How to Take Stunning Photos of Yourself When Traveling Alone: The Ultimate Guide
Ever been on a solo trip, stumbled upon the perfect backdrop, but had no one to take your picture? Don’t stress—I’ve got you covered with 10 easy tips on how to take photos of yourself when traveling alone and make them look stunning every time.
Solo travel is incredibly freeing. You get to explore new places at your own pace, without worrying about anyone else’s schedule. But there’s always one big question: how do you capture those amazing moments without someone behind the camera?
I’ve been there, too—feeling awkward asking strangers or ending up with less-than-flattering travel selfies. Over time, I’ve learned some tried-and-true methods for capturing beautiful solo travel shots, and the best part? It’s way easier than you think!
In this guide, I’m sharing my favorite tips and tricks for solo travel photography. Whether you’re hiking a mountain, exploring a city, or even going to the beach alone, here’s how to take amazing photos of yourself when traveling alone.
Planning your first solo trip? Be sure to check out my tips for flying solo for the first time or these beach hacks every solo female traveler should know!
- Why Taking Travel Photos of Yourself Matters
- 10 Must-Know Tips To Take Photos When Traveling Alone
- 1. Wake Up Early for the Best Shots
- 2. Get Yourself a Trusty Tripod (with Remote or Timer)
- 3. Embrace the Selfie Stick
- 4. Ask Fellow Solo Travelers for Help
- 5. Look for Friendly Faces
- 6. Use Airbnb Experiences to Find Local Photographers
- 7. Always Have a Pose in Mind
- 8. Plan Your Photo Locations Ahead of Time
- 9. Use What’s Around You for Creative Shots
- 10. Stay Safe While Snapping Photos
- Travel Photography Tips for Solo Travelers
- FAQs: How to Take Photos of Yourself When Traveling Alone
- Final Thoughts on Solo Travel Photography
Why Taking Travel Photos of Yourself Matters
Taking photos of yourself while traveling solo isn’t just about getting that perfect Instagram shot (to be honest, I hardly ever post most of my travel selfies!). It’s about capturing those special moments and memories that you’ll look back on for years to come.
You might not realize it at first, but it’s easy to forget the little details of your trips—the places you visited, the experiences you had. That’s why taking solo travel photos is so important—they allow you to relive those adventures whenever you want.
Curious how to get professional-looking photos when you’re on your own? With a few smart tips and the right solo photography gear, you’ll learn how to take photos of yourself that look like they were taken by a pro—even when traveling solo! Let me show you how!
10 Must-Know Tips To Take Photos When Traveling Alone
1. Wake Up Early for the Best Shots
Want to know a simple trick for getting stunning solo travel photos? Wake up early! It’s the best way to beat the crowds, especially at popular tourist spots or in busy cities.
Before every solo trip, I always do a bit of research to figure out which spots get packed and make it a goal to arrive as soon as they open (or as early as I can manage!).
When I visited Wat Pho Temple in Bangkok—one of my top reasons to visit Thailand—I arrived 10 minutes before it opened at 7:00 AM, and I had the entire place to myself! It was literally just me, a few monks, and some friendly local cats.
Having the whole temple to explore, with no interruptions, made those early wake-up calls 100% worth it!
2. Get Yourself a Trusty Tripod (with Remote or Timer)
If you’re serious about getting those perfect solo travel photos, a trusty tripod is an absolute must. You’ve got two great options: a small, flexible tripod or a full-sized one, depending on how much space you have and your travel style.
Personally, I love my Gorillapod—it’s compact, flexible, and can wrap around just about anything, from trees to railings and even street signs. It’s perfect when you’re trying to avoid overpacking while traveling. Just double-check that it can handle the weight of your camera or phone!
When I have extra room in my bag, I bring along a full-sized tripod that extends to my height. It’s a total game-changer for solo photography, making it easy to set up anywhere and perfect for capturing full-body shots with zero hassle.
How to Use a Tripod for Solo Travel Photos
Once you’ve got your tripod set up, you have two easy options for taking photos alone: remote shutter or self-timer. I’m a big fan of the remote shutter because it lets you pose without having to run back and forth. Just don’t forget to hide the remote in your hand for a clean shot!
If you prefer using the self-timer, it gives you those extra seconds to get into position and nail the perfect pose. And if it takes a few tries, don’t worry—I’ve been there! During my day trip to Batu Caves, it took me 25 shots to get that one perfect photo, but it was totally worth it!
Pro Tip: Try switching your camera or phone to video mode. Record yourself moving naturally, then later scroll through the footage and screenshot the best frames. This little hack will save you so much time and give you great candid shots!
3. Embrace the Selfie Stick
Not quite ready to invest in a tripod? No problem—a trusty selfie stick can do wonders for your solo travel photos! I know they sometimes get a bad rap, but they’re actually a fantastic tool for taking stunning pictures of yourself when you’re traveling alone.
The best part? You can extend the selfie stick to capture more of the background, making it perfect for wide-open landscapes, bustling cityscapes, or iconic landmarks you don’t want to miss.
These days, I mostly use a tripod, but my selfie stick has been on plenty of adventures—from Universal Studios Singapore to the cobblestone streets of Europe. It’s lightweight, super portable, and perfect for those spontaneous travel selfies when you don’t feel like setting up a full tripod.
4. Ask Fellow Solo Travelers for Help
Just because you’re traveling alone doesn’t mean you have to miss out on human connection! Some of my best travel photos have come from simply asking fellow solo travelers for a hand.
Don’t be shy! People are usually more than happy to help—just ask nicely and offer to return the favor. You might even make a new friend!
For example, when I visited the Golden Hand Bridge in Vietnam, I got there early, but it was already starting to fill up. Setting up my tripod wasn’t really an option, but I bumped into a solo traveler from Germany who had the exact same problem.
We ended up taking photos for each other, and the results were amazing! We even spent the rest of the day exploring Ba Na Hills together, which turned out to be one of the highlights of my trip.
Bonus Tip: If you’re staying at a hostel, ask around! You’ll likely find other solo travelers—especially solo female travelers—who are looking for photos at the same spots. It’s the perfect chance to team up!
5. Look for Friendly Faces
When I don’t have my tripod or selfie stick handy and can’t find fellow solo travelers, I’ll usually look for friendly tourists who seem approachable and trustworthy. Couples, families, or groups are always a safe bet—they’re much less likely to run off with your phone!
Keep an eye out for younger travelers or anyone who looks comfortable with a camera (bonus points if their gear is fancier than yours!). They’ll likely know how to frame a great shot and be happy to help.
If you’re still unsure, ask a staff member or worker at the location. If they’re allowed to take photos (sometimes they can’t!), they often know the best angles and you can rest easy knowing they won’t be running off with your gear!
Traveling solo? Don’t forget to check out my guide on the Best Safety Items for Solo Female Travelers to stay safe during your next solo trip!
How to Ask a Stranger to Take a Picture of You
Here’s my tried-and-true approach when asking someone to take my photos when traveling alone:
- Start with a smile: Begin with something friendly like, “Hi, sorry to bother you, but could you take a quick picture for me?”
- Show inspiration: If you have a specific idea in mind, show them a reference photo or even offer to take their picture first to demonstrate the composition.
- Guide them: Politely explain how you’d like the photo framed. It makes it easier for them, and you’re more likely to get a shot you’ll love.
- Ask for a few shots: If they seem okay with it, you can say, “Could you take a couple of photos?” and quickly switch up your poses between shots.
- Offer to return the favor: Suggest taking their picture in return. It’s a great way to break the ice!
- Be polite: Always thank them sincerely, and if they’re open to chatting, feel free to start a friendly conversation.
Even with the best approach, remember that not every photo will be perfect, especially when learning how to take photos of yourself when traveling alone. You’ll likely get some blurry shots or awkward angles, but that’s part of the experience!
If the photo doesn’t turn out how you hoped, don’t be afraid to wait until the person has left the area completely and then kindly ask someone else. Sometimes, the second (or third!) try will nail it!
6. Use Airbnb Experiences to Find Local Photographers
Want to take your solo travel photography to the next level? Booking a local photographer through Airbnb Experiences is a fantastic, budget-friendly way to get professional-quality shots without the worry of handing your phone to a stranger!
These photographers know all the hidden gems and can offer expert photography tips on angles, lighting, and the best spots, ensuring you capture that picture-perfect moment.
I finally tried this during my trip to Kyoto, Japan, and had an amazing time! I rented a kimono for the day, and my photographer, Kim, took me to a stunning secret garden, which turned out to be one of the best places to see fall foliage in Japan!
On a budget? Check out platforms like GetYourGuide or Klook. They sometimes offer photo tours that combine sightseeing with professional travel photography!
7. Always Have a Pose in Mind
One of the best tips for taking photos of yourself when traveling alone is to plan your poses ahead of time. Before setting the timer or asking someone for help, it helps to know which angles and poses work best for you.
This way, you can quickly move through a few go-to poses without wasting anyone’s time (because let’s be honest, they’re probably only going to take a couple of shots!).
I’m no model—half the time, I have no idea what to do with my hands, and you definitely won’t see me in a glamorous dress. But I do have a few simple, reliable poses that always work and don’t feel awkward to do in front of others!
Here are a few of my favorite solo travel photography poses:
- Glancing to the side: Show off your “good side”!
- Facing away from the camera: Perfect for days when you’re not feeling your best
- Walking toward or away from the camera: Adds movement and life to the shot.
- Playing with your surroundings: Lean against a wall, walk under an archway, or use natural framing like bridges.
- Doing something interactive: Sip a coffee, hold a map, or engage with your environment to make the photo feel more natural.
Looking for more travel photography ideas? Follow me on Pinterest—I’m always sharing fresh inspiration for your next solo adventure!
8. Plan Your Photo Locations Ahead of Time
Not sure where to begin with your solo travel photography? No worries—the internet has you covered! A quick search on Instagram or Pinterest for your destination will give you tons of ideas and inspiration for your next solo photo shoot.
Take screenshots of your favorite photos, and when you arrive, try to recreate them. Plus, having a reference photo makes it much easier to show someone exactly what you’re looking for when you ask for help.
Another handy option is to search for the most Instagrammable spots at your destination. Just type phrases like “best photo spots in (destination)” or “Instagrammable places in (destination)” into Google to see what other travelers have captured.
Bonus Tip: Use Google Maps to create a custom map with all your favorite photo spots pinned. It’s a great way to stay organized and ensure you don’t miss any key locations during your trip!
9. Use What’s Around You for Creative Shots
There will be times when you don’t have a tripod or selfie stick, and no one’s around to ask for help. No worries! You can still take great photos of yourself when traveling alone by getting a little creative with your surroundings.
I’ve balanced my phone on ledges, park benches, walls—pretty much anything stable I could find. I’ve even propped it up on rocks or random objects just to get the shot I wanted. Sometimes, a little resourcefulness is all you need to get the perfect solo travel shot.
One time, while hiking in Sri Lanka, I even used my backpack as a makeshift tripod (don’t judge me—it was a tough climb, and I wasn’t hauling anything extra!). The photo wasn’t perfect, but it’s proof I made it to the top!
10. Stay Safe While Snapping Photos
As much as we all want that perfect shot, safety should always come first, especially when you’re setting up expensive gear or asking strangers to take your picture. I’ve heard way too many stories of people getting hurt—or worse—while trying to take a selfie!
Here are some essential solo travel photography safety tips:
- Keep your belongings close: Never leave valuables unattended while taking photos. Make sure they’re always within your sight.
- Be discreet with your camera: Avoid setting up your tripod in busy areas. Instead, use a selfie stick or ask someone to take your photo.
- Watch your step: Stay aware of where you’re walking while posing to avoid tripping or falling.
- Delay posting: To protect your privacy, hold off on posting to social media until after you’ve left the location.
- Backup your photos: Use Google Photos or a hard drive to store your images, so they’re safe if your device gets lost or damaged.
- Trust your gut: If a place or person feels off, leave right away.
And don’t forget, travel insurance is a must if you’re carrying expensive camera gear. If the worst happens, at least you’ll have the peace of mind knowing you can get some of your money back!
Travel Photography Tips for Solo Travelers
Now that you know how to take pictures of yourself when traveling alone, let me share a few tips to make sure those shots are ones you’ll be proud to share on social media. Here are some must-know tips to elevate your solo travel photography:
- Learn Basic Photography: Understanding lighting, composition, and posing can transform your photos. Don’t be afraidto experiment!
- Check the Weather: Weather impacts lighting and your outfit choices, so always check the forecast before heading out.
- Use Natural Light: Face the light source, but avoid pointing the camera directly at the sun to prevent overexposure.
- Make the Most of Lighting: Magic hour (right after sunrise) and golden hour (just before sunset) provide the soft, warm light that’s perfect for photos.
- Choose the Right Camera: Whether it’s an iPhone or DSLR, pick a camera that fits your style, budget, and is easy to carry.
- Edit Your Photos: Presets make editing a breeze! You can apply them with one click using apps like Lightroom.
- Dress for the Location: Your outfit can totally change the vibe of your photos. Pick colors and styles that complement the surroundings.
- Add Movement: Toss your hair or twirl your dress to give your photos a more dynamic, natural feel.
- Use Props: A hat, scarf, or coffee cup can add interest and give you something to do with your hands.
Finally, my top tip for taking photos alone is to ignore the stares! Yes, people might watch because you’re doing something different, but remember—you’ll never see them again, and your photos will last forever. So, don’t let it stop you!
Ready to start traveling solo? Check out this guide on how to convince your parents to let you travel alone for tips on easing their worries and finally getting their support!
FAQs: How to Take Photos of Yourself When Traveling Alone
Capturing stunning solo photos is all about planning and creativity. Use tools like a tripod or selfie stick, find great lighting (like during the golden hour), and don’t hesitate to ask others for help. Experiment with different angles and poses for the best results.
Solo travelers take pictures of themselves by using tripods, selfie sticks, or propping their phone on a stable surface. Tools like remote shutters and the self-timer feature make hands-free shots easy. Many travelers also swap photo-taking duties with others they meet along the way.
Essentials for solo travel photos include a compact tripod, selfie stick, and a remote shutter. Don’t forget to bring extra batteries and a portable charger to keep your devices powered throughout the day, whether you’re in a city or exploring nature.
If you don’t have a tripod, you can still take great solo travel photos by propping your phone on sturdy surfaces like benches, rocks, or ledges. A selfie stick is another quick solution, and don’t be afraid to ask a fellow traveler to take a picture for you.
To feel less awkward while taking photos alone, practice your poses ahead of time.
Focus on enjoying the moment, and embrace candid shots—they often feel the most natural. Ignore stares, and remember, it’s all about enjoying the process!
Some of the best solo travel photography tips include waking up early to avoid crowds, making use of natural light, and planning your poses ahead of time. Use tools like a tripod or selfie stick for hands-free shots, and always ask others for help when needed. Most importantly, have fun!
Final Thoughts on Solo Travel Photography
Taking photos of yourself when traveling alone doesn’t have to feel awkward or overwhelming. With a little creativity, some essential gear, and a bit of practice, you’ll be capturing amazing solo travel photos in no time.
Whether you’re on your first solo trip, relaxing on the beach, or hiking through the mountains, how to take photos as a solo traveler is all about having fun and embracing the experience.
What about you? Do you have any favorite solo travel photography tips? Share your ideas in the comments—I’d love to hear how you take pictures when traveling solo!
Other Posts You Might Like:
- The Ultimate Guide to Managing Money While Traveling Southeast Asia
- Top Fall Destinations in Asia You Need to Visit This Year
- 12 Easy Ways to Make Your Luggage Stand Out at the Airport
- 10 Important Questions to Ask Your Potential Travel Partner
- Backpack Essentials for School and Travel: Don’t Forget These!
- Stay Connected Abroad: A Local SIM Card Guide for Travelers
- 25 Must-Have Free Travel Apps for Your Southeast Asia Trip
Liked This Solo Photography Guide? Pin It On Pinterest!
Great tips. Many translate to great photo tips when you are traveling with others as well.
These are great tips! If it’s a popular picture spot I look for people that might need an extra hand to get everyone in the shot and offer my assistance, then ask them if they’d mind taking one of me! 100% success rate.