HOW TO TAKE TRAVEL PHOTOS AS A COUPLE
Looking to take better couple travel photos? These invaluable tips have been instrumental for my partner and me throughout our journeys, allowing us to capture our adventures and preserve cherished memories. In this blog I’ll share my best tips for capturing stunning couple travel photos!
But before we delve into these tips, it's important to note that these ideas are not limited to couple travel photos alone! If you're a solo traveler, these tips are equally applicable to you. Furthermore, they can be adapted seamlessly for family photography or snapping pictures with friends. So, tailor them to suit your specific needs!
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A COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE TO CREATING COUPLE TRAVEL PHOTOS
USE A TRIPOD
Virtually every photo you'll find in this post has been taken with the assistance of a trusty tripod. Since my partner and I often explore just the two of us and secluded locales during sunrise or sunset, we frequently find ourselves without company. To overcome this, we set up our tripod at the desired distance and height, attach our camera, and snap away!
Using a tripod offers multiple advantages. Not only can you capture precisely the photo you envision, but you're also freed from relying on strangers to get the shot right. Additionally, you eliminate the risks associated with entrusting your camera to unfamiliar hands.
Personally, I prefer using a Peak Design Carbon Fiber Tripod for convenience. It’s super light, compact, and quick to set up. If you're curious about the camera gear I use to capture our couple travel photos, check out the detailed list provided in this post.
EMBRACE THE SELF TIMER
Most contemporary cameras are equipped with a self timer feature, and we've found it to be an invaluable tool. Typically, we set ours to a 10-second delay and then scurry into the frame (with the camera already mounted on the tripod). Alternatively, if the shot requires capturing from a greater distance, we sometimes request the assistance of a trustworthy stranger or friend to press the shutter button.
USE AN INTERVALOMETER
As you begin taking more couple travel photos from considerable distances, you’ll soon realize the physical strain involved in dashing back and forth within the 10-second time frame. Fortunately, a wireless remote control shutter release, a.k.a. a remote commander, offer a practical solution. Just ensure you purchase one compatible with your camera brand and model! Pro tip: Some cameras even feature apps that transform your phone into a remote control, so conducting thorough research beforehand is wise. This is what I use compatible with my camera.
Certain cameras, such as the Sony model I use, have a built-in intervalometer, significantly simplifying the process of capturing couple travel photos. With this feature, you can configure the camera to automatically take photos at specific intervals (e.g., every 3 seconds), allowing you to strike multiple poses until you achieve a plethora of options. This technique is especially effective when you need to position yourself far from the camera, as remote control shutter releases often have limited ranges.
SEEK ASSISTANCE
While we prefer not to rely on external aid, there are occasions when a tripod is absent, leaving us no alternative but to ask for help. In such instances, we approach someone who appears competent in operating a camera, provide them with a brief explanation, take a sample photo to show our desired framing, and then hope for the best. Naturally, exercise common sense and exercise caution when entrusting your precious gear to others.
Better yet, travel with a photographer friend, you're bound to capture stellar images!
GET NEW ANGLES WITH A DRONE
Though drones may be a costly investment, they elevate your photography and videography endeavors to new heights—literally! Aerial shots taken from afar often conceal the presence of the "pilot" and their controller. My partner and I plan to increase our drone usage, capturing breathtaking footage and even some awe-inspiring selfies. Currently, I use the DJI Air 2S Drone and really enjoy the experience it offers. It’s small, compact, easy to travel with, and captures amazing images/video.
CREATE AN EXCELLENT COMPOSITION
Creating a stunning composition serves as another vital element in producing couple travel photos you'll be immensely proud of. One of my top recommendations is to have either yourself or your partner remain within the frame while the other person prepares the shot. This practice enables you to fine-tune focus settings and ensure everything aligns seamlessly. Granted, there's often a fair share of "move to the left, no, not that much, step back," but the end results are undeniably worth the effort!
USE THE LIGHT
Our preferred shooting time is what we affectionately call the ‘golden hour’ — that magical hour or so just after sunrise and before sunset. During this period, the soft golden light casts a captivating glow, rendering everything and everyone more visually appealing with a golden glow✨. There is also a lot of magic to be found in the ‘blue hour’ just before sunrise, and after sunset where everything gives very moody vibes. Furthermore, destinations tend to be less crowded during these tranquil hours. If you find yourself shooting in the middle of the day, I've found that capturing photos in the shade usually produces optimal results. However, don't hesitate to experiment with angles and lighting conditions to discover your own unique style!
CHANGE IT UP
It's essential to inject diversity into your photos, especially when curating an album where you'd prefer not to have every image look identical. Here are some inspiring suggestions for photo compositions and poses:
Candid walking or hiking shots: Set up the tripod and capture a realistic depiction of your journey by walking past it. For crisper images, you can remain still and simulate walking (especially useful in low-light conditions).
Embrace the initial awe: Upon reaching a destination after a long hike or drive, take a moment to stand together, absorbing the surroundings. Capture that sense of wonder and togetherness!
Incorporate your accommodation: Whether inside or near your accommodation, integrating yourselves into the frame can add depth and interest to the shot. This works particularly well with camping, airbnb, and hotel photos, as people bring a captivating dynamic to the composition.
Explore different angles: Experiment with lower or closer perspectives to find the most captivating angle for your photo.
#FollowMeTo Style: Try out a playful variation of the #followmeto trend, with one partner holding the other's hand from behind the camera.
Stand close, hold hands: Stand a short distance apart, hand in hand, and direct your gaze either at the camera, each other, or even away from the lens. While this pose may seem somewhat cheesy, it undoubtedly captures a sweet and endearing memory.
Embrace affection: Don't shy away from expressing your love for one another—seal the moment with a passionate kiss!
PATIENCE IS KEY
My partner and I often attract attention, garnering stares, comments, and occasional inquiries while taking photos. Though it can sometimes be embarrassing, I remind myself that these individuals are strangers, and their opinions need not concern me. In fact, many people exclaim, "Wow, what a fantastic memory to have!"—and I couldn't agree more. So, take your time, explore different angles, and review your images before moving on.
DON’T TAKE YOURSELVES TOO SERIOUSLY
Genuine joy and laughter radiate through photos, making them all the more captivating. My partner and I frequently find ourselves chuckling and savoring the moments we share, and this zest for life shines through in our captures. Remember not to take yourselves too seriously, have a laugh, and relish the present as best you can!
