockpod’ or ‘treepod,’ if it balances your mobile it most certainly acts as a pod.

Pro-tip: Given the fickle terrain you’re going to use a pod, it is highly advised you use a strong phone case and appropriate screen protection. 

8. Attach With Cello Tape/ Adhesive Tape

In situations where you are not able to balance your camera on anything, cello tape or adhesive tape comes to the rescue. You can use cello tape in the most unexpected places and angles. So, keep one always in your bag. For instance, stick your mobile or GoPro on the wall or tree branch, and wrap it with cello tape. Put on the timer. Click click click!

However, keep in mind that they are only temporary adhesives, so click that photo fast. 

9. Gorillapod

If you feel good lightweight tripods are heavy on your pocket, try gorilla pod – they’re extremely versatile, light, and easy to transport. A Gorillapod is so flexible that you can wrap its adjustable legs to non-horizontal surfaces such as a street pole, arms, and railings to take super cool shots.

Note: Before you buy tripods, Gorillapods, or Bluetooth remotes, make sure it is compatible with the mobile, camera, and GoPro that you own.

10. Ask A Stranger

Yes, it is not always the safest option. But you are traveling to explore and soak in the culture. So, what better way of breaking the ice than by asking a stranger for help in taking that perfect photo. When asking, ensure you are clear with your instructions and tell them everything in detail. Set the angle & frame, and tell them where you will be coming from in the picture. Just ask them to hit the capture button.

Check the picture. Make adjustments. Request them to take multiple photos so you have a few to choose from. Don’t forget to offer to take a picture of them too.

Be smart. Look around. If you find any traveler or photographer with a camera, approach them and ask if they know how to use one. Asking a younger person also works.

11. Take Pictures From Videos

Perfect action shots are difficult to freeze while traveling alone. Shoot your movement in 4K in video format. Use the “Grab Photo” option available in the GoPro Quik app (android, iOS) which converts your video into multiple images that can be saved separately. Another option is to pause videos and take screenshots. But you lose pixels even if it is shot in 4K.

12. Use Mirrors or Reflective Surfaces

We are not talking about your Gym or bathroom mirrors. Get creative. Car rearview mirror selfies, sunglasses, reflections on water, and convex mirrors (placed at curves for a wider view) are a few cool ideas to consider.  You can also play with shadows.

Note: Don’t leave your valuables unattended at a distance to take pictures. The farther you are, the greater the risks are. Do a little research about the area and be cautious. Avoid large crowded areas, peak hours at popular attractions, and busy streets where you might get lost in a fraction of a second.

Some bystanders might think you’re being a little insane when you are trying to get that perfect photo. But as aforementioned, ignore them. Just be yourself. The less you care about what other people might think, the more natural your pictures will be. Living in the moment and taking that perfect picture will save you a lot of regrets later. Ensure you don’t trade your memories with 10 minutes of awkwardness. Your expression and your memories of your travel matters much more than the thoughts of a random stranger whom you might never see again.

Related Posts

• How to travel without quitting 9-5 full-time jobs?
• 25 useful gifts for your travel buddy
• How to choose a remote workation destination?

Next time when you travel solo, try these tricks to take beautiful pictures of yourself. Keep adding ideas in the comments section, we always love hearing your thoughts. Stick with us, the traveling twins, for more content on travel and adventure.

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Blogging , Solo travel

How to take photos of yourself when travelling solo.

Table of Contents

This post may contain affiliate links to things like tours, hotels, Amazon associates and products. These help me earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.

I often get asked how I take solo travel photos and to be honest, there’s no one sole method. Of the many pros and cons of travelling solo , the struggle to get in your own photos is an undeniable con. We’ve got no Instagram significant other or personal photographer following us around! For every effortlessly casual girl wandering across your Insta feed, you can guarantee a fair bit of thought went into how to get the shot.

In this blog, I’m going to share my solo travel tips to help you take beautiful solo travel photos. It’s an important topic: who would want to take a bold and brave trip around the globe only to come back with no evidence of them there?

Taking photos of yourself is a great skill to have. If you want to take photos of yourself and a partner or bestie at a later date, the principles are the same. Knowing how to take photos when travelling alone is a handy skill to have but even more important if you’re hoping to start a travel blog . You won’t find many bloggers who never post photos of themselves!

How to take solo travel photos

These are a few main ways I take solo travel photos. I’ve implemented these 14 tried-and-tested methods during my solo travels around India , Bali , Vietnam , Mexico , South Africa and Romania . In this guide, I’ll share my top solo travel photography tips for safety and pose suggestions.

Read next: 30 best places to travel alone

1. Self-timer mode with a smartphone

Ah, my old friend. Even old smartphones have a self-time mode. I have an iPhone 6 (potentially fake) that I bought for £100 three years ago when I was robbed while travelling solo in Vietnam and even that has a self-timer. These are really easy to use. You just set the timer for 3 or 10 seconds and do your thing. The only thing to worry about is how to position your phone while you go off to pose?

Smartphone and self-timer method #1 – prop your phone up

This is probably the easiest and most basic way to take pictures when you travel alone. You need no kit, just your phone. Despite what you might think, you can actually get really decent photos with this method, especially after a little editing or straightening if the photo is at an angle. Good things to prop your phone against include your bag, a water bottle, a chair or a wall. There are so many ways to get creative. You should see the random piles I’ve made before comprising bottles, bags, sunglasses, suncream tubes and the like. Passersby must think I’m mad but hey, if they’re not offering to help, who has time for their judgement? Not I.

Smartphone and self-timer method #2 – phone stand

Purchase a handy phone stand and you can eradicate the need for makeshift stands as you prop your phone up. Securing it with a proper stand also means it’s less likely to fall or get damaged during your solo photoshoot. Use a phone tripod with Bluetooth remote (that doubles into a selfie stick).

2. Self-timer mode with a camera

Travelling with a better-quality camera may mean better travel photos, depending on your camera and how you use it. I use the Sony DSC-HX350 Digital Compact Bridge Camera which I think is one of the most affordable options for a camera with such a good zoom. But regardless of the type of camera you have, you can use it to take amazing photos of yourself while travelling solo. So, how to do it? The premise is more or less the same as with a smartphone; in fact, I would say it’s easier as cameras usually have a flat base so sit more easily on a step or wall. The only thing to be aware of is that DSLR cameras are usually more valuable than smartphones and also more obvious so you’ll want to be slightly more careful. Later, I’ll run through a few safety tips for solo female travellers taking photos alone.

3. Remote trigger controlled with your phone

One of the hardest parts of taking pictures on a solo trip? Only having a few seconds to run and get into shot after setting your self-timer. I remember travelling solo in South Africa where there was a luxurious outdoor bath overlooking an amazing rainforest canopy. Setting my timer to 10 seconds then scrambling over craggy rocks to jump in the water, all in a swimming costume with a vertical drop a few metres ahead… Well, let’s say it was pretty stressful!

Many cameras these days can be connected to your smartphone via an app which you can control from your phone screen. My Sony camera connects to the Image Edge Mobile app. Here you can connect your camera, automatically send over photos and better yet, take photos without touching your camera. When taking solo travel photos, you can get in position, perfect your pose and even check what the image is going to look like on your phone screen before pressing the shutter.

4. Use a tripod (my chosen option)

Using a tripod is my number one way to take pictures as a solo traveller. I can’t believe it took me so long to make this upgrade. When I first started travelling solo and blogging, I only did so as a hobby and it didn’t seem worth it to carry such a large item when I only had a backpack to store all my worldly possessions. I begun with a selfie stick or propping my phone up and upgraded to a GorillaPod (more about these next) but found they didn’t quite meet my needs as I got more professional about blogging and photography. If you’re like me and serious about your shots, I would really recommend a tripod.

What’s the best tripod for solo travel photos?

I’ve now tried two and would recommend investing when it comes to tripods. The first I bought was cheap but it was also bulky and not overly sturdy. It was a test item for me because I didn’t know whether travelling with a tripod was going to be too much for me. As it happened, I don’t mind backpacking with a tripod and my photos are well worth the extra weight. Nowadays, I use the Manfrotto Compact Action Aluminium Tripod . This is a great tripod! For $60, it’s lasted two years without showing any signs of wear. I predict it will last years more. I particularly like the flexy ball head that lets me move my camera around to get the best angle. It also easily shifts my camera to portrait position which I prefer to landscape for Insta shots. This tripod is ideal for DSLRs, mirrorless and compact cameras and is suitable for photography beginners. It also comes in a bag that you can easily throw over your shoulder.

5. GorillaPod

Is the idea of carrying a tripod too daunting in terms of weight and space? Fair enough. If you simply want to take photos of yourself, don’t stress too much over kit. There’s a much, much smaller and lighter option that I’m a big fan of. GorillaPods are ingenious little items that weigh less than even your smartphone. These bendy devices are way better than camera stands because of their flexibility. You screw them into your tripod bush (the screwy bit at the base of your camera) and then manipulate the bendy legs to whatever position you want. You can bend and fasten them around railings, tree branches, lamp posts… Literally anything! I own a tripod and a GorillaPod. If I’m off on a hike or busy city day without the guarantee of being able to set up my tripod, I throw my GorillaPod in my bag instead. They weigh almost nothing and take up no space.

Downsides of a GorillaPod: There are no downsides in terms of design or functionality. But since GorillaPods have short legs and therefore lack height, it means you often have to find something eye level to secure them to. If there’s nothing of that level around, they don’t always work. You can usually get creative and find a similar shot, but sometimes you want that shot and can’t recreate the height a tripod would give. Top tip: If you’re using a camera larger than a small compact, you’ll need to use a GorillaPod that can take its weight. For my camera, I use a 1kg GorillaPod . Heavy DSLRs may need a GorillaPod that can take a greater weight.

6. Ask a stranger 

How to take great photos of yourself with no kit whatsoever? Sometimes all else fails: there’s nowhere to set up your tripod or you’re visiting an attraction where they’re not allowed. Sometimes it’s just too busy and crowded to set one up. This is when asking a person to help is the quickest and easiest option. To start, you might feel awkward asking strangers to help take your photo. You’ll hopefully shake this feeling off quickly. Just think, in five years’ time, what will bother you more: the fact that you took five seconds out of a stranger’s day or the fact you don’t have photo memories from your solo travels? I’m sure it will be the latter. Now the one thing to overcome: strangers can take terrible photos. I could scream thinking about all the times I’ve lined up thoughtful shots for strangers who’ve then taken a rubbish one of me with the main temple cropped out …

How to get strangers to take nice photos of you while travelling solo

Tip 1: Approach the right person, preferably someone with a decent camera themselves. Not because they’ll use it, but because they’ll know how to use yours. If no one around has a camera, go for a younger person because chances are they’ll have a better grasp over technology. Also, teenage and twenty-something girls usually know what shots are most flattering – just sayin’. Tip 2: Line it up for them. Rather than handing them your camera and letting them use their judgement, I would suggest holding the camera in place then telling them what you want i.e. ‘if you could just get me on the left side that would be great!’. Tip 3 : Chat! Science proves if people like you, they’ll work harder when they do you a favour. I just made that fact up but it’s definitely true. This photo below was taken at the City Palace in Jaipur by a guy I’d just bonded with over my trip to his home country. He ended up taking a great photo which I suspect might have been because he felt more inclined to help me out.

7. Take a tour

Some of my favourite solo travel photos have been taken by tour guides. I find that guides are usually great photographers, probably because they take photos of their guests so often. Since they’re also ‘at work’, they make more of an effort than passing strangers. The fact you might leave a tip at the end probably doesn’t hurt either. Taking a tour is also a great way to meet people while travelling solo who may take your photo. If a multi-week organised tour isn’t your thing, why not consider a day tour or even better, a free walking tour? I’ve done these in cities all around the world and love them.

8. Collab with other solo travellers

If taking photos of yourself when travelling solo seems like a lot of work, why not recruit other solo travellers to help? This way you’re not really asking a favour because they’re probably in the same boat. It can be mutually beneficial as you can take photos of them, too. If there are no other solo travellers you’ve bonded with IRL, use the internet to your advantage. I love the Facebook group Girls Love Travel and often see girls mentioning that they’re in x location looking for travel buddies. If you post saying you’re looking for help with solo travel photography, I bet you’ll connect with someone nearby who feels the same.

9. Photograph different parts of your body

Sometimes solo travel photography is about getting some human element in the photo even if that’s not your face. Why not take photos of your feet with different backgrounds: beaches, canopy walkways, over vertical drops while hiking. You could even make a photo series over it. After all, you’re still taking photos of yourself travelling! You could also take photos of yourself holding a mascot item, hot drink or item of food. If you’re starting a travel blog, you’ll still be putting yourself in the frame and you can even do so creatively to tell a story. Maybe you’re a tea or coffee fanatic and try the local drinks in different countries, ideally with great views? Here’s one of me drinking hot lemon honey tea in India last year. At the time, I was incredibly sick and my face was as white as a sheet so this type of shot actually worked much better for me.

How to take solo travel selfies

When we hear the word ‘selfie’ our minds often jump to overly edited, posed shots that probably have little to do with travel. This doesn’t have to be the case. There are plenty of bloggers and solo travellers who don’t set their camera up far away. Instead, they stay close to the camera which is a great way to show your face and build more of a personal rapport with your audience. If you’re a blogger, I recommend having a few of these to break up all the far-away shots. If you’re hoping to take photos of yourself, why not try…

10. Arm selfies

Just going back to basics with an old classic here. Taking photos on a solo trip can sometimes be as simple as a quick selfie, especially if it’s only going to family and friends. Photos don’t have to include cheesy smiles either; you can use them to capture your ‘staring out at the view’ pictures perfectly.

11. The selfie stick

Attach your phone to a stick in order to get more length and include your body in the shot. You can set up a self-timer or purchase a Bluetooth selfie stick that has a built-in Bluetooth button at the bottom to take your photo with. For best value, get a selfie stick that doubles into a camera stand . Top tip: Taking a stranger’s eye out won’t win you any friends! Be mindful when you take pictures of yourself travelling alone especially if you’re any kind of stick.

12. The GoPro

An extra benefit of a GoPro is that they take wide-angled photos which means it’s easy to get your whole body and the scenery in the shot. Since GoPros are tightly fastened and waterproof, you can take solo travel selfies underwater, in the air, on the back of a moped… The world is your solo travel backdrop! I use the HERO8 Black .

13. The GoPro screengrab

Another of my favourite techniques for taking solo travel photos is to simply make short videos on my GoPro and screengrab them later. It would be too blurry to do this with your smartphone but GoPros let you break down the footage to milliseconds and export them as high-res image files. GoPros let you change the shooting mode to ‘photo’ rather than ‘video’ but I rarely do this. If you smile while making a short video, you can pick the angle and moment where you look best. I tend to move the camera as I film to change up the background and get different angles, giving me some options for screengrabbing later.

Confidence tips for solo photography

I get it. You feel self-conscious when people are watching you take solo travel photos but you also feel self-conscious asking someone to help. Especially as a woman travelling solo , I hate feeling watched especially by men (even though it’s probably harmless). Also as a young person, you worry people will stereotype you as all about the ‘gram or not appreciating the moment. My personal pet peeve is when I’m taking pictures on a solo trip and someone wants to walk between me and my camera but instead of quickly nipping through, they wait for me to finish. I know they’re trying to be nice but I can’t think of anything worse than doing a full-on photoshoot with people waiting and watching when it would take less than a second for them to zip past and be gone! To feel less self-conscious…

Get off the tourist track

Take your photos in remote locations like fields and backstreets rather than at Bangkok Grand Palace, for example.

Arrive somewhere outside of peak hours and there will be fewer people around. This is good for solo travel photos with a tripod or self-timer and not worrying about the reactions of others or feeling you have an ‘audience’.

Like anything, such as eating alone in a restaurant and not worrying what people think, it gets easier with experience and practice. Sometimes you have to fake it ’til you make it and ignore passersby until you genuinely stop worrying.

Ask the right person

This point isn’t necessarily about asking people who will take good photos, but identifying people you feel comfortable asking. I’d feel most comfortable asking a girl my age to take my photo as I think they’d understand my plight and relate. I probably wouldn’t ask a busy-looking family with kids or a couple on a date as I would feel I was inconveniencing them.

Pose suggestions for solo travel photography

Now that you have 14 different ideas for taking solo travel photos, you just need to consider what to do in the photos. This depends whether you want smiley shots for your photo memories or more creative photos for social media. Even if you’re a blogger, I’d still recommend taking some normal travel snaps for future memories. These are a few of my favourite pose ideas for solo travel photography:

The ‘walking away’ shot

I’ll be honest, sometimes these solo travel photos come as a result of a short self-timer when I haven’t reached my ideal pose spot yet! But overall, you see a lot of shots on social media of someone walking towards an attraction or into a beautiful landscape. These show the person being part of the travel destination rather than simply using it as a backdrop. Pros: You don’t have to do your makeup… Not that you ever HAVE to anyway! Cons: You’re not looking at your unattended camera which could be a safety concern.

The ‘back of the head’ shot

These are similar to the ‘walking away’ shot but the subject is usually closer to the camera. Rather than seeing the solo traveller amongst the landscape, these shots show them admiring and drinking it in.

Walking across the shot

This is another favourite solo travel photo pose of mine. For these photos, I take photos of myself sideways as I walk past a scene. I find these work better against something straight like a row of houses rather than a beautiful travel landscape which is best ‘walked into’.

Facing the camera but look away

This is one I do all the time. These photos are more personal because they feature you front-on but you don’t need to be grinning at the camera in a cheesy way. By looking up or sideways at whatever’s in the shot, you’re showing the audience that you’re engaging with it, subsequently building a connection between yourself and the location. You don’t need to be craning your neck: just be looking a few degrees away from the camera.

What to do with your arm and legs? I never used to know what to do with my limbs in photos. While walking, I would suggest leaning on one of your legs or having it slightly forward, as if you’re about to take a step. This looks more natural as if you’re involved in the scene around you. When it comes to your arms, don’t leave them dangling. For walking away shots you can leave them in front of you. For shots of you walking towards the camera, have them ‘in movement’ or one flying behind you. If you’re standing still, keep your shoulders and arms tensed rather than loose. You could also gently use one to lean against a railing, rock or something else in the shot (but only if it’s safe and respectful to do so) . Below I’ve gone for the ‘in motion’ movement.

Personal tip – I usually take my hair down for photos as I think it looks more free and natural. In hot weather, this means quickly pulling it down from whatever unflattering bun is going on that day. After a few seconds taking a photo, it goes straight back up!

Props and accessories

This all depends how serious you are about taking photos of yourself travelling alone. Personally, I’m not serious enough to plan my outfits, although when I accidentally match with my surroundings I do think ‘I should do this more often!’. Serious photographers will advise you to do Instagram research in advance to see the main colours in the place you’re going, then wearing an outfit that enhances them. For example, don’t wear blue beside the sea or yellow on the beach or you’ll blend right in!

Solo travel photography tip: Have an accessory like a headband or scarf in your bag and throw it on for the photo. Especially if you’re wearing a muted colour and it’s a grey day, this could be the colour pop that turns it from a boring photo into a fun photo.

Safety tips for taking photos travelling solo

I wanted to quickly cover this topic because people often say ‘Aren’t you worried about someone stealing your camera while you’re away from it?’. The truthful answer is no, not really. I’m rarely away from my camera for more than a few seconds at a time. In busy tourist places, there would be a lot of witnesses. In more remote places, someone would be hard-pushed to come that close to me and my camera set-up without me noticing. However here are a few safety tips when taking photos travelling solo.

Keep your bag or valuables on you

This is an irritating part of solo travel photography. As you’ll notice online, most bloggers aren’t carrying their backpacks in the photos. So where are they? One option is to head out on a small photoshoot and leave your day bag at the hotel. If your camera is your only valuable on you, you’ll feel better about leaving your stuff for a few seconds. For solo travelling generally, I always suggest bringing a small crossbody bag or bum bag with secure zip out for the day as well as your main bag. Keep this on while taking the photo so at least if your day bag is unattended, your most valuable items are close at hand. Alternatively, hold your phone and wallet and walk into the scene holding them subtly in front of you.

Don’t go too far from your camera

This is common sense really. I would rather have a photo of me slightly closer to the camera than have my camera stolen by walking five minutes away. A tip for this is to zoom out as far as possible, then you can be relatively near to the camera but still have a lot of scenery included. You can always crop it or zoom in later.

Best time of day for taking photos of yourself

There are so many photos out there of me blinded and squinting in the middle of the day, my face in shadow from the sun. If you want great solo travel photos and can control the time you visit a place, I would advise putting some thought into this. These are the best times of day for travel photos:

Early morning: I hate getting up early but it’s worth it. Firstly, you’re more likely to have a place to yourself which means there are fewer safety concerns in terms of leaving your camera and secondly, fewer people getting in your shot. In terms of lighting, it’s best because the sun is low in the sky so you don’t get those hard shadows across your face. Also, it’s cooler and you’ll be less sweaty and stressed in your photos.

Evening golden hour: Everyone looks great. Enough said. Also called the magic hour , this doesn’t take place at a specific ‘hour’ because sunset times change around the world and by season. Golden hour is the period shortly before sunset when the sun is low in the sky and everything looks pleasantly golden. In terms of travel locations, people may be heading home by this time so there’s more chance of having it to yourself. Other photographers may be the only ones remaining and even help you out!

Thanks for reading!

More solo guides:

• Solo female travel in Lisbon, Portugal
• Solo travel in Croatia
• Where to travel alone in Italy
• Solo female travel in South Africa – safety tips & more
• Best destinations in India for solo travel
• Tips for travelling alone in India
• Solo travel in Europe
• Solo travel destinations in Southeast Asia
• Female travel guide to Cuba

Follow me for more solo travel content on Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and YouTube .

I hope you have a better idea of how to take photos of yourself. It’s daunting at first but I promise it becomes easy!

Check out my other solo travel blogs:

• 10 myths about solo female travel, debunked!
• What’s best, group travel or solo travel?
• Is technology ruining travel?
• Advice for travelling alone for the first time
• Benefits of travelling alone
• Why coming home is the hardest part of any trip

Americas solo travel guides:

• New York solo travel guide
• Solo female Mexico travel
• Guide to solo female travel in Mexico City
• Is solo travel in Guatemala safe?
• Travelling alone in Cuba

Asia solo travel guides:

• Solo female travel in Bali
• Solo travel in Thailand
• Solo travel in Taiwan
• Guide to solo travel in Malaysia
• Solo female Vietnam travel
• Solo travel in India
• Where to travel alone in India

Europe solo travel guides:

• Is Albania safe for solo female travel?
• Portugal solo female travel guide
• Solo female travel in Lisbon
• Is solo Romania travel safe?

See you next time for more adventures,

Ps. Liked these solo travel photography tips? Pin this for later!

Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!

12 thoughts on “ How To Take Photos of Yourself When Travelling Solo ”

I loved reading this! I always struggle to take photos when I’m alone, these tips are so helpful!

I love this blog! Solo traveling can be scary, but Rose help me a lot with this ❤️❤️

Hi Tatuajera, I am so pleased to hear this and I wish you the best of luck on your trip!

I’ve just started traveling solo, and loved to read your article. It’s been just selfies for me right now, but most of them don’t turn out too well, haha. I got a tripod/stick that fits in my pocket, but I haven’t even used it yet because it’s kind of a hassle to put my phone in it. Do you have Instagram? Check me out if you want, my Instagram is @Mennohhh. I’m sharing my travel pictures on there!

My best tip for the self timer problem on the phone is to take a video of yourself. Than you won’t just have one good picture. You will have as much as you like. Sometimes the outcome of my screenshots of the video will be a pose or just a short moment that is utterly beautiful and without the video I wouldn’t have catchend it!

That’s such a good tip!

I’m travelling for 4 months in the UK and your blog has been super helpful! I just regret not finding your articles before I left. I’ve been very nervous about leaving my camera unattended on my tripod, but your reassurances in this article may have pushed me to try for the perfect shot in the highlands this week. Thanks for sharing such a realistic experience of solo female travel 🙂 much better than my mom complaining every time I leave my accommodation!

Hey Danni! Glad it’s helped! And yes we gotta take risks sometimes for that shot 😉 hope you have a fab trip x

Loved reading this, thanks for these helpful article. Will have my first soll trip in 2 weeks (Denmark), excited to try these tips out.

Hi Natalie, glad they helped and i hope you enjoy Denmark! Let me know how you get on with the photo tips!

I’m one of those people who stops and let someone finish taking their photos before passing by them. I mean maybe your timer is down to a few seconds. I don’t wanna leave a blurry image there. 😂

Haha – you are very thoughtful!

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How To Take Great Photos of Yourself When Traveling Alone

By: Author Tiana Thompson

Posted on Last updated: May 17, 2023

Categories Photography , Solo travel , Travel Guides

Home » How To Take Great Photos of Yourself When Traveling Alone

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I remember my first solo trip like it was yesterday.

Backpack slung over my shoulder, guidebook in one hand, and my new camera (a shiny Sony mirrorless camera, thank you very much!) in the other. It was a whirlwind romance between me and the road.

But who was there to capture those memories?

Who could encapsulate the awe I felt when I first laid eyes on the Eiffel Tower?

Or the hilarity of me navigating Times Square for the first time?

It was all up to me, my camera, and a little gadget I’d soon come to know as my best friend—the selfie stick.

You see, being a solo traveler, you quickly learn that capturing great photos of yourself isn’t as simple as a point-and-shoot. I mean, you can always extend your arm and snap a quick selfie, but let’s be real, it’s not the most flattering angle and your arm only stretches so far.

No, to really take your travel self-documentation to the next level, you need a few tricks up your sleeve.

So, whether you’re wielding a fancy DSLR camera, your trusty iPhone camera, or just your cell phone, here are my best tips for getting not just good, but amazing photos of yourself while gallivanting the globe alone.

In this post, you'll find...

TL;DR: Key Takeaways

• Master Self-Photography Techniques:  The art of self-photography is about more than just stretching out your arm for a selfie. Master techniques like the burst mode, rule of thirds, using reflective surfaces, and getting creative with angles to get stunning solo shots.
• Learn to Pose:  Experiment with different poses and don’t be afraid to have fun with it. Use your environment, tell a story, and let your personality shine through.
• Gear Up:  My favorite accessories for solo travel photos include the GoPro Hero 10 for action shots, iPhone 13 for quick, high-quality photos, a sturdy tripod for stability, and a Bluetooth remote for easy clicking.
• Timing is Crucial:  The golden hour, blue hour, midday sun, and night offer different lighting conditions that can significantly impact your photos. Experiment with these times to see what works best for your style.
• Hire a Professional:  If you’re looking for some high-quality photos or just want to take a break from setting up the tripod, consider hiring a professional photographer. They can help you get beautiful shots and make the process fun and stress-free.

10 Essential Tips for Taking Epic Solo Travel Photos

1. Mastering the Art of the Selfie

Here’s the thing about selfies—they’re not just an act of extending your arm anymore. No siree! It’s all about that selfie stick and remote shutter. It’s like having an extra arm, but better.

I personally recommend this portable extendable selfie stick , it’s my go-to for quick photos and an easy way to get the right angle. It extends out 40 inches to get cool angles that I can’t reach with just my arms.

And the remote shutter is a game-changer; it’s like having a personal photographer at the tip of your fingers.

2. Using Reflections and Shadows

Reflective surfaces are your best friend. Think mirrors, windows, puddles, even a pair of sunglasses. They offer a different perspective and can add a whole new level of depth to your photos.

Plus, it’s always fun to spot your reflection in unexpected places.

3. Utilizing the Environment

Why not use a tree branch, a bench, or a rock as your tripod? You’d be surprised at how a little creativity goes a long way. And don’t forget about the environment in your photos. That random walking tour guide? Ask him to snap a photo. Met some new people? Exchange photo-taking favors.

4. Exploring Different Angles

The easiest way to make your photos stand out is to experiment with different angles.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tiana • Where Tiana Travels (@tianabaaaby)

Try a low-angle shot for an imposing, powerful vibe. Or, climb a flight of stairs and shoot from above for a bird’s-eye view.

5. Focusing on Details

Close-up shots are a great way to capture the small details that tell a story. Whether it’s the lace on your dress, the book you’re reading, or the steaming cup of coffee in your hand, these details add a personal touch that makes the photos uniquely yours.

6. Capturing Candid Moments

The best photos often happen in the blink of an eye, when you’re lost in thought, or laughing at your own goofy missteps. To capture these moments, I swear by the ‘burst mode’ or ‘continuous mode’ on my camera. It takes multiple shots in rapid succession, so you’re sure to get a few gems in there.

I love using the app LensBuddy to take my photos when I’m traveling solo. You can set the app up to take a photo every minute, 30 seconds, 10 seconds, or even every 0.25 second! This is perfect for getting those candid photos when you’re on your own.

7. Playing with Light and Shadows

Ever heard of the golden hour? It’s that magical time just after sunrise or before sunset, when the light is soft and, well, golden.

It can make your photos look downright dreamy. But don’t be afraid of harsh sunlight or deep shadows either – they can add drama and contrast to your shots.

I learned this the hard way when I woke up at an ungodly hour to photograph the sunrise over the Arc de Triomphe.

The sleep deprivation was worth it – the photos turned out epic!

8. Implementing the Rule of Thirds

This is a classic photography principle that can instantly improve your shots. Imagine dividing your frame into a 3×3 grid and placing the main subject at the intersections. This often creates a more balanced and visually interesting shot. It’s a simple trick, but incredibly effective. I’ve used it everywhere, from the bustling streets of Paris to the serene landscapes of Zanzibar.

9. Trying Out Different Perspectives

Don’t just stick to eye-level shots. Get low, climb up high, lean out (safely, of course), get close, then get even closer. This will add variety to your photos and make your photo album a lot more interesting. A good picture I took during my Morocco trip was when I held the camera high above my head, capturing the bustling street market below in a way that a normal shot couldn’t have done justice to.

10. Embracing Your Authentic Self

Let’s be real, we all want to look good in our photos. But don’t let that stop you from being you. Got a signature pose or a goofy smile? Flaunt it! Your photos should reflect who you are, not some picture-perfect version of you.

Some of my best shots have been when I’m muddy from a hike, wind-swept from a boat ride, or dripping with sweat in the middle of a desert. They’re not the most glamorous, but they’re real, and they’re me.

Whew! Those were some nuggets of wisdom right there, weren’t they? Now, let’s dive into the world of photography gear, because the right tools can make a world of difference in your solo travel photos.

And don’t worry, you won’t need to lug around a professional camera (unless you want to, of course). 

Best Gear for Solo Travel Photography

In my travels, I’ve found that the right gear doesn’t necessarily mean the most expensive or professional. It’s about what works for you and fits your style, needs, and budget.

So, here’s a look at some of my favorites:

Smartphones

Don’t underestimate the power of your phone camera – It’s handy, lightweight, and perfect for quick shots.

My iPhone 13 has been my trusty companion on many a trip. It’s what I use to take most of my travel photos because of the wide-angle lens and the 4K camera quality.

And let’s be real, it’s just way more convenient than lugging a camera around.

A solo traveler’s best friend, indeed. I recommend the Manfrotto Compact Action Tripod for those looking for a great tripod for a DSLR camera.

It’s sturdy, portable, and offers great value for money.

For a more flexible option, the Joby GorillaPod is excellent. You can wrap it around a tree branch, a railing, or just about anything.

I love using this one for getting photos in unique angles and when I don’t want my photos to look like they were obviously taken by me.

And when it comes to the best tripods for iPhones, the Ubeezie extendable tripod stand is my go-to.

It extends out 62″ inches and can hold your phone vertically or horizontally, depending on your preference. It’s lightweight and portable but still strong and secure enough to hold your phone.

I don’t ever go on a trip without it!

Camera Lens

If you’re using a smartphone that doesn’t have a wide-angle lens built in, consider investing in a good-quality wide-angle lens.

It can drastically improve your shots, especially landscapes and architectural photos. The Xenvo Pro Wide Lens is a popular choice that’ll give your photos a unique look.

For an even more unique look to your travel shots, consider using a fish eye lens like this one and testing out some photos from a different perspective!

Remote Shutter

As I mentioned before, a remote shutter is a game-changer for solo travelers. It allows you to click photos from a distance, making it much easier to get that perfect shot.

Check out the CamKix Bluetooth Camera Shutter – it makes it insanely easy to get photos of yourself while traveling alone.

Just connect the remote to your phone via Bluetooth, set up your phone or camera on your tripod, get in position, and click away! It’s really small and easy to hide in your hand so it doesn’t stick out in your photos.

For action shots, underwater photos, or just a different perspective, a GoPro is a fantastic investment.

I love to use the burst mode when traveling solo, which allows the camera to take multiple photos every couple of seconds.

I also sometimes will take a video, and then just take screenshots from the video, but it tends to be a little lower in quality when I do it that way.

I’ve used mine to capture some awesome snorkeling, hiking, and jetskiing adventures.

And even this photo of me getting smooched by an elephant.

These were taken on the GoPro Hero 8 , but I currently use the GoPro Hero 10 . The 10 shoots amazing quality photos/and videos and I’m super impressed with the way my photos come out every time.

It’s great for capturing candid moments like the one with the elephant!

If your budget allows, a drone can take your photography to new heights (literally!). It can capture stunning aerial shots and videos. The DJI Mini 3 is a great choice for beginners.

Remember, while good gear can help, the best photos come from observation, experimentation, and, most importantly, enjoying the moment.

Sometimes, you’ll get the best shots when you put the camera away and just soak in the view.

And if all else fails, there’s always the option of hiring a professional photographer, but we’ll talk about that a bit later in the article.

When is the Best Time to Take Travel Photos?

Timing can play a crucial role in photography. The right time can transform an ordinary scene into something truly extraordinary.

Golden Hour:  As I mentioned earlier, the golden hour (the first hour after sunrise and the last hour before sunset) is a fantastic time for photography. The light is soft, warm, and simply magical. It can add a dreamy quality to your photos and make them stand out. Remember my shot of the Taj Mahal at dawn? That’s golden hour magic for you!

Blue Hour:  Ever heard of the blue hour? It’s the brief period just before sunrise and after sunset when the sky has a deep blue hue. It’s a great time to capture cityscapes and landscapes. One of my favorite shots is of Times Square during the blue hour, with the vibrant city lights set against the deep blue sky.

Midday:  While harsh sunlight can create strong shadows and overexposed shots, don’t rule out midday photography altogether. It can be a good time for capturing vivid colors, and you can use the strong shadows creatively for some unique shots. On my first trip to Greece, I took some striking photos of the white buildings against the bright blue sky in the midday sun.

Night:  Night photography can be challenging but also incredibly rewarding. City lights, stars, or even the moon can create some stunning shots. One of my most loved photos is a night shot of the Eiffel Tower sparkling against the dark sky.

So, there you have it – the best times to take photos. But remember, rules are meant to be broken. If you see a great shot, take it, no matter what the time is!

Avoiding Crowds and Keeping Your Gear Safe

Taking photos without a sea of people in the background can feel like an epic quest, especially in popular tourist spots. But hey, who doesn’t love a good challenge?

My favorite way to avoid crowds is to play the early bird. I’m talking sunrise early. Not only will you get beautiful lighting (hello golden hour), but most tourists are still snoozing away.

Plus, there’s something magical about having famous landmarks all to yourself.

It’s worth the early wake-up call, trust me!

Now, let’s talk safety. We all love our gear, and the last thing we want is for it to end up in the wrong hands. When you’re setting up your shot, always keep your gear within sight.

If you’re using a tripod, stay close, especially in busy areas. I often wrap the strap of my camera or bag around the tripod leg. It’s not foolproof, but it does add an extra layer of security.

And remember, insurance isn’t just for expensive DSLRs. Even if you’re shooting with a phone, consider getting it insured. Peace of mind, my friends, it’s worth it!

Finally, always be aware of your surroundings. It’s easy to get caught up in the moment, but a quick scan of the area every now and then is a good habit to develop.

Hiring a Professional Photographer

When the thought of setting up your tripod for the umpteenth time is too much, or you just want some high-quality shots for a special occasion, hiring a professional photographer is a great option. Websites like Flytographer connect travelers with local photographers in hundreds of cities worldwide.

A professional photographer will know all the best spots, the right angles, and, most importantly, how to make you feel comfortable in front of the camera.

My photo shoot in Zanzibar was not only fun but also left me with some beautiful photos and great memories.

That’s a wrap, my fellow solo travelers! I hope these solo travel photography tips help you capture your travel memories beautifully. Remember, the most important thing is to enjoy the process. Happy snapping!

Hi, I’m Tiana – founder of and author here at Where Tiana Travels. I’m a 20-something with a love for all things travel, photography, and food. I have been living abroad for the past 5 years and solo traveling the globe in my free time. I created this blog to share my travel stories and inspire other women to go out and see the world. Read more about me here!

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The Best Solo Travel Photography Tips (+ tips for natural photos)

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Travelling solo is not as easy as everyone first thinks especially if you want to take a photo of yourself. After our experience of travelling solo and as a couple, we wanted to share our best solo travel photography tips to help you on your next adventure.

If you’re travelling on your own for the first time then you must be thinking to yourself; how on earth can I get those Insta-crazy photos of myself when no one can take them for me?!

Don’t worry, we are here to help! Whether you’re using your smartphone or you own your own camera, we’ve shared tips below for each.

Below you will find some of the top tips for taking pictures on your own when you’re travelling and some equipment that we recommend for solo travellers too!

Table of Contents

How to Take Good Pictures of Yourself with a Camera Phone

Selfies became popular for a reason, they are easy to take if you’re on your own and you can get some great photos using this method.

When you hear the word ‘selfie’ you tend to think of a badly angled image with a huge head taking up the photo. It doesn’t need to be that way at all!

There are different ways that you can take a selfie when travelling other than the classic holding the phone away from your face.

When you’re taking your travel photos, it can take a lot of trial and error to find what is right for you. Keep shooting those shots and trying different methods until you find the perfect blend for you.

2. Remote Shutter Control

One of the best ways to take a ‘selfie’ is to use a remote shutter control. This is a great way to get a full body selfie but also capture the background too.

When you take a classic selfie with the phone in your hand, it is often really tricky to get in the amazing background. The last thing you want to do is to have a photo just of your face and miss out on the Chichen Itza, the Eiffel Tower or the leaning tower of Pisa behind you!

You can take these pictures by either placing your phone propped up against something that’s a good distance from you. You can then use your remote control to trigger when you want the photo to be taken.

This is a really good option if you’re taking a photo where people may walk in front of your shot frequently. With the remote control, you can choose when the photo is taken especially if it takes a while to get the right pose for the photo too.

They’re not too expensive to purchase and you can get them off of Amazon. It can cost around £4 – £8 depending on what type of remote that you are looking for.

All you will need to do to get it connected is to pair it up with your phone’s bluetooth, stand back and take your desired photos.

You can also get a phone stand which often comes with a remote shutter control too. If you have the baggage allowance to take a phone stand then this would be the best option to take much better photos!

We would recommend this National Geographic stand which doubles up as a camera tripod too. If you use both your camera and smartphone to take pictures then this is definitely the best option.

The tripod is very light-weight and does not take up much room in your baggage at all.

3. Burst Mode

Whether you have a phone stand or not, it is always worth considering shooting your photos in burst mode.

This is where when you choose for the photo to take, it will take quite a few pictures all at once.

If you’re taking photos in a particularly busy place then this can be a good option to try and capture an opportune moment.

It is also a really good way to take photos if your pose requires you to move. One popular trend is photos of people dancing in front of popular attractions. As this requires movement, the first photo may not be the best one. Using burst mode you will get multiple photos of this pose and then you can choose your favourite one.

4. Selfie Stick

The trusty selfie stick became a trend for quite awhile and whilst the buzz has died down, they are still so handy to have.

If you’re just starting out in photography or just wanting to take some photos for personal use then the selfie stick is still a great option.

The only downside of using the selfie stick is that often you may find that the photos include the stick in it as well. Due to this, it is still a very good option but not our favourite way for taking photos when solo travelling.

When you’re visiting popular tourist attractions, at times this can be the best way to take a photo whilst you’re travelling alone.

As we say, we travel solo and as a couple too so we have had to take photos not just on our own but also of the two of us as well. We tried to take a photo in front of the Pantheon but it was way too crowded so the classic selfie mode was the best option for us when we were in a rush!

5. Using Props

When we have taken photos, both solo and as a couple, whilst travelling, we have used all manner of props to take photos . From leaning our phone against walls, sticking them to surfaces and using backpacks to prop them up, we have tried it all.

Amy was travelling on her own to Howarth and walked up the moors during the snow. There was not a soul in sight and she desperately wanted a photo at the farmhouse she set to visit. Without even thinking, her phone got dunked into the snow and used the thickness of the snow to prop it up and take this very photo.

The thing is, it isn’t even the best photo but as she was exploring for herself as opposed to for the gram, this photo was originally just intended for personal purposes.

As we say, we have literally tried everything to get the best photo possible. Have a look at the area around you and see what you can use to prop up your phone to take the best photo.

If in doubt, a backpack or a half-full water bottle always does the job. Prop your phone up and get the position the way you want it and then set a timer or use your remote control shutter to get your shot.

6. Timer mode

As it says on the tin, you will be able to set a timer on your phone to be able to get a good photo of yourself when you’re travelling solo.

We would recommend either using a phone stand like we suggested in one of our earlier tips or alternatively, using items to prop up your phone instead.

Using the timer is a great way to get a shot of yourself when you don’t have a remote shutter control to hand.

7. Using a Phone Stand

We mentioned briefly in the selfie section that you can use a phone stand to capture your photos. This is one of the best ways to take pictures whilst travelling alone.

There are so many different choices for phone stands that it can be overwhelming to know what one to choose at first. We would recommend this National Geographic Tripod as it doubles up as a phone stand and a camera tripod.

Even if you don’t have a camera right now, it is still handy to have in case you decide to invest in one in the future!

Setting Up Your Phone Stand

Each phone stand is different but generally speaking you will be able to extend the legs to your desired height.

Check the area to see where it would be best to place the phone stand (and safe too) before getting this set up. Make sure that the ground is even so that your photo is straight.

Keep checking on your phone to see where would be the best place to take the photo. If this is in a public place, it is also worth remembering that you want to set up the phone stand so that it won’t be a nuisance to passersby.

When you’re travelling alone, it can be a little bit nerve-wracking taking photos like this in public. One thing to remember is that you will probably never see these people again. It’s such a common thing now that most people won’t even bat an eyelid. Those that are looking your way are most likely just curious to know what your photos are for.

Don’t be nervous when taking photos on your own in public. The more you do it, the easier it becomes.

Methods for Taking Phone Stand Photos

Remote shutter control.

Whilst using a phone stand, you will also need to get it set up so that you can use it on the go. Most phone stands will come with a remote shutter control so that you can get your short organised and then choose when the photo is taken.

If your phone stand doesn’t come with a remote shutter control then they are cheap enough to purchase on Amazon.

Similar to the selfie method, you can use a self timer on the phone stand to get your photos timed right. It is much easier to use a remote shutter control but if you don’t have one to hand, this will be just as effective.

If you’re looking to take a few photos posing which requires movements then make sure you switch on boost mode so that multiple photos are taken at once.

You can then flick through the photos after and see which works best. Take your time and don’t let anyone rush you to get the photo that you’re happy with.

8. Using a Go Pro

One of the best ways to get both photos and videos of yourself whilst travelling is to use a GoPro .

Depending on the type of GoPro you have and the functionality will determine what is the best way to use the Go Pro .

We personally have a Go Pro Hero 11 which has a front facing camera making it much easier to take photos and videos when solo travelling.

Our GoPro also came with a selfie stick too with controls on the handle so it will be easier to take photos and videos.

If you don’t have a front facing camera on the GoPro then you can take a photo by blindly guessing how far away the GoPro needs to be from yourself. With practice, this will become much easier over time.

Another option with the GoPro is that you will be able to change the settings so that when you are videoing, it will take a photo every few seconds.

This really came in handy when Amy was snorkelling with whale sharks and was able to capture both images and videos of the experience and of herself.

With a GoPro , you can purchase lots of different attachments to make it easier for both photos and videos. If it is within your budget then it really is a good investment especially if you’re wanting to turn your photos into either a blog or a portfolio.

How to Take a Selfie with GoPro

To take a good selfie with a GoPro , you will need a selfie stick. Some versions of the GoPro have a front facing camera so that you can see what the image looks like when taking a photo.

We would recommend investing in a GoPro with a front facing camera if you’re travelling solo as it will make it much easier.

How to Take Good Photos Using a DSLR Camera

If you’re using a DSLR camera whilst travelling solo then you will want to make sure that you are able to capture the best photography with your camera.

It is true that you will just be able to take a standard selfie with a DSLR camera but this would depend on the background. As cameras are quite clunky, it can look great if you’re taking a photo in a mirror for more of a vintage feel.

Alternatively, depending on the type of camera that you have, some of them have an adjustable screen so that you can see the front facing shot you’re taking. Our mirrorless camera has this function and it is very handy if we’re trying to take a photo of either the both of us or when we’re solo travelling.

The best thing to do, if you’re new to using a camera is to keep practicing. A lot of it will be trial and error especially when practicing with different modes. Keep practicing and trying different angles to take photos of yourself whilst travelling. After a while, you will be able to see what works best for you and your style.

1. Using a tripod

To get photos of yourself with a DSLR camera, a tripod is pretty much a must buy before your travels. There are ways to get photos with your DSLR camera without a tripod but this is more about looking for the opportunity to do so.

A tripod is definitely the easiest way to be able to get full body photos of yourself whilst travelling alone. You will be able to set up the tripod where you want to capture the image that looks the best.

2. Alternative ideas

You can use reflections to be able to take a good photo of yourself whilst you’re travelling solo. Alternatively, you can use the camera to take photos of other parts of your body. A popular pose that you can use is by holding up a drink with a view in the background to make a great photo.

3. Gorillapod

If you don’t want to lug around a tripod for your camera then you can look at a Gorillapod instead. These are a mini tripod but the legs are flexible so you can use it to wrap around objects to get your shot. The one thing you need to bear in mind is ensuring that your camera is stable so that the weight of it doesn’t make it fall.

4. Timers & Shutter Control

Just like with your phone, you will be able to set a timer for your DSLR so that the image will capture during a set period.

Alternatively, you can also invest in a remote shutter control if your budget allows and your camera has the functionality to do so.

Some camera, you will also be able to get set up to your phone through the bluetooth and you will be able to control the shutter timing with a touch of a button on your phone.

5. Ask a Stranger

If you don’t have the budget to purchase other equipment to help you take photos whilst travelling solo then you always have the option to ask a stranger.

This might make you feel anxious at first but the more you do it, the easier it gets. After a while, you will even know the right people to ask that will get an absolute popping photo of you too!

Sometimes when you’re taking a photo of certain attractions, there are not any places where you can prop your phone for a photo or people are walking past too frequently for a time. With this in mind, asking someone to take a photo for you is the best option.

How to ask a stranger to take a photo for me?

Always be polite when asking someone to take a photo for you, no one is going to want to help if you’re abrupt or rude with them.

When you’re asking someone to take a photo for you, it can be a little frustrating. If you’ve tried this before then you know as well as we do that you can’t always trust other people to take an amazing photo.

A pure example of this is Amy asked someone to take a photo of her at Chichen Itza and this was the result. The person had zoomed in so much that you couldn’t see the amazing wonder behind her and it was just poor at best.

To prevent this happening, when a stranger agrees to take a photo of you, tell them exactly what you want. Get the settings prepared for them and show them where to stand and what you want from the photo. People won’t mind as long as you don’t take up too much of their time.

How do I know who to trust to take a photo?

The best way to know who to ask to take a photo is to look for other people that have a DSLR camera around their neck. More often than not, if someone has a DSLR, they know how to take a good photo.

It sounds strange but if you’re a female, it can be intimidating to ask a stranger to take a photo in another country. If you’re travelling alone as a female then try to ask females where possible to ease your nerves.

Look at your surroundings and check out who is around you. You will have a gut feeling about certain people and if something doesn’t feel right then trust your gut.

Photography Tours

Another option for taking a good photo whilst you’re travelling solo is to join a photography tour in the destination that you’re at.

This is a great opportunity to ask other people to take photos of you in some of the most beautiful spots of the destination you’re travelling.

Another amazing thing about joining a photography tour as a solo traveller is that you will learn some new tips along the way. Not only will you get some awesome travel photos but you’ll learn to take even better ones for your next trip.

As these tours are guided, you will find that you will be taken to the best spots to capture photos. The guides on the tours are experts and will know which places are best to stand, modes to use and time of day to get the best photos.

Trust your guides and take in your surroundings as you go. Another perk is that as you are often in a group, you won’t need to worry as much about the safety of your equipment as there will be a few of you keeping watch over your equipment.

We highly recommend trying a photography tour, at least once, as it is amazing how much you can get out of these tours.

Where Can I Find Photography Tours?

Photography tours are quite easy to find and they’re often not as expensive as you think they’re going to be, depending on the destination you’re travelling to of course.

You can find some great photography tours by entering your destination and dates on one of the sites below.

• Get Your Guide
• TripAdvisor

Collab with Other Travellers

Whilst you’re travelling solo, that doesn’t mean that you need to spend the whole time as a solo traveller. You can meet some amazing people whilst you’re off exploring and some of them even know a thing or two about taking a great photo.

Meeting new people whilst solo travelling can seem overwhelming but there are plenty of places to do this. Whether that is by meeting people on a photography tour like our last tip suggested, at your hostel or even just whilst you’re out and about exploring.

During Amy’s solo travels, she has found that she has made some wonderful friends on the free walking tours that some cities offer.

If in doubt, you can also use Instagram and Facebook Groups to connect with other travellers and arrange a meet up. Staying at hostels by using apps like Hostelworld also opens up a chat for others visiting the area you are and another one for the hostel you’re staying at. You can collab with other travellers this way.

If you’re a travel blogger like us then head to your blogging facebook groups and reach out to other bloggers to see if anyone is keen to meet up and take photos for each other whilst exploring.

Solo Photography Safety

1. keep an eye on your equipment.

When you’re taking photos of yourself whilst solo travelling, it can become too easy to get distracted. Make sure that you keep an eye on your equipment at all times to prevent thieves.

2. Be aware of your surroundings

This leads us nicely onto our next point of always being aware of your surroundings.

Keep an eye on people that are around you and your equipment. Photography equipment is not cheap so you want to protect it at all costs.

3. Research the Areas You’re Taking Photos

When you’re travelling, there are often areas that are known for pickpockets and just being a little rough around the edges.

Ensure that you do thorough research before you take all your camera equipment out and about. If necessary, you can purchase some safety equipment on Amazon to help deter thieves.

4. Travel Insurance

Just in case the worst does happen, ensure that you always have travel insurance when you’re travelling.

You know that the second you don’t purchase travel insurance will be the day when something goes wrong. Have it as a protection for you and your equipment whilst you’re travelling solo.

How to Not Look Awkward in Solo Photos

Take back of the head shots

These are some of our favourite photos as you don’t need to worry if your face isn’t looking how you want it to that particular day.

Often these photos also emphasise the background so if you’re taking a photo with a beautiful landscape then these often look really good.

Use your body

If getting a full body photo is too difficult, use other areas of your body instead. The typical shot that you can take is holding up a drink with a scenic background.

You might feel like an absolute maniac whilst taking the photo but laughing often really improves your photo no matter what pose you’re using.

Even though this may feel awkward, more often than not, the photos come out really well.

Side Profile

These can be great shots where your body is away from the camera and you’re looking onto something that is a point of focus.

This method can be quite similar to the back of the head shots, however, you capture the side of your face instead so that some of your features are still visible.

Don’t be hard on yourself

Posing takes a lot of practice, believe it or not! Don’t be hard on yourself when the photos don’t come out the way you originally wanted.

Keep practicing and researching different poses for different photo types. Another big part of this is to continue to learn more about photography so that you can make the best of your photos.

Use Instagram

If you’re in doubt about what pose you should do, use Instagram for inspiration.

There are so many people that have absolutely mastered the art of both posing and photography. Learn from these people and adapt your photos to match.

When you’re trying to take photos to try and not look awkward, just play about in front of the camera.

Yes, you will look absolutely crazy but who cares?! You’re probably not going to see these people again anyway.

If you don’t feel comfortable doing this in public, practice at home or go someone local that is often quiet to see what works best.

Don’t forget, have fun! Photography doesn’t need to be all serious, it should be something you enjoy. Play around with your photography style and see what works for you.

Recommended Photography Equipment for Solo Travellers

What tripod should i use.

As we mentioned in some of our earlier tips, we actually use a combined tripod . This is so that we can use it for both our phones and the camera.

We find that this is really handy because sometimes we won’t take the camera out with us for various reasons so we can use our phones in this instance.

The tripod that we use for our photos is the National Geographic Tripod which we’ve linked.

It is quite cheap to purchase, really sturdy and has a very good extension. Another reason that we would recommend this tripod is because it is incredibly light and compact with it’s own case so it is great to travel with and go into any daypacks.

What Camera Should I Use?

We use a Canon EOS M50 Mirrorless camera and we absolutely love it. It’s really lightweight so perfect for taking travelling with you, especially when you have limited luggage allowance.

The camera has an option for Wi-Fi too so you can use your phone for shutter control and get your photos sent right to your phone ready for editing.

Other Phone Photography Accessories

• Camera Phone Lens Kit
• Selfie Stick
• Portable Reflectors
• Mirror Reflection

Taking photos as a solo traveller is not always easy but the more you practice, the easier it becomes.

You don’t need a load of equipment to start off but over time, these are things that you will want to invest in. These will help you to accelerate your photography and make capturing those amazing memories much easier.

How Can I Get Better at Travel Photography?

There is no easy answer to this question but one of the best things you can do is keep practicing. Don’t worry about how many photos you take just take as many as possible. Once you review the photos you’ve taken whilst travelling to see what worked and what didn’t. Reviewing your photos is one of the most important steps to improve your travel photography.

Save For Later

Amy & Liam are part-time travel bloggers alongside their full-time jobs. After spending too much time wishing for a better life and wanting to make the most of the time that they have on this planet, it was time to show others how to explore more too. They are budget couple travellers that are looking to see more together on a budget and show others how to do the same.

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Solo travel photography tips: How to take amazing photos

Are you a female traveller looking to take your solo travel photography skills up a notch? If so, you’re in luck!

Solo female travel IMO is definitely something that should be on everyone’s bucket list. It can be a little daunting and scary at first, but once you take the plunge and go on your first solo trip, you’ll see just how much fun it is to push yourself out of your comfort zone.

Travelling solo shows you that you are capable of so much more than you ever thought possible. And not only that, but it also allows you to meet some amazing people along the way who will help make your journey even more special.

One question you’re probably going to find yourself asking though, is how on earth do I take my own photos as a solo traveller? It might not seem possible at first but trust me, there are ways! Below I’ve compiled my best tips that will have you snapping pics like a professional photographer in no time.

How to take photos when travelling alone – Quick Guide

• Invest in a tripod
• Use the wifi function on your DSLR
• Buy a remote shutter
• Get familiar with self-timer
• Use your surroundings to experiment with different angles
• Ask a friendly stranger

16 Ways To Nail Your Solo Travel Photography

1. invest in a tripod (or two).

One of the best ways to master solo travel photography is to use a tripod. Without someone to help you snap that perfect shot, it can be pretty difficult to get decent travel photos that actually have YOU in them as well, NOT just the scenery. Cause let’s face it, those get boring after a while and it’s important to be able to capture some memories of yourself.

Enter your trusty new tripod!

These days my tripod is basically like a third arm, I take it everywhere with me and I mean EVERYWHERE. It’s my favourite travel companion!

A tripod will allow you to set up your camera and take great solo shots. It also frees up your hands so you can experiment with different angles and compositions.

If you’re using a DSLR, a tripod is essential for getting sharp, blur-free photos. So if you’re serious about mastering solo travel photography, invest in a good lightweight tripod and start taking some amazing photos today!

Best tripod for solo travel

Now the reason I said invest in a tripod or two depends on where you’re travelling and what camera you’re using as different types of tripods come in handy for different reasons.

You’ve got something like the gorilla tripod which has flexible legs, allowing you to set your camera up at just the right angle. Great if you’re going to be shooting in a variety of different locations on the more adventurous side. A great thing about this wee tripod is that it is a lot smaller and less bulky than your traditional tripods, meaning it’s pretty inconspicuous.

So why opt for a bigger more traditional tripod on the other hand? Typically they are better at housing a DSLR so if you’ve got a large camera or big lens sometimes it makes more sense to opt for a traditional tripod with fold-out legs as it’s going to be stronger or sturdier which will be crucial for capturing good photos.

My personal preference is the sturdier tripod. I take a lot of photos at the beach so sometimes the gorilla pod just won’t cut it as there isn’t much for me to attach it to. I also like the height you can get with a bigger tripod. When choosing one you want it to reach at least your eye level otherwise you’ll be taking a lot of low-angle shots!

The thing with a larger tripod is people will stare and wonder what on earth you’re doing…so you’ve just gotta embrace it gal!

2. Shoot in the morning

Okay so this is a very important tip for three reasons.

Less people will be around which means less people ruining your epic photos.

Minimal embarrassment when it comes to parading around in front of your tripod because nobody is around to see it.

The light is just so. much. better. It’s 110% the best time to shoot, hello golden hour!

Trust me, even if you are a newbie photographer if you can drag your butt out of bed early enough, you are going to wind up with super cool photos because the light looks so damn good. Finding great lighting is the easiest way to ensure your photos turn out great every time.

3. Use the wifi function on your DSLR

Turns out a LOT of camera models have wifi built into them these days. Not only is this super handy for transferring your travel photos directly to your phone to post on social media BUT if you download the app compatible with your DSLR, you can go into live view mode and take photos using your phone as a remote!

Incredibly handy and it’s a great way to get good pictures without needing to carry extra equipment, like a remote control, around with you.

4. Buy a remote shutter

In saying this though, there will be times when you may benefit from using a remote shutter instead.

The remotes tend to be a lot smaller than our phones, making them easier to hide behind your back or pop in your pocket before your camera clicks away.

If your camera happens to not have wifi built into it then this would be a great option for you!

5. Get familiar with self-timer

This one is a doozy and by doozy, I mean total gamer changer!

Once I discovered how to use a self-timer properly for my solo travel photography my photos went from cheesy and lame, to oooh damn that ain’t bad.

Being able to use a self-timer frees you up from being stuck behind or near the camera completely. Finally, you can capture those Insta-worthy running away from the camera shots we see everywhere – kidding, but seriously self-timer suddenly opens up a lot more options.

Canon cameras have something called an interval timer and other models will have similar camera settings where you can choose how many photos you want your camera to take and at what intervals.

For example, if you’re going to be moving around a lot or taking action shots, you’ll want to be capturing photos every second for about 30 seconds. Or possibly longer if you’re moving far away from your camera. Having a wide-angle lens is also best as it will allow you to capture more of the scenery in the shot.

6. Use your surroundings to experiment with different angles

This is a bit of a fun one if you don’t have a tripod but do not and I repeat DO NOT, try and balance your camera on high unstable surfaces. That is just a recipe for disaster.

But what you CAN do, is embrace the low-angle shots and have your camera safely nested near the ground. Then find something to prop the lens up with.

Let your creativity loose and you’ll be surprised with how much you can utilise what’s around you to get those Insta-worthy snaps.

7. Get creative with a goPro

There are numerous adventurous travel activities that aren’t suitable for a DSLR or even an iPhone such as snorkelling, ziplining, skydiving, the list goes on.

Enter the GoPro . These little cameras are perfect for solo travellers who want to get creative with their photography. Plus, GoPros are small and lightweight, making them perfect for solo travellers who want to pack light!

Also, I reckon this is the only camera you can get away with making a selfie stick look cool. Sorry but it’s time to ditch the selfie-stick for smartphones. It’s 2024, we’ve all moved on.

With a GoPro, you can get great photos underwater, capture adventurous moments, and even take time-lapse videos of your travels. So if you’re looking for a way to up your solo travel photography game, consider investing in a GoPro. You won’t be disappointed.

8. Ask a friendly stranger

Sometimes you won’t always have your tripod on you or you decided to leave it at home cause you knew you were heading to a busy place.

Another way to get solo travel photos is to ask a stranger to take a photo of you in front of a landmark or cool spot.

A handy tip for finding the right person is to look for someone with a DSLR camera, they are a lot more likely to know what they are doing when it comes to snapping pics compared to someone with an iPhone.

Be sure to return the favour by taking a photo of them too!

9. Don’t forget about the rule of thirds

This easily forgotten tip is oh so simple to implement and will take the composition of your photos to another level.

If you haven’t heard of it before, basically the rule of thirds is a composition guideline that splits your camera screen into a grid of nine boxes, 3 across and 3 down.

As a general rule, you want to try and line up your main subject matter on one of these lines. Either horizontally, vertically or both.

It’ll help your photo become more balanced, leading to amazing pictures without having to be a photography master.

10. Shoot underexposed

A little bit more of a techy tip here, but you don’t have to be a master at manual settings to shoot underexposed. All you have to do is play with the shutter speed as this is what controls how much light gets let into the lens of your camera.

Why do we want to shoot underexposed?

Because when you go to edit your awesome travel photos, this will help retain more detail in the shot and result in a higher-quality edit. Basically, there is more ‘data’ for the editing app to play around with.

Overexposed photos are really bright and contain a lot of white and when you try to darken this it just looks grey and almost dirty. Basically, it’s easier to lighten a darker photo than it is to darken a lighter photo.

If you want to step it up even further, be sure to shoot in RAW. If you’ve never heard that word before don’t worry, we’ll keep this beginner-friendly.

I 110% recommend using Lightroom for all your photo editing. I use Adobe Lightroom Classic for all my editing and I’m obsessed. If you want to have a play around the mobile app is free.

Tips On How To Not Look Awkward In Photos

Okay so we’ve established how to up your solo photography skills, now let’s discuss some pose ideas and how to NOT look awkward in photos. You know when you panic at the last minute and don’t know how to pose, so you freeze and end up with an ingenuine smile on your face that looks forced?

Yeah we’ve all been there. So how do you avoid this?

11. Find a prop

A way to not look awkward in photos is to find a prop. Often we’ve got no clue what to do with our hands so if you find something you can hold it will make the photo look a lot more natural. Sunglasses, hat, jandals, you name it!

Not only do you feel a lot more natural in front of the camera when you have something to hold but you can play the photo off as a candid snap – even though we all know there’s no such thing as a “candid” shot anymore, Instagram I blame you.

12. Sit down

Ah the classic sit pic, always a goodie when you feel a bit stuck. On a gorgeous beach? Sit down. Looking at a gorgeous view? Sit down. Taking a photo in front of a cool backdrop? Sit down. You get the picture… 😉

But seriously this is a great trick to getting gorgeous pictures and natural-looking snaps if you’re in a location where you can sit down. Obviously, you won’t be able to sit down in EVERY location you shoot in but it’s better than the alternative of just standing there like a stiff rock.

13. Pretend to play with your hair

Another classic, another goodie. The old play with your hair trick. An incredibly easy pose to pull off which results in a 100% reduction in awkwardness.

Even better if there’s a slight breeze as it will help add some movement to your photo.

Okay, I do add this one in with slight hesitation because when done wrong it can come off incredibly cheesy but when done right it can look bomb af.

The key here is to not actually twirl so much. Now I know that sounds weird but hear me out.

What you’re trying to achieve by twirling is to add movement to your photo to 1. make it more natural and 2. make it a more interesting photograph. If you move too quickly it’s not going to look natural and your hair will probably wind up in your face and you might flash a few people in the process (it is good to wear a flowy dress for these kinds of shots).

So how do you achieve the “slow twirl”?

The secret is that you don’t actually do a full twirl, you pretend. So let’s say you’re facing towards the camera to begin, set your self-timer to burst mode or if you have a Canon, set up an interval timer to take a shot every second.

Now do a 180 so that you’re facing away from the camera and repeat that motion. This will bring some movement into your dress and your hair as if you’re twirling but it will be a lot less dynamic compared to if you were actually spinning around in a circle.

And voila, you have a non-cheesy twirling photo that actually looks cool.

15. Walk away from the camera

Another Insta classic, bonus tips if you’re wearing a long flowy dress. Again this will add movement to your photo and you don’t even have to do anything except walk away from the camera.

It’s as easy as that! You’ll want to use your self-timer for this one so you have time to get far away enough from the camera.

Expert tip: Try walking forwards and backwards a couple of times while the camera shoots away when you’re happy with the composition of the shot. This will create a slightly more interesting photo than just straight walking.

If you’re ready for full embarrassment mode, try hopping back and forward from one foot to the other. You’ll know you’re doing it right when you feel like an idiot but that feeling will disappear pretty quickly when you get some awesome shots that look a whole lot more natural than they felt!

This one is certainly a good one to try on those early morning photoshoots when nobody else is around…

16. Practise, practise, practise

This probably comes as no surprise but the more solo photo shoots you do, the more comfortable you’re going to become AND the better your photos are going to get.

If I look back to when I first started taking solo travel photos, they were crap. I’m talking blurry awkward, stiff smile selfies.

Now they turn out like this:

Big improvement I tell ya.

An important thing to remember is don’t go comparing someone else’s chapter 35 to your chapter 1, we all start somewhere! If you put in the time and the effort you WILL get better. I promise you.

Safety For Solo Travel Photography

It wouldn’t be a solo female travel post without a section on safety, would it?

Not to sound like your mum or anything, but it’s important to ALWAYS be aware of your surroundings. Not just when taking photos but in general.

Know where your valuables are at all times and don’t go walking down any dark alleyways by yourself (although I’m sure you already know that).

During the day if you’re shooting in a popular location, choose to take shots where you’re only away from your camera for a few seconds rather than big photoshoots. That way you don’t have to worry about your camera getting knocked over, or even worse stolen.

All the times I’ve been shooting solo I’ve never been worried about having any of my gear stolen and this is probably because I chose my locations carefully. I hate it when my shots are ruined with other people lingering in the background so I like to get off the tourist track a little and seek out new locations.

But what about getting shots of those key landmarks I hear you ask?

You don’t have to go without! You just have to get a little creative. Instead of shooting your shot from where everyone else is standing, explore the area a bit more and find somewhere less crowded.

Chances are you’ll get a more unique photo of a popular destination cause you spent a little more time going out of your way to avoid the crowds. If you wanted to link up with a group you could always look into joining photography tours within the area.

Alternatively, you can just try to get to the tourist hotspots early, problem solved.

Where to put your valuables

This is always an important question cause we all know our smartphones come everywhere with us these days and if you’re out and about for the day it’s likely you’ll have your wallet and some cash with you as well.

What I tend to do is use my camera bag as a handbag and then wear that across my body. I don’t have a huge camera bag so it’s pretty discreet and there is just enough room for me to fit in my phone, cash and cards.

For day trips I wouldn’t have my passport or anything on me, it’s best to leave that in the hotel or hostel you’re staying in.

• Solo Travel in Portugal – The Ultimate Female Travellers Guide • Porto Solo Travel Guide | Is Porto Safe for Solo Female Travellers? • 5 Best Hostels in Lisbon for Solo Travellers • Best Greek Islands for Solo Travel, What You Need to Know • Lisbon Solo Travel | The Ultimate Guide

FAQ: Solo travel photography

What is the best camera for solo travellers.

Now this one is a bit hard to give a single answer to because you also have to factor in how professional a camera you want and what you are willing to spend. IMO the Canon EOS 80D is the best camera for solo travellers, mainly because it’s the model I use and absolutely love it.

It comes everywhere with me!

It’s not too big and bulky but you still get amazingly crisp photos. It’s also not crazy expensive and makes for a good intermediate-level camera. I recently upgraded the kit lens to a Sigma art lens and omgggg I love it so much!

This camera also has a built-in self timer which I tend to use a ton and it has wifi so I can easily connect my phone to use as a remote controller or transfer photos directly to my phone.

It does a great job.

However, if you’re a newbie then you might want to go for a cheaper model. Mirrorless cameras are all the rage at the moment in the travel space because they are even lighter than DSLRs thanks to the mirrorless technology.

If I ever have to change cameras in future then I would probably look into buying one of these. The Canon EOS R100 is the pretty affordable option and I’ve also heard great things about the Sony Alpha a7 but these are a bit more expensive.

And if you’re not into fancy cameras then iPhone’s do a great job these days too with the camera only continuing to get more and more impressive but I’m guessing if you landed on this post, you’re wanting more than just iPhone pics!

Conclusion: How to take photos when travelling alone

That brings us to the end of my solo travel photography tips! I hope you’ve learned some new ways to take better photos. At the end of the day just embrace your surroundings and go for it. You’ll be surprised what shots you’ll come out with.

Some of my best solo travel photos were captured when I least expected it. Over time you learn what works, often by accident!

By investing in a good-quality camera and learning a few basic photography skills, you’ll be able to take stunning photographs of all the places you visit. Don’t forget to make the most of natural light, use a tripod and focus on details around you.

With the right techniques, taking epic solo travel photos doesn’t need to be scary, you’ll be taking better pictures and capturing the essence of each location before you know it.

So, go out there and explore the world, take lots of photos and have fun! And lastly don’t give up, you will get better I promise.

Sammy Green is the owner and creator of My Blonde Bucket List, your go-to guide for unforgettable journeys to the world's best beach and mountain destinations, including the likes of New Zealand, Canada, and Portugal. She does this by creating blog posts about the best tips and resources on how to make the most of your time in each destination. Having travelled to 24 countries (and counting) her goal is to inspire you to experience all the world has to offer, whether that be on your first solo trip or with your significant other.

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How To Take Good Travel Photos of Yourself on a Solo Trip

As a solo traveler you’re probably wondering how I take my own photos for Instagram and my blog. The majority of the photos you see with me in them were taken by yours truly! I don’t travel with a photographer (or an Instagram boyfriend lol) – it’s just me and my tripod.

When I first started solo traveling I wanted to make sure I could still document my trips the way I wanted to. Taking landscape shots is one thing, but how could I get photos with myself in them while I’m out exploring these new destinations?

Keep reading to learn how I take my own vacation photos during my solo travels. I’m sharing the travel photography gear I use , how I navigate the tripod selfies while out exploring, and my top self-portrait tips below.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Rylie | Bucket List + Adventure Travel (@wanderfullyrylie)

Here’s how to take good travel photos of yourself on a solo trip:

The travel photography gear i use, how to capture tripod photos while traveling, other helpful tips for solo travel photos.

Most of my Instagram photos simply would not have been created without the use of a tripod. I take one with me on every single solo trip and it has proven to be the best way to capture the travel photos I want.

I have gone through several different tripods over the years – some of my previous ones were either too flimsy or ended up broken. And for something that is holding up my precious camera equipment, finding a durable and trustworthy one was super important to me.

The tripod I currently use the most is the AmazonBasics 60″ Tripod and it’s been one of my favorites to-date. It’s lightweight and durable, making this one easy to carry around with me on my adventures. This is the tripod I used throughout my solo road trip through the Southwest and have hiked through 6 different national parks with it so far – and have no complaints!

Another tripod I use to take my own vacation photos is the JOBY GorillaPod 5K Kit . This brand is known for having some of the most durable tripods out there. This one is smaller but has flexible legs so that you can attach it to other things to get different angles. It’s great for fixating your camera or phone to fences, trees, or anything else nearby that’s study.

These tripods will fit most DSLR cameras, but you can also get an adapter to attach your phone to them as well. I use my iPhone 12 Max Pro when I want to shoot video content or take quick snaps for Instagram. This is the adapter I use and it lives in my camera bag.

————— Read More —————

A Travel Blogger’s Photography Gear: What’s in My Camera Bag

Even with having the right tripod with you, your vacation photos aren’t going to capture themselves! There’s a few different techniques I use to make sure I can capture the best images –

• CanonConnect app / remote shutter

The camera I use is a Canon EOS 6D which has wifi capability, which means that I can connect it to my phone. From the CannonConnect app you can view yourself in the shot and capture images using your phone as a remote.

Similarly, there are also remote shutters available that can connect to your camera without having to use your phone. The one I use is the PIXEL Wireless Timer Remote Control , and it’s great for capturing shots that are much farther away than my camera.

• Use the self-timer on your DSLR or phone

Another option is to use your camera’s self-timer. There have been times where I was in a location with spotty cell connection and wasn’t able to connect my camera to my phone, so this is usually my plan B.

• Record a video and take still images from the recording

You can also record a video and take a stills from the recording. This option is good for when you’re trying to capture movement and don’t want to try timing it with the camera shutter.

• Take photos first thing in the morning to avoid crowds and get the best lighting
• Only set up the tripod in areas with no foot traffic
• Adjust your camera settings to capture multiple images at once

These are the steps I take to make sure I get good travel photos of myself during my solo trips! Have you ever attempted a tripod selfie? Share your thoughts with me in the comments below!

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Hi I’m Rylie – Welcome to my corner of the internet!

I’m a solo traveler & photographer turned full-time corporate travel agent – born and raised in Southern California but now based in Colorado.

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How to take photos of yourself as a solo traveller

[This post about how to take photos of yourself as a solo traveller contains affiliate links. This means that if you chose to make a purchase via one of the links I’ve provided, I may earn as small commission at no additional cost to you.] 

Updated: 18 December 2023

Back in 2017, when I went on my first solo adventure, I had to figure out how I was going to take photos of myself as a lone traveller. It’s not a surprise that as a solo traveller, you learn to do a lot of things confidently by yourself – and capturing travel memories can be no different!

In this blog post, I’ll be covering the below:

• Best equipment & settings for taking photos
• How to overcome feeling self-conscious about taking photos of yourself

Poses for solo travellers

Safety tips for taking photos while solo travelling.

There are quite a few different ways that you can take photos of yourself when travelling solo, depending on your equipment. I have tried and tested quite a few on my own travels that I’m going to run you through here.

• Ask someone to take your photo

This one’s pretty straightforward but asking someone can be a great way to capture shots that you just can’t manage yourself. And, as awkward as it might seem at first, I feel like this is one of the most universally accepted favours we can ask of a stranger.

Tips for asking someone to take your picture:

• Look for someone with a camera or *looks* tech savvy: If I want a photo taken with my DSLR, I always try to ask someone who not only has a camera, but appears to look like the know what they are doing with it (i.e. not some who just points and shoots). If I can’t see anyone with a camera or I’m after a photo on my phone, I look for someone who looks fairly tech savvy (this would be someone who looks like their putting a bit of effort into framing and angling their own photos).
• Get your camera ready: I always have my camera settings ready to go (autofocus, zoom, etc) so that the person can simply frame the shot and snap the photo. Also, make sure to advise if you’d like it landscape or portrait.
• Ask them to take a few shots: I suggest mentioning this because there’s nothing worse than getting your camera or phone back to see only one photo was taken. Especially, if you’re a chronic blinker like me!
• Explain what you’d like in the picture:  Everyone has different ideas when taking photos so unless you’re prepared to tell them exactly how you’d like the photo ( and, let’s be real, even if you do ) you might not always get the picture you imagined. I’ve had plenty of photos taken by others where the top of the monument might get cut off or your hands, feet or the top of your head are missing from the frame. Keep the instructions simple, i.e. do say: “please try to get my full body in the frame as well at the top of the cathedral”.
• Offer to take someone else’s photo first: If you feel uncomfortable asking someone to take your picture, you can always offer to take their picture first. More often than not, when you’re done taking their photo (or even if they don’t want a photo) people will offer to do the same in return. Also, if they can see the effort you put in to taking their photo, it may help to set expectations (i.e. taking more than one photo, etc).

Take a Selfie (and use a selfie stick)

Selfie shots can be taken with an outstretched arm or with a selfie stick and are great for any traveller armed with a mobile phone or action camera. I personally don’t use a selfie stick often, unless I’m using my GoPro and Insta360, but some people swear by them and get some incredible shots on their phones too.

Things to note:

• It’s important to keep in mind that there are some places where selfie sticks are banned. Always double-check an official website or contact the place you’re visiting to avoid any unnecessary confiscations or fines.

Utilise flat and elevated surfaces

Sometimes, you just need to get resourceful. There’s been numerous times where I’ve forgotten my tripod or couldn’t be bothered bringing it with me and I’ve ended up wanting to snap a picture. With a little improvisation and luck, finding a spot to place your device in a position that captures you and the scenery or monument behind you can be a simple solution. Any secure surface, such as a wall, window ledge, fence, rubbish bin (kinda gross, but if you’re desperate), bag or rock, can be great to prop your camera atop to snap a picture of yourself.

Just be mindful of your surroundings when doing so. Make sure you don’t leave your device in a place where onlookers can easily snatch it while you’re taking the picture or where the wind will catch it and send it flying.

Use a Tripod

Using a tripod is one of my favourite methods because you can set up the picture exactly as you wish. It’s basically like having someone take your picture for you, but perhaps even better because you can frame the image exactly as you wish.

The are a number of different tripods for cameras, smartphones and action cameras in different sizes, height-ranges and weight. I currently use the Joby GorillaPod  because it’s compact, light and very versatile. However, it’s slightly different to a traditional tripod as it doesn’t extend in height, and I honestly do miss having the height of a standard tripod (like I used for the Eiffel Tower shots in this post).

Incorporate other parts of your body

Sometimes, you might just want to make the picture your own. When you’re taking photos of a delicious pastry in France, you might want to be holding it in your hand versus the pastry just sitting on a plate; or, if you see a sign on a path, framing the photo with your feet in the shot can turn a picture of a sign on the ground into a memory of you standing on that particular street . Whatever type of device you’re using, taking a picture of your hand or feet adds a little more you into a picture that may have otherwise been taken by someone else.

I find hand or feet  photos really easy to snap when I’ve already got my camera or iPhone out while exploring a new city. For those that might not love being in front of the camera, it’s a much more subtle way of capturing yourself in places around the world!

Buy a photo tour or go on a private tour

Photo tours are increasing in popularity and availability in many cities around the world, where you purchase a tour that someone (usually a photographer who knows that they’re doing) will take photos of you in a variety of locations. While I haven’t done this myself and they can be a little pricey, they are an option available for anyone that doesn’t want to take their chances with their own solo travel photography skills.

Alternatively, there are also options to take private tours. These could be more affordable or relatively similar in pricing to the photography tours. It’s important to keep in mind that standard private tours are not photo-driven tours so while I’m sure the tour guide will gladly snap some photos of you, they aren’t professional photographers.

Best equipment & settings for taking great photos as a solo traveller

Smartphone (iphone or similar).

If you’re armed with a smartphone the best methods for you are taking a selfie or using a selfie stick to widen the frame of your photo, which will allow more of the background into the shot. Since almost everyone owns some sort of smartphone nowadays, asking a stranger to take a photo with yours should be relatively straight-forward.

Best ways to get the shot:

• Burst mode: This is where instead of taking just one photo, the camera takes multiple shots within a few seconds, thus giving you a selection of photos to choose from rather than just the one picture.. This is a great option when asking a stranger to take your photo . Burst mode is an option on most smartphones but how you activate it differs between models and brands. (If you’re unsure, a quick Google will tell you how to utilise the function on your phone).
• Use a Tripod and/ or selfie stick:  Using one of these accessories will help you get more of yourself in the shot, as well as help you achieve a more desirable angle of what’s behind you.
• A general wireless remote: Usually a small device, that connects to your device through bluetooth, with a button that activates the shutter on your camera, phone or action camera.
• Smart watch: If you have a smart watch, some of these can connect to your phone and act as a shutter button and remote viewfinder, as well as adjust other settings while you stay in position.

Go Pro (or similar)

GoPros are a versatile device because they are super small and compact. They are great for taking selfies , and you can change the settings so that it shoots with a wide field of view, which means you can capture a lot more of what’s behind you. There’s a variety of selfie sticks or handles that can assist you with getting that perfect shot, or you can attach the device to a tripod. There are even selfie stick/ tripod combination tools that you can buy. GoPros are generally pretty easy to use in terms of capturing a shot, so  asking a stranger to take your picture won’t be too difficult to explain either.

•  Video + photo mode:  While in the video mode, you can also set an interval to take a still photo. If the photo captured isn’t what you were shooting for, you’ll also have the opportunity to use any of the stills from the video. To do this, you’ll need to pause the video at the exact time you want to extract the still and take a screenshot.
• Using the wifi connection and the “Capture” app on your phone: Most of the newer GoPros have an inbuilt in WiFi function, which means you can easily connect your GoPro to your phone through GoPro’s official app. This will allow you to operate the GoPro remotely and take your picture from a distance. The app will also show you a live preview, which helps ensure you’ve got the composition of your photo how you want it.

The Insta360 is another versatile device, that, similar to the GoPro, are super small and compact. What makes the Insta360 such a great companion for solo travellers is that they have 360-degree image and video function, making it even easier to take selfies and get all your surroundings in the one shot. Through editing, you can even reframe your photo or video from the 360 view. With the Insta360, you can utilise on of their  invisible selfie sticks, which are exactly as the name suggests invisible in your image. There are even invisible selfie stick/ tripod combination options for the Insta360.

Digital or DSLR camera

My go-to device for taking my solo travel photos is my DSLR. I prefer the image quality over my other devices, and while it’s a bulkier to carry around that some of the other options, you can also make the most of flat and elevated surfaces because a camera, such as a bulky DSLR, can easily stand up by itself (unlike a smartphone or Insta360).

• Self-timer:  This one’s been around for awhile, but basically you’ll change your camera’s settings so that it will have a delay between the time you press the button to the time the camera’s shutter fires. This allows you to swiftly move into position and capture yourself in the picture.
• Self-timer with multiple shots:  This method is the same as above except it will take more than one photo giving you a selection of photos to choose from rather than just the one picture.
• Multiple shots:  Similarly to how it works with the self-timer, it can also be a good idea when you’re having a stranger take your photo to place the setting on multiple shots. This means that you’ll again have a selection of photos to choose from, which I find really useful because, like I mentioned earlier, I usually have my eyes shut more than they’re open.
• Wireless remote: Remotes can be bought specifically for certain devices, which are basically a portable substitute for the shooting button on your camera. The allows you to step away from the camera and avoid racing against the self-timer. All you have to do is get in position, simply click a remote shutter release! Tip: You can also use the multiple shots setting with your remote. 
• You can also use the multiple shots setting through the app. 
• Keep in mind that using the WiFi remote can be draining on the batteries of both devices so I often bring a spare camera battery and portable charger for my phone.

How to overcome feeling self-conscious about taking photos of yourself as a solo traveller

I won’t lie, even after all these years, I still feel a bit uncomfortable taking photos of myself in public (especially when I whip out my tripod).

Some people have no issue taking selfies or setting up their tripods; and I would love that confidence. Back in 2017, I was really stepping outside my comfort zone trying to snap my first solo travel photo at the Eiffel Tower. I had my huge tripod all set up and it caught a lot of harmless attention. It was mostly just people curious about what I was doing, but I didn’t like the eyes on me. Now, I just get used to being uncomfortable and incorporate the tips you’re about to read below into my game plan.

Here are some of the things I put into play that you can too:

• Get an early start: Not only will there be fewer people around, but seeing certain monuments and landmarks early in the morning means that you can enjoy it without the busy crowds.
• Practice patience: In certain places, people will come in waves. If you have patience, wait for people to walk by or finish taking their photos and then you’ll likely have the area to yourself for short bursts of time. This won’t necessarily be an option for all places you visit, especially popular attractions.
• Get comfortable being uncomfortable:  If all else fails, learn to embrace the discomfort. Having that photo for a lifetime outweighs the momentary discomfort of any stranger’s stares or judgement. Sometimes it’s good to remember that these are people who you’ll likely never see again and what they think of a stranger taking a photo of themselves really doesn’t matter.

Now that you have ideas for ways to take photos of yourself while travelling solo, here are some pose ideas if, like me, you feel awkward being in front of the camera. I’ve also noted what equipment was used and how each photo was taken for reference. I’d also like to note that any photos taken by another person, likely could have also been achieved with a standard tripod.

Walking poses

Standing poses

Sitting poses

Back of the head poses

Poses that match the locations

But regardless of how good your poses, equipment, accessories or confidence might be, you’ll probably end up with some photos like these…

• When you ask someone to take your picture, always pick that person with care – I usually go for someone who looks similar to me (another tourist who, as I mentioned above, looks like they know what they’re doing with a camera, not only because they’ll likely know how to take a photo using my camera but they might be less likely to run away with it.)
• Be mindful of where you set up your tripod and be aware of who is around you.
• Keep any other other valuables on you.
• I always try to be within arms reach of my tripod if I’m in a crowded or busy area, such as the Eiffel Tower (hence why most of my shots are close ups of the back of my head).
• Trust. Your. Gut. Always. Just like in any other situation when travelling solo, if something doesn’t feel right – don’t risk it.

A short, sharp summary on how to take photos yourself as a solo traveller:

Ways to take photos of yourself as a solo traveller:

• Utilise a tripod
• Utilise a selfie stick
• Take a outreached-arm selfie
• Utilise surfaces available around you
• Take photos of your hand and foot in the image
• Go on a photoshoot tour or private tour

Accessories that’ll help you get the photos you want:

• A tripod will help you frame your shots and achieve angles just like you could with another person taking your photo
• Selfie sticks will help you to get more of the background in your photos and they won’t be such close-ups of your face
• Wireless remotes will help you activate the shutter button from a distance to avoid having to use the dreaded self-timer
• Utilise your camera or action camera’s apps on your smart phone as a remote viewfinder and shutter button, which allows you to frame and take your photo from a distance.
• Utilise your smartwatch to connect with your smart phone as a remote viewfinder and shutter button, which allows you to frame and take your photo from a distance.

Settings to use on your devices to make snapping the photo easier:

• On devices that offer it, utilise burst mode, which takes multiple shots instead of one.
• Alternatively, you can use the self-timer mode on your devices.

How do you take photos of yourself as a solo traveller? 

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I’m Haylee, a shy solo female traveller hoping to see as much of the world as I can - and hoping to inspire you to do the same.

I’m all about bucket list destinations, as well as uncovering lesser-known places. When I'm not travelling, you'll find me adventuring here at home in Western Australia.

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18 Comments

I’ve been wanting to take more selfies for my social media pages, and it’s always difficult when I’m alone. Thanks for sharing the useful equipment and helpful ideas.

Great ideas! We get the coolest pics from using random objects to prop our phones up for pics on hikes!

These tips would be pretty helpful for solo travelers. I totally agree that the universally accepted favor we can ask a stranger is to take our pic. Wonderful read!

As a solo traveller, this is a problem I have all the time. Some of these methods I use but it was good to be reminded of other ways of getting that pic in fabulous locations.

Great post! Love the photos! Thanks for sharing.

Love these creative ideas for capturing solo photos.

Those are really great tips! I personally use a Bluetooth remote connected to my phone; so glad I discovered this!

What a helpful and insightful article! I always love taking photos and it’s always so fulfilling when you can do it yourself! I agree that having a tripod is a life-saver when taking photos of yourself!

As a fellow solo traveller, this is so helpful! Love the pose suggestions.

Thanks, Bri! Glad you found it useful 🙂

Very useful post. Gave me some great ideas for the future, including the hand and feet selfie and burst mode.

Love this post! It really is so hard. I tend to a ask a lot of randoms but on a bigger trip in the future I will absolutely be using a tripod! http://www.thefashionablephysician.com

This is such a helpful post, I’m heading off on my first solo trip and I’m just thinking I’ll end up with a ton of selfies haha! I’ll definitely be taking a tripod with me! xo

Love this! I’ve always had to get creative before I used a tripod. I remember trying to take a selfie in San Francisco and having to put my phone on timer mode, while resting it on my bag. Straight-up MacGuyver!

I hate those selfies with the squeezed lips. 😃😆😆I always having problem shooting my own photos! Thank you!! Great tips.

Thanks for all tips! I just started vlogging and can relate to the feeling of taking selfies. Walking around with a camera talking to it feels so weird but Im getting there.

I always struggle with this too – great advice! and I take a LOT of shots of myself with a tripod and always feel soooo awkward but I’m slowly learning to not care and just roll sighot!

I’ve always wondered how solo travellers take such epic shots! I’m quite lucky that I can travel with my husband but I tend to set the shot up for him and he just presses the button 🙂

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10 Solo Travel Photography Tips

September 30, 2021

The question I receive the most on social media is, “how do you have photos of yourself if you are traveling alone?” Honestly, I had the same question when I began traveling solo (which was way before phones had the fantastic camera features they have now!) Luckily, there are many options for solo travelers to capture their special moments during their trips, and I have compiled the list below of my favorite travel photography tips and tricks for you.

Hire a professional

Hiring a professional photographer may not be an option for everyone, but they are worth the investment if you can!

• Search the location on social media, find a photographer whose photos you like, and reach out to them.
• Use websites like shootmytravel.com , Flytographer.com , or Airbnb Experience s to find local photographers.

Ask for Help

Have a photo taken of you the old-fashioned way by asking a stranger to take the picture for you. I tend to look for people who are either holding a nice camera, taking photos, or trying to take selfies and then I will offer to take the photo for them and ask them to take a picture of me in return.

Advanced Selfie

The advanced selfie is a term created by the digital creator Sorelle Amore and is the art of taking a self-portrait. The trick to mastering the advanced selfie is to practice. You can begin by simply using your phone or camera and putting it on a self-timer. You can also use tools such as tripods, remote shutter clickers (or an iWatch for iPhone users.) I will go into detail about more camera accessories below.

On-site Professional Photographer

If you are going on a cruise or to an all-inclusive resort, most likely, they will have an on-site photographer available. I like to reach out to the location and speak directly with the photographer before I arrive to discuss locations, time, outfits, and prices. The good thing about this option is they most likely will charge per photo rather than by the hour.

iPhone Tips

Apologies in advance to Android users, but I am only familiar with iPhones. The iPhone technology has increased to the point where you no longer need a fancy camera if you want to capture some quick shots during your trip. Some photography tips for the iPhone are:

• Shoot in Live Mode. This feature lets you change the keyframe of your photo in case you blink or not smiling for a split second.
• Use Portrait Mode to achieve professional-looking photos.
• Opening your photo in your camera roll of one taken with portrait mode
• Click “edit” on the top right.
• Click the “f” on the top left.
• Adjust the slider on the bottom
• Use the self-timer to take group or self portraits.

Posing can be awkward at first, but once you get the hang of it, it can be a lot of fun learning your angles and poses you enjoy. Some tips to keep in mind are:

• Create angles with your body.
• Practice in the mirror to learn which poses look best for you.
• Make yourself big by creating distance from your body with your arms or legs.
• Smile for real… seriously, have fun, and try to enjoy the moment genuinely. The photos where I have a massive smile on my face are always my favorite.
• Holding a prop like a purse, drink, hat, or whatever you’d like
• Put one hand on your hips and the other straight down.
• Blissfully throw your hands in the air.
• Use your pockets
• Gently touch your face or hair.
• Create movement by swinging your dress or skirt in the air (my favorite move!)

Time of Day

The time of day is critical for photography in general, but especially for solo photography. For any photoshoot, you want to try to maximize Golden Hour. Golden hour is the time of day when the sun is rising, and the sun is setting and creates the most flattering light for photos. Another benefit of taking pictures at sunrise is the reduced number of people early in the morning. I feel more comfortable pulling out my tripod and taking photos of myself when there aren’t crowds of people nearby. Check your weather app to see the hours for sunrise and sundown so you can plan your photo sessions accordingly.

Research Locations

Instead of figuring out where to take photos when you arrive at your destination, do research online of where you would like your photos to take place. Search the location or popular hashtags for your destination and see where other people took their photos. I recommend making a folder in your phone for each destination so you can plan how you want to shoot your photo once you arrive.

Outfit Planning

Along with planning where you want to take your photos, it is also a good idea to plan what outfit you want to wear at each location. Once again, pay attention to other people’s pictures and outfits to inspire your photoshoot. I like to wear complementary or opposite colors of the area I am photographing. Remember, you get to be whoever you want to be, so if you’re going to wear a ball gown in the middle of Times Square, go for it!

Accessories

Accessories are my favorite topic because I love gadgets and gizmos, and there are so many fun options!

(please note: the below items contain Amazon affiliate links, which generate a small commission when used to purchase items referenced)

• 360 Degree Camera: Insta360 One X2
• Smaller Digital Camera: Olympus Pen EPL-9
• SLR Camera: Canon Rebel T7
• Action Camera: GoPro Hero 9
• Selfie stick with tripod
• 10ft invisible selfie stick for Insta360 camera
• Bluetooth remote shutter
• View all accessories here

I hope you enjoyed these tips, and you are ready to go out and start taking photos of yourself! If you do take some self-portraits based on these tips, please tag #onegirltravelpics so I can see them!

Check out more photography posts here:

“Why don’t you take a picture, it will last longer” – One Girl Travel

Portrait of the Solo Traveler – One Girl Travel

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7 Ways to Get Great Photos of Yourself During Solo Travel

Posted on Published: April 28, 2021  - Last updated: March 4, 2023

One common problem for those of us who travel solo is getting pictures of ourselves while traveling. For many of us who are drawn to solo travel, capturing the perfect selfie staged in front of famous destinations like the Taj Mahal, the Eiffel tower, or Buckingham Palace may feel like a lower priority than the average traveler.

Despite this, most of us feel the draw to having our picture taken at these iconic destinations. Perhaps it’s a desire to create a record, like a travel scrapbook , that will serve as a later in life reminder of our adventurous travels- or perhaps we simply oblige photos in order to provide our loved ones back home with the occasional “proof of life” photo to assure them that we are doing well.

Whatever your motivation for seeking out better ways to get photographs of yourself while solo traveling, you aren’t the first to wonder. Thankfully, there’s no shortage of options for getting great travel photographs of yourself if you are creative and/or willing to reach out to other travelers for help.

In this article, I am reviewing nine solo travel-tested ways to get great photographs of yourself while traveling alone.

1. Elevate your standard selfie for better solo travel photography

Even if you choose to stick with selfies taken with your camera’s front-facing lens, there are ways to improve your selfie game and even some strategies to include more of your destination in the backdrop of your photograph. Rather than reinvent the wheel and described the tips I’ve learned about taking good self-portraits while traveling, I recommend checking out this guide to taking better selfies .

TIP: good selfies while traveling often require holding your phone out over open water or a steep drop-off- and in crowded areas, selfies may expose your phone to snatch and run style theft. Help prevent both by investing a few dollars in a phone wrist strap .

2. Ask a fellow traveler to take your photo

When it comes to getting photographs of yourself traveling alone, one of the best options is the oldest (and for some people, the hardest). It’s asking another traveler to take a photograph. Getting a secondary, real live human to take a picture of you on your trip is arguably the best way to make sure that you get a photograph of yourself with a wide-angle shot of the exciting location behind you.

When it comes to asking strangers to take your photo, though, there are some tips to improving your odds of getting a great shot, read on to learn the top six tips for getting a great photograph of yourself via this method.

(click to hop to tips)

3. Upgrade to a phone with a wide-angle front-facing lens

Although the smartphone industry has been relatively slow to adopt wide-angle front-facing cameras, field of view is slowly increasing. In my opinion, a wide-angle front-facing lens is the best way to get photographs of yourself traveling- the wider angle means more of the background is squeezed into the shot. An additional benefit is that there’s none of the risk that comes with handing over your phone to strangers.

Two phones currently featuring a wide-angle front-facing cameras are the Samsung Galaxy S21 series and the Google Pixel 3 (While there are newer Pixels, Google has rolled back the wide angle front-facing camera for less impressive cameras in recent models)

Check the specs on your smartphone’s front-facing camera by googling your phone model and the phrase “front facing camera field of view” (often abbreviated FoV). Look for a field of vision of at least 90° and ideally closer to 120° in order to fit more of your background into the frame.

4. Pack a tripod and wireless shutter button

Some travelers who are serious about their travel photography pack a tripod and a wireless shutter button. Alternately, an Apple watch can pair with other Apple products to function as a remote shutter.

While I previously used a time delay in lieu of a remote shutter, many phones now have the technology to recognize a pose and automatically snap a photo. On Google phones, this is the A (for automatic) setting within selfie mode. You phone’s voice assistant may also respond to commands like “Hey Google, take a selfie.”

Avoid using a tripod in a crowded location. Not only is it easy for someone to swipe your phone, camera, or tripod but also because you’ll be distracted and unaware of your surroundings – which can potentially open you up to more serious personal threat.

5. Use a selfie stick

Selfie sticks get a bad rap. When it comes to traveling solo to destinations known for scammers, grab and run theft, and property crimes, a selfie stick is often the best way to get a photograph of both yourself and your backdrop without entrusting your valuable phone or camera to a stranger. When visiting high-crime destinations like Rome, Carnival in Rio de Janeiro, or the Taj Mahal, a selfie stick is a much better choice than risking your technology by handing it over to someone you do not know.

6. Book a professional photoshoot

A professional photoshoot might be more accessible than you think. Increasingly, brief professional photography sessions are available at a reasonable price through Airbnb Experiences.

I can say from first-hand experience that this is a great way to get a photograph of yourself during solo travel. Not only will you receive professional quality, well-lit, and well framed photos- you’ll also get the benefit of sustainable travel via supporting a small business and benefit from meeting an expert who can guide you in the very best places and times of day to get shots that are both iconic and unique.

Depending on your destination, it may be far more affordable than you think! I had a two-hour photoshoot and received several hundred photographs for around US$75 in Budapest, Hungary in 2019. Other travelers report photoshoot rates ranging from around 40 USD to 100 USD in various popular destinations.

Booking a photoshoot is also a great way to deal with solo travel loneliness. The photoshoot means that you’ll get to hang out with another English-speaking person for a few hours, where you can enjoy the company of a local and get hints on local secrets for food and sightseeing.

7. Join a group tour

Group tours have some benefits, especially in locations that are difficult to visit solo like those that require a long treck or a boat ride to access. One of the extra benefits of going on a guided group tour is that you’ll always have someone to take photographs of you.

Even if no one else in the group offers to take your photograph, typically good tour guides are trained to offer this service and do a pretty decent job of framing a good shot.

Tips for finding a stranger to take your photograph in a public place:

1. People watch for a few minutes before approaching someone to take your photograph.

2. Safer choices are other tourists (bonus point if they have a professional camera which might indicate some good photo framing skills) or those lingering in the area with children.

3. If you’re shy to ask for someone to take your photograph, look for someone else taking selfies and offer to take their photograph. It breaks the ice, and when you’re done you can ask them to take your photograph.

4. Some travelers report getting the best photographs when they ask a teenage girl to take the photos. Teens who grew up with social media tend to know how to frame a photo with good angles.

5. If you’re in a city, high-traffic area, or popular tourist destination, consider looking for a woman wearing high heels and asking them to take your photograph. A woman in heels is very unlikely to make a run for it with your valuable phone or camera!

6. If you’re exchanging a photo-taking favor with another solo traveler, offer to go first. Take some time, take their photographs in the way that you would like your photograph to be taken, and then show them the photographs that you took on their phone. Your care in taking their photograph, and giving them a reference of what you think a “good photo” looks like increases your odds that they will take the time and care to take good photographs of you in return.

Lynli Roman’s unique approach to travel is informed by decades of experience on the road with a traveling family and, later, years spent as a solo international traveler. When she’s not writing about Seattle from her Pike Place Market apartment, Lynli writes on-location while conducting hands-on research in each destination she covers. Lynli’s writing has been featured by MSN, ABC Money, Buzzfeed, and Huffington Post. She is passionate about sharing information that makes travel more accessible for all bodies.

How to take solo travel photos (Step by Step Guide)

I get asked this question every day in a variety of forms. Who takes your photos if you travel solo? Is a common way to phrase the question, which sometimes feels more like an accusation than I question *sigh*. But regardless, I do travel solo. And I do take my own solo travel photos.

The truth is, I have mastered the art of the solo travel photo.

I guess that’s what I have to show for ten years of solo adventures with yours truly – across Europe, Africa, Asia, North America, South America, Oceania and the Middle East. Hey, I’m not complaining.

But if you want to know *exactly* how to take your own solo travel photos that can end up in magazines and on book covers, read on! And if you want to read my book, click here .

Step One: Buy this Tripod

It’s no secret that you’ll need the tools of the trade to take the best solo travel photos you are capable of. But the good news is, the best is not always the most expensive. In fact, you’ll just need to buy this tripod on Amazon to easily take your own solo travel photos.

The best tripods for solo travel photos

For photos on your iPhone – The cheapest option is this phone tripod for $15 .

For photos on a DSLR – You’ll need a sturdier option like this tripod for $39 .

Both of these tripods come with all the necessary attachments for your phone and/or camera, plus the all important Bluetooth remote. Which brings me to step two.

Step Two: Link your Bluetooth Remote

Taking your own solo travel photos is way easier when you have a Bluetooth remote. For years I used my iPhone as a remote (by connecting it to my Sony A7iii camera ). However in recent travels, I have switched over to this small Bluetooth remote that comes included with both of the tripods I linked above.

I cannot overstate the importance of the Bluetooth remote.

This little remote allows you to click away in your hands and take as many photos as you so please in just a few seconds. Better yet: no one will ever know you’re using a remote!

Step three: Take photos in the early hours of the morning

Another common question I get asked is “ don’t you get afraid someone will steal your camera? “

The easiest way to ensure that doesn’t happen is to venture out in the mornings, just as the sun is rising and capture photos of the city you are visiting before the city wakes up. You will enjoy these locations almost always to yourself, get the best light for taking photos, and seize the day by starting early. That’s a triple win!

Step four: Use Video instead of Photos

Another great way to get candid looking photos of yourself is to click the video function instead of capturing still photos. That way you can just walk naturally in the frame, pause and screenshot on an image you like. For this I would recommend upgrading to the latest model of iPhone as the camera quality is *chef’s kiss* top notch.

Step five: Walk away from the camera

One of my signature ways to capture a destination is to flip the idea of a “tourist photo” on its head. Instead of facing the frame, I walk away from it. And you might be wondering: yeah, but why?

Walking away from the frame gives the viewer/audience the perception that they are there in the photo with you. It allows them to focus on the destination instead of the person in the photo.

This is a great way to take PRO solo travel photos that can end up being purchased, splashed on magazines (like my feature in ELLE US or my 6-page spread in Cosmopolitan – pinch me!!!)

Step six: Use a Drone

Sometimes the destination I am trying to photograph is better seen from a higher point than where I am physically standing. In these instances, you’ll want to swap the tripod setup for a drone.

As you can see in this photo, my left hand is holding the drone remote taking the photos. I make a point of keeping my right hand free so the pose looks casual and not staged. Et voila!

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Brooke Saward founded World of Wanderlust as a place to share inspiration from her travels and to inspire others to see our world. She now divides her time between adventures abroad and adventures in the kitchen, with a particular weakness for French pastries.

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Photoshoot Ideas & Photography Tips for Solo Travelers

We live in the age of the phrase, if there’s no picture, did it ever really happen? If you take a solo vacation, you may feel awkward asking others to take pictures of you or using a selfie stick/self-timer to capture moments. Solo travel no longer means you have to compromise on capturing amazing photos– you really can have it all as a solo traveler.

Below we’ll cover some photography tips for solo travelers, some solo photoshoot ideas, and how to book a local photographer at your destination to capture epic solo travel photos.

Photography Tips for Solo Travelers

Traveling solo can be such a liberating experience. You have more freedom to choose where and when you go and it can often be cheaper too. But how do you capture those memories in photo form like those traveling with other people? Even in the modern craze of the selfie, we can’t always record the true essence of actually being somewhere unless we sacrifice not being in the photo ourselves.

Get a Travel Tripod

Tripods are a must for any photographer. Ensuring your camera is steady makes for the perfect photo.

You might think that dragging along a tripod everywhere will be painful, especially if you are backpacking and are carrying your life on your back. However, tripods have come a long way since the beginning days of photography. There are many lightweight and foldable options out there that are perfect for your own photoshoot as a solo traveler. Our favorite ones are:

• The Pocket Tripod – It fits inside your wallet!
• The Joby Gorillapod – Best all-around travel tripod
• Peak Design Travel Tripod – Great for professional travel photographers with DSLRs

Adding a remote (hopefully wireless) will then make your tripod your new travel bestie as you can set up the backdrop and get into the photo, and with one click on the remote, your perfect shot is taken.

Learn Your Camera’s Settings

There are some amazing features on your camera that I bet you don’t know about. Or you know about them but haven’t spent the time getting to know how to use them.

Before you set off on your solo travels or when you purchase a new camera, practice using the functions and settings before you go. There is nothing worse than being somewhere as spectacular as the Statue of Liberty and then needing to figure out how to set the self-timer. Practice with still and moving objects as well as during different times of the day so you can get to know the settings of your camera in different types of lighting.

A feature that is very useful for solo travelers is the ‘self-timer continuous’ feature. As it states, it is a self-timer, allowing the camera to be set ready for you to jump in the photo. And by adding the continuous burst feature, you can ..literally jump in the photo! A continuous burst tasks 5+ photos in quick succession – then all you need to do is pick the best image.

Or at least do everything in your power to avoid the tourist hot spots when it is crowded. As travelers, we have an ideal image of how we want our vacation photos to look. For most people, we want a physical reminder of being somewhere amazing.

Often those amazing places are THE places to go at your chosen destination, so it is best to plan and research before going. Find out the busiest times of that attraction and avoid that time! As a solo traveler, taking photos can be tricky anyway but if you don’t need to navigate crowds then your photoshoot will be just how you imagined it.

Hire a Local Photographer

Consider hiring a professional photographer in your destination. They will be able to bring all their own gear and can do all the hard work while you enjoy creating those moments. You are guaranteed the image you need as they will work with you to create the perfect photoshoot that will tell the story of your solo travel adventure.

Gain a Friend

By hiring a local photographer, no matter where in the world you are, you’ll essentially have a friend to venture around with for a bit! Your solo photographer will capture any fun, silly, candid, and extraordinary moments– plus, he or she can offer tips for the most picture-perfect memory-making! Use your photographer as a resource to get to know the city you’re visiting even better. Plus, they’ll have some excellent solo photoshoot ideas such as the best photo spots and the poses that work best. They may even have recommendations for local tour guides, pub crawls, etc.

Feel like a Star

Imagine browsing local markets in France, running on the beach in Spain, or simply walking the streets of Manhattan– and having a photographer with ninja-like skills there to capture every moment along the way! It’ll be like having your very own paparazzi– without the fear of being photographed doing something ridiculous, or scandalous even! Your solo photographer won’t impede your space or make you feel awkward– you won’t even have to worry about striking a pose. Just have fun and enjoy your me-time.

Epic Solo Traveler Photos

Hiring a solo photographer is no longer reserved for weddings, bar mitzvahs, or baby showers– now, more and more travelers are hiring photographers for solo photoshoot ideas and to capture moments that they would have otherwise been unable to. You’ll finally return home with epic vacation photos, instead of awkward selfies or poorly framed photos that were taken by a stranger.

Solo Photoshoot Ideas

There’s something about traveling alone that we love – it’s exciting, liberating, and a haven for self-exploration. With no one else to worry about or sync up your schedule with, you are truly free to explore wherever, whenever you’d like! Some may think a downfall to solo travel is that there is no one around to share memories and capture photos with– but that doesn’t have to be the case!

Get Creative

There is no rule that states your whole body or face need to be in your photos. You know what you look like so why not create a memory of you “doing” something rather than an awkward pose or smile.

Think of how you are seeing something through your eyes. As you lift that coffee or wine to your lips, what is the view? Capture that. Laying on a beach? Capture just your feet in the sand.

A great way to take these types of photos is by using a selfie stick. Selfie sticks are not just for mobile phones, with some cameras being able to also use a similar function. Solo travelers can then capture that shot of walking across a famous bridge from behind (think the iconic Brooklyn Bridge) or capture a wider view of a crowded area (think the steps in Times Square). Images of the back of your head can add a dimension to your photos that take you back to that exact moment even years later.

Make it an action shot

Traveling solo? Invest in a GoPro for those adventurous moments. Action shots can really capture emotion and tell a story that a posed photo can’t.

GoPro’s can also up your photo game by allowing you to take underwater photos. They are also a great alternative to a regular camera due to their shockproof features.

Consider taking stills from a video that you can capture with a GoPro too. By using an extender (similar to a selfie stick) you can wander jungles and walk through shallow waters and capture those solo travel moments.

Use reflective surfaces

Not everyone wants to approach a stranger to ask them to take a photo. (FYI – most other travelers LOVE helping solo travelers out). If you are one of those people, then think outside the box and use a reflective surface to add some wow to your photos and capture that moment.

Shop windows in the right light make for great assistants on your solo travels. At the right angle, you can get into the shot with a recognizable building or landmark like the famous Bull of Wall Street. The shot will then have a flair that other people may not have – an especially handy trick if you are planning to create a travel blog or Instagram.

Reflections from water can also be a fun and interesting way to record your memories as a solo traveler.

Hiring a Local Professional Photographer

Book a fun experience with a local professional photographer who knows all the best photo spots, when the best lighting will be, and how to beat the crowds to capture magical moments without tons of other tourists in the background. Not only will they take amazing solo travel photos, but will edit them to be beautiful photo souvenirs you’ll treasure for years to come.

Sometimes solo travel can be the best way to see the world… but it can be hard to capture your trip when traveling alone. Connecting with a local photographer for solo photoshoot ideas can be the solution to your problems! You get to meet a local who’ll help capture your travel memories and offer photography tips. You’ll also get some unique insight into the city you’re visiting that only a local could know.

Check out the best photographers for a solo photoshoot in the top destinations in the world, such as:

• New York City
• Mexico City
• The Bahamas
• Maui, Hawaii
• Cabo San Lucas

What’s included in a solo photoshoot package?

With every solo photography package, you’ll get high-resolution photos that are professionally edited and delivered by email in a private online gallery within 5 business days. In your gallery, you will be able to see all the photos from your solo photoshoot and get to download a certain number of your favorites, depending on your package. It also includes:

• one-on-one planning with your photographer
• a private online gallery
• high-resolution photos that are professionally edited
• photos delivered within 5 days

Hiring a vacation photographer for your solo journey doesn’t mean you’re narcissistic– it’s a fun way to document a trip that’s sure to be a memorable one! Local Lens has captured solo vacations in over 100 cities around the world. These photos are great for sharing your trip with friends and family on social media, bloggers, or for updating a dating profile.

How much does a solo photoshoot cost?

Prices vary by city, ensuring you the best rates.  High-resolution photos are professionally edited and delivered by email in a private online gallery within 5 business days. Choose between 4 different photo packages:

• 30 minutes – Includes 15 digital photos
• 1 hour – Includes 30 digital photos
• 90 minutes – Includes 45 digital photos
• 2 hours – Includes 60 digital photos

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Solo travel photography tips: how to take travel photos of yourself.

I used to feel really uncomfortable taking photos of myself while traveling solo. In fact, my first solo trip to Ireland was a myriad of pretty terrible selfies. There are way too many photos with half of my arm in it, my smiling face taking up most of the frame and just a sliver of a pretty backdrop. Over time, I realized that if I wanted better solo travel photos, I’d have to simply get over myself and learn how to take better pictures. So, through learning some great solo travel photography tips to up my game I’ve ended up with some pretty badass photos from my tips.

No place is boring if you’ve had a good night’s sleep, and a pocket full of unexposed film – Robert Adams

How I Take Travel Photos Alone

I’m going to share with you all of the details for how I take pictures of myself when I travel solo, including safety tips you need to consider. But I want to give you a brief overview of my process so that you can keep it in the back of your mind when reading the rest of this post .

Scout the Location

• Set up Tripod
• Connect Camera to Phone or Wireless Remote
• Put myself in the frame
• Select Burst Mode
• Select 10 second self timer
• Click the shutter
• Pose my ass off

I am a partner with Amazon Affiliates, which means that if you click on a link and decide to make a purchase, I will earn a commission, at no additional cost to you!

My Solo Travel Photography Kit

I spent the majority of 2020 improving my photography skills. It was something I could do that allowed me to get outside, be creative, and maintain social distance. During this time I took a travel photography course , upgraded my gear, purchased new lenses, shot all the time, and built a nice little photography kit.

I might’ve gone a bit crazy, purchasing multiple lenses at once, but I learned which lenses I like for different scenarios.

When I go out to shoot here’s what I bring :

• Sony A7ii: I am in LOVE with this camera. There was a bit of a learning curve as I switched from Canon, but I am so happy with it now that I know how to use it. Purchase it here on Amazon.
• Tamron 17-28mm : I LOVE a wide angle lens, especially when I’m shooting in the city. I can put my tripod just off the side walk and still be able to capture the entire building behind me without cutting anything off. It’s also great for landscapes! Purchase it here on Amazon.
• Tamron 70-300mm : This lens is heavy and a bit bulky, but I love the compression it gives. I use it for shots where I want the view to appear close behind me. This does mean that I have to put the tripod MUCH further away from me so a remote shutter is necessary as is making sure no one is around to steal it. Purchase it here on Amazon .
• Sony 28-70mm : This is the kit lens and it does a really nice job. If I only want to bring one lens with me, this is the one I’ll bring. Purchase it here on Amazon .
• Cell Phone : I recently upgraded from the iPhone 8 to the 13 and OMG. My mind is blown at how well this phone takes photos. I also use it as a remote shutter.
• Manfrotto Compact Action Tripod : I’ve had this for AGES. It’s held up so well with all of the crazy places I’ve set it up. Purchase it here on Amazon .
• Cleaning Kit : I recommend learning how to clean your camera and lenses before shooting. Or taking it to a local camera shop every now and then for them to do it. But if you get dust on the lens, a cleaning kit will help you quickly remove it and get back to shooting. These usually come with a kit or a lens, but if not, you can purchase this one here.
• Spare battery : I’ve definitely left my house to go shoot only to pull out my camera to find the battery dead or not even there! I always keep a fully charged battery in my camera backpack.
• Spare memory card : The same thing happens consistently with my memory card. I always leave it attached to my computer when I go out to shoot so I have a couple of spares in my backpack. Although, you could easily stop at a Walgreens or CVS to pick on up in a pinch.
• Portable charger : Pairing your camera and phone over WiFi drains the battery quite quickly on both devices. So be sure to carry a strong portable charger. Purchase it here on Amazon.
• Backpack : I got this BagSmart backpack off of Amazon to hold my kit so I could just grab and go. But to be honest, it’s a bit bulky and awkward so I’m still in the market for a good camera gear backpack that can hold everything and still be cute!

Prior to this gear upgrade I was using a Canon Rebel and the kit lens that came with it. It did just fine while on the road!

Do you really need all this gear?

Honestly, I am SO HAPPY with the way my iPhone 13 takes photos. It’s actually the only camera I brought with me on a weekend trip to Hawaii. That is the first trip in 3 years when I have not taken my actual camera!

I still got AMAZING photos.

So, yea. Unless you’re trying to become a professional photographer , all you really need is a solid camera phone and a cheap cell phone tripod from Amazon and you’re good to go!

How to Take Pictures When Traveling Alone: Technical Tips

The first section of this post, I’m going to break down my strategy for taking solo travel photos. We’ll talk tripods , shutters , and how to find someone to help you take your own photos .

One of my top travel tips is to take a free walking tour which will show me all of the highlights and hopefully some hidden gems of the destination.

These tours help get the a vibe of the city that I’d like to try to capture. During this tour, I’ll also make note in my Google Maps of the places I want to revisit to photograph.

I tend to keep my eye out for less touristy places because when I take pictures solo, I use my tripod and I get very nervous about someone stealing it as I walk in front for the photo.

I’ll definitely walk down a random cobble stone street with no one around to set up for a photo before I do it in front of a heavily trafficked area.

This also gives you a chance to see some unique places or find different angles of well photographed locations .

However, if I am trying to get a really popular location, I’ll ask someone on the walking tour to take the photo as we pass by and cross my fingers it turns out (more on this later).

Once I’ve scouted the locations in person, I’ll also use Instagram to find more locations in the area and get some pose ideas .

I’ll then plot out my route to get all of the photos done as quickly as possible and pack a change of clothes. Then I get up early the following morning for an epic photo session. Followed by an epic breakfast and a nap.

Use a Travel Tripod

When I see a solo traveler on Instagram post an epic photo of themselves without fail there is someone in the comment section asking “How did you take that photo when you travel alone”. The answer 99% of the time is a tripod.

A tripod is the best investment to get the shot you want. It might take a little bit of time to set it up, but at least it ensures you’re getting the right angle.

There are a number of tripods out there that will fit any budget and travel style. You could use a small gorilla pod or a full blown tripod .

For the first half of my solo trip, I used a tiny tabletop tripod made by Fotopro . Similar to a gorilla pod but much cheaper. It has rubber legs that can wrap around most things. Mine has been wrapped around trees, edges of bridges, and random posts without any problems. It comes with various attachments but I only travel with the cell phone attachment because my DSLR and GoPro screw into it.

For the second half of my trip, I decided to bring my Manfrotto tripod along. It fit well into my backpack and didn’t add too much weight. The Manfrotto has allowed me to get way more creative with my solo travel pictures !

So, which type is the best travel tripod?

I use my Manfrotto 99.9% of the time and I absolutely love it. I bought it from Best Buy on a whim when I bought my first camera. It’s been in the ocean, on mountaintops, and city alleyways helping me get the best solo travel pictures I can get!

That being said, it may not be right for you. Let’s dive deeper into the pros and cons of each tripod style so you can decide which best fits your budget and travel style.

GorillaPod Style Tripod

• Small & lightweight. Can easily fit into a crossbody purse for the day
• Budget friendly
• Great if you’re using a cell phone only
• May not be able to hold the weight of a DSLR
• If there’s nothing to attach it to at eye level, you may not get the shot you want.
• Generally just harder to get the shot you want

Traditional Tripod

• Can get any angle you want
• Is sturdier & can hold a heavier camera
• Can use it on uneven surfaces like mountains by adjusting the legs at different heights
• Heavier. You’d likely need to carry it in a backpack
• More expensive. To get one that is sturdy and will hold the weight of your camera, it will likely cost at least $60

Now if you only use your cell phone for photos and you want something taller than the gorilla pod, there are great cell phone tripods on Amazon that are tall enough to get most of the angles you’d want. Plus, they double as selfie sticks when all you want to do is send a quick snap to your friends and family back home.

Use the Self Timer

Whether you’re using a camera or cell phone, using the self timer is a necessity . I always set it to 10 seconds so I give myself ample time to get in front of the camera, quickly fix my hair, and set up my pose.

If I’m using my DSLR, I’ll use the self timer in combination with the remote shutter (next section). The extra few seconds gives me time to stash my phone and starting moving back and forth in the frame.

Use a Remote Shutter

The majority of DSLRs these days have remote shutter capabilities that will connect to an app on your phone using the camera’s built in WiFi. I currently use a Sony camera and the corresponding app is Imaging Edge Mobile . Previously I used a Canon which had its own Canon app.

How does that work exactly?

I suggest learning how to do this at home before heading out to shoot because you’ll need to pair your camera and phone together. It can be a bit clunky the first few times you do this.

Find and enable the WiFi on your camera’s menu system. From your phone, connect to the camera’s WiFi network (the name will show on the camera’s screen). If it’s your f irst time enter the password . If it’s not it will connect automatically (as long as you’re not connected to any other WiFi) .

Open the corresponding app on your phone and you’ll be able to see your shot setup on your phone. If you’re shooting in Manual mode you will also be able to adjust the settings on the app.

What I love about using my phone as the remote shutter is I can see myself in the frame which means I can make any adjustments necessary to myself or where the tripod is set up.

Then I turn on the self timer, hit the shutter, stash my phone and get to posing.

I also tend to combine this method with the burst mode on my camera which we will go over next.

One issue with using your phone as the remote shutter is if you go too far from your camera it will disconnect from the WiFi and you’ll have to walk back to reconnect. This can get super annoying especially if you’re trying to get your photo in front of a dramatic landscape.

If you think this will present a problem for you, you can purchase a remote shutter off of Amazon with a longer WiFi range. Just make sure it’s compatible with the type of camera you have.

Use Burst or Continuous Mode

Your camera should have a burst or continuous mode . This means it takes a series of shots in one go.

I like using this because I can take a few walking photos, a few twirling photos, and then just a few regular photos all in one go.

A few issues I’ve encountered using this method however is I can be out of focus if I’m moving too fast. So I try to move slowly and keep my body in the general area where I focused the camera on my phone.

No Tripod? No Problem : How to Take Solo Travel Photos without a Tripod

If you don’t have a tripod, there are other ways to get great solo travel photos. But you’ll have to ask a stranger or two along the way.

Use Your Environment

Ok, let’s say you head out for the day exploring and decide to only bring your cell phone and camera. Then you happen to find a cute alley filled with street art and no tripod to help you get the shot.

Trust me, 9/10 when I decide not to bring my camera and tripod I find something I really want to photograph myself with.

This is when you have to get creative with your surroundings . Prop your phone or camera on a step or a few rocks. Use the lens cap to elevate the lens a bit. Prop it on your backpack.

Just be cautious around water or high ledges where the camera could fall. There’s no point in risking your camera (or your life for that matter) for a photo.

Ask a Stranger

What if you don’t have any of the items mentioned above. The next option is to ask a stranger .

This is often an anxiety-inducing option. What if they say no? Maybe they’ll steal my camera as soon as they have it in their hands? And both things could potentially happen. In my experience, most people will take a photo for you without running off with your camera.

Now whether or not the photo turns out how you want is another story. They might crop your feet off, snap it when your face is doing that weird thing, or cut off the gorgeous building you want the photo of!

That’s why you need to do your best to pick the right person to ask to take your photo.

Here’s how I decide:

• Are they around my age? Most people my age are more than willing to take a photo for me. I can tell them the shot I’m looking for and generally, they get it. They also know what Instagram is, so I usually ask with a joke and say “gotta do it for the ‘gram”… except I’m totally serious.
• Are they trying to take selfies too? If a person is wandering around with a selfie stick attached to their phone, there’s a good chance they will happily oblige your tiny photo session. There’s also less of a likelihood that they will steal your phone.
• Do they have a DSLR as well? If yes, then there is a good chance they know how to work it and can help you achieve your desired photo.
• Do they look like they’re looking for someone to take their photo? Break the ice, offer to take a photo for them. Then ask if they’d take one for you in return. They’ll say yes – it’s good photography karma.

Now that you’ve found someone to take your photo, be quick about it. Tell the unassuming bystander turned photographer what you plan to do in the photo. Then, h elp them get you the best shot you want by framing your photo before asking . Take a photo without you in it, then hand over the camera, show them the landscape and point to where you’ll place yourself.

Ask them to let you know when they’re taking and to just keep snapping because you plan to move through just 2-3 poses . But don’t get greedy here.

Most of the time, people will show you what they got and ask if it’s what you wanted. Honestly, I usually just tell them it’s fine even if it’s not because they were nice enough to help in the first place and I don’t want to take up their time.

I’ll then hang around and wait until they leave to try my luck with someone else.

Remember how I mentioned I used walking tours to help scout locations for photos. Walking tours are also a great way to have someone take your photo.

Most people on walking tours are taking photos as well, so strike up a conversation with someone and ask them to take a quick photo or two during a stop.

But don’t just ignore them after. Keep the conversation going, you might just meet a new friend !

Side note: Walking tours are a great way to meet people when traveling solo.

Alternatively, you could ask the tour guide. When I was in Mexico I took a guided tour of Chichen Itza . The guide took multiple photos of me and even showed me how to get one of me jumping over it. He was down in the grass making sure we got the shot.

Hostels are another great way to make friends traveling solo . Many times, you’ll meet someone to spend the day exploring the area with. Ask them if they’d be willing to take a few photos of you along the way and that you’d return the favor!

When I was in Croatia, I met two girls in the hostel and we went to Plitvice National Park together. We were snapping photos of each other the entire time and even got the ones below. I never would’ve been able to get these perfect photos without them!

On Social Media

Meeting people in real life from the internet might’ve been weird a few years ago, but it’s fairly commonplace now.

I’ve actually become really good friends with a few ladies I met through Instagram and blogging. One of whom I just spent a day taking photos of each other at the best photo locations in San Francisco .

Now, you don’t have to be a blogger or Instagrammer to do this. There are plenty of Facebook groups geared towards solo female travelers. You could simply make a post in one of the groups asking if anyone is in the general area and interested in meeting up to take photos for each other.

Safety Note : Please use common sense when meeting people from the internet. Most of the time it works out just fine, but if you get any bad vibes before you meet or early on in your meeting please remove yourself from the situation. Only meet in public during the day. Don’t tell them where you’re staying and leave the majority of your valuables at home (aside from the camera or phone).

Hire a Local Photographer

Does all of this feel like a lot of work just for a photo? An alternative is to hire a professional (or amateur) photographer to take your photo for you.

I did this in Galway, Ireland.

I’d been to Galway a few times prior and knew I wanted to get a few shots in specific locations. These locations happened to be heavily trafficked and I wasn’t comfortable setting up a tripod.

So, I went on to Airbnb experiences and booked two hours with a local photographer. Some of the pictures she sent weren’t what I was looking for, but the places where I really wanted photos came out perfectly.

Plus, it was fun spending a few hours chatting with someone new in my favorite city.

How to Take Pictures When Traveling Alone: Confidence Tips

Now that you know how to scout the location, some of the gear you’ll need, and alternatives to carrying a tripod around the world, the next step is to get confident in front of the camera . These are my best tips to look like a pro when taking solo travel photos – even if you’re completely faking it.

Ignore other People on the Street

Honestly, the worst part about taking photos when traveling solo is the sometimes weird looks you get from other people on the street.

This is why travel bloggers get up so dang early to get photos (plus the light is better in the morning).

It’s definitely uncomfortable to have people watch you setup a tripod and walk back and forth in front of it trying to get the shot. Remember, it’s not vain, it’s not just for the ‘gram . The photos are to commemorate you taking a huge risk to travel solo.

I personally want to document that to show to my nieces and nephew that they can do this too!

The other aspect of this that I think changed with 2020 is that people are getting more and more used to seeing people taking pictures in public. Especially with the growth of TikTok and people realizing that being a blogger or influencer is a legit business now.

I’ve noticed when I go out to take photos, people no longer stare. They just walk by. I’ve even had people tell me I look good! In fact once, in Poland, I was up at 5:00 am wandering the town for a shot.

I found this gorgeous street with no one around and lined myself up to take the photo. As I walked back to the camera I noticed a guy about my age was watching, but he moved on once I noticed him.

A few hours later and my massive post photo shoot breakfast, I saw him at the same cafe. He came up to me and said that the shot I took was absolutely gorgeous with the way the light, the buildings, and I lined up. That photo is below and is one of my favorites.

That being said – most of the time you’ll never see the people again.

So get in front of the camera and do your thing!

Take Pictures at the Right time of Day

There are two times every single day when the light is perfect for photos, sunrise and sunset . Arrive at least 30 minutes before and stay at least 30 minutes after to capture that variety of light that happens from blue to golden hour.

If you really don’t want onlookers, it’s time to set the alarm and get up early.

I used to do a massive eye roll when I would see some of my favorite travel bloggers waking up at the crack of dawn to take photos. Until I attempted to photograph myself on the Charles Bridge in Prague in the middle of the day – seriously don’t visit the hot tourist spots in the middle of the day in Prague – or anywhere.

I’ve come to thoroughly enjoy the quiet morning hours in a city. Watching it wake up, shops open, and people on their way to work. Plus the lighting is great, I won’t have to edit people out of the shot, and I don’t worry about turning my back to the camera and someone snatching it!

Clearly, I am a sucker for a sunset photo shoot. The light casts this amazing golden hue on everything. The hour before sunset is the best time for photos. You don’t have to get up crazy early and crowds will be thinning out as people head home or to their hotels for dinner.

How to Pose

It’s always good to have a few go to poses so you’re not in front of the tripod or photographer asking them “what do I do with my hands?” . Start practicing these before you head out. I’ve legit put my camera on video and spent an hour practicing poses to see what looks good and what angle my face looks best in. For instance, I really like photos of others when they look up slightly – but I don’t like it on me!

In full transparency I actually do this a few times per year when I feel like my poses are getting stagnant.

Here are a few tried and true poses to use:

• Back to the camera : Literally the easiest pose in the world. You can also look back towards the camera, pop your hand on your head and look up, or just stand there. This is also great post because it puts the viewer in your shoes – so they can really imagine themselves there.
• Candids : Rock that fake laugh! Look directly into the camera and laugh as if it’s just told you the best joke you’ve ever heard.
• Use movement : Movement adds so much to a photo. Run your hand through your hair, fling that skirt out, do a twirl, take a few steps forward and backward to mimic walking, heck even jump!
• Use props : If you’re wearing a scarf or a hat, play with it in the photo. Write in your notebook, hold your matcha mug, or burrito. Anything can be used as a prop if you’re creative enough .

How to Make Your Solo Travel Photos Pop: Editing

Editing can really take a photo from good to great. I use Adobe Lightroom (the desktop and phone versions). The desktop version is paid whereas the mobile version is free. I suggest spending some time learning how to edit with the free version on your phone BEFORE purchasing any presets.

Presets are great but they don’t work on every photo and will require edits once applied to achieve the look you’re after. I have about 100 presets, some that I’ve purchased and some that I’ve created. It’s too many and I only use about 3 of them. Keep your editing process simple and your photos will turn out amazing!

A good app for removing unwanted items in your photo is TouchRetouch . It’s helped me remove random lines and at times people – although that’s a bit more challenging. If you need to remove a lot from your photo, Photoshop is probably the best way to go, but I’m not the person to ask about that. I don’t go beyond Lightroom. 

Safety Tips for Taking Solo Travel Photos

I’ve alluded to staying safe while taking photos throughout this post. But I do want to highlight a few of my top safety tips for taking photos while traveling solo. Unless there is truly no one around me, these are the practices I use to stay safe.

• Keep your valuables on you . Even if you’re handing your camera off to someone else or using a tripod for the photo keep your IDs, money, credit card, passport on you. Don’t drop your purse or backpack on the ground and walk away from it. Use it as a prop!
• Avoid popular tourist areas. I don’t have a photo of myself at Fisherman’s Wharf in San Francisco for a reason. It’s the most popular tourist area in the city and I don’t trust people to not steal my camera and tripod. If you ever see me in a Fisherman’s Wharf photo its because I had a friend take it. Tourist areas are top spots for petty thieves – don’t risk it.
• Stay close to your camera . This is why I love the wide angle lens. It allows me to stay close to my camera and still get a good shot!

Build Good Photo Karma

Now that you know how to take solo travel photos get out there and start practicing. Also, keep the good photo karma going.

• If someone asks you for a photo, take it with a smile.
• Let them know if you’re taking more than one, so that way they can get different poses in while they have you!
• If you see someone setting up a tripod and trying to get a shot, please don’t walk through their photo.
• Let them finish, or offer to help, and go about your day.

By helping other photographers, you’re paying it forward for the day when you ask “Would you mind taking a photo for me?”

Related Solo Female Travel Posts

The Ultimate Guide to Solo Female Travel

Solo Female Travel Packing List

How to choose your Hostel (or other accommodation)

How to Plan a Solo Trip in 9 Easy Steps

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Justchasingsunsets, 2 thoughts on “ solo travel photography tips: how to take travel photos of yourself ”.

Travel tripod is the best option for me. I also use a selfie stick for my phone but the travel tripod is just amazing.

Selfie sticks are great too! I’ve seen some with a little tripod option too.

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How to Take Amazing Photos of Yourself as a Solo Traveller!

By: Author Sophie Nadeau

Posted on Last updated: 2nd March 2023

Categories Solo Travel

Last Updated on 2nd March 2023 by Sophie Nadeau

 Often I am asked by family and friends (and occasionally via Instagram)  how I have so many photos of myself solo considering how often I travel alone. Whether it’s day trips or longer stints, I often like to have a few keepsakes in the form of photos;  I am part of generation selfie, after all!  Here are some ideas for taking photos of yourself as a solo travelle r:

Ready to embark on your first trip alone? Here’s how to start planning your first solo trip and how to dine out alone as a solo traveller .

#1 Ask strangers to take photos of you

#2 only take pictures of your hands/ feet, #3 purchase that selfie stick, #4 ask friends and family, #5 go old school and use a tripod, #6 be creative and use mirrors and other reflective surfaces.

• #7 Include no people at all!

Head out earlier in the day

Choose your angles wisely, cropping is key, my camera equipment for solo female travel photography, enjoyed reading this guide to taking photos of yourself as a solo traveller pin it now, read it again later:, ways to take photos of yourself when you’re travelling alone.

Ever heard the saying ‘don’t ask and you won’t get’? Well, there’s absolutely nothing wrong with asking someone to take a photo of you and it’s a great way to force yourself out of your comfort zone. In fact, asking strangers to take your photo is also a great way to strike up a conversation and even make new friends in the process.

When I was in Italy, I ended up going for ice cream with someone I had only asked to take my photo! Considering that I still struggle to use my camera six months after purchasing it, I always always always set the camera to auto before handing it over to someone else to make it easier to just point and click.

If I want a more complicated photo, then I often ask people who are carrying their own cameras and give them an idea of how I’d like the picture to be framed. I don’t ask for too much though… they are doing me a favour, after all!

Sometimes I like to have my left hand ( my right hand is always holding the camera- obviously ) in the frame, holding a keepsake or instax photo. Other times, if I want to add something a little more vintage, I’ll include a vintage postcard in the snap.

If none of these things work, then I might dip my feet in the water, or, in the case of the photo below, rest my feet on the grass. This way, photos still have a ‘human touch’ to them without feeling too staged!

Yes, I am a proud owner of a selfie stick.  So sue me.  I’m a proud perpetrator of the trend that is here to stay. So prolific is the use of this annoyance that signs have been put up in various monuments around Paris asking people not to use them ( to avoid selfie-stick related injuries ).

Of all the ways of taking photos of yourself as a solo traveller, this is probably the least expected. However, I don’t always travel on my own and I’m sure you don’t either!

In fact, some of my favourite travel memories have been when I’ve been able to share them with friends and family. The picture below was taken by my cousin on a recent trip to  Versailles .

‘How vintage’ I hear you say. Everyone has heard the expression ‘if you want something done, do it yourself’ and taking photos of yourself as a solo traveller is no exception!

Because, if you want a photo exactly to your specifications; dimension, focus, ISO etc. etc, asking  anyone  else is not going to cut it. When you have a vision in mind for your photo, returning to the original method for taking selfies is the only way to go!

My camera has a smartphone app where I can control my camera remotely from my smartphone. This has proved SUPER useful in situations where I want to be in the frame.

My favourite thing about using a tripod is that you can get really creative. For this shot, I set the camera to a six-second shutter speed and then stood reaaaalllly still in front of the carousel!

Get creative; some of my favourite shots have been in puddles, convex mirrors etc. This vintage mirror in the Louvre provided the perfect opportunity for some selfie fun.

#7 Include  no people at all!

When you’re taking photos, you don’t always have to include someone in the frame. Just because you’re taking photos of yourself as a solo traveller, doesn’t mean you always  have to be in the shot! 

Although I often like to have someone in the photo to frame the shot/ have photos of myself travelling, sometimes having no one in the shot makes for the best photograph.

How to take photos with no one else in them

Another gripe of many budding photographers is that they’ll often find their photos to be full of other people! Obviously if you want photos of yourself, you don’t want too many other people in the backdrop of your shot. Luckily, there are a number of tips and tricks you can implement to avoid getting too many people in the frame.

Heading out earlier in the day is an easy way to ensure that you’ll be able to capture your photo with fewer people. This is especially the case in more popular destinations. For example, I’ve said it before and no doubt I’ll say it again: if you want to see golden hour in Paris, then you simply  must  make sure to visit Trocadero in the morning as opposed to during the evening!

Yet another expert tip for taking photos with fewer people in them is to simply choose your angles better. Avoid getting busy walkways and instead try and include more sky and fewer roads. You could also consider adjusting the frame so that there is more sky in the photo!

Similarly to choosing your angles wisely, another key element for ensuring less people in your solo travel photos is to crop the photo. For example, if there’s someone just at the edge of the frame, then you can easily crop it so that there’s no one left!

Sony A6000 : I’ve been using the Sony A6000 for just over three years now. It’s the first camera I’ve ever bought and I’ve been more than impressed with its versatility. As it’s a compact mirrorless camera, it affords the same quality of photos as a traditional full-frame camera without the weight of having all of those mirrors. Perfect for someone who’s always travelling alone!

16-70 mm Vario-Tessar Lens : While the kit lens the Sony A6000 comes with is a great beginners lens, it doesn’t have the same quality or sharpness around the edges that you may well want in the future. And while hte 16-70 mm is a little on the pricey side, its clarity more than makes up for the cost.

DJI Spark : For those wishing to capture more unusual photos, I highly recommend investing in a drone. I bought my DJI Spark in a sale a little while ago, and while I’m still learning how to manoeuvre it correctly, it’s provided me with some beautiful aerial footage thus far!

Instax mini 9 : If you’re looking for a more permanent and physical way to capture all of those photographs, I highly recommend purchasing an Instax Camera. Pretty and cute, the photos that come out of this vintage looking camera are perfect for your desk wall, or simply as a keepsake in your purse!

Sophie Nadeau loves dogs, books, travel, pizza, and history. A Francophile at heart, she runs solosophie.com when she’s not chasing after the next sunset shot or consuming something sweet. She splits her time between Paris and London and travels as much as she can! Subscribe to Sophie’s YouTube Channel.

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Friday 25th of January 2019

This is a great blog post!!! People always ask me the same question as well haha and I actually hate when someone takes a picture of me, because it's rarely how so want it to be or I'm just not comfortable when someone's looking at me haha

Sunday 22nd of July 2018

Enjoyed reading this post. You have mentioned some very important and interesting points here...

lutreksstaging2

Saturday 24th of February 2018

Awesome photos Sophie. You're, artistic, very photogenic as well as fashionable. Many factors contributing to the optimum pic. I'd worry that someone might take any or all of the equipment. The key would be to not take selfies in a crowded place? I'm impressed at your posting a free article offering very helpful advice to others!! I usually see teasers that lead to paid content. Thanks.

Nina | Lemons and Luggage

Monday 4th of December 2017

Thanks for the tips! I still struggle to leave my camera on the tripod to take a picture because I'm worried someone might steal it while I'm away having it take my picture. Probably it's really silly to be worried about that as I don't even have a very recent model, but it's the main thing that keeps me from taking pictures of myself with the tripod.

Sunday 26th of November 2017

I always was into solo photography because by that you are in authority what to shoot and how. The tips she told are so amazing that I am going to try that as soon as possible and will guide all the people who are going for traveling but doesn`t have much people around them.

Easy Ways to Take Awesome Photos of Yourself When You Travel Solo.

Going on a solo trip and wondering how to take pictures of yourself alone? Check out all my solo travel photography tips.

When I travel alone and post an introspective photo of myself gazing into a magnificent horizon beyond, I often get asked if a photographer is shadowing me. The answer is no, but thanks for the compliment!

Those dreamy pictures rarely do justice to the overwhelming feeling of solitude, in a place of raw beauty. Indeed, some of my earliest travels, like to pristine Bunaken in Indonesia and remote north-western Vietnam went completely uncaptured. I eventually decided to start taking photographs on my travels in the hope that it will lure others to kick their comfort zone and go exploring. I now use my beloved  iPhone and handy Sony Cybershot RX II  on the road.

If you’re travelling solo and wondering how to take pictures of yourself alone, here are all my solo travel photography tips:

Remotely control your camera with a smartphone

This is my favorite way to get an introspective shot. I connect my camera using its internal wifi to my iPhone, so I can see exactly how I look in the frame and have no time limit. It works brilliantly, so much so that I prefer getting my own photos even when I’m traveling with someone else.

Use the good old self timer

How to take pictures of yourself alone doesn’t have to be complicated. Thanks to my iPhone, I rarely use my camera these days. But the good old self timer function is hard to replace – I set up my Sony Cybershot on an even surface or on the ground, hit the ten second timer, and walk into the frame as best as I can. It takes a few tries to get a good shot, but hey, it’s always worth the exercise!

Get a bluetooth remote

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Shivya Nath (@shivya) on Feb 11, 2020 at 8:54pm PST

I’ve just ordered one, and that should probably eliminate the need for using my camera completely! They say it’s as small as a keychain, comes with a stand for uneven surfaces and works for both photos and videos up to 90 feet away. Probably the most convenient answer to how to take pictures of yourself alone. Connect with me on Instagram @shivya to see for yourself how well it works.

Take a creative selfie

I hate conventional selfies. But over the years, I’ve found creative ways to insert myself into a picture to capture the essence of a moment or feeling, without actually having my face in it. Those itchy feet play the part well, as do the scribbling of thoughts that flow along.

Find better angles with a selfie stick

I dismissed selfie sticks as the pinnacle of narcissism, until I saw some bloggers use them rather interestingly! You can creatively angle them to take dreamy shots from the back or the top, and end up with some pretty awesome results.

Ask someone you meet along the way

How to take pictures of yourself alone isn’t such a difficult question if you think about it. Although my favorite solo travel moments are of complete solitude, with not a soul in sight, I’m always meeting people along the way – locals, hosts, fellow travellers. I hand over my phone and tell them the angle I want. I’ve found that people are not only happy to oblige, but it’s also a great way to get a conversation going.

Once in Madrid , I shyly asked an old gentleman in broken Spanish if he could take a photo of me. We got talking, swapped stories about our lives, he showed me some of his favorite spots by the lake, and even invited me home to try his wife’s cooking! All in a photo’s worth.

Thinking of traveling solo? Start here.

Read: Practical Ways I’ve Learnt to Stay Safe While Travelling Alone

Got any creative ideas on how to take pictures of yourself alone?

Welcome to my blog, The Shooting Star. I’ve been called a storyteller, writer, photographer, digital nomad, “sustainability influencer,” social entrepreneur, solo traveller, vegan, sustainable tourism consultant and environmentalist. But in my heart, I’m just a girl who believes that travel – if done right – has the power to change us and the world we live in.

The Shooting Star Academy

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70 comments.

These are amazing pictures and ideas for capturing the essence of travel. Thanks for this lovely post

Thanks Havneet, glad you found it helpful!

Such wonderful ideas! I am in love with the pic at the vineyard 🙂 beautiful post!

Me too! A fluke shot – the camera was on an uneven surface and tipped over, resulting in the blurred grass 😉

Great tips! 🙂

Incredible ideas! 🙂

Thanks Karmughil! Hope you can put them to use soon 🙂

Oh yes! For sure. 🙂

That answers my question…always have sed to wonder how you manage to click such amazing snaps when travelling solo 🙂

Glad it answers them Sunil! Your chance to try 😉

Marvellous journey & Awesome photos. I would also like to have a similar living after leaving my corporate lufe. But my query is- how do you finance your journey? with best regards.

Thanks Arijit! I’ll be sharing an update soon on how I’ve been doing financially the last year or so. In the meantime, you’ll find some answers here – https://the-shooting-star.com/my-travel-secrets/

I have had some pretty funny (read: BAD) photos taken by strangers. Hilarious to look back on.

Haha, I have my fair share of those too 😉

Those are some really cool photos and selfies. I am impressed at how artistic they are – you’ve taken the selfie to a whole new level. You have no need for friends 🙂

Ouch, haha! But glad you like them, worth the effort spent 😉

Awesome post and amazing clicks. Thanks a lot 🙂

Muchas gracias!

What camera do you use?

Read the post and thou shalt know!

ABSOLUTELY GREAT HATS OFF LADY !!! Wish could join you..

Thanks Sudhir! Don’t wait for me; plan your own adventures 🙂

Fabulous Pictures, Just loved them. The ideas for capturing the essence of journey along with bit of traveller is incredible. :).. A big hug for this….

Thanks! Hope you’ll be able to use some of these ideas on your own travels too 😉

Appreciate the way you have taken photos of yourself. Just love them. However, I’m little apprehensive about giving camera or phone to strangers.

I wouldn’t do it in a crowded or touristy place, but in a little village on the countryside – by all means!

I realise I need to stop being such a spaz when it comes to selfies 🙂

Absolutely! And let’s not even call these kind of photos selfies :p

creative selfie? now that sounds interesting…surely a way to stand out !

Hope you’re taking yourself and your camera for a trip soon then!

I’m not much of a selfie person! But yes, looking at some of your pictures, I’m quite tempted to start.

Nice work! Keep it up. Love the picture in the vineyards.

Thanks, it’s one of my favs too!

Great ideas Shivya😊 ; have tried all of them, but setting the camera in a tripod and operating it remotely is the way I prefer the most 🙂 🙂 http://www.exploreitmyway.com

Thanks Saswati! That’s the more effort consuming one but surely worth the results.

I use all of these, except the remote (though I carry it on all my trips) 🙂 The one most commonly used it ‘asking a stranger’ or ‘taking a creative selfie – including the use of a selfie stick. GoPro also works great for selfies and I use it more and more now…

That’s awesome Sid! I recently tried a jump shot with a remote and loved how it turned out just how I wanted it to be.

Very creative and yet simple.

Hope it’s helpful Anjali!

I’ve been struggling with this part of travel capturing a lot 😉 Will go back and improvise. Appreciate your write ups 👍🏻

I’m glad you have some new ideas to try out, Ashutosh!

Hard to believe that the creative selfie you have taken. Those photos are as creative as I think that a professional photographers clicked them. Very impressive.

Aww thanks!

Thanks for including me Shivya! I used to think the same until I finally caved in and bought one. I don’t really like them used in the standard way but after slinging it over my shoulder, realized it kind of looked cool – like I was a video game character.

I like that analogy, Kristin!

Was just gifted a selfie stick! Might try out some interesting angles now! 😉

Awesome, waiting to see how it goes!

I just came back from solo road trip on manali-leh highway. At one point i thought i have no pictures of myself with the landscapes. Thats where the idea of iphone and timer clicked me. I managed a few good shots with snow capped mountains. I should get a selfie stick and an iphone tripod along with a bluetooth remote. Great post. Peace.

Awesome! That’s one worthy landscape to have your photos with, atleast for memory’s sake 🙂 Glad you have new ideas to experiment with now.

Wow! Great tips! Amazing pictures shared by you. The selfies clicked by you are really impressive. I always wondered how I would manage clicking my pictures on a solo trip to new destinations. Now with your great post, I have got the ideas!

On creative selfies: I find working in my shadow or reflection a good way of including myself in the shot: https://itaintsodeep.files.wordpress.com/2015/09/p_20150803_095531.jpg

On selfie stick: for ppl who hike, a good middleway is a hiking pole with a camera grip on one end. It’s a selfie stick without the shame! You get those on Amazon

Awesome learning, thanks for the tips. btw do you have instagram page for all this?

Great advice and gorgeous photos!

Great tips!

This answers all the questions I’ve ever had about how solo travellers manage such fabulous pictures! I think they end up looking self-obsessed if you always show your face though. That’s why I like your penchant for side profiles and back shots.

Brilliant!!

what an amazing blog about various places you have told about .I will discuss it with my friends.

Thanks a ton 🙂 Those are some really good ways to take selfies! Am gonna try these next time also planning to buy a RXIII.

i hardly do selfie during my travels as it leads to narcissism, but your post gives me a different, more creative idea of doing that. and yeah, i almost forgot about using the 2 and 10 second timer features (except for capturing yoga poses at home ;). i think i should use that for my next selfies. thanks for sharing!

Great ideas. I bought the Bluetooth remote it works great, especially while trying to take a pic with the dogs. However I love your advice on the selfie stick. Thanks!

Thank you so much for the inspiration. I just need to figure out how to do the same and pay for it all. But I am following and loving your journey.

How about using tripods or is that unnecessary expense ?

Loved it, i always struggled with this but now i am ready to kill the game

• Pingback: 9 Things That Will Happen When You Travel Solo for the First Time | Drifter Planet

Hi Shivya! It’s always lovely to look at your blogs and pictures. I’m also planning to travel and photograph. Do you only use Sony Cybershot and an iPhone for all your Instagram photos or any other camera? Would be great help to know. Thanks!

Wow!! Great ideas. Never knew you could remotely access your camera with phone.

Some lovely pics and awesome tips !! 🙂

Didn’t know you were taking these pictures on your own, great job. Keep inspiring…🤘🏻

It’s awesome to share your travel experience with clicking pictures! 😊

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Solo Travel: How To Take Amazing Photos Of Yourself When Traveling Alone

Solo travel can provide you with so many valuable benefits, from getting to know yourself on a deeper level to meeting new people you never would have crossed paths with otherwise (via  Insight Guides ). It's practically impossible to come out of a solo trip without changing for the better. Even though traveling alone can be one of the most rewarding adventures of your life, there are still some tough struggles that come along with being a solo traveler, such as figuring out how to take gorgeous pictures of yourself. 

Face it, everyone wants that photo of themselves on a trip that's so good they can't stop staring at it. The one that they make their profile picture across every social media account. It's a lot harder actually getting that special shot standing in front of the Eiffel Tower or posed flatteringly on a tropical beach when you don't have any help from any travel companions. 

That's probably why  Solo Traveler  says that trying to capture a good photo of yourself is one of the hardest parts of traveling alone . Before you start begging everyone you know to come with you on your trip and be your built-in photographer, take a beat and check this out. By the end of this article, you'll have 11 tricks in your arsenal that can help you get a picture-perfect solo shot, no matter who you're with or where you are in the world.

Use a tripod

One of the oldest tricks in the book when it comes to taking beautiful photos of yourself as a solo traveler is a handy-dandy, foolproof tripod. A tripod is a three-legged photography tool that's available at a variety of price points, making it a good fit for professional photographers and still feasible for solo travelers with just an iPhone at their disposal. Since the dawn of solo traveling, people have been using tripods to help them capture great photos during their adventures, and it's easy to understand why so many people love them.

Besides the fact that you can use a tripod to hold your phone or camera while you pose for the photo, there are a few other reasons why tripods are a really useful piece of travel gear. According to Make Use Of , using a tripod improves your camera's stability, gives you more time to set up for a self-timed photo, makes it easier to shoot in low light, and helps you frame the picture. There are so many options for different tripods out there that it can make your head spin, but as a solo traveler, you need something compact. Digital Camera World recommends trying out the SmallRig Tabletop Mini Tripod, because it can adapt to lots of shooting situations and it's pretty affordable.

Get a selfie stick for your phone

Travelers on a budget might prefer a solo photo-taking solution that doesn't break the bank. Taking a big, solitary expedition by yourself is already a hefty financial undertaking, but tacking on the cost of purchasing new gear can take it to an unmanageable level. If you don't want to invest too much money in a camera or new gadget before a big trip, just pick up a selfie stick. The famed selfie stick is one of the simplest, cheapest solutions to taking amazing photos of yourself on a solo trip. 

A selfie stick basically "extends" your arm to a distance that makes capturing a complete solo photo possible, even if you have nobody else to help take it for you (via WikiHow ). With this easily packable gadget, you can capture a wider angle and more of the background than if you just take a regular ol' selfie. It works with just about any cellphone, and there are also versions of the selfie stick that are compatible with more professional cameras, like GoPros. While many travelers write off selfie sticks as cheesy-looking or just for influencers, it's actually a really beneficial tool on a solo trip. 

Use the self-timer feature

There is a reason why just about every form of photo device on the planet has a self-time these days, from the layman's regular iPhone to higher-end DSLR cameras. It's for solo travelers like you who need a way to take eye-catching photos without having a person behind the camera. This trick for taking photos of yourself while traveling alone is a classic. 

According to Apple , it's super easy to turn on your iPhone's self-timer. All you have to do is open the camera setting, click on the little timer icon, choose either a 3-second or 10-second timer, and press the shutter button when you're ready for it to start counting down. Then, make a mad dash to get in the shot and strike your perfect pose. The self-timer on more professional cameras varies between brands, but you can easily figure out the specifics by reviewing your camera's included instructions.

Using a self-timer is by far one of the simplest and best ways to take photos of yourself on a solo trip. You don't even need to pack anything extra, which is helpful for when you're flying alone and trying to travel as lightweight as possible. The only struggle with this method is that you need to find a flat, stable surface to put your phone down on. Using a phone case with a retractable stand on the back can help with that little issue, though.

Invest in a GroPro

If you're a full-time traveler or digital nomad who wants to invest in upgrading your solo photos, there is no better option than the convenient, compact GoPro camera. Even if you're not a big photo person, you've probably heard about this multifaceted device. This piece of travel gear costs a little more than the other suggestions on this list, but it's well worth the price if you travel alone frequently. 

You'll leave your trips with way better solo pictures and videos if you have a GoPro on hand. It's a favorite among  solo travelers  for its easy-to-handle size and accessories that make taking travel photos by yourself way less daunting. According to  Tata Capital , a GoPro camera can be especially useful for solo travelers because it is very portable, it can be used underwater to a certain depth, and you can get captivating shots from a unique perspective. 

At this point, you're probably working the numbers in your mind, and wondering if the few hundred dollars for this camera would really be worth it (or thinking that you don't really need a GoPro just for solo photographs). But there's actually a ridiculous number of things you can do with it, and some very tempting benefits to this camera.  Picture Frame Express  says that you can get accessories that enable you to record yourself doing fast-paced activities like biking, or even attach it to your pet's harness to get their point-of-view. The possibilities are endless. 

Join a walking tour

Most travelers are familiar with the concept of taking a tour to get some local insight into a new place, but did you know it could be a great way to get absolutely epic pictures of yourself traveling alone? Sometimes, you just want to go old school and avoid all the new technologies or figuring out hidden phone features. For those types of solo travelers, the answer is simple: Just join a tour! 

There are a bunch of upsides to participating in a walking tour when you're in a new place.  Sight Seekers Delight  says that tours are ideal for all types of travelers because you get to understand way more about the city you're visiting, meet other explorers along the way, and don't have to plan a whole afternoon of your trip. Not to mention that many cities around the world offer visitors  free walking tours , too. 

Joining a tour is a "kill multiple birds with one stone" situation, because you'll get to learn a lot more about the new place you're visiting, and then afterward you can just ask your guide or a fellow tour group member to help you out with taking your photo. Tours are usually built around visiting the very best destinations around the area, like a city's  top attractions  or the prettiest secret spots. So, you can breathe easy knowing you'll be getting your solo photos at some of the best locations in the entire city. 

Bring a Polaroid Now+ and use the features on the smartphone app

When you think of all the photos you're going to capture on your solo trip, you're probably imagining a collection of digital albums that you can plaster all over social media. A fun alternative that lots of nostalgic travelers prefer is instant Polaroid photos. There's something more intimate about cherishing a physical Polaroid photo from a trip, or filling up a box with unedited, unfiltered raw photos that can only be taken once. 

The thing is, it was basically impossible for solo travelers to capture these instant photos of themselves before. There always had to be someone actually holding the camera and taking the shot. Thankfully, these days solo travelers have the Polaroid Now+ camera. 

According to Creative Bloq , the Polaroid Now+ camera comes with a bunch of features that solo travelers can use from a simple smartphone app that connects to the camera via Bluetooth. On the Polaroid app, you can remotely snap photos of yourself and use a self-timer for up to 12 seconds, making it the perfect fit for people who travel alone. The app also comes with a bunch of creative photo shooting modes, including portrait mode, double exposure, and light painting. Solo travelers can get super artistic with their photos when they use this particular camera. Though as Expert Reviews points out, one of the major downsides of using the Polaroid Now+ for travel is that the film can be a tad expensive.

Befriend another solo traveler and ask them for a hand

The headline "solo travel" makes it seem like you're going to be off in a new country or city, completely alone without ever having a friend to do things with or talk to. However, this couldn't be farther from the truth. That's the beautiful thing about solo travel — you can be totally alone if you want, but new friends are very easy to find, especially if you find meet other solo travelers. 

Solo travelers get each other and understand the common difficulties of the experience, like trying to take good photos of themselves. If you can click with one, it's a safe bet that they can help you out with capturing some show-stopping pictures of yourself. Worried about  making friends as a solo traveler ? You'll be relieved to find that people are way more open to a blossoming friendship in the midst of a travel adventure, particularly if they're other solo travelers. 

According to  Worldpackers , there are tons of easy ways to meet other solo travelers while you're on an adventure, like using solo travel apps, staying in a hostel, or even joining a beer crawl. Basically, the more you put yourself out there, the higher the chance you'll meet travel buddies and have someone else there to help you get winning photos. You can have your cake and eat it, too!

Take a video and screenshot photos from it

When you're exploring the world as a solo traveler, you have to be savvy with getting pictures of yourself. One popular method for capturing awesome solo photos while you're traveling alone is by taking a video. Basically, all you have to do is position your phone in a stable location with the ideal background in the frame, turn on the video, and pose as you would normally for photos. After you're done living your "America's Next Top Model" fantasy, you can go through the video and just screenshot the images you like best. 

You can take a screenshot by pressing the side button and the volume up button on the phone at the exact same time (via Apple ). It can be a little more difficult to get a clear shot when you rely on this technique, but there are a few maneuvers you can use to make your photos look more professional. CNET suggests making sure your phone is positioned the ideal way before shooting, using 4K video, and changing the frame rate to fit your lighting.

Get the lighting right

You could have the newest, fanciest, most expensive camera equipment on the market, but it won't matter at all if you can't get the lighting right for the shot. That sounds like a loosely-weaved metaphor for life, but there aren't any allegories here. There is nothing worse than snapping a few photos of a gorgeous scene, only to discover that it's completely washed-up and unrecognizable. 

The lighting of a scene can make or break a photograph, whether or not you're taking it as a solo traveler. However, this is doubly frustrating on a solo trip when it's already pretty difficult to get a good shot. But even if you're not a photography connoisseur, there are a few straightforward tricks you can keep in your back pocket to use lighting to your advantage, both indoors and outdoors. 

When you're taking outdoor photos on a solo journey, Kindred Photography Workshop recommends finding a spot with diffused sunlight like under some trees, shooting on overcast days, and going out to take photos during the stunning golden hour right before sunset. Alternatively, if you are shooting indoors, Expert Photography says you should use artificial lights if it's available, take photos during twilight or right in the middle of the day, and use a wide-angle lens. With a little bit of forethought, your pictures can come out 10 times better. 

Take a shameless front-camera selfie

Many travelers find themselves getting bashful as they pull out their phone at a big tourist attraction and audaciously  snap a selfie  amongst the crowds. There's no reason to be embarrassed, though. A solo traveler has to do what they must to capture a good photo to bring home from a trip. 

A lot of people worry that a simple DIY selfie won't be good enough to captivate the magic of their solo trip. Despite the stigma, it can be one of the most effective ways to get a nice shot of yourself when you're traveling alone, as long as you take advantage of a few tips for taking selfies you'll be proud of. 

For example,  ShotKit  says that when you're taking a selfie, you need to be very careful about taking it from the right angle and staying away from shadows that might distort your face. On the other hand,  Snappy Snaps  encourages travelers to face toward the light to illuminate all their features and use iPhone's portrait mode to take a travel photo you'll be putting on your Tinder profile for years to come. It turns out that taking a solid selfie truly is an art form. 

Just be brave and ask a stranger to snap your photo

When all else fails, just remember that solo travelers are never alone — there are always other people around who can help you take a frame-worthy travel photo. After all, part of the allure of solo traveling is getting the opportunity to truly put yourself out there and engage with new people. That can start with asking a stranger to assist you with getting a suitable travel shot. Think of it as a practice session in the art of communication. Even though it can be scary at first, it's all a matter of getting over the jitters and just saying hello. 

World of Wanderlust  recommends searching out the ideal person to take the photo (like someone carrying a big, nice camera) and approaching them with a friendly tone. Introduce yourself and ask if they could do you the favor of snapping a photo, instead of just shoving your camera in their hands. The best way to ensure they actually get a nice shot is to give them as many directions as possible for how you want the photo. Also, don't forget to thank your new photographer friend before you go on your way.

6 Solo Travel Photography Tips + 5 FREE Editing Presets

ready for better solo travel photos?!

You’ve landed (🛬 pun intended ) on the right article for solo travel photography tips! Here’s why…

👋 Hi, I’m Shelley , and I’ve been on my solo travel in Mexico journey since 2018, taking photos all along the way — so I’ve learned a thing or two (or 44!) about solo photography. In this article, I’m going to pass that knowledge on to you through six photography tips for solo travelers.

In this era of  Instagram  travel photos and social media photography, I’m sure you agree great travel photos are important. Throughout my last few years of solo travel, I’ve been learning as I go, and picking up as many tips to get the best travel photos possible along the way.

📸 BONUS: 5 free photo editing presets

Beyond the photos themselves, the editing is just as important; if not more so. For that reason, there’s 5 FREE photo editing presets at the end of the article for you. Can’t wait? 👉 Click here to download them now. Wondering, What is a preset? Don’t worry; by the end of this article you’ll know.

If you’re ready to learn how to take better pictures when you travel alone, including ways to be in your solo travel photos, and some editing hacks, let’s get to it. We’ll start with the best tip there is for solo vacation photos: using a tripod.

SOLO TRAVEL PHOTOGRAPHY TIPS

1. best tripod for solo travel photos.

If you ask 100 other solo travel bloggers for solo photography tips, the hands-down #1 piece of advice will be: Get a tripod! Having a tripod for solo travel photos has been an absolute game changer, as they are easy to use and inexpensive to buy.

RELATED BLOG ✈️  Mexico Solo Travel: 20 Amazing Destinations for Female Travelers

As you’ll see, some of the other trips in this article require asking a stranger to take a photo for you (with tips on how to strategically pick the right person to ask). However, for those not into the idea of talking to strangers for a photo, there’s still great solo travel photography in your future.

But to get these epic solo travel photos, you’ll need to consider some camera phone accessories, namely a camera phone tripod , these camera phone lenses , and  yes  — even a selfie stick .

Phone Tripod: Portable and Adjustable Camera Stand Holder with Wireless Remote and Universal Clip

Selfie Stick, 40 inch Extendable Selfie Stick Tripod,Phone Tripod with Wireless Remote Shutter

BEST TRIPOD FOR SOLO TRAVEL PHOTOS

Bendable octopus tripod.

If you can’t even  with the mere thought of a selfie stick, you’re about to fall in love with the octopus tripod , the best tripod for solo travel photography. This tripod is the one surefire way to get epic solo travel photos — and the one gadget that will single handedly turn your solo photoshoot ideas into reality.

Unlike the not-so-cool selfie stick , this flexible, wrap-around  cell phone tripod is super cool. They even look like one of the smartest animals on Earth, the majestic octopus 🐙

These fun things cling on to nearly everything and also double as a traditional tripod, for those who really want to up their solo photos game. Either way you use it, an octopus tripod is awesome for taking completely straight and level pics, so they will look like a pro took them.

📸 The Best Tripod for Solo Travel Photography: UBeesize Portable and Adjustable Camera Stand Holder with Wireless Remote and Universal Clip

HOW TO USE YOUR TRIPOD

Here’s the step-by-step way you’ll use your new pet octopus tripod to get the best solo photo, in any of the solo photography poses you desire:

• Determine how you want to frame your photo and where you plan to be in it.
• Place the tripod down on a flat surface, or attach the octopus somewhere convenient, like a tree branch, light pole, or anywhere you can wrap it around.
• Set your phone’s self-timer and get yourself into frame before it goes off.
• If you have a model with a Bluetooth remote , the remote is small enough to hide in the palm of your hand, so you can just click the button when you want to take the photo.

Bonus Tip: Embrace the Selfie Stick

Yes, a selfie stick automatically makes you a tourist! But, well,  you are … and it’s super cool, and quite liberating, to lean in and embrace that. Plus, a tourist is on vacation — and what’s better than travel and vacation!?

Besides that, you’ll likely never see these people again, so rock your selfie stick with the same kind of confidence it took for you to travel solo in the first place.

The thing with selfie sticks is, well,  they work . This is why they are so popular — because they efficiently and effectively solve the problem they are designed to solve.

If you’re planning on buying a selfie stick , the one linked is a great, highly-rated, affordable option. It has all of the best selfie stick features, including that it’s a lightweight model with Bluetooth and a wireless remote shutter, a wrist strap, long battery life and adjustable telescoping length of 0- to 40-inches.

📸 Solo Travel Photo Tips: Take the photo so that you don’t include your hand holding the selfie stick .

solo travel Photography tips

2. locate someone with a real camera.

As a blanket statement, anyone who has their digital or DSLR camera while traveling, means business. Someone who’s into photography enough to have their camera with them likely understands proper photo composition, lighting, the best poses, flattering angels, etc., and can take a great photo for you.

Since we can all take great cell phone and iPhone photos nowadays, the commitment to packing a DSLR camera with these fancy Sony lenses with traveling — and then actually carrying it around all day — screams this person LOVES travel photography!

It also likely means they are a traveler just like you, and totally get that you want to capture some memories. In short, they are the ideal stranger to approach for a photo favor.

📸 Solo Travel Photo Tips: If someone has a camera, but also a “Don’t approach me” vibe, then wait for the next person.

Of course, this isn’t an exact science, and someone who has a DSLR camera can certainly produce a bad photo. However, there’s a tip in this blog to help you when the person takes a less-than-stellar photo for you, so read on.

RELATED BLOG ✈️  How to Travel Alone for the First Time: 10 Useful Tips

When in Doubt: Ask A Second Person

Can we talk honestly for a second?! …some people just don’t care about taking good photos . That’s right — Not everyone cares about taking beautiful, Instagram worthy travel pictures. Some people downright suck at taking them. There, I said it… and so did  Bored Panda .

If you ask someone, and they took a photo worthy of being a meme with your head cut off or their finger in the photo, don’t be afraid to “get a second opinion.” Since some places are too amazing to not have awesome travel photos of, gather up the courage and ask another person for a photo.

As was mentioned in Tip #2, always look for someone with a digital camera or DSLR camera. If you can’t find one, be on the lookout for females, ages 20-25, who are taking a selfie and seem to be in a friendly mood. ( Disclaimer: This is just a guide, ask anyone you feel comfortable with asking .)

RELATED BLOG ✈️  Scared to Travel Alone? 10 Tips on How to Embrace Solo Travel

Bonus Tip: Return the Photo Favor

Photo reciprocity is good karma!

Always offer to take a photo for whoever you asked to do so for you, even if this person isn’t a solo traveler.

With any sized group, someone always has to be the photographer, so this will give them the opportunity for a nice group/couple shot.

📸 Solo Travel Photo Tip: This is one of the easiest, most natural ways to strike up a conversation with someone if you’re wondering how to meet people while traveling solo .

3. Know Your Ideal Shot

When you’re shopping for a sweater, you don’t actually want any sweater — You want a Kelly green cashmere cardigan in size medium, please. The same is true when we’re talking about great travel photos, you have to know exactly what you want in order to beautifully capture it.

This goes for when you’re both using your octopus tripod , or asking a kind stranger with a fancy DSLR to take a photo for you. You have to know what shot you’re after to get it, take a moment to think this through before setting up your tripod or asking someone to take a photo for you.

RELATED BLOG ✈️  Solo Travel Anxiety: 5 Common Triggers & How to Overcome Them

When asking a stranger, here’s what it boils down to: When you ask for “a photo,” you will get “a photo,” which means any photo. When you know exactly what you want, you’re much more likely to get just that.

You’ll of course want to keep requests within reason, but if you ask: “Can you please take a vertical photo of me and get as much as you can of the pyramids in the background as possible?” you’ll likely get that.

Since this person is doing you a favor, you’ll want to give them the phone completely ready to take the photo, so all they have to do is click! Again, keeping requested with reason, if you think it’s appropriate, suggest they take several photos in  Burst   mode, or “rapid fire shooting.”

With Burst Mode , you press and hold down the button to take the photo; your phone will keep taking pictures until you release your finger. This way, you’ll get about 25 photos in one second, and can choose the best travel photos from the bunch.

4. Rule of Thirds & Using Grid Lines

Rule of thirds is one of the first things you’d learn in a photography class.

Basically, pretend your phone screen is a tic-tac-toe grid; you want the subject of the photo at the intersecting points of those lines, rather than in the dead center of your photo.

Nowadays, all phone cameras have grid lines you can turn on in the settings. If they are distracting, know that after a while most people can eyeball the thirds and won’t need the grid, but it certainly does take the guesswork out of things when you’re just starting out with using them.

Try to follow this rule when setting up your shot, but if not, you can always crop the photo afterwards so it conforms to the rule.

5. Timing + Lighting = The Best Travel Photos

Arrive as early as possible.

When traveling, there are a few iconic shots you’ll want to take in certain cities or countries, like the Taj Mahal or Eiffel Tower. Since these places are so iconic, you’re not the only one who’s wanting travel photos there. So how do you take good travel photos in these places? Arrive early!

While arriving early isn’t always possible, in times you can’t, you can still get creative. This will also require a bit of patience, but frame your shot and get your octopus tripod set up, so you’re 100% ready for those magical few seconds when no one’s in the frame but you — and then take your photo.

Understand Photo Lighting

While photo editing can do a lot, there’s not much you can do if the lighting is really bad. While there’s sometimes nothing you can do, try to avoid photos during midday when the sun is directly overhead, as it will cast harsh shadows all over the place. Here are the best times to take your travel photos.

• Magic Hour: Also called golden hour, this is known as the best time to take photos because the natural light from the sun is soft and golden in color, and makes everything and everyone look beautiful. Magic hour takes place during the one hour before sunset, and the one hour after sunrise.
• Blue Hour: A lesser utilized photography time, blue hour, or twilight hour, will give you dramatic blue-colored lighting in your photos. Blue hour takes place one hour after sunset, and one hour after sunrise.

Bonus Tip: How to Approach Strangers

One of the biggest barriers to entry for would-be solo travelers is the  How do I make friends while solo traveling  conundrum…

Well, strangers let you know if it’s OK (or not) to talk to them by their body language and overall vibe.

I have met people all along this solo travel journey by only approaching those people who seemed inviting — the ones giving off “Talk to me!” vibes.

6. Presets & Photo Editing

Since the dawn of photography time, humans have edited photos. Back in the day, this was done while processing photos in the darkroom — and Yes, I just completely dated myself 🤣

Darkroom editing was a bit complicated and tedious, which is why we’re so lucky to have the technology we do not. These days, thanks to photography editing presets you can edit photos in the light and from the comfort of our couch.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Shelley | Mexico Solo Travel (@travelmexicosolo) on Jun 19, 2020 at 10:03am PDT

I have tried a few camera and editing apps, and I stick to Adobe Lightroom for both. Personally, I like Lightroom for the editing presets so I can do one-click edits, and also because the Adobe Lightroom camera offers more functionality than my native iPhone camera. In short, Lightroom helps me get the closest-to-professional photos I can possibly get.

What is a Preset?

Basically, it’s a group of settings, including the brightness, contrast, color vibrancy, etc. that you can copy and paste from one photo to the next.

Even noticed how some IG accounts have a consistent look to all their photos? That’s thanks to the Magic Sauce known as photo editing presets.

A preset is essentially a pre-set and pre-determined look and feel you can apply to all your photos with the tap of a phone screen.

For presets called “cool,” you can imagine softer lighting, with pastel tones to the colors; whereas a preset called “bright” will have vibrant, bright colors and lots of bright white light.

Download Your 5 Adobe Lightroom Mobile Presets

Here are the 5 FREE presets I promised you. Please note that they only work on Adobe Lightroom Mobile, a free app you can download for iPhone and Android. Adobe is one of the biggest names in photography editing platforms, so besides the presets, it is also just one of the best photography apps.

Final Thoughts: Solo Travel Photography

With photography, they say the best camera is the one you have on you — so if you think you need a fancy camera to get better photos, you don’t.

Photography is an art, and like most art, it takes practice to make perfect. With solo photography, you just have to practice different skills than traditional photographers, like how to use a tripod, how to not care what you look like with your selfie stick, and how to approach a stranger for help.

Globe Gazers

Solo Photography Tips: How to Take Photos of Yourself

Mastering solo photography skills comes with the territory for solo travelers who want to capture memories of their journeys.

Is your travel companion impatient, unwilling or…unskilled when it comes to travel photography? Or, like me, is your travel companion non-existent? In other words, are you a solo traveler wanting to learn how to take good Instagram photos of yourself?

I’ve been in your shoes and I’ve learned a thing or two about solo travel photography that I’m more than happy to share with you. From the moment I first started traveling, I was dissatisfied when I didn’t have enough photos of myself enjoying travel destinations.

Sure, I could snap beautiful photos of my surroundings but if that’s all I have at the end of a trip what’s the point? I may as well have ordered postcards online and stayed at home!

I mean, if a photo is worth 1000 words is it wrong to want some of those words about my own travels to actually include me ?

Over the years, I realized it was important to me to be able to sidestep the awkwardness and sense of reliance I felt when asking either strangers or my own travel partners to take photos of me while traveling.

Thankfully, I’ve found out and am here to share how to take good pictures of yourself so you can capture the travel memories you’ve always wanted.

Solo Photography Using Smartphone Tripods

Let’s talk equipment. Contrary to many fellow travel bloggers, I’m still mostly using my camera phone to take photos. I’ll use a DSLR from time to time (less often now I’m divorced and the one I had access to belonged to my ex!) and I do have a desire to learn more skillful photography.

But what it comes down to is, I’m a traveler first. Even before I’m a blogger or photographer of any kind, I am a wanderlusting soul who wants the freedom to explore.

Traveling with my sleek, lightweight iPhone as my main camera affords me this freedom. So, when I was looking for a tripod I focused on smartphone tripods with bluetooth remote controls.

Now, I don’t know what kind of shopper you are but I’m the kind who reads practically every single available review, the Q&A, the photo reviews.

Everything.

It’s a time consuming way to shop and a bit stressful, but it means I usually love the purchases that make it through my obsessive rigorous standards.

The point is, you benefit from my neuroticism because if you’re looking for a smartphone tripod for taking photos of yourself you can confidently go with this one I picked out for myself. 

What I like about this camera phone tripod is it’s lightweight, compact and easy to assemble / disassemble. It comes with a carrying pouch and a bluetooth remote that snaps into the tripod when not in use.

The whole setup fits easily into both my suitcase and day bags. It’s about the size of a selfie stick, for comparison, but does so much more. And, it’s under $30!

📷 Click here to get this smartphone tripod for your solo photography needs.

Here are a couple recent shots I’ve taken with this very tripod + my iphone, from my solo trip spending 2 days in Los Angeles:

Solo Photography Tips: Set up the Shot

You have your smartphone tripod in your bag, and you’ve just come across a perfect photo opportunity. Now, you need to know how to take a good photo of yourself.

One big element of this is knowing how to set up the shot. It never hurts to be familiar with photography basics, like the rule of thirds .

Or, pre-planning photo spots / pose ideas (you can do some fun research by searching the ‘places’ tab of Instagram). But, in this post I’m going to focus on using your smartphone tripod.

First, securely fasten your phone into the clamp and then extend the tripod out. Next, work on framing your shot.

You’ll want to set it up, look at the potential shot through your camera phone, get into the potential shot yourself and snap some test shots if you’re able until you get it positioned just right.

Avoid positioning your smartphone tripod too near a ledge where it could possibly fall over, or in an area that’s so busy someone could snag it and walk away with it.

These are common sense challenges we risk as solo travelers wanting photos of ourselves no matter the scenario, so simply be smart about it.

While this tripod isn’t super flimsy, it’s still a good idea to take some precaution. If it’s a bit windy, anchor the tripod down with something.

On my LA solo trip , I used a light jacket I had with me, and even my travel bag a couple times when I was in a less trafficked area.

If you happen to be traveling with someone (who isn’t the most patient or artistic when it comes to taking photos) you can enlist their help to simply guard or hold the tripod once you’ve down the hard work of framing the shot.

Solo Photography Tips: How do you solo pose?

Once you’ve framed your shot, it’s time to add yourself in the mix and snap some good pictures of yourself to share with friends, family and followers!

Try a few different poses and facial expressions. To make the end result more natural, have the bluetooth remote hidden in your hand and click aggressively, taking multiple shots in a row.

As you do this, change your position every few seconds. You might turn your head in different directions, push back your hair, adjust your hat, twirl and so on.

Your movements don’t have to be major and you don’t have to force creative poses. Simple, natural movements can help you get a great shot.

After taking some shots, review them. Looking them over will give you more ideas of what’s working and what isn’t: where should you look? Should you smile or not? Is the lighting off where you’re standing?

Then, take a few more shots until you have at least a couple you really like.

Yes, this might feel awkward. But, not much more so than when you enlist a friend or stranger to take a photo of you in a public place.

In fact, maybe even less so because you’re in full control and can be done as quickly as you like without someone else art directing you from 10 ft away!

The lightweight equipment, quick setup and rapid photo-clicking make taking solo pics of yourself a fairly quick and painless process.

The best part is, once you’re done you can simply pack up your tripod, stick it back in your bag and continue exploring!

This affordable smartphone tripod has proven to be one of my best purchases as a solo traveler, and I’m sure you’ll love it as well.

Solo Photography Tips: Book a Solo Photo Shoot

In addition to solo photography with a tripod to take photos of yourself, a solo photo shoot is a great way to capture photographic memories on your travels. I’ve booked solo photo shoots in London and Paris so far, and plan to book more as I travel around the world.

You can read about my Paris solo photo shoot experience in this solo Paris trip guide .

Conclusion: Solo Photography Tips

One final tip from me to you: as always, especially as a solo traveler, always be aware and respectful of your surroundings.

Don’t get so caught up in getting the perfect shot that you disregard the guidelines in place around you to keep you safe. Stay alert and have fun!

And how to leverage them!

A list of my favorite Facebook groups for fellow solo travelers, with tips on how to make the most of them.

Special offer!

Click here to download your free guide and unlock a limited time offer

Nausheen is a solo female traveler who is passionate about travel as a way to increase self love and confidence. She focuses on slow travel and bouts of digital nomadism, and has experience living abroad across several continents. As a post-divorce, South Asian woman in her 30s Nausheen aims to empower fellow women of color in particular to live life on their own terms. She shares travel itineraries, tips and inspiration on her blog and social media channels.

We earn a commission for products purchased through some links in this article.

The best solo travel destinations, according to a long-time solo traveller

Travelling alone can be one of life's most rewarding experiences, says Tracey Davies, editor of 101 Singles Holidays

Solo travel is having a real renaissance right now. According to American Express’ latest Global Travel Trends report , 69 per cent of travellers are planning to go it alone this year, with women in the post-45 age bracket leading the charge. There are many reasons women choose to travel on their own: separation from a partner, a sabbatical from work, seeking empowerment and freedom, or simply wanting to do things their own way for a change.

So, if you’re looking for a yoga retreat in Spain , want to explore the Golden Triangle in India , or even snuffle for truffles in the forests of Slovenia , there are a million and one solo holiday ideas to garner inspiration from. Here are some of my favourites…

History in Edinburgh , thronging nightlife in Glasgow, heather-strewn glens in the Highlands – Scotland is a brilliant place to explore, period. Solo adventures to be had in Scotland could include a walking holiday in Glencoe, monster-spotting in Loch Ness or island hopping around the Hebrides .

See the best of the Highlands on a four-day Good Housekeeping tour this July, which includes a ride on the world-famous Jacobite steam train from Fort William to Mallaig. The train passes the stunning slopes of Ben Nevis, numerous dazzling lochs and the 21-arch Glenfinnan Viaduct (pictured), made famous by the Harry Potter film franchise.

Other highlights of this tour include a ride on the Falkirk Wheel boat lift and a cruise along the Firth of Clyde on the PS Waverley, the world's last ocean paddle steamer.

Spain hits the top spot as one of the easiest places to travel solo. It has Mediterranean beach resorts, buzzing cities abundant with cool bars and restaurants (like Granada, pictured), and small towns and picturesque villages that are perfect for pottering.

Add in a straightforward and reliable transport network, a plethora of solo accommodation options and friendly residents, it's easy to see why Spain is a great choice for a solo sojourn.

The Healthy Holiday Company offers numerous wellness trips throughout Spain. One of the best for solo travellers is Shanti Som, a small, boutique retreat in Andalusia. With just 15 rooms it offers an intimate experience plus has a yoga pavilion and gorgeous little spa that offers different treatments and therapies. FIND OUT MORE

Italy is incredibly welcoming to the solo traveller. Have you read the book or seen the movie Eat, Pray, Love ? Our hero Elizabeth Gilbert fell in love with the country’s great food, romantic language and utterly charming locals. Italy's also an easy country to get around in, thanks to its excellent transport network.

One of my favourite cities in Italy is Bologna (pictured). Known as La Grassa ('the fat one'), the northern city is a mecca for gastronomes . As well as feasting on hearty pasta dishes and locally-made wine, Good Housekeeping's six-day foodies tour (which begins and ends in Bologna) visits producers of Parma ham, balsamic vinegar and Parmesan, and includes an Italian cooking class in the neighbouring city of Modena.

FIND OUT MORE

Considered one of the safest countries in the world, Norway is the perfect destination for solo travellers, especially those looking to embrace friluftsliv , the Norwegian concept of enjoying the great outdoors.

Like other Nordic countries, Norway is incredibly well organised, efficient and easy to traverse. It also has a fantastic, solo-friendly dining scene with a focus on home-grown, seasonal produce.

Norway is one of the best places on earth to witness the Northern Lights , so join Good Housekeeping on this fantastic 12-day Norway cruise with no single supplement.

Departing November 2024 , you'll sail on a Hurtigruten ship, stopping off at the UNESCO-listed port of Bergen, the Lofoten Islands and Tromsø. As you cross the Arctic Circle, the chances of spotting the aurora borealis are almost guaranteed.

Famously welcoming, Slovenia is the perfect destination when travelling alone.

Bordering Hungary, Italy, Austria and Croatia , this small but mighty country is relatively straightforward to explore, thanks to its efficient transport system. The fact that there's also plenty to see and do – and that most people speak English – means it should be on any solo adventurer’s must-visit list.

This six-day guided Slovenia adventure , departing in October 2024, is a great introduction to Central and Southeastern Europe. The trip begins and ends in Ljubljana, Slovenia's cobblestoned capital, and includes tours of Triglav National Park, Lake Bled (pictured) and the UNESCO-listed Skocjan caves.

You’ll also enjoy wine tasting in the Vipava Valley and an afternoon learning about the art of truffle hunting.

For the original Shirley Valentine experience, look no further than Greece and its beautiful islands. Greece is ideal for solo travellers, whether you want to hoover up the ancient history in Athens or hop around the islands, relaxing on beaches and dining Shirley-style in traditional tavernas.

With an abundance of sprawling beach resorts, white-washed fishing harbours and rugged mountain villages to pick from on the islands, the hardest part is choosing which one to visit.

If you're looking to explore your creative side, check out learning holidays company Skyros . Staying in a rustic eco-lodge, this week-long holiday on Skyros (pictured), in the southern Sporades, includes creative writing sessions, stand-up comedy workshops and relaxing yoga classes.

As our closest continental neighbours, France is a good place to start when venturing abroad solo. It's easy to get around, dining alone is welcomed and the French are very accustomed to tourists.

Follow in the footsteps of Claude Monet on this four-day Good Housekeeping holiday taking in Paris and Giverny. Great for single travellers with a passion for art, the base for the trip (departing in July 2024) is the four-star Château de Montvillargenne in the heart of the Chantilly forest.

Excursions include a visit to Château de Chantilly and the market town of Senlis plus a guided tour of Monet's gardens in Giverny (pictured) led by gardening expert and writer Paula McWaters.

Considered to be one of the most captivating landscapes on the planet, Iceland is a must for any adventurer, including those going it alone.

With incredibly welcoming locals, Iceland is known as the Land of Fire and Ice, and offers visitors the chance to bathe in hot springs, climb sheer glaciers or come face-to-face with feisty volcanoes. To see this vast landscape in style, it's well worth joining a group tour (ideal for solo travellers) or hiring a car.

Soak in the famous Blue Lagoon (pictured), see the Skógafoss waterfall and hike up the Sólheimajökull glacier on an exhilarating five-day tour of Iceland. Hosted by Regent Holidays , this is a great option for solo travellers aiming to tick off a range of Iceland activities.

India was one of the first countries I ever travelled around alone (talk about throwing myself in at the deep end!) and while it was challenging in parts, it was also rewarding and transformative.

Whether you're looking to hike the Himalayas, 'find yourself' through yoga and meditation on a retreat or marvel at the Taj Mahal, India's unique culture and vibrancy is bucket list-worthy.

One of the easiest ways to explore India on your own is on an escorted tour. Solos Holidays itineraries are made specifically for the single traveller, and their Splendour's of Rajasthan tour explores the Golden Triangle of Jodhpur, Jaipur and Agra. Highlights include seeing the Taj Mahal at sunrise (pictured) and visiting the Amber Fort in the Aravalli Hills.

Gorgeous white beaches, rugged national parks and perhaps the prettiest medieval walled city in the world (hello, Dubrovnik ), Croatia is one of my favourite places in Europe to explore by myself.

Croatia is an easy country to get around, whether you want to go island hopping by ferry, catch a coach along the Adriatic Coast or hire a car to explore the country’s rugged interior.

If you want to see Croatia with a some like-minded folk, consider booking an escorted tour with Just You , a solo holidays specialist. Their Croatia and the Markarska Riviera trip focuses on the Dalmatian Coast and is bookended by stays in Zadar and Dubrovnik. It also includes a brilliant boat trip to Hvar and Brac (pictured), and a visit to Krka National Park.

More travel ideas:

- The best cruises for 2024

- Venice's hidden gems

- The 2025 holidays worth booking in advance

- The best mother-daughter holiday ideas

- Amazing holidays with celebrity guests

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10 Affordable Solo Vacations Around the World

These are the top destinations for solo travelers on a budget.

Paul McKenzie/ Ascent Xmedia/Getty Images

Solo travel affords one the unique opportunity to explore at their own pace while stepping out of their comfort zone, making it one of the most rewarding and thrilling experiences. With that in mind, it’s no wonder why solo travel has become increasingly popular. But don’t just take it from us. “Kayak’s data is showing that solo travel in the U.S. continues to be a trend with a steady increase in hotel searches for one person vs. last year and vs. pre-pandemic levels (2019),” said Cara Johnson, Kayak’s consumer travel trends expert.

To determine the best affordable destinations for solo travelers, we tapped the pros over at Kayak to compile a list. From there, we narrowed down our top picks based on expert insight and research. As you peruse the list below, you’ll come across a few Caribbean destinations, as well as several cities throughout North, South, and Central America. Europe isn’t entirely out of reach either, though you’ll have to keep scrolling to see which city made the cut.

No matter where you plan on traveling solo to, Fora co-founder, T+L A-List advisor, and frequent solo traveler Henley Vazquez recommends planning “a few activities in advance so you don't feel overwhelmed with an abundance of unscheduled free time.” On the flip side, she says, "Don’t over-plan! You want to leave room for spontaneity.” She also advises saving a few locations on your phone ahead of time. That way, she says, “If you ever lose Wi-Fi or service, you know how to navigate.”

Denver, Colorado

Ixefra/Getty Images

Average cost: $523 for flight + hotel

From scenic hiking opportunities to craft brews galore, it’s safe to say the Mile High City offers something fun for everyone. Additionally, according to Vazquez, “Denver has a great airport which makes it easy to access from almost anywhere else in the country.” Solo travelers can take their pick of outdoor activities, including hiking and biking. “While normally it's not recommended to hike off into a national park solo, Denver has loads of fantastic trails and an active hiking population, so you'll never be alone on the trail (in a good way),” she tells T+L. Art enthusiasts, meanwhile, need not miss Meow Wolf , a walk-through interactive art exhibit, which, per Vazquez, offers “a totally immersive, mind-bending experience.” Pro tip: Stretch your dollar even further by purchasing the Denver CityPass , which saves you up to 43 percent on admission to top attractions like the Downtown Aquarium and Denver Museum of Nature & Science , among others.

Calgary, Canada

Average cost: $655 for flight + hotel

Known as the gateway to the Canadian Rockies, Calgary is Alberta’s largest city — and it truly offers something for everyone. Experience a taste of Calgary’s signature cowboy culture by planning your trip around the Calgary Stampede , a world-class rodeo show, music and arts festival, and carnival that takes place each summer. However, that’s not to say the urban oasis isn’t worth visiting at other times of year. The bustling downtown area is home to plenty of restaurants and coffee shops, such as Monogram Coffee Co. and Rosso Coffee Roasters , arts and entertainment (such as The Palace Theater for live music and theatrical performances at One Yellow Rabbit ), and local shops, including the Alberta Boot Company , where travelers can snag a pair of handcrafted Western boots. Lastly, it’s worth noting that Calgary boasts North America’s largest urban pathway and bikeway network , making it easy for travelers to explore the various neighborhoods, parks, public art installations , and more via bike (read: no rental car required!).

Mexico City, Mexico

Stephanie Pollak/Travel + Leisure

Average cost: $660 for flight + hotel

“Part of the joy of visiting Mexico City is wandering around beautiful neighborhoods like Polanco and Roma and experiencing the local architecture and culture,” says Vazquez before adding, “You can set your own pace and wander blissfully on your own.” Mexico’s vibrant capital city is also world-renowned for its food scene and is home to several highly esteemed restaurants like Contramar and Meroma . Plus, “Finding a seat at the bar is easy if you're dining for one — you could even create your own personal food crawl!” The travel pro also recommends joining a Context Travel tour to visit the Frida Khalo house, telling T+L that “their small group tours are affordable and their guides are great.” Free attractions, including the Bosque de Chapultepec and the Palacio Nacional , also abound.

San Juan, Puerto Rico

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Average cost: $678 for flight + hotel

San Juan, Puerto Rico has already been named among the most affordable spots for a beach vacation , with affordable flights and hotel options to suit every type of traveler. Best of all: You don’t need a passport to visit. Solo travelers can spend their days by the beach or exploring San Juan’s majestic Old Town, where the cobblestone streets are dotted with colorful buildings, shops, restaurants, and bars, (don’t miss La Factoria for craft cocktails!). Snap photos along the Instagram-famous  “Umbrella Street" (official name: Calle de la Fortaleza) before heading to the historic Castillo San Felipe del Morro fortress, complete with sweeping ocean views. While Old San Juan makes a great home base for exploring, Condado is another excellent option for beach lovers thanks to its oceanfront locale.

Panama City, Panama

John Piekos/Getty Images

Average cost: $730 for flight + hotel

“ Panama City offers a similar experience to visiting Mexico City, only it's a good bit smaller and less intimidating as a solo traveler,” says Vazquez. Plus, “It's relatively easy (and cheap!) to get to, and once you're there, it's easy to navigate the different neighborhoods.” She’s also quick to call out the “incredible” food and “amazing” history — and recommends all solo travelers pay a visit to the Panama Canal. While mornings are best spent sightseeing — can’t-miss attractions include the Biomuseo , the Panama Canal Museum , and the 573-acre, flora- and fauna-filled Metropolitan Natural Park   — afternoons and evenings are for bar-hopping around Casco Viejo, the city’s oldest and smallest quarter that just so happens to be teeming with nightlife. Last but not least, “The city also offers easy access to nature, so you can add on a few days for a fun outdoor adventure.”

Willemstad, Curaçao

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Average cost: $985 for flight + hotel

Pristine beaches, colorful architecture, a fascinating history, incredible diving, and a thriving arts and culture scene: Find all this and more on the Dutch Caribbean island of Curaçao. The capital city of Willemstad boasts some seriously stunning architecture done up in pastel hues, and it also serves as the gateway to beautiful beaches, including Blue Bay, which just so happens to be a beloved diving site. The isle is also home to the 1732 Mikvé-Israel-Emanuel Synagogue , the oldest synagogue in continuous use in the Americas. Visitors can embark on a self-guided street art tour of the city, which is teeming with colorful murals. A meal and a cocktail at Cast Away Beach Bar Restaurant at Playa Kalki is also a must. Plus, Curaçao is considered one of the most LGBTQ+-friendly Caribbean vacation destinations .

Nassau, The Bahamas

Beata Whitehead/Getty Images

Average cost: $998 for flight + hotel

Like San Juan, the Bahamian capital city of Nassau was also named among the best-value warm-weather vacation destinations thanks to its abundance of affordable flight options. Plus, it’s just a quick one- to three-hour flight from most East Coast cities, making for an ideal long weekend getaway. While nearby Paradise Island is home to some pricey hotels and attractions, it is possible to explore Nassau on a budget. For one, travelers can take their pick of pristine (and free!) stretches of sand, including the 2.5-mile-long Cable Beach and the mile-long Junkanoo Beach , which is within walking distance of the city’s famous Straw Market . Additionally, on a recent trip, I partook in a slew of low-cost activities, including a visit to the National Art Gallery of The Bahamas and a tour of John Watling's Distillery . The Queen's Staircase is located within the Fort Fincastle Historic Complex, which dates back to the late 18th century. After trekking the 60-plus steps, head to the Fish Fry (Arawak Cay), which is lined with colorful local eateries offering local delicacies like conch fritters and sky juice cocktails (coconut water, gin, and condensed milk served over ice) for a fraction of the price you’d find in local resorts.

Santiago, Chile

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Average cost: $1,049 for flight + hotel

With the value of the Chilean peso currently so low , there’s never been a better time for budget-conscious solo travelers to consider a trip to Chile’s capital city. “Santiago is beautiful and has access to all the incredible nature Chile has to offer, including Patagonia and wine country,” says Vazquez. However, that’s not to say you need to leave the city to enjoy some of the country’s best vinos — simply snag a seat at wine bars like Bocanáriz and Barrica 94 between sightseeing tours. And, speaking of the latter, don’t miss sites like La Chascona , the former home of famed Chilean poet Pablo Neruda, and the Gabriela Mistral Cultural Centre . Also, Vazquez explains, “What's great about traveling to Chile is most of the lodges include group activities and tours, so even if you’re solo, you're still connecting with other travelers each day.” She especially recommends Tierra Atacama , which just announced a $12 million refresh, and the Explora Lodge , which offers “a rich history of sustainability, originally owned by North Face founder Douglas Tompkins.”

Reykjavik, Iceland

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Average cost: $1,053 for flight + hotel

The Icelandic capital is known for being one of the safest cities thanks to its friendly locals and low crime rates, making it a solid choice for adventure-seeking and nature-loving solo travelers. Fly there via Icelandair or PLAY , both of which offer low-cost flight options from many U.S. cities. Upon landing, hit the ground running and get exploring: Start at The National Gallery of Iceland , the famous Hallgrímskirkja church, or the National Museum of Iceland before refueling with a meal at OTO (which serves up Italian and Asian fusion) or a cup of coffee at Kaffitar or Reykjavik Röst . Also, consider renting a car or partaking in a tour to explore nearby sites like Mount Esja or the Fagradalsfjall volcano — both of which are within an hour’s drive of the city — as well as Gullfoss Falls, which is a bit further away (about an hour and 45 minutes by car) and well worth the trek. Meanwhile, Sky Lagoon is an easy 15-minute drive from the city and attracts wellness-seekers from all over with its geothermal baths.

George Town, Cayman Islands

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Average cost: $1,204 for flight + hotel

“ Sometimes, all you need is a solo beach vacation , and this is the perfect place,” Vazquez says of George Town, the capital of the Cayman Islands. “You can be on the beach reading a book within 30 minutes of landing!” Located on Grand Cayman — known for its beautiful beaches and top-notch diving — this bustling port city offers an abundance of activities that run the gamut from distillery tours to pickleball. Alternatively, sun-seekers can head straight to the stunning Seven Mile Beach, while history buffs and art enthusiasts will enjoy a visit to the Cayman Islands National Museum and The National Gallery of the Cayman Islands , respectively. Consider visiting in the summer or early fall, which coincides with the island’s low season. The result? Cheaper flights, lower rates on lodging, and fewer crowds.

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Group Trips for Solo Travelers: 10 Reasons Why It's The Perfect Blend of Independence and Community

T raveling solo can be incredibly rewarding, but sometimes, the idea of exploring a new destination alone can feel a little overwhelming. That’s where group trips for solo travelers come in!

I’m so passionate about this because I believe you shouldn’t wait around for the perfect person or time to travel. You should go now! I was totally guilty of this myself until I made the leap to solo travel and now all I wanna do is help you get out there!

These trips offer the perfect blend of independence and camaraderie, making your travel experience even more memorable. Here are some top reasons why group trips are an excellent choice for solo travelers.

1. Safety in Numbers

Traveling in a group can significantly enhance your sense of security, especially in unfamiliar destinations. When you’re part of a group, there’s always someone to watch your back, which can be particularly comforting if you’re exploring a new city or hiking through remote areas. You’re less likely to get lost, and you’ll have people to turn to if you encounter any issues.

Moreover, tour operators often have well-established safety protocols, which adds an extra layer of protection. From reliable transportation to experienced guides who know the area well, being in a group means you can relax and enjoy your adventure without constantly worrying about safety.

2. Built-in Social Network

One of the best parts of group trips is the instant social network you gain. You’ll be traveling with like-minded individuals who share your passion for exploration. This can lead to lasting friendships and a more enjoyable travel experience. Sharing moments with others can enhance the joy and excitement of discovering new places.

Group trips also offer a supportive environment where you can feel comfortable stepping out of your comfort zone. Whether it’s trying new foods, participating in group activities, or simply striking up conversations, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to connect with others and make memories together.

3. Expertly Planned Itineraries

When you join a group trip, the itinerary is meticulously planned to ensure you get the most out of your experience. This means you won’t have to worry about the logistics of travel – everything from accommodation to activities is taken care of. You can focus on enjoying the journey rather than stressing over details.

These itineraries often include unique experiences that you might not find on your own. Whether it’s a private tour of a historic site, a pasta making class , or an off-the-beaten-path excursion, you’ll have access to a range of activities that enrich your travel experience.

4. Cost-Effective Group Trips for Solo Travelers

Group trips can be a more budget-friendly option for solo travelers. Many expenses, such as transportation and accommodation, are shared among the group, reducing the overall cost. Tour operators often have partnerships with local businesses, allowing them to offer discounts that you might not be able to secure on your own.

Additionally, the cost savings don’t just stop at logistics. Group meals and activities can also be more affordable, as operators can negotiate better rates for larger groups. This means you can enjoy high-quality experiences without breaking the bank.

5. Stress-Free Experience

Planning a trip can be overwhelming, especially if you’re doing it alone. Group trips take the stress out of travel planning, as everything is organized for you. From the moment you arrive at your destination to the time you leave, all the details are handled by the tour operator .

This stress-free approach allows you to fully immerse yourself in the experience. You can focus on soaking in the sights, sounds, and flavors of your destination without the distraction of planning and coordination. It’s the perfect way to truly unwind and enjoy your adventure.

6. Access to Exclusive Activities

Group trips for solo travelers often include access to exclusive activities and experiences that solo travelers might find challenging to arrange on their own. This can include private whisky tastings , special events, or unique cultural experiences that aren’t available to the general public.

These exclusive activities provide a deeper understanding of the local culture and allow you to experience your destination in a more authentic way. Whether it’s a behind-the-scenes tour of a historic site or a hands-on workshop with local artisans, these special experiences make your trip even more memorable.

7. Enhanced Learning Opportunities

Traveling in a group can offer enhanced learning opportunities through guided tours and expert-led activities. Knowledgeable guides provide insights and context that you might miss if you were exploring on your own. This can enrich your understanding of the places you visit and make your travel experience more meaningful.

These learning experiences are not just limited to the destinations but also extend to your fellow travelers. Sharing knowledge and stories with other group members can broaden your perspectives and deepen your appreciation for the journey.

8. Flexibility and Freedom

While group trips for solo travelers are structured, they often allow for personal free time, giving you the flexibility to explore on your own if you wish. This balance of group activities and personal time ensures that you can have a tailored experience that suits your preferences.

Whether you want to spend an afternoon relaxing at a café, shopping for souvenirs, or venturing off on your own mini-adventure, you’ll have the freedom to do so. The structure provides a safety net, while the free time allows for personal exploration, making it the best of both worlds.

9. Supportive Community

Group trips create a supportive community where you can share your travel highs and lows. This camaraderie can be particularly comforting for solo travelers who might feel lonely or overwhelmed at times. Having a group to share experiences with can turn any challenge into a shared adventure.

This sense of community often extends beyond the trip itself, with many travelers staying in touch long after their journey ends. The friendships and connections you make can become a valuable part of your travel memories.

10. Boosting Confidence

Finally, group trips can significantly boost your confidence as a solo traveler. The support and encouragement from your fellow travelers can help you step out of your comfort zone and try new things. Whether it’s conquering a challenging hike, navigating a bustling market, or simply enjoying a solo stroll in a new city , you’ll find that your confidence grows with each experience.

This newfound confidence can extend to future travels, making you more comfortable and adventurous as a solo traveler. You’ll return home with a sense of accomplishment and a treasure trove of memories that will inspire your next adventure.

Group trips for solo travelers offer a unique blend of safety, social interaction, expert planning, and enriching experiences. They’re an excellent way to explore the world, make new friends, and build your travel confidence.

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Jennifer Lopez Spotted Without Ben Affleck on Vacation in Italy

Lopez was spotted on a boat in Italy amid marital strain with husband Ben Affleck, in photos obtained by PEOPLE

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Jennifer Lopez is soaking up the sun overseas.

The singer and Atlas star was photographed smiling and catching some rays aboard a boat in Italy on Tuesday, June 18, showing off her abs in a cream-colored bandeau top and coordinating with multicolored shorts and gold peep-toe heels.

Lopez — whose husband, Ben Affleck , was not seen along with her for the outing — also carried a Christian Dior Hat Basket Bag and accessorized in gold sunglasses, as she was seen spending time with other individuals out on the water.

The outing comes as a source told PEOPLE on Wednesday that Lopez, 54, has been making plans to travel this summer , amid strain in her marriage with Affleck, 51.

Live Nation also announced on May 31, when Lopez canceled her planned concert tour , that the Delola founder is taking time "to be with her children, family and close friends."

Amid marital tensions, Lopez and Affleck have been quietly  trying to sell the $61 million Beverly Hills home they bought together in 2023.

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The Marry Me star has been living at the house, while her actor/filmmaker husband is staying at a rental home  a few miles away, according to sources, but the pair "see each other every few days," one insider recently told PEOPLE.

The duo have remained friendly, stepping out together for family events. They recently attended a graduation party for Affleck's son Samuel , 12, alongside Affleck's ex-wife Jennifer Garner at a rental home in Brentwood, California, where they wore their wedding rings.

Lopez also posted a heartfelt message to her husband on Instagram in honor of Father's Day on Sunday, June 16, calling him "our hero."

The actress and singer is mom to 16-year-old twins,  Max and Emme , whom she shares with ex  Marc Anthony . Aside from Samuel, Affleck also shares Violet , 18, and  Seraphina , 15, with Garner, 52.

As for Lopez's vacation history, she has previously embarked on some epic summer getaways, both with friends and with Affleck.

In years past, the couple enjoyed trips to France and Italy over the summer, including during their  2022 honeymoon in Milan and Lake Como  and a birthday trip to the  celeb-loved island of Capri .

The "Jenny from the Block" artist has said she's "not a big vacation person" in general, but has spoken about her love for Italy.

"When I finally went to spend a couple of summers in a row in the south of Italy, I really, really loved it," Lopez said in a 2023 Travel + Leisure interview.

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Jennifer Lopez continues solo vacation in Italy while Ben Affleck dishes on her extreme level of fame: PHOTOS

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Jennifer Lopez is taking full advantage of her summer vacation sans husband Ben Affleck.

In new photos obtained by Fox News Digital, the "Let's Get Loud" singer snapped some selfies while aboard a boat off the coast of Italy. Lopez was wearing a white, one-piece bathing suit and sipping on a cold beverage.

BEN AFFLECK EXPLAINS WHY HE ALWAYS LOOKS ANGRY IN PHOTOS, WHILE JENNIFER LOPEZ SPENDS SOLO HOLIDAY IN ITALY

While Lopez continues to enjoy her Italian solo vacation, Affleck recently spoke about his wife's level of fame and the unwanted attention.

During an appearance on the premiere episode of the fourth season of Kevin Hart's Peacock show "Hart to Heart," the Academy Award winner said: "We went somewhere with [Jennifer] – I can’t remember because she’s so famous, and she creates this – people love her, and she really represents something important to people," Affleck said about Lopez, who is currently traveling solo in Italy amid ongoing split rumors. "[To me,] people are like, ‘Hey, I like your movie,’ and then they’re like ‘Ah! J-Lo!' It’s amazing, you know what I mean?"

Recalling a situation in which he, Lopez and their blended family were walking through Times Square in New York City, Affleck said the fan attention was "f---ing bananas."

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"We get out of the car, we were going to a play, and I was like, ‘F--- it, babe, we’re going to be late, we gotta walk a block and a half.’ She was like, ‘Alright,’ she didn’t say s---," he said. "We get out with her, all the kids, through Times Square, and the s--- was like f---ing bananas."

Last month, Lopez announced the cancellation of her "This Is Me...Live" tour.

Representatives for Live Nation explained JLo would be "taking time off to be with her children, family and close friends."

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"I am completely heartsick and devastated about letting you down," Lopez wrote in her newsletter. "Please know that I wouldn’t do this if I didn’t feel that it was absolutely necessary. I promise I will make it up to you and we will all be together again. I love you all so much. Until next time..."

Lopez and Affleck have reportedly been quietly trying to sell their $60.8 million Beverly Hills estate while dealing with the media frenzy around their relationship.

The two have been living separately , a source previously confirmed to Fox News Digital.

"At first, it was a whirlwind of love and now that real life is setting in, it’s hard," a source said in May. "They are both involved in each other’s kids' lives and consider themselves one big family unit, so it's been hard for everyone."

A separate source confirmed that the duo often butt heads when it comes to their parenting styles.

Lopez shares 16-year-old twins, Max and Emme, with ex-husband Marc Anthony, while Affleck has three children with Jennifer Garner: Violet, 18; Seraphina, 15; and Samuel, 12.

"They've had fights about differences of opinions on raising their kids," the source said. "They have very different parenting styles."

Fox News Digital's Tracy Wright and Lauryn Overhultz contributed to this post. 

Original article source: Jennifer Lopez continues solo vacation in Italy while Ben Affleck dishes on her extreme level of fame: PHOTOS

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