So you’ve finally decided to take that solo trip… but there’s one little thing holding you back. “How am I going to get nice photos if I’m travelling alone?”
I hear you.
It’s a real concern. We all want to come home with memories and something Instagram-worthy (or just something to flip through on a rainy day).
But please don’t let that stop you. With a little creativity, you can still capture beautiful moments, even without a travel buddy in sight.
Let me show you how I do it:
1. Start with the Basics. Practice Your Selfies
I know, I know… it’s not ideal. But it’s step one. Get comfortable with your angles, lighting, and expression. And here’s my top tip:
Get a phone case with a built-in stand — it’s a game changer. Pop it up on a ledge, bench, or rock (safely!), set your timer, and voila!
I “play tourist” at home in Singapore all the time to practice. It helps you get over the awkwardness before you’re standing in front of the Eiffel Tower fumbling with your phone.
2. Invest in a Good Selfie Stick
Yes, they still exist. And yes, they’re totally worth it.
During cherry blossom season in Japan, my selfie stick gave me some of the dreamiest solo photos, framed with sakura petals and wide smiles. Bonus: many selfie sticks now come with Bluetooth remotes. Even better!
3. Join a Local Tour and Be Friendly
Group tours are goldmines for making new friends and swapping photo ops.
When I was in Iceland solo, I joined three local tours — and left with a whole album of amazing photos, taken by fellow travellers I met along the way. Here’s the trick:
Offer to take a great photo for someone first. People are usually happy to return the favour — and they tend to try harder when you’ve just helped them nail a good shot.
4. Book a Private Tour with a Photogenic Guide
Some guides are absolute pros with the camera and they’re proud of it!
When my friend and I were in Cairo, we booked a private tour, and our guide casually turned out to be a brilliant photographer. He knew all the best angles and was even better than some hired photographers.
Check reviews before booking. Many people will mention if the guide is “great at taking photos.” Trust them!
5. Hire a Local Photographer for an Hour
Platforms like Flytographer or Airbnb Experiences let you book a mini photo shoot with a local photographer and honestly, it’s worth every cent.
Pick an iconic spot (or your favourite hidden alleyway), and let someone else do the framing and adjusting. It’s fun, relaxed, and gives you beautiful photos that go beyond just selfies.
6. Ask a Stranger — But Trust Your Gut
Yes, there’s always the classic option: spotting someone friendly-looking and asking, “Can you help me take a photo?”
I’ve done this many times, but with caution. Once, I was at Dam Square in Amsterdam when two students offered to help. I wasn’t sure at first, so I politely declined. But I stayed nearby, watched how they were just having fun taking photos of each other, and eventually offered to take one for them.
They were kind, respectful, and I trusted my instincts enough to let them take mine after that.
Rule of thumb? Trust your gut, and don’t be afraid to say no.
Travelling solo doesn’t mean you have to come home with blurry selfies and half-cropped shots. With a little creativity, kindness, and confidence, you can bring home stunning memories that you’re actually in.
And don’t worry, every photo you take will remind you just how brave and beautiful this journey really was.
