0
0
When you’re photographing people during your travels — whether it’s locals or fellow travelers— you probably won’t have perfect lighting or a lot of time to set up the shot. But that’s part of what makes travel photography so rewarding! Those unpredictable moments give you the chance to capture honest, human connections that tell the story of a place.
Below are some essential posing techniques designed specifically for travel photographers. Whether you’re shooting in a busy market, or on a quiet street, these simple tips will help you create portraits that feel natural and full of life.
1. Angle the Body for Instant Appeal
Have your subject turn slightly away from the camera (about 45°), then turn their head back toward you. This classic angle flatters nearly everyone and avoids the stiffness of a straight-on pose.
Pro tip: If space is tight (think alleyways or crowded markets), just a subtle shift in angle can make a big difference in how your subject connects with the camera.
2. Shift Weight for Relaxed Energy
If your subject is standing, ask them to shift their weight onto their back leg. It immediately relaxes their posture and helps eliminate the awkward “deer-in-the-headlights” look.
Pro tip: In fast-paced street environments, this also helps subjects feel more grounded—especially when they’re unsure how to pose.
3. Give the Hands Something to Do
Hands can ruin a portrait if they’re awkward or stiff. Avoid dangling hands or fists. Use simple poses like hands in pockets, one hand resting on a bag or railing, or a hand gently touching the brim of a hat or sunglasses.
Pro tip: Encourage interaction with the environment—leaning on a tuk-tuk, holding a fruit from a market, or gently touching a textured wall adds context and natural movement.
4. Work the Expression
Ask your subject to take a breath, then smile. A slight squint (called a “squinch”) makes eyes feel more alive and genuine. Think of this as smiling with the eyes. Want more emotion? Ask them to tell you their favorite part of the trip so far.
Pro tip: Humor and shared experience go a long way. Be playful, make a quick joke, or ask them to look off into the distance and then back at you. Authentic emotion wins every time.
5. Use Seating for Comfort
If someone seems stiff standing, ask them to sit on a bench, step, or even a rock. Have them sit tall, cross ankles, or lean slightly forward with elbows on knees. It makes them look engaged and comfortable.
Pro tip: Don’t be afraid to shoot from above or the side—those angles can create depth and context while simplifying busy backgrounds.
6. Incorporate the Environment
Where you are matters. Position your subject in front of iconic elements—arches, doorways, murals, mountains. You don’t need the whole background; just a hint creates a sense of place.
Pro tip: Use foreground objects (like colorful fabrics or market stalls) to frame your subject, drawing the viewer in, while grounding the image in its location.
7. Group Posing, Simplified
When photographing travel companions or locals in a group, avoid lining everyone up. Instead, use stairs, curbs or rocks to vary heights and poses. Having people touch shoulders or slightly touch or lean on each other creates warmth and connection. :
Pro tip: Keep it casual. Let people interact naturally and shoot between the laughter.
You don’t need a studio to create great portraits. With a few simple posing techniques and a genuine connection, you can capture authentic stories anywhere in the world. As you explore new places, remember to look beyond the landmarks and photograph the people who make each destination unforgettable.
