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We have probably all been there… it’s a beautiful scene and you would love nothing more than to be in the picture too. However, your “Instagram husband” or normal photographer isn’t around. Back when I was first traveling alone, I was absolutely thrilled to be seeing new landscapes. I would usually just capture these without being in the picture myself. Occasionally I would ask a passerby to take one as well so I could be in the picture. But let me tell you the story of how I got into solo travel photography because 1) it’s a funny one and 2) it made me actually want to learn how to take solo travel photos.

Solo Travel Photos – Why you need to learn how to take them

Let me set the scenario for you. I was visiting Albuquerque for work and decided to spend the afternoon hiking in Tent Rocks National Monument after I completed my meetings for the day. Tent Rocks was beautiful and there weren’t many people there. I captured several landscape shots and on the hike out I passed a couple and I asked them to take my picture.

The older gentleman agreed to take my picture and was so incredibly sweet. I told him I would stand there facing towards him and away from him if he could get two shots.

First he told me it was two difficult to get the rocks in because it was so tall so he switched to panorama.

Now for the result…

I don’t think I have ever spent so much time LAUGHING AT PHOTOS in my entire life.

Now despite not having good photos from Tent Rocks, at least I have a funny story as I still almost die laughing every time I see those pictures. I even shared it as a funny story on Instagram, and I reference it as a travel blooper from time to time. However besides the comedic effect, the other benefit of this photography disaster was it made me want to learn how to take solo travel photos so I no longer had to rely on anyone else.

How to take solo travel photos

Many of you may know that I recently purchased a camera. But for this post I want to cover solo travel photography with your cell phone. As of this writing, everything that I have shared so far have come from either my Google Pixel or my iPhone (most photos after September 2019 were initially iPhone 11 Pro and then starting September 2021 were iPhone 13 Pro). Therefore these solo travel photography tips will cover both Android and iphone.

Solo travel Photo Tips

1. Purchase a tripod.

Selfie sticks will have you feeling like you are a big ol’ tourist and will keep you from getting your full location vibe. This is why instead of a selfie stick, I recommend using a tripod like this one.

There are a few reasons why I recommend this tripod specifically for solo travel photos. The first reason is because it is small. Of course small can have its own disadvantages. But, when I travel I want to be able to fit it into my carry-on easily and not be burdened by bringing it. The second reason I recommend this tripod is because it can accommodate both a cell phone and a camera making it versatile.

2. Purchase a Bluetooth Remote

If you already have a tripod, the next thing you need is a Bluetooth remote. Many tripods come with a Bluetooth remore so you can skip this step if you purchased one already. Once your Bluetooth remote arrives, pair it with your phone so you can take your pictures using the remote.

3. Download Apps

Now, not always will you want the posed look that comes with actually clicking the Bluetooth button yourself. Or, you could forget your Bluetooth remote at home. This is where an app can help you out. I actually use a combination of the two (app and Bluetooth remote).

The above photo was taken with a Bluetooth remote. However the below photo was taken with an app.

The benefit of using an app is that instead of setting a timer, running to your destination in 2, 5 or 10 seconds and then running back to check the photo and repeating several times, you can take many pictures at once.

Which apps do I recommend? For iPhone, the Lens Buddy App lets you set a delay timer of 3, 5, 10, 300, or 60 seconds and then it will take up to unlimited photos for you. The intervals between shots can be 0, 0.5, and 1 seconds depending on your setting. For Android, the Open Camera App can allow you to set a delay timer and take up to 20 photos for you. As I no longer have my Google Pixel, I can’t be sure how they may have updated this app for exact settings but if you have an Android phone, definitely check it out.

4. Practice

Now let’s say you get to your destination where you want to take these beautiful travel photos. It’s not necessarily crowded but it’s also not empty either, and you’re about to do a solo photoshoot. Did you just panic a little? Well first off, you aren’t alone. Many people are self conscious about doing something like a photoshoot in public with an audience. If it sounds intimidating to you, consider getting some practice in at a location where you are comfortable. 

Practice attaching your phone to the tripod, connecting your Bluetooth remote, and/or familiarize yourself with the recommended apps. Know how to adjust the settings. The tripod I recommended is small so it’s easy for traveling, but an obvious downside is that you might have to get down on the ground to set up the shot. Then, do a photoshoot in your bedroom/backyard/living room or somewhere with some privacy.

5. Learn some poses

Most of my photos are outdoor themed so they don’t necessary have poses but rather more natural walking/hiking. However it’s still good to practice posing and candidly walking BEFORE you need to do it in public to boost your confidence. This practice is critical if you want to learn how to take solo travel photos and it will ensure your pictures will look stunning when you move into the real world.

This posing practice also helps you learn more about how your body looks in photos. This will help you tailor how your solo travel photos will turn out. Here are some examples*: Walking slightly on my tip toes makes my legs look more toned. Leaning forward a bit when I sit down looks better than just sitting up straight. Swinging my arms too much when I’m walking looks more like I’m flailing.

*Please note: these are all personal preferences. You can absolutely take stunning solo travel photos with legs that aren’t toned, a small slouch when you sit, or flailing your arms a bit. But practicing ahead of time will help you find out what YOU like best.

You will not regret the practice. And sometimes there is a limited window to take your shots so you want to be able to nail it. If you want more guidance for posing, I recommend checking out Emma on Instagram. She regularly posts posing ideas and videos so you can expand your ideas.

6. Take a lot of photos

Now you may have gathered this from the “practice” section, but part of learning how to take solo travel photos is taking lots of pictures! And I don’t just mean at home in your living room.

When you’re at your location take as many as you can while still being respectful of your surroundings. If you’re alone with no bystanders, you can obviously take as many as you have time for. However if there are onlookers who are also hoping to get shots, kindly move to the side while reviewing your photos so they can take some as well before starting to shoot again. “Hogging” a location is how Instagrammers/Influencers get a collective bad reputation.

This is also why apps and a Bluetooth remote come in handy. One click gets you several shots without having to return to your phone. It also gives you several opportunities for the stunning solo travel photos you are hoping for.

7. Editing

This step isn’t absolutely necessary. And when everyone’s life is already #filtered , you are allowed to have your own opinions on whether or not to edit. However sometimes when taking solo travel photos, you may find that the lighting isn’t perfect, your face is in a shadow, or the colors don’t look the way they did in person. 

That’s where editing comes in. If you don’t have the capacity or interest in learning Photoshop or Lightroom consider using the “Snapseed” App available on both iPhone abs Android. It has simple filters and editing abilities and it is relatively easy to use.

I only started using Lightroom this year and it is considered one of the better editing software options. It’s available as an app on both iPhone or Android. There is also a desktop version if you want even more control.

If the idea of Lightroom keeps you from wanting to take your own travel photos, take baby steps. Start with the Snapseed app first. Then consider purchasing done-for-you presets so you can edit with one click. The presets I use in the majority of my photos since January 2020 are from Love Hard Travel Often and I have linked them here. 

Here is an editing example:

8. Get Started

Even if you aren’t traveling right now, go ahead and start practicing taking pictures of yourself. You can do this in your living room, on your balcony, in your backyard, in the park, etc. The destination doesn’t have to be exotic in order to practice or even share it on social media. 

9. Think About Safety Too

When it comes to solo travel photography, your safety is as essential as nailing that perfect shot. So, always let someone know where you will be if you’re going to a remote area.

Also, stick to well-traveled routes and familiarize yourself with local emergency services. You might even consider purchasing a discreet personal alarm or safety app for extra peace of mind.

Moreover, if you decide to ask a stranger to take your pic, use your street smarts and assess the situation.

Lastly, don’t forget about the weather. Try to look at the forecast before heading out and pack accordingly so that you’re prepared for whatever Mother Nature throws your way.

By seamlessly blending safety into your solo travel photography game, you’re not just protecting yourself. You’re ensuring that every shot tells a story about the stunning landscapes and your responsible travel practices.

Solo Travel Photo Tips

Hopefully these 8 solo travel photography tips will help you get started learning how to take your own solo travel photos so that it looks like you have your own paparazzi. And if you have never traveled solo before, my friend Carly’s blog post highlights why you should give it a try.

What tips do you have? Or have you tried any of these yourself? Let me know in the comments!

Solo Travel Photos FAQs

1. How Do You Take Pictures of Yourself When Traveling Solo?

There are so many different ways to take pictures while you are traveling alone. Some of the items and methods I personally use include:

• Selfie sticks
• Tripods
• Reflective surfaces/mirrors
• The kindness of strangers
• Remote shutter release

2. How Do You Take Pictures of Yourself Alone?

If you want to take pictures of yourself alone try freeing up your hands and getting creative with different poses.

In fact, a tripod is really helpful if you want to capture that perfect shot without holding your camera or phone.

3. How Do I Look Good in Travel Photos?

If you want to look good in travel photos you will have to follow these 7 steps to take amazing photos.

• Adopt relaxed and natural poses
• Position yourself in well-lit areas to enhance the lighting of the photo
• Choose clothing that compliments your surroundings
• Always try different angles to find a shot that is flattering to you
• Opt for a clean and simple backdrop to avoid distractions
• Have a genuine smile on your face for a more natural look
• You have to show confidence in your posture/expressions for more impactful photos

4. Is There an App to Take Pictures of Yourself Alone?

Yes, of course, there are several apps that you can use to take pictures of yourself alone.

So, to take solo pics with your phone, check out the Morpho Self Camera or the Lens Buddy app.

It’s a killer self-timer app that allows you to tell your device how many shots you want, the delay, and the intervals between photos.

5. Why Don’t I Take Pictures of Myself?

Some possible reasons why you don’t take pictures of yourself include self-esteem, discomfort in front of the camera, or a preference for capturing your surroundings.

It’s not a bad thing since I know a lot of people who aren’t into taking pictures of themselves. To change this, start taking more pictures of yourself and boost your confidence with different photo techniques.

6. What Should I Wear for Travel Photos?

If you want to take stunning photos while you’re traveling, wear comfy, chic clothes that match the vibe of your surroundings and the weather at your travel destination.

You can also layer up for enhanced versatility. Also, keep it cool with classic styles and avoid crazy patterns so that you can blend in with your background to create epic travel photos.

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