How To Get Photos of Yourself While Travelling Solo
(Without carrying a tripod or selfie stick)
Wat Rong Khun (The White Temple), Chiang Rai, Thailand
One of the most common questions solo travellers have is: how do you get photos of yourself that aren’t just selfies? Maybe this is one of the main reasons why you avoid travelling solo.
But the truth is, there are many easy and natural ways to get great photos of yourself while travelling—no tripod or selfie stick required.
Here are some tips I’ve learned that have helped me get plenty of photos of myself during my solo travels—photos I can send back home to loved ones and keep as memories.
Asks for a photo exchange
Look for:
another solo traveller
a couple taking selfies
a group or family where one person is missing from the photo (because they’re taking it)
Chances are, they’re in the exact same situation as you and they’re afraid to ask someone else to take their photo.
Don’t be afraid to approach them and say something like, “Do you want me to take a photo of you?” Most people will appreciate it—and will naturally offer to take one of you in return.
If you’re using your phone (which is best), open your camera app before handing it over so it’s quick and easy for them.
I’d avoid handing over a professional camera, since not everyone knows how to handle one comfortably.
Look for other solo travellers
Other solo travellers understand the struggle—they’re often looking for someone to take their photo too.
Sometimes, they may have already noticed you but are hesitating to ask. Don’t be afraid to take the first step. The more you do it, the more natural and confident it becomes.
Also, think about where you are. If you’re at a popular viewpoint or tourist spot, there are almost always other people there for the same reason: to take photos. You’re definitely not the only one.
Join a group or day tour
Group tours are one of the easiest ways to get photos of yourself.
On tours with companies like G Adventures, Intrepid or through GetYourGuide, you’re surrounded by other travellers who are also taking photos every day. It becomes completely normal to ask each other.
On day tours, even a short conversation during pickup or at the beginning makes it much easier later on to say, “Hey, could you take a photo of me?”
Tour guides are also usually happy to help—and often even offer to take photos for you.
Ask other travellers (not locals)
When you need someone to take your photo, try to ask other travellers rather than locals.
Travellers are:
usually less rushed
already in “photo mode”
more used to helping others take pictures
Locals, on the other hand, may be commuting or busy.
There’s also a higher chance you’ll share a common language (like English) with other travellers, which makes communication easier.
Give simple directions for your photos
Don’t assume people know how you want your photo taken.
You can say something like:
“Could you take a few photos vertically?”
“Just keep pressing the button”
This helps you get better results and makes it easier for the person helping you.
Most people are happy to take multiple shots—you just have to guide them a little.
Offer to take their photo first
If you approach someone and offer to take their photo first, they’re much more likely to return the favor.
Sometimes, they’ll even offer without you needing to ask.
It also makes the interaction feel more natural and less like you’re “asking for a favor.
Check your photos before leaving
Before you walk away, quickly check your photos and make sure that you’re in focus, nothing is covering the lens, the angle works for you and that you have at least a few photos you like.
If needed, politely ask for a few more and give clearer directions (for example, if you don’t want your feet in the frame).
If you took photos of them first, you can also encourage them to check theirs. This often creates a mutual understanding where they’ll wait for you to confirm you’re happy with your photos too.
Final thoughts
Not knowing how to get photos of yourself shouldn’t stop you from travelling solo.
Once you start, you’ll realize this is something every solo traveller deals with—and asking strangers for photos is completely normal in the travel world.
You might even find that these small interactions become part of the experience.
What are your tips for getting photos while travelling solo? Do you use a tripod or a selfie stick?
Let us know!