Traveling alone allows one to see and feel the world deeply and personally. You have the freedom to immerse yourself in experiences that resonate with you.
Therefore, your adventures may not be complete without capturing important moments. These photos are a wonderful reminder that you have been there and experienced such ventures.
However, taking photos as a solo traveler can be daunting. In addition to being a spectator, you are actively capturing each scene, requiring the balance of enjoyment and documenting the moment.
So how do you perfectly capture every getaway when you’re behind and in front of the camera? We have the answers here!
Use your phone’s timer feature
The smartphone timer function is one of the simplest yet effective tools for solo travelers. Even older models have this camera feature.
This handy feature allows you to take pictures without needing anyone’s help. Adjust the angle, press the timer, and place yourself in the frame—you’re both the photographer and the subject. You can also experiment with backgrounds, angles and compositions to find the perfect shot.
In addition, you can maximize your creativity using the burst mode. This high speed, continuous shooting mode allows you to take multiple photos while on the move. That way, you have a range of outtakes to choose from.
Buy a Selfie Stick or tripod
Sometimes, they need more than a timer and burst function. While you can use these features for selfies, you’ll need to find spots to let your phone sit for wide shots safely.
Luckily, selfie sticks and tripods are your best friends in these situations.
Selfie sticks can extend the range of your camera, allowing you to include stunning scenery in your selfies. They are best for quick shots beyond your hand.
But there are scenarios where selfie sticks fall short. They can be unstable and you usually can’t use them hands-free. Tripods can eliminate these problems by providing stability and wide-angle shots.
Tripods also provide precise framing for long exposure and low light shots. They help ensure your photos are sharp and balanced.
In general, selfie sticks are best for mobility, while tripods are ideal for flexible and complex shots. However, many photo tools combine these two features in one device, allowing you to maximize functions. Models with Bluetooth connectivity and remote controls are also available.
Take wide-angle selfies
If you prefer to curate your Instagram feed for aesthetics, regular phone selfies are usually not ideal. However, wide-angle selfies can offer unique angles and action shots that elevate your IG feed.
Wide-angle shots are possible with action cameras with wide lenses, such as the GoPro. These cameras are designed to capture a larger field of view, making them ideal for dynamic selfies with movement and landscapes.
Another feature you can use for wide selfies is the Camera setting 0.5x. This feature is the ultra-wide lens option available on most smartphones. Some have the 0.6x setting. You can use it if the GoPro doesn’t fit the budget.
Ask people
There are times when you need help setting up your photography equipment. The venue may be full or not allow filming and filming with large equipment.
This is when you can ask people for help. When you feel uncomfortable, think about what would bother you more: taking a few seconds out of a stranger’s day or not having photos of your travels.
But not all people are photographers. Strangers may not be able to take your desired shots. Here’s what you need to do:
- Reach people with decent cameras
- Take practice shots and show them to the person so they know what you want
- Ask the person to take several shots
Starting conversations is also essential for build relationships with strangers. Then you can ask them to take your picture and offer them the same.
Join a group tour
While tours allow travelers to experience local culture, they can also be a great way to take travel photos. Consider joining one to avoid bringing gear or if you haven’t figured out your phone’s camera capabilities.
After learning about the places, you can ask the tour guide or a fellow traveler to take a picture of you.
Since the tours focus on the best destinations, you can ensure you get photos at some of the top tourist attractions.
Take pictures of different parts of your body
Your solo travel photos don’t always have to include your face. Sometimes, all you need are human elements to show your presence.
For example, take photos with your feet in the water or resting on the grass. You can also take pictures of your hand while holding a food or drink. Team them with mesmerizing views and you’ve got images that are tangible memories that can grace your IG feed.
Leverage mirrors and other reflective surfaces
Mirrors and other reflective surfaces can add an artistic twist to your travel photos. Whether it’s a shop window or a glossy facade, you can capture yourself with the environment in a single frame, creating a visually exciting composition.
With this technique, you can turn ordinary scenes into multi-layered images to enhance your photo collection.
Don’t include people
Some moments are worth capturing without people in the frame. Including one in your travel photos can provide a serene perspective of the places you visit.
This approach emphasizes the beauty of the destination itself, allowing you to focus on nature, architecture and landscapes without the distraction of crowds. It may even remind you of the time you saw such sights up close.
Taking in views without people can also create a sense of timelessness that evokes the exhilarating experience of personal discovery, making the journey and memories more intimate.
Things to remember when taking photos yourself
Struggles are inevitable when you take pictures alone. Here are the things to keep in mind to ensure stunning images:
Go early
If you prefer fewer people, go to your destination in the morning before rush hour. This way, you can take pictures without worrying about other people’s reactions or you feel like people are watching you.
Poses
Some of the best poses to show off your solo travel photos include:
- Walking away
- Back of the head
- Walking across
- Looking at the camera but looking away
Security
Carrying heavy bags can be a burden when taking photos. It is best to leave your backpack at the hotel or luggage storage.
For example, if you are traveling to the capital of South Korea, find a safe one luggage storage in Seoul to store your belongings and move freely. This storage space is also beneficial for last-minute urban getaways after check-out.
In addition, you should not be too far from your camera when taking pictures. It’s better to be a little closer to the frame than to lose your camera to thieves.
The best advice is to make your frame as small as possible. Despite being relatively close to the camera, you can still include huge landscapes. You can then crop or zoom while editing.
Capture the Perfect Solo Snaps
Taking photos when traveling alone can be daunting, but with the right approach, you can overcome the struggles and maximize your creative expression.
Remember, perfect solo snaps don’t have to be perfect. It’s about capturing the essence and emotions of the moment. Embrace imperfections and leave room for spontaneity to create memories that are uniquely yours.
