travel couple poses

55 Instagram Pose Ideas: Use these Travel Photo Poses on your next trip

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Travel photo poses are an art form that requires a lot of practice and preparation. Posing for photographs while traveling can be incredibly difficult, especially when you’re trying to capture the perfect vacation moment! Don’t worry, we will share some of the easiest and most creative Instagram pose ideas to help you out. 

We have included photos with posing options with and without props, use of hands, movement, and other travel photography tips!

So, let’s get started. 

Travel Photo Poses + Instagram Pose Ideas: Perfect for Bloggers & Travel Enthusiasts

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Use of Props and Travel Photo Poses | Outfits, items & more

Using props regardless of the location is a great way to incorporate wanderlust and life into your photos. These creative poses include using flowers, maps, use of hands (peace sign, clothing, suitcase/luggage), and more. 

You can always move away from the camera and just use the movement of clothing and hands to really express yourself and get creative! 

1. Twirl your skirt or dress

Adding some movement to your travel photos can help create an interesting and unique image. If you’re wearing a skirt or dress, twirling it around in the air is a fun and creative way to show off your outfit while also capturing beautiful motion shots. 

Pose 1: Try standing still and throwing the fabric up toward the sky for a dramatic effect.

Pose 2: Lift the loose fabric gently for a more graceful and romantic look. 

2. Cover your face with your camera

Get creative and add easy props to make your travel photos stand out. 

Covering your face with an object such as a camera is a super cute pose as it adds a whimsical and ethereal feel to the shot.

Tip : Try holding a leaf or camera up to your face with one hand while gesturing out towards something else with your other hand. This type of pose can add layers to the shot while also highlighting the features of your environment and creating a connection between you and them. It’s a great way to emphasize the relationship between yourself and the world around you in your photos!

3. Read a guidebook

Use a travel guidebook as a lovely prop to add a feeling of instant wanderlust to your photos. You can show your face or cover it with a guidebook, whichever you prefer. 

Tip: This is a great way to introduce destinations when you are vacationing as well!

4. Hold a map (or travel brochure)

Another option is to use a travel map (or a brochure) and pretend to be reading it or navigating and planning your next adventure.

You can take a shot by sitting with your head down or looking away.  

5. Play with your hair

Playfully interacting with your hair can add a lot of personality and flair to your travel photos. Whether you’re posing solo or with friends, getting creative with the way you style and move your locks can result in some truly stunning images. 

Pose 1: Try twirling a few tendrils around your fingers, and gently tucking them behind your ears for a natural, romantic look.

Pose 2: Or just swaying works too!!

Tip : Keep in mind that playing with your hair doesn’t have to involve a lot of styling or time spent in front of the mirror—just a few simple touches can achieve great results. So go ahead and let your hair down, and get creative!

6. Use a hat, or beret (look back and touch your hat)

Using a hat as part of your travel poses can add an extra element of fun and creativity to your photos. 

Pose 1: As a pose, you can show your back and hold your hat.

Pose 2: Or touch your hat/ beret and look down.

For a timeless look, try wearing a Trilby hat or fedora with some shades for a classic and chic vibe. You can also mix it up with some more eye-catching options, such as berets, or wide-brimmed straw hats. 

Tip : I own hats for every season and berets in various colors! They are not very expensive and you can easily pack them in your carry-on to add a little flair and pop to your photos.

7. Reach for your sunglasses

Pack a pair of sunnies and pose with it. Reaching for your sunglasses is a great pose to add some dynamism and personality to your Instagram photos. This simple yet effective gesture can create an eye-catching silhouette effect, adding depth and movement to your images. 

Try to relax and act naturally as you reach for your sunglasses, allowing your body to move with ease and grace. 

8. Hold a flower and cover your face or just the eyes

Holding a flower and covering your face or eyes is a great way to capture a playful photo. This pose can bring out the beauty of nature while also adding some fun and mystery to your pictures. 

Pose 1: Try holding a wildflower in front of your face, playfully hiding behind it like a mask. 

Pose 2: Or try draping the petals over one eye or half of your face to create a dreamy and romantic look (this is perfect for fall photoshoots as well).

Tip : You can use fallen leaves or flowers, or pack a few artificial ones for the purposes of a photo shoot. 

9. Throw something in the air 

Whether it’s snow, confetti, or leaves, finding interesting objects to throw up in the air can create stunning images with unique textures and colors. 

When throwing something into the sky, make sure you find an open space where there is plenty of room to move around without any obstructions. Use the ‘live’ photo options on your iPhone, or the burst mode to capture the right moment. 

Experiment with different angles and perspectives to create unexpected and creative looks in your photos. 

10. Road trip vibes (car inside or outside)

Road trips are a great way to capture some amazing memories, and there are plenty of unique poses that you can try for your Instagram photos! 

Pose 1: One fun idea is to take a photo of yourself from the car side mirrors . This angle works really well when you have interesting scenery or landscape, as it gives an unobstructed view while also adding a sense of movement and adventure. 

Pose 2: If you’re feeling daring, try peeking out from the side (or add a victory sign). 

Pose 3: Another great pose to try is to stand in front of the car with your friends and pretend that you’re about to drive off on an adventure. This can be especially effective if there are some cool backdrops like mountains or sunsets in the background.

11. Play with an umbrella 

Don’t fret when it rains when you are in a new destination. Instead, make use of props like umbrellas or colorful raincoats and strike a pose. 

Pose 1: You can cover yourself with an umbrella and pose. 

Pose 2: You could even incorporate movement shots by lifting the umbrella over the head – at an angle. 

Tip : If you didn’t pack an umbrella and happen to buy it once you arrive at your destination, then you can choose a color to match your outfits or the location. 

12. Use a suitcase, backpack and walk away

An ultimate travel prop is a suitcase or backpack that speaks volumes about wanderlust and exploring! 

Have your subject (or you) hold a suitcase/bag to create a story of their journey. Use an empty road, or the airport as a backdrop for a unique creation!

Outdoor Travel Photography Poses | Landscapes & Landmarks

When capturing outdoor travel photos in a city or a national park, it is important to find a background that really stands out. A bright and colorful location can bring life to your photos, so look for vibrant wall murals or visually stimulating locations when scouting for a backdrop. 

You can always use your lenses and composition skills to frame the subject, add leading lines, depth, etc. 

13. Crossing the Street

Walk or cross the street and take an Instagrammable image! This works in both a busy urban area or a tranquil rural setting and is bound to engage those who view your photograph.

Try shooting from a low angle for an added dramatic effect. 

Tip: Start early in the morning if you are planning to capture a busy city or landmark to avoid crowds in your shot. Additionally, when traveling solo you will be safe with your belongings and feel confident! 

CREATE STELLAR CONTENT WITH THIS

Photoshoot checklist & planner.

Planning a photo shoot can be daunting, but not with our planner!

This planner is designed to help you plan and execute a successful travel photoshoot with ease. It includes a checklist for equipment, packing, location scouting, mood boards, and more – everything you need to know to make your shoot run smoothly.

14. Sit down on a bench 

For a more relaxed and candid pose, try sitting down on a bench or chair. This type of photo works well if you’re looking to capture a more casual atmosphere, as it conveys a sense of comfort and ease. 

Pose 1: Try sitting down sideways with one leg in front of the other .

Pose 2: Or take a shot from behind without a face . Using props such as a hat, a cup of coffee or a book can also add some character to your photos. 

You can also add interest to the shot by incorporating elements around you, like trees, mountains, or buildings in the background. 

15. Show your side profile in a cool backdrop

Showcasing your side profile is a great way to capture a striking and dynamic photo. 

Try standing in front of a dramatic setting such as an expansive view of the mountain or an urban jungle and show your side profile. You can even bring props with you to add some extra flair to your photo, such as wearing large hats, scarves, etc. 

16. Checking your phone (in a busy area)

Sometimes the simplest poses can look really great when done right. If you’re in a busy area, try checking your phone as part of your pose for a more candid and natural look. This type of photo will capture the hustle and bustle of your travels, while still showcasing your personality. 

17. Walk away from the camera

If you’re looking for an Instagram pose that will make your followers stop and take notice, try walking away from the camera. 

Pose 1 : Take a few steps away from the camera while keeping your gaze fixed on it—this allows you to connect to the audience. 

Pose 2: You can also capture some stunning shots of you wandering off into the horizon or woods, conveying a feeling of curiosity and adventure that will certainly make your photos stand out from the rest! 

18. Sit and enjoy the lovely view

When visiting a new place, one of the best photo poses you can do is simply sit and enjoy the view. 

Find a scenic spot with a beautiful landscape or skyline, then take some time to relax and appreciate your surroundings. This type of pose can be extremely calming and peaceful, so it’s perfect for Instagram posts that evoke a sense of serenity and relaxation.

Tip: You can also bring something with you to further personalize the photo, such as a cup of tea or coffee, a book, or a bouquet of flowers. 

19. Stand and enjoy the lovely view

You can also stand and admire the view ahead of you! Position yourself in the centre of the frame and then twist a little – if you are wearing a headgear, hold it gently. 

Whether you’re looking out into a beautiful landscape, watching the sunset on the horizon, or just taking in your surroundings, this pose can capture some truly breathtaking photos. 

Tip : Try framing yourself against an epic backdrop like a mountain range or vast body of water for maximum impact. You can also experiment with different angles and perspectives, like standing in the middle of a field or on top of a hill for an elevated view.

20. Throw up a peace sign

Sit or stand and use your hands – show off a victory or a peace sign – enjoying that EPIC trip of a lifetime!

21. Take a photo with your phone or camera 

Take a photo of you taking photos using a phone or camera with a beautiful backdrop. This doesn’t require you to look at the camera, but shows you in your true traveler element! 

22. Put your hand on your hip and pose

Putting your hand on your hip and striking a pose can instantly add some pizzazz to any photo. This timeless classic is an especially great pose for travel photos, as it shows off the scenery while also providing a sense of confidence and empowerment.

With one arm slightly bent at the elbow and your hand resting gracefully on your hip, you’ll look both approachable and stylish in the shot.

23. Pretend to walk (and add movement)

Adding movement to your photos can create an interesting and dynamic effect that is sure to draw the eye of viewers. Pretending to walk is a great way to do this while still keeping the focus on you as the subject. 

Take a step forward and gently move back and forward (or swing) to create that movement. 

24. Frame yourself with something

Framing yourself with nature or other objects can add an interesting twist to your travel photos. Try using the environment around you, such as roads, trees, rivers, and other landmarks as a way to frame your subject. 

You could also get creative with flowers and foliage, positioning them around your body or face for a beautiful and natural look.

For a more abstract approach, try using interesting shapes or textures like windows and doorways as frames. This can add depth to your images and draw attention to the main subject in an unexpected way. 

Cute Instagram Poses Indoors | Hotels, Cafes & Stores

Now that we covered all the possible outdoor poses and photoshoot ideas, let’s go over a few options for indoor photography. 

28. Sitting on the Stairs

Pose 1: Find a grand staircase (or a plain one), and sit at the edge of the step for an angled look. 

Pose 2: Or center yourself on top of them for a more composed shot (take the shot from a low level if you wish to capture gorgeous artwork on the handrails). 

Tip: Always sit at an angle rather than looking straight into the camera. Place one foot in front of the other. 

29.  Enjoy a cuppa

When traveling, taking a photo of yourself seated in a cafe can be a great way to capture the feeling of relaxation and vacation. 

You can capture yourself in the moment of sipping your drink while sitting at one of the tables—this can be a great way to tell stories without using words! 

30. Hold your drink 

Another super easy pose to try at a cafe. 

Pose 1: Try sitting outside with your wine, tea, or coffee cup held near your face, allowing for the natural light to enhance your features and make you glow. 

Pose 2: Alternatively, you could try turning away from the camera for a more candid and relatable shot. 

31. Put one hand/arm up from the balcony

Putting one hand up from a balcony makes for an eye-catching and dramatic photo pose. This simple yet powerful gesture will draw attention to your figure and bring out the beauty of the landscape or the view behind you. 

This pose works especially well if you’re in a high-rise building or balcony overlooking an amazing view. If possible, try capturing the sky in your photos for an even more breathtaking look. 

Whether it’s a sunny day, twilight hour, or nighttime—this pose will make your Instagram feed truly stand out!

32. Snap a Mirror Selfie

Taking close-up selfies is a great way to express yourself and capture memorable moments while traveling.

Whether it’s a classic selfie with your phone at arm’s length or an intimate portrait with a friend, getting close to the camera will draw attention to your facial expressions and emotions. 

I like using pretty mirrors or finding glass that reflects, especially when I am outdoors. This type of pose can be powerful when telling stories or highlighting special memories in your favorite destination, so don’t be afraid to get creative with your angles and lighting. 

This is also great for taking outfit photos. With a little experimentation, you can create truly captivating selfies that capture the essence of your travels! 

33. Interact with a Prop (hotel room ideas)

Interacting with a prop in your hotel room can be a great way to add some personality and storytelling to your photos. Whether you’re traveling alone or with friends, try incorporating everyday objects like books, magazines, food, or clothing into your shots for an interesting visual effect.

For example, try reading a book while lying in bed for a cozy and relaxed look. Hold a glass, and say cheers!

Or bring breakfast in bed to create a more intimate and intimate feeling. 

Tip: And of course, don’t forget to use the items in your wardrobe—a bright and colorful outfit can go a long way towards creating an eye-catching photo! 

Read : Hotel photoshoot ideas

34. Admire an artwork or painting (in a museum) 

Admiring a piece of artwork or painting can be a great way to capture the beauty and emotion of your trip in a photo. 

Pose 1: Whether you’re at an art museum or gallery, simply sit to admire the piece of artwork.

Pose 2: Or standing in front of any large artwork with a contemplative look on your face can make for some stunning photos. 

35. Wake me up look (in a hotel)

The ‘wake me up’ look can be a great way to capture the beauty and comfort of your hotel stay in an Instagram photo. Whether you’re in a five-star resort or a simple inn, getting cozy in bed with some pillows and blankets will make for some beautiful shots. 

You can also try capturing yourself relaxing on the couch, lounging in an armchair, or taking a seat at the mini bar for some creative and interesting poses.

Tip: For extra detail, try adding elements like eye masks, breakfast trays, room service items, and even your suitcase or passport to add more context to your photos. Not only will this create a sense of luxury and relaxation in your images, but it will also give your followers a glimpse into your travels and hotel experiences. 

36. Lean in or Lean out from the balcony 

Leaning out from the balcony can be a great way to add some drama and adventure to your Instagram photos. Wear a flowy dress or a skirt and lean forward (or look out) from the balcony.

Budget Travel Tips : Didn’t book a hotel room with a balcony? A rooftop bar or terrace will also work for a similar look. You can also lean against the wall and pose – play with your hair, look out, etc. 

In-action & Activities: Posing Ideas for Instagram 

You don’t need a Go Pro or any adventure camera for this (bonus if you do, but it’s not a necessity). Now, on to the poses

37. Sit on the floor (swimming pool or poolside)

Adding an extra dose of fun and creativity to your Instagram photos can be as simple as sitting on the floor by a swimming pool. This is a flattering pose as it is perfect for any time of year (plus you can hide your face and tummy). 

Try putting one leg on top of the other to create a beautiful shape and symmetry while also adding some dynamic movement to the shot. 

38. Throw snow – snow fight (in the winter)

Throwing snow in the air is one of the easy poses in the winter. 

Try throwing handfuls of snow up towards the sky for an explosive effect, or running around in circles while letting it fly from your hands for some more whimsical shots.

You can also try having a snow fight with friends! Not only will it be fun, but you can create some great memories while also getting some amazing photos. 

Use your hands to make snowballs and aim them at each other while making silly expressions or playfully ducking away from the snow—this will bring an extra layer of fun and energy to the shot. 

39. Pottery class

Taking pictures in a pottery class can be an enjoyable and creative way to capture the beauty of your travels. 

Pose 1: Whether you’re working on a bowl, plate, or vase, simply holding the clay in your hands while taking pictures can make for some interesting photos.

Pose 2: Or have someone take close-up shots of the clay in your hands as you’re working on it, as this can add an extra element of texture and movement to your photos. 

You can also try taking pictures of yourself in the middle of a creative process, such as spinning the wheel or shaping the clay with your hands—this will capture the beauty and energy of creating something with your own two hands.

40. Cooking class

Taking pictures in a cooking class can be a great way to document and showcase your culinary adventures. 

Pose 1: Take photos mid-action—like of yourself stirring ingredients, plating up dishes, or cutting vegetables. 

Pose 2: You can also experiment with different angles and take a shot once the items are ready. 

41. Stop for a pose while biking or cycling

While biking or cycling, get down and stop for a pose – you can look away or smile shyly. My husband took this photo right outside the Basel SBB to share taking off from the station! 

You can also try different poses, such as standing side-by-side with your bike, leaning against the handlebars, or just sitting and enjoying the view.

42. On a hike (with related gear)

Hiking is an amazing way to explore nature and capture beautiful photos while doing it. 

Pose 1: Wear your hiking clothes and shoes and pretend to walk or climb for a photo. 

Pose 2: Try getting creative with your angles when taking pictures – like get your photographer to stand at an elevated level and then take a photo from there — focusing on the views below/around. 

43. Look outside and ponder on a cruise  

If you are vacationing on a cruise, one of the easy ways to take a vacation shot is to look outside (into the ocean) and then take a shot. 

You can also try standing near one of the windows or doors, allowing natural light to illuminate your features and bring out your beauty. 

44. Have fun on a Tuk Tuk ride

Climbing aboard a Tuk Tuk is the perfect way to get some fun shots for your Instagram. Have your driver/operator stop at scenic places along the journey and snap away while enjoying some of the most incredible views around you! 

Stand on the edge of the Tuk Tuk and peek outside (flowy dresses or skirts are nicer). 

45. Look outside from a plane/ car/ train window

Nothing gives a more wanderlust vibe than a mode of transportation – a plane, car, or train window. 

If you’re in an airplane, try taking a shot of the window – with the subject peeking out. Or switch an airplane to a train ride with views – it is one of the natural poses to capture when traveling.

Solo Shots (without you/your face)

These travel photography ideas are perfect if you are traveling solo, or do not wish to show your face. Use your hands, phone, purse, or whatever you have with you to show your presence and take a shot!

I use this technique a lot when I am traveling alone, exploring a busy place, or when I am not ready to show my tired face 🙂

46. The Close Up

Close-up shots are a great way to capture the details of your environment or an object. You can also take portrait shots of yourself. 

If you do not want yourself in the frame, try taking photos of items that you encounter on your travels like souvenirs, street art, or unique architecture . 

47. Smile at the Camera

Look at the camera and smile – simple as that!

Don’t want to smile at the camera – say cheers without showing your face. Raise a glass and take a shot!

49. Use your purse or phone as your signature style in a cafe/destination

Prefer not to show your face? Use your pretty purse or phone as a substitute. 

50. Hold an item – same as the destination

Another option is to hold an item such as a coffee mug, magnet, etc. to introduce a destination you are in!

How to Pose for Photos as a Couple or as a Group

51. sit down together (picnic, cafe, etc).

Sit down in a park, and pose together – enjoying the lovely weather or picnic. 

52. Cheers, hold drinks together

Hold your drinks, look at the camera and say ‘cheers’!

You can also create this photo without faces and with a group!

Whether a close-up of a couple kissing or capturing a silhouette from a distance with a gorgeous landscape – kissing is simple and makes for amazing couple shots!

54. Look into each other’s eyes

Focus on one subject looking into the eyes of the partner. This is a simple pose and is perfect for engagement photos. 

55. Follow me away style

This is one of the popular Instagrammable shots where a girl is leading and the photographer is holding on and following!

Try to re-create this composition in your next location (or use it when you are buying a new house/ housewarming invites, etc)

Fashion Outfit Ideas | Photoshoot Dress Ideas

Finding the perfect outfit for your photoshoot can be a challenge, but don’t worry—there are so many stylish and timeless looks that you can choose from. 

• Flowy outfits : Flowy dresses or skirts with movement are great options for creating an effortless and romantic feel. They are also very lightweight and easy to pack. 
• Classic white or pastel tones look amazing against a backdrop of nature. 
• If the backdrop is busy (like a city/urban landscape), then plain colors without much print work well. 
• Red, yellow, and white can be used in most compositions (urban or nature)
• Props : Props are also great for adding another layer to your photoshoot photos. Choose items like hats, scarves, sunglasses, and jewelry that you can play around with. You can also bring along items from home like books or flowers for an added touch of personality.

If I have some room in my luggage, I always add 1-2 shoes for photos, a mini bag, battery-operated lights, fake leaves, etc. You can buy these props/items on Amazon.

CLICK TO SHOP FROM OUR AMAZON PAGE 

Travel photography tips.

Whether it’s posing solo or with friends, it’s important to think about your angles, expressions, and body positioning before snapping that Instagram-worthy shot. 

Here are some quick tips for travel photography poses that will help you take the perfect vacation photo!

The first tip when taking travel photos is to find a background that really stands out. A bright and colorful location can bring life to your photos, so look for vibrant wall murals or visually stimulating locations when scouting for a backdrop. 

If you’re posing with friends on group trips, it’s also important to find a spot with enough room for everyone to stand comfortably.

The next tip is to keep your body language in mind when posing. A confident posture can make all the difference, so think about how you want to be perceived in the photo. 

If you’re feeling shy, don’t be afraid to give a subtle smile or side glance. 

Looking away from the camera is also a great posing idea. 

If you’re feeling more adventurous, try out playful poses such as handstands or jumping into the air with friends!

Finally, don’t be afraid to experiment with angles when taking pictures. You can make use of props like benches and tables to get different perspectives for your shots. 

Trying a bird’s-eye view or a low angle can bring out interesting details and shapes in your pictures. 

Plus, don’t forget to play around with the lighting—a great way to add drama and depth to your photos is by using natural light from windows and doorways. 

We hope you enjoyed this round of poses. If you did, follow us on social media –  Instagram here

Read other posts on photography

• Best fall photoshoot outfits
• Best cameras for travel blogging
• Best camera under $300

Pin: Travel Photography Poses for Instagram

Mayuri is the founder & editor of ToSomePlaceNew. An Indian-Canadian globetrotter, she has traveled to over 100 cities and 35+ countries. Mayuri has a graduate degree in History and is an MBA. She loves traveling the world, capturing historical nuances, and discussing that over a cup of coffee with her husband, Salil. She currently resides in Edmonton, Canada, and plots travel plans to Europe, the Americas, and beyond. 

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Savvy Travel Advice

Travel Photography: 6 Ways to Take Great Couple Photos while Traveling

Last updated: March 25, 2019 - Written by Jessica Norah 36 Comments

Today we are going to share ways to take great couple photos while traveling. When you travel as a couple, you are going to want to get some good photos of the two of you together.

The problem is that getting great couples photos of the two of you together can be a challenge, as usually one of you has to operate the camera or smartphone. So most people end up with a lot of individual photos from a trip, but not so many great couple photos from their travels.

In this post, we’re going to share with you some tips to help you take great couple photos when traveling. All of these tips also work for getting any kind of single person, group, or family travel photos. First, we’re going to go through all of the ways that we have taken photos of ourselves together on our trips to give you plenty of options.You can then choose the method(s) that works best for you.

Then, we’ll share some tips and advice to help you get better couple vacation photos no matter what option you use. Let’s get started!

Table of Contents:

6 Ways to Take Better Couple Photos While Traveling

Below are 6 different ways to get a couple photo while on vacation. We have use them all, depending on the situation, and each have their own pros and cons. Although some are definitely more likely to produce a better photo than others.

1. Use a Tripod

A tripod is definitely Laurence’s preferred way to get good couple photos of the two of us when we travel. It means we can set up the shot exactly how we want it, determine the composition, and also know that the camera will be stable. Laurence even videoed and   photographed our own wedding with just a pair of tripods!

There are definitely some drawbacks to using a tripod as they add to your luggage weight and you have to carry them around. Not everyone wants to pack and lug around a tripod on their vacation and then set it up each time they want to take a photo, and we appreciate that. However, we do think this is one of the better ways to get better photos of the two of you together and there are also a number of other  reasons to travel with a tripod .

If you do not own a tripod, there are plenty of low-cost and lightweight travel tripod options available  including monopods and mini-pods.

Tripods are not always the best solution though. For instance, we would not recommend using a tripod if you are in a very crowded, unstable, or windy spot as it may get bumped or knocked over. We also recommend always staying within a short distance of your tripod and keeping an eye on it to help prevent damage or theft.

Many indoor venues, such as museums and churches, do not allow tripods so be sure to check for any rules and regulations before heading out each day. Sometimes places will even confiscate tripods as they can be viewed as potential weapons. See our guide to travel tripods for more tips on traveling with them.

You might be tempted to skip the tripod and just try to find places to set your camera (e.g., ledges, benches, rocks) during your trip. While this may occasionally work well, we don’t recommend this as a main strategy as it will often be impossible or impractical (e.g., no safe place to put the camera) and you have much less control of the angle and composition as it will be mainly determined by the perch rather than you.

It is also not a good idea in many circumstances to just leave your camera sitting somewhere and walk away from it as someone may knock it over or try to take it (less likely with a tripod). We’d recommend using a tripod or using another option.

Pros:  You have a lot of control over the photo and composition, you don’t need to involve any outside people, and you can achieve really good results. You also can take better photos in more challenging circumstances like low light situations.

Cons: You have to pack and carry the tripod with you, you have to set it up each time you want to take a photo, and tripods can’t be taken or used everywhere (e.g., often not allowed in indoor venues). 

2. Ask Someone to Take a Photo of You

If you are reluctant to travel with a tripod, we have some more options for you to consider. The first of these is to ask someone to take a photo of the two of you. We usually do this if we are somewhere where we either can’t use a tripod or it is impractical to do so, such as in a restaurant, canoe, or crowded space.

First, you need to ask someone to take your photo.  For the best results, we suggest picking someone who looks friendly, not very busy, and like they might be good at taking the photo (e.g., using a smartphone or camera similar to yours). I’d also recommend asking someone who is also traveling as a couple or family, as you can then offer to reciprocate to take their photo as well. If you approach someone who doesn’t seem receptive, thank them, and try someone else. 

Second, we recommend setting the camera or smartphone up in the most foolproof way possible, so all the person has to worry about is aiming and pressing the button. That will usually mean putting the camera in fully automatic mode to save them any concerns over focus or other settings. Try to keep it as simple as possible. If you do not speak the same language you can demonstrate with hand movements.

Finally, don’t be afraid to give a bit of direction such as what scenery to try to include, whether you want it to be portrait or landscape, etc. Make it easy for the person. However, that said, don’t give them a ton of directions and ask for numerous photos. We have no problem taking a couple of photos for strangers, but if they start asking for reshoots and multiple angles, it begins to get annoying.

Remember you are asking a stranger for a favor and they are generously giving up their time to take your photo. Be sure to thank them, and it is good manners to always offer to return the favor.

If you aren’t happy with the photos from one stranger, don’t worry, you can wait for another one to show up!

Pros:  Usually fast and easy, allows you to get a better angle than with a selfie stick or your arm.

Cons: Need to ask a stranger for the favor of taking the photo, stranger may or may not take a good photo, and this strategy will not always be feasible (e.g., in an area with few people).

3. Hire a Professional Photographer

For the absolute best travel photos of the two of you together, the best option is to hire a professional photographer to actually do this for you. This is definitely a more expensive option but it is likely more affordable than you think, and will definitely get you some impressive results.

The first step is to determine where you will be traveling and what location you are particularly keen to have the best photos (e.g., strolling around Paris, your day trip to Cairo, your hike at Yosemite). Then you need to find and book a local photographer or photography service. You can always find a local photographer in just about any area of the world, or photographers willing to travel.

To make this easier, we’d recommend using a service that specializes in this. There are a number of services that pair travelers with photographers in cities around the world. Check out the photographer’s portfolio to make sure you like their work before finalizing your choice and be sure to let them know what kind of photographs you are wanting from your trip.

There are a number of vacation photography services out there. We’ve heard very positive things about Flytographer in particular, and you can get $25 off your first shoot with this link .

Many Context Travel private walking tours (offered in over 30 cities worldwide), such as this Venice city walk , can also be booked so that you are accompanied by both a guide and a Flytographer photographer who will take photos of you during the walk. 

Other companies you may want to check out include Shoot my Trave l , WanderZoom and Pictrip . Most companies allow you book a photographer for as little as an hour up to a full day (or even multiple days), but you should be able to get some great shots in just a couple of hours.

Pros:  Definitely the best way to get professional quality couple photos, and a third person can also capture great candid shots. Cons:  This is the more expensive option, you don’t have complete control over the photos taken, and you obviously only have the person along for a portion of your trip. 

4. Use a Selfie Stick

Ah, the much hated selfie stick. We’re getting further down the list of our preferred options now, and we’d definitely recommend you consider one of the previous options over our last few options.

That said, we have in the past year acquired a selfie stick. It’s a good way to quickly get photos of the two of us when we can’t use a tripod and we can’t find a willing passer-by to take our photo. We also use it occasionally for taking videos with our phone. For many people it is their preferred method of taking solo and couple shots.

Selfie-sticks have a number of limitations. First, most self sticks can only be used with a compatible smartphone although there are available models that work with sports cameras (e.g., GoPros), compact cameras , and even mirrorless cameras and DSLR cameras (not recommended as most are not sturdy enough to adequately support the weight!). Another big limitation of self sticks is that the control over the photo composition is restricted based on the length of the stick and how far you can reach out your arm. Finally, you can’t use them in a number of locations, including a large number of museums, amusement parks, and indoor venues, as many places have banned the use of selfie sticks.

Despite their limitations, they are small, cheap, and easy to travel with, which gives them a big advantage over a lot of the other options on this list. If you are looking to purchase one, there are a large range of them out there and they come in a variety of styles with different features. Be sure to make sure it is compatible with your phone’s model, operating system, and size. We’d recommend you choose and purchase one before you leave for your trip as the ones sold at tourist kiosks around the world are often the worst quality ones. 

We use this particular selfie stick from Anker , which we’ve found to be very reliable and sturdy, plus the Bluetooth pairing makes everything a lot easier than fiddling around with wires.

Pros: Easy to use and setup once you’ve done it a couple of times. Inexpensive and lightweight. Cons:  Results vary but are generally better than if you just use your arm. Limited use in that they can generally only be used with a smartphone. Selfie sticks have been banned in a number of museums and attractions, and can be annoying to the people around you.

5. Use a Drone

Although aerial photography and the use of drones in photography is nothing new, the popularity of drones has skyrocketed in recent years and there have been major developments in consumer oriented drones. These are another way to get couple vacation photos, but the least practical and feasible of the options. 

Drones have a lot of benefits such as being able to get a bird’s eye view of places and get angles you can’t get from the ground. Some can even be programmed to follow you around and take shots. Laurence enjoys playing around with the drone and seeing what it can do.

However, drones have a lot of drawbacks, the biggest ones being they are expensive, heavy, and more complicated to use than any of the other methods. The biggest drawback in terms of getting couple photos though is that drones can’t (or shouldn’t at least) be flown indoors, shouldn’t be flown in adverse weather conditions (e.g., windy or rainy conditions), are not allowed or heavily restricted in a number of destinations, and often require the need for obtaining licenses or permission. Further, in most cases unless you are looking for an overhead photo, you can get a better quality shot from a camera (or even a smartphone) set up on a tripod than by using a drone. This is because most consumer-level drone sensors are roughly equivalent to those found in a smartphone.

If you are looking for a drone, there are a number of models out there. We personally have a DJI Mavic Pro  (and you can check out here the drone accessories and gear we use) although we honestly have rarely used it for couples photos so far. But it is great for certain kinds of landscape photography. When traveling with a drone, be sure to check out all the most recent drone laws and regulations for the destination (there have been lots of recent changes and updates in many countries) you are going to and the airports you are flying through. You don’t want to show up to a place to have your drone confiscated or go through the hassle of lugging it to a destination to find that it does not allow drone photography.

Pros:  Allows you to get overhead views, unique angles, and from places you can’t stand or set up a tripod (e.g., over water). Many people find them fun to learn to use and fly. Cons: Expensive, more difficult to use and control, lots of restrictions in where and how they can be used, limited battery life, and not ideal for many situations.

6. Hold your Arm Out

The human arm is the original selfie stick! This is another way to take couple photos while traveling. It is one of our least favorite way to get photos of ourselves when we travel as the shots usually don’t turn out that good. The problem is of course that you are limited by your arm length, and trying to keep your arm out of the shot and  getting two people in the frame, while composing a decent image can be a real challenge! It is also impossible to keep your arm completely steady which often results in blurry shots.

For the best success, we recommend using a camera with a screen that will face towards you as you shoot – so the front facing camera on your phone for example, or a digital camera with a flip screen. Hand the camera or phone to the person with the longest arms to get the most reach. Then, try to hold the camera slightly above yourself for a more flattering angle, and try to keep the camera as level as possible as you compose your shot. Try to make sure you get some scenery in as otherwise it is just a photo of your faces!

Although this option will rarely produce a top quality shot, sometimes it will be your best and sometimes only option. It is also the quickest and most simple way to capture a memory. For instance, we were not going to bother someone else to take our photo in a crowd as the clock struck midnight at the Hogmanay festival , so we took the below smartphone selfie (not a good photo, but it captures the moment)! We also often use this for times when we are just taking quick snaps of ourselves when on a bus or doing activities where it is difficult to get photos any other way. 

Pros:  Fast & easy! No additional equipment or person needed. Cons:  Not likely to be the best photo. However, if you are only looking for a fun memory, these can be just fine!

Tips on How to Take Better Photos as a Couple 

Having covered several different ways to get photos of yourselves when traveling, we want to share a few easy tips and advice for actually making sure that those couples photos are as good as possible!

1 – Make sure you know how to use your camera & equipment

Knowing how your camera or smartphone works is really important when it comes to taking great photos, regardless of the subject. If you’re going to use a tripod for example, you’ll want to know how to set the camera up to take a photo on a timer. If you’re going to hand your camera to someone else, being able to quickly put everything to automatic is handy.

If you want to learn more about how to get the most out of your camera and take better travel photos, check out all our tips for taking better vacation photos no matter your skill level. Those really wanting to improve their photography skills should check out Laurence’s   online photography course , which will teach you everything you need to know.

2 – Take time to think about the composition

Thinking about the composition of your photos is always important, including when taking couple travel photos. Think about elements like the different subjects in your shot, the colors in the image, and whether you can use techniques like leading lines, depth of field ,or framing to improve the image.

You’ll also want to carefully consider where you put yourselves in the image, and using a tripod will really open up more possibilities. For more ideas on composition, take a look at our guide to composing better photos .

3 – Think about where the light is coming from

Light is one of the most important components of photography, and one that many people tend to forget about when taking pictures. Ideally, you want the sun to be behind the camera, so you are looking towards the sun from where you are standing. This will properly illuminate both the scene and you. Of course, you don’t want to be staring directly into the sun, as not only is this not good for your eyes, you’ll probably end up with a bunch of shots of you squinting which is never a good look! 

Avoid shooting a shot where the sun is behind you if you can as this will usually result in an image where you are in dark shadow, almost a silhouette, because of the brightness of the sun behind you. This is of course not always possible but you can improve the situation by doing things like finding shade and adjusting the exposure compensation on your camera. The key is to know as much about using your camera or smartphone as possible to get the most out of it.

4 – Consider the time of day

Generally the best time of day for photography is the hour or so after sunrise and before sunset, when the light is a more golden color. This lower, warmer light is more flattering, and this time of day is known as the golden hour.

If you can shoot at these times of day, this will definitely help you get better photos. Ideally, you want to avoid the middle of the day as strong overhead light will often give you less flattering looking images. However, on your vacation, you are going to be taking photos throughout the day but our advice is to also try to take some outdoor couple shots at these times as well.

5 – Angle the camera properly

The angle of the camera when shooting people is important. You don’t want the camera to be below your face if you can help it as this is a particularly unflattering angle. The best angle is around 10% to 20% above your eyeline with the camera looking slightly down at you.

Of course, you have to consider the overall composition and subject matter, but if you can raise the camera above you slightly, you will likely get better results.

6 – Try to capture more natural and candid poses

Holidays are meant to be fun, so don’t forget to show a bit of fun in your photos! Awkwardly posed photos don’t look as great, so if you can capture some moments of the two of you having a bit of fun, that is definitely going to be a better photo.

A tripod can definitely help with this, especially if you pair it with an intervalometer , which will let you shoot a series of photos over time – meaning you can have a bit of fun and hope to catch a few good images. The best way to capture candid photos is by having another person take them, especially a professional photographer.

And that’s it for our advice on how to take better photos when traveling as a couple! Hope this helps give you some strategies for getting better vacation photos on your next trip.

Do you have any of your own tips or advice for taking photos when traveling as a couple? Have a questions about taking vacation couple photos or anything related to travel photography or photography gear? Just let us know in the comments below!

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Sacha Post author

September 12, 2023 at 4:33 am

Wow, these couple photos are absolutely stunning! The love and connection between this couple shine through in every shot. The choice of location is perfect, and the way the photographer has captured the golden hour light is just magical.

Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author

September 13, 2023 at 4:47 pm

Glad you enjoyed our photos. You can take lovely photos like this as well with some practice and a decent camera, if you have any questions just let us know!

Best, Jessica

SP Post author

February 14, 2022 at 11:13 pm

You have made taking couples photos look so easy! We almost never take pictures of ourselves anymore when we travel even though I want to! Hopefully we can get better at that this year.

February 16, 2022 at 7:07 am

Hello, glad you found our post helpful in thinking about ways to get more couples photos when traveling together. It is definitely nice to have a few travel couple photos when looking back at your photos!

Wishing you safe & happy future travels! Jessica

Nadine J Post author

November 5, 2018 at 11:57 pm

Love your photo tips. Lots of interesting elements and aspects captured beautifully on your pictures.

November 9, 2018 at 1:11 am

Thanks Nadine, glad you enjoyed our article! Best, Jessica

Kanika Bakshi Post author

April 27, 2018 at 12:22 am

Very helpful post. Thanks for sharing these great photography ideas as we are going on a honeymoon trip and we both love taking pictures. I loved your various ideas of clicking pictures and it’s useful to us to make wonderful memories. Keep sharing such posts.

April 27, 2018 at 12:59 am

Hi Kanika, Thanks so much for taking the time to comment, and hope these couple photo tips were helpful for your vacation. Wishing you a wonderful honeymoon trip! Best, Jessica

Amanda Post author

March 2, 2018 at 3:22 pm

Oh my gosh you guys are so cute! These are good tips, too. When I travel with my husband, he’s usually my “Instagram husband,” which means we never get very many good photos of us together. Something we need to work on!

March 2, 2018 at 3:24 pm

Hi Amanda, Love that your husband is your Instagram photo taker! Perhaps on your next trip together you get some nice pics of the two of you together, especially since you newlyweds are still in your honeymoon period! 😉 Best, Jessica

Emily Hines Post author

March 1, 2018 at 11:42 am

My hubs and I rarely take photos together when we travel. Can’t wait to try some of these!

March 2, 2018 at 1:07 pm

Hi Emily, Hoping you get more couple travel photos on your next trip!! 🙂 Best, Jessica

Bryna Post author

February 28, 2018 at 6:47 pm

My boyfriend and I are both the types who enjoy being behind the camera more so than being in front of it so we don’t have many pictures together, but occasionally we try to get a shot together when we are on holidays. You have some great tips here! We normally just go with sticking our arms out, but we’ve tried the selfie stick as well. If you can get over the embarrassment of holding one (they have such a bad rep!) they actually do a decent job!

March 2, 2018 at 1:06 pm

Hi Bryna, Yes, we have a lot of travel photos of places without us and us individually, especially of me, but far fewer photos of us together. Obviously it takes a little more time, but it can be great to have them. Sticking your arm out is the only one you can almost ALWAYS do to get a couple photo so a good option in that sense, but probably turns out the worst results on average 😉 But sometimes it is your only choice. Selfie sticks can definitely improve the quality but yes, can be a bit embarrassing to use (we definitely have the same issue)! Best, Jessica

Richard Post author

February 28, 2018 at 5:37 pm

This is literally one of my favorite blog posts I’ve read so far. It’s not just filled with amazing tips on taking great couples travel photos but with so much of your experiences. Thanks for sharing all these tips, I think I am going to keep using a self stick and also try out the tripod one!

March 2, 2018 at 1:00 pm

Hi Richard, Glad you found it helpful and selfie sticks and tripods can both can great ways to get a better couples photos. Having options is good to as we use whatever the best available method is out of these! Best, Jessica

Jan Post author

February 28, 2018 at 4:25 am

I’ve pinned your post so I can come back and study it again. We hardly ever get good shots of us together when we travel so it is something I really want to improve. I hardly ever ask another couple if the first shot is not that good, but I’m definitely going to do that in the future.

March 2, 2018 at 12:58 pm

Hi Jan, Hopefully some of these tips will help. I think looking back at photos, it is nice to have some of the two of them from your travels and experiences together! Best, Jessica

Kristin Post author

February 27, 2018 at 12:36 pm

We have stopped even taking people up on the offer to take a shot for us, as it never ends up very good, ha. Always grainy/too zoomed out/out of focus/and or the horizon line is off, ha. These are great tips to avoid that!

February 27, 2018 at 3:56 pm

Hi Kristin, Glad to hear you enjoyed these tips, sorry to hear you’ve had such poor luck with having strangers take couple photos of you. It is an easy strategy but not the best for high quality photos! Best, Jessica

kiran Post author

February 25, 2018 at 10:27 pm

nice post, vey helpful travel photography tips

February 26, 2018 at 1:23 pm

Hi Kiran, Thanks for taking the time to comment, and hopefully these will help you take better couples photos on your next holiday! Best, Jessica

Anda Post author

February 25, 2018 at 5:04 pm

I love reading your posts, Jess. You always find interesting, captivating subjects. Taking photos as a couple is quite a challenge, so you list some good ways to make it happen. Unfortunately, my husband doesn’t have the patience to let me set up my tripod, so most of the time I have to rely on strangers to take a snapshot of the two of us. And, as you can probably guess, those pictures don’t always come out too good. However, his latest passion are drones, so you gave me a great idea to use a drone for that.

February 25, 2018 at 5:12 pm

Hi Anda, Thanks, glad you enjoyed our post on couples photos 😉 We have taken photos together in about every way possible now so wanted to share our methods and tips, and I think people just have to find the one that works best with their travel style and equipment. Laurence got a drone a couple of months ago for his birthday and has been a bit obsessed with it as well, although practically the thing has a ton of limitations (rain/wind/birds/airport proximity/flight restrictions). But I do think if you are in less populated areas, drones can be a good option to get some cool couple shots as you can get some interesting angles, and perhaps a method your husband will enjoy doing 😉 Best, Jessica

Sara Post author

February 25, 2018 at 2:30 pm

On our last few trips, we’ve booked local photographers. I love it because we get good pictures and because we’ve been able to get great local recommendations, too. I’m trying to decide where we are going to do pictures on our next trip, actually!! I’ve done tripod pictures a few times, but my husband is super nervous about me leaving my camera anywhere unattended – even if we’re nearby… so it’s my least favorite option, lol. It’s always nice when strangers don’t mind snapping pictures for you, too. I’ve gotten a few great ones that way.

February 25, 2018 at 4:45 pm

Hi Sara, Yes, booking a local photographer is a great way to get some really nice vacation couples photos, and glad to hear that you had a positive experience with that as well as with asking strangers. That is a good point that local photographers can give some great tips for scenic spots and things to do in a new place.

I do think others would share you and your husband’s worry about the tripod, and it is perhaps not the best option unless you are doing it either in a pretty safe and controlled place or are doing it professionally and have insurance on all your gear. Having your camera damaged or stolen would be a terrible thing to happen on a trip. We had our tripod blown over by a sudden gust of wind in France (we were not taking photos of ourselves and were standing right next to it) and it sent it smashing over into concrete. We were lucky as it was only a small amount of damage to a lens but it was still not a cheap fix!

Ania Post author

February 25, 2018 at 2:11 pm

Great tips! I actually just started dating someone and going from taking solo photos to taking photos with someone has been a learning curve. These are great tips!

shere Post author

February 25, 2018 at 1:32 pm

I most of the time hate the pictures taken by strangers. Sometimes I ask if I see someone with a reflex camera, it seems like people are not used to look through the camera to take a picture 🙂

February 25, 2018 at 4:35 pm

Hi Shere, Hmmm..I think that if you are always getting bad photos the problem may be that you are not setting up the camera into a good mode for the shooter or not giving enough direction. You want to set up your camera so it is as foolproof as possible and just show them what to do – the more simple it is is, the harder it is for them to not do it correctly. For instance we use a back button focus typically, but turn this off whenever we give it to someone and put it into an auto focus so they just have to compose and shoot. You do need to tell them whether they need to look at a screen or through the glass, but we haven’t found that to be too much of an issue typically. But it also does help to try to ask someone who looks like they may know how to operate your type of smartphone or camera. Try that next time and see if you get a better photo.

You are probably not going to get perfect photos this way, but we find that most people can take decent photos with little coaching, and for us it is definitely better than not having any photos of us together.

Hope that helps! Jessica

Anisa Post author

February 25, 2018 at 9:00 am

Great tips. I am going to have to look into some of those sites where you can hire a professional photographer. If I can get a good deal on that, it would be a lot of fun.

Sandra Post author

February 25, 2018 at 1:11 am

Great tips! My husband and I rarely take pictures of us together and struggle to get good ones but we are trying to be better at it. I still refuse to use a selfie stick though!

February 25, 2018 at 8:24 am

Hi Sandra, Yes, so many people struggle to get good travel couple photos! We resisted on buying a selfie stick for a long time, but finally bought one last year. We don’t use it very often (the battery seems to always be dead when we need it), but we found it can be very helpful to grab a quick photo here or there when we are in places where tripods are not practical and/or there are not other people to ask for a shot. We have also used it for short live videos so we can be included in the video more easily.

A tripod or asking someone else are our two go-to methods, but hiring a professional photographer is a really easy way to get some really nice photos in a destination. We ourselves will hire someone else if we want candid shots or shots we can’t really get ourselves. The key is to hire someone who takes the style of photos you enjoy and knows the area well.

Best of luck getting better vacation couples photos this year! Jessica

Lolo Post author

February 25, 2018 at 12:30 am

You have made taking couples photos look so easy! We almost never take pictures of ourselves anymore when we travel even though I want to! Hopefully we can get better at that this year!

February 25, 2018 at 8:15 am

Hi Lolo, Yes, we definitely have some trips where we have almost no photos of us together which is a bit of a shame. I wish we had more but it definitely takes a bit more time to get them, or at least a good one. We obviously get better photos with a tripod or asking someone else, but if you are just short of time (or often forget) just reaching our your arm or buying a selfie stick can help you get more snaps if you are just looking for some couple travel memories. Best, Jessica

Seana Turner Post author

February 24, 2018 at 12:10 pm

I’m learning from you on this one! I don’t think I could carry around a selfie stick, but I love your idea about asking someone else, and if you don’t like it, just waiting for someone else:) That is so true, but I never thought of it! I totally agree that candids photos end up being the favorites, and yet the impulse to pose is so strong. I wonder why? My brother in law is an amateur landscape photographer and all he does is talk about the light. According to him, early morning is the best light. Problem is, I’d rather be snoozing on vacation at that time!

February 24, 2018 at 4:16 pm

Hi Seana, Glad you found the tips useful and hope you get better couples photos on your next trip.

That is an interesting point. I think posing is just how we are taught to react to photos from a young age, especially when getting formal photos (school photos, prom photos, wedding photos). Also historically cameras were fixed in place and you couldn’t move if you were sitting for one – in fact you had to stay still for several minutes (they had a little rest behind your head to keep it in place!). So I think it all comes for all that and while we ourselves take posed photos all the time, it is often the candid and more relaxed ones we enjoy the most.

Yes, the light is best around sunrise and sunset, so if you have trouble getting up for sunrise, head out around sunset if you can for some nice light. It is definitely hard to get up for sunrise, especially during the parts of the year when it is super early – definitely not a time most people want to get up while on vacation!

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Photography Tips · July 29, 2022

How to Pose for a Photo: 30 Pose Ideas to Elevate your Travel Photography

There is no one way to capture travel photos. I am 100% of the idea that photography is meant to capture memories that you will cherish forever. You should photograph whatever means the most to you.

However, I have learned some tips and tricks over the years for how to pose for solo travel photos, couples photos, and even photos with your pets to elevate your photography!

If you are interested in learning more and becoming more confident in front of the camera, then this post is for you.

In this post I’m going to show you 30 different pose ideas for you to use to nail your next travel and Instagram photos!

No time to read now? Pin it for later!

1. Front Profile Seated

2. the skirt flip, 3. the twirl, 4. sit out the car window for an instant road trip feel, 5. interact with your environment, 6. bring a meaningful prop, 7. the hair flip, 8. create depth, 9. the hat hold, 10. the lean for the view, 11. try a seated angle from above, 12. try a seated angle from below, 13. walk towards the camera but look away, 14. the side profile swivel, 15. sit and admire the view, 16. use laughter, 17. cover an eye with a flower / leaf, 18. the cheers, 19. participate in an activity, 20. play with your hair, 21. follow me, 22. cover your face, 23. the lead, 24. the lift, 25. the blanket wrap, 26. the hand hold, 27. the kiss, 28. enjoy the view together, 29. kiss your pet, 30. the family portrait.

This post may include affiliate links . I may receive a small commission (at no additional cost to you) if you make a purchase through my affiliate link. Please read my full  disclosure & privacy policy  for more information.

The seated, front-profile pose is great when there is something behind you that you don’t want to cover. Here I am sitting in order to show off the architecture of the glass pyramid at the Louvre in Paris .

If you want to elongate your legs, then point your feet. It is best to have your photographer squat a little bit to be on your level as well.

There was a time when I would take travel or instagram pictures and all you would see was the back of my head. Don’t be afraid to show your face and get more comfortable in front of the camera!

The number one best way to create more interesting travel and instagram photos is by creating motion .

You can create motion with your body, with an object, or by using your clothing. A great way to create motion with your clothing is by using a flowy skirt, dresses, or other long clothing.

Play around with your skirt / dress and take multiple photos to get a great looking skirt flip! This is more of an art than a science.

A great alternative to the skirt flip to create motion is the classic twirl . A twirl is a fun, playful way to create motion and something interesting at the center of your photos.

Have fun with this one, but don’t get too dizzy!

You also want to make sure that you have a fast shutter speed on your camera, so that you do not turn out blurry when twirling!

A faster shutter speed will help you freeze your twirl in time. A “fast” enough shutter speed will also be dependent on your other camera settings, however a good rule of thumb is AT LEAST your focal length.

For example, if you have a 35mm lens, your shutter speed should be atleast 1/35 for handheld photos. I usually don’t shoot less than 1/100 when outside in natural light, and if I am trying to freeze movement I usually start around 1/200.

Nothing screams road trip like pulling over and taking a photo with a state or country road sign. Just make sure to do it safely of course!

My favorite way to pose for a photo with a road sign is by sitting out of your car window. You will need to sit really far out the window to make it look the best.

The more awkward you feel with this pose, the better it will look!

When posing for a photo, think about how you can interact with your environment to make the photo feel more authentic.

If I was just standing here smiling, you might wonder what am I doing taking a photo in a bookstore in Lisbon, Portugal .

Instead, I am reaching for a book to read at a bookstore that maybe I will then purchase and take home. I didn’t do any of that in reality for this exact bookstore, but I do love collecting books in foreign languages when I travel.

Bringing along a meaningful prop helps to tell the story of your photo. Some of my favorite prop ideas are a baguette for walking the streets in Paris , or a bouquet of tulips if you are taking photos at tulips fields .

Props do not have to be over the top or lavish. Actually quite the opposite.

If a prop is too forced, it will have an adverse affect on your photo. It may be awkward for you to pose with in the photo, which will be apparent in the end result.

Think about the most natural prop that you can bring along and interact with. What could be fun to include in your photo that helps tell the story or represents the location?

For example, we picked up this mini champagne bottle on the way out of our Vegas hotel. I knew I didn’t want to just stand with the Welcome to Vegas sign. I wanted to incorporate an element that added some playfulness, but was also true to Vegas Style.

This photo was taken at 8AM in the morning, so I’m sure I looked weird with a champagne bottle, but hey, it’s Vegas after all!

The Hair Flip pose give a carefree vibe to any photo. The hair flip is best used in a tropical setting or by the beach, however can be used in many other settings as well.

If you don’t have long hair, you can still act like you are doing a hair flip and the same motion will be created with your body giving motion to the photo.

This is one of my favorite ways to instantly create depth in an otherwise flat photo. You can use a scarf, a long dress / skirt or any other piece of long clothing to create this effect.

Your photographer will hold one end of the scarf right underneath the camera lens and make sure that your face is in focus.

This is an especially fun photo to play around with and get creative.

The hat hold is a classic pose for any travel photo. The hat hold pose also works particularly well for Instagram photos.

When you don’t know what to do with your hands, always remember that you have the hat hold pose in your back pocket.

Leaning into the view is a great way to create an imaginary leading line from the subject into the view. This is also a very natural pose to use when there is a good view worth leaning for!

Playing with angles can create a whole new look to your photo. I suggest that you are seated when you try out a really high angle like this, so your legs don’t look shortened or distorted.

Another great angle to play with is shooting with you camera at a really low angle. Again a seated pose is the best when shooting from a really low angle not to make any body parts looks distorted.

If you are looking for a really natural and casual pose, try walking towards the camera but looking away like you attention is focused on something more interesting.

It’s best to look towards the light source when using this pose so that your face is illuminated!

You can do a standing side profile pose , or elevate it with a swivel and hat hold. The swivel is best achieved with some flowy clothing to help create motion, but is definitely not a requirement.

Sitting and admiring the view is an easy go-to traveling pose that you can use in just about every situation.

There are a lot of good varieties of this pose too, you can sit with your back fully to the camera or a side profile sit with your legs bent. I would go with whatever is most natural for the situtation.

I will usually sit sideways if there is some type if wall, that usually feels more natural for me. Another tip with the seated pose is to try to create as many triangles as possible.

For example, see the below photo for how to create triangles with your legs and arms while seated. This is the best way to create a natural, but elevated seated pose.

The best pose you have in your back pocket can be to just show your true emotions . When we first saw this view driving from Predjama Castle to Lake Bled in Slovenia I think I gasped.

I immediately made my husband pull over on the road and got out my camera. I remember being so happy in this moment. And instead of trying any poses, I was just truly so happy here to be witnessing this view.

Let your true emotions shine through the photo and you are sure to nail it!

Another great pose idea is to find a flower or a leaf from your surroundings and use it to cover one of your eyes in the photo. This is a fun way to incorporate your surroundings and make your photo more interesting.

I like to do this pose with fall color leave or bright colored flowers to make sure they stand out!

Everyone can related with a cheers ! This pose is a great way to create a light hearted and celebratory photo. This type of pose also gives your hands something to do. Whether you cheering with wine, Champagne, coffee, or hot chocolate, everyone can relate.

Have fun with this pose and maybe incorporate your photographer by reaching out to cheers them as well!

Another very natural pose is to act like you are partaking in an activity . In this photo I am definitely pretending to row this wooden boat on Lake Bled, when we all know full well my husband was doing all the rowing.

Some other great activity ideas are riding a bike, reading a book on the beach, ect.

If you don’t have a hat to hold, you can easily substitute with playing with your hair . This pose gives your hands something to do and is a pretty natural movement.

Usually the “follow me” pose works best if you are walking away from the camera down a road, through a hallway/gallery, or up a staircase.

You could even do a variety of this photo where you are closer to the camera and are looking back holding out your arm for the viewer to follow you.

The cover your face pose creates mystery and additional interest to the viewer. Here I am using my hat, but you can also use a bouquet of flowers or a book at the beach.

Great Poses for Travel Couples

A great travel couples pose if for one to lead another while holding hands. This creates depth in the photo and is a fun couples photo that you can cherish for years to come.

Everytime I look back at this photo I am reminded of the amazing time we had exploring the temples in Luxor, Egypt .

A way to change up this pose is for one person to look back towards the camera (usually the person closest to the camera).

The lift is a great couples travel photo idea for really iconic places such as the lavender fields in prov ence or in front of the Eiffel Tower in Paris to name a few!

I like to use this pose when the background speaks for itself, and the photo is really all about the couple.

I like to incorporate a blanket into many of my photos as a prop, but it always works really well for couples photos. It is a natural way to get you closer to your significant other and makes for a cozy photo!

The simple hand hold is the perfect was to interact with your significant other in a photo but doesn’t take too much attention away from the surroundings.

The hand hold is also a great alternative to showing more affection between couples in countries where the culture is more sensitive to these types of displays.

Now if PDA is no problem, feel free to throw down a big kiss with your significant other! Here we are the only ones in the lavender fields in Provence, France so we took this as a great opportunity for a kissing pose.

This pose would even be cute with a little foot pop or a dip!

Great Poses for Traveling with Pets

The sitting pose and admiring the view works well for pets since their attention spans are usually short.

The reality behind this photo was that the water was so incredibly clear and our dog was mesmerized by the little fish swimming around. I was holding onto his leash in fear that he was going to jump in at any moment!

This one just warms my heart, I don’t know if I need to say much more! I think our dog knows now how to pose for my camera!

If your pet is willing, any type of interaction between you two is going to be a crowd pleaser in photos!

The classic portrait pose , can be used alone, with couples or with pets as well. It’s one of my favorite ways to capture travel memories that is simple and quick.

And let me tell you, these two in the photo need simple and quick when it comes to photography!

I like it keep it simple and easy with pets and significant others because at the end of the day I just want to capture the memories.

Final Thoughts!

At the end of the day, photographs are meant to capture moments in time. Poses can help to elevate your photography, but the most important part is just to capture memories that you will cherish forever!

These are just a few helpful ideas to use if you find yourself in a pinch, looking for something to do with your hands.

If you have any other great pose ideas for travel and instagram photos that I have left off the list here, feel free to drop them in the comments below – I would love to hear from you!

You may also enjoy these posts:

• Moving Abroad and Traveling Abroad with a Pet
• My International Travel Planning Process

Liked this Post? Pin it for Later!

What Camera Gear Do I Use?

• Camera Body: Canon EOS 6D Mark ii
• Wide Angle Lens: Canon 16-35mm f/2.8
• Zoom Lens: Canon 24-70mm f/2.8
• Super Zoom Lens: Canon 70-200mm f/2.8
• Portrait Lens: Tamron 35mm f/1.4
• Drone: DJI Mavic Mini 3 Pro with RC Controller
• Camera Bag: Vegan Leather Backpack
• Tripod: Manfrotto Element Traveller
• SD Card: SanDisk Extreme Pro 256 GB
• External Travel SSD: SanDisk Extreme Pro 4 TB

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About Rebecca

Rebecca is a photographer, travel blogger, and founder of That One Point of View -- a resource for the modern traveler dreamed up after a cross-cultural move abroad to Germany. She's now traveled to over 50+ countries with her husband (and sometimes golden retriever) and creates thoughtful itineraries for you to plan similar trips with ease. She's on a mission to take the intimidation out of traveling to new places and inspire you to finally book that dream trip!

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Indigo Sahara

Travel Reviews, Guides, Tips & Travel Hacking

25 Easy Poses For Travel Photos (With Examples)

By: Indigo Sahara, M.A. | Published: April 5, 2023 | Updated: April 5, 2023

Posing for photos is surprisingly difficult. Honestly, posing correctly for location, outfit and body type does not come naturally to anyone. In order to help you advance in your photo-posing skills quicker than I did, I’m giving you access to over 25 easy poses for travel photos that anyone can do.

Disclaimer: This post contains Amazon affiliate links. If a product is purchased using one of the following links, I may earn a small commission from the brand at no cost to you.

But first, I want to let you know about a couple other blog posts I have that you’re going to want to check out next:

• Cheap Travel Camera Gear For Better Travel Photos
• 15 Easy Beginner Tips To Elevate Your Travel Photography
• 115 Travel Instagram Captions You Need In 2023

Now, let’s dive into the best poses for travel photos .

Table of Contents

Posing Basics: How should I pose for pictures while traveling?

It is important to know a few of the basics when it comes to posing. Here are five pro posing tips to remember as we go through the specific poses for travel photos .

1. Pose To Evoke Emotion

A good photo evokes strong emotion. Try to evoke the exact emotion you feel at the time of taking the photo .

Perhaps you feel a sense of awe, happiness, curiosity or seriousness. Show the viewers how you feel. This can be done through facials, lighting, editing and, of course, posing.

2. Keep Your Hands Busy

Keep your hands busy if possible. Touch your cheek, put your hand on your hip, run your fingers through your hair and use props whenever you can.

Of course, there will be times when you have nothing to do with your hand(s). So, when that’s the case, loosen up and let them hang naturally.

3. Point Your Toes

Whenever you’re sitting or have a foot off the ground in a photo, your toes should be pointed . This will elongate your legs and look a lot less awkward.

If you can’t point your toes in the shoes you’re wearing, such as hiking boots, flex your feet. Basically, just don’t leave them dangling.

4. Avoid Touristy Poses

Touristy poses (like jumping, peace signs, or awkwardly standing and smiling) are fun and location-appropriate sometimes.

But, if you want to look like your favorite travel influencer, avoid these poses the majority of the time.

5. Combine These Posing Tips Together

As you browse through the following travel photo poses , you will notice that I often combine two or more of these posing basics together. Once you practice and get the hang of it, combing the tips will become second nature.

Poses For Travel Photos

1. make triangles with your arms..

This may sound a little peculiar at first, but making triangles with your arms is an industry trick-of-the-trade in the world of photography.

Making triangles brings definition to your muscles, elongates your torso and, overall, brings more life to every photo. It will also help you feel less stiff and more natural, which is the goal.

2. Make a triangle with one of your legs.

The same rule applies with your legs.

Make a triangle with your legs by bending or popping one of them.

3. Hold on to the back of your hat.

I always bring hats on my trips. As you can see, hats make fantastic travel photo props . Plus, they give you something to do with your hands.

Often times, the wind is actually so strong where you are taking travel photos that you have know choice but to hold on to your hat.

Other times, holding the back of your hat can make the viewers imagine that there is wind, and this helps the viewers imagine that they themselves are at the location.

4. Lean against a wall or other nearby object.

This pose is pretty self-explanatory; just be careful not to slouch too much while you lean.

Leaning straight-up gives an element of calm-and-collected to the photo, which looks particularly fitting in luxury travel and beach photos.

5. Run away from the camera.

Again, one of the key ways to producing a high-quality travel photo is to evoke emotion and desire.

Running away from the camera toward an object in the photo will make the viewer want to run toward the view with you, and it creates an exciting feeling of FOMO (fear of missing out).

6. Run toward the camera.

The previous rule applies here, too.

Running happily toward the camera leaves a cheerful and frolick-y impression on the viewer, which is exactly what us travelers feel when we’re at a new destination.

7. Face away at an angle and look back at the camera.

This is, hands down, one of the most flattering travel photo poses .

Plus, this is an excellent pose to use when there is nothing in the photo to sit or lean on.

Take this travel photo pose to the next level by holding a prop with your back arm, such as a hat, purse or beverage.

8. Face away and pop one leg.

Facing the view with your back to the camera and one leg popped is another extremely flattering pose.

It simultaneously brings attention to both you and the view, without taking away from the view.

9. Look up and tilt your head back slightly.

As previously mentioned, the goal with any travel photography is to evoke emotion.

Looking up and tilting your head back will evoke a sense of freedom, which many people feel — or desire to feel — while traveling. You can smile or keep a more serious facial expression here.

10. Focus on the background

This “pose” is more of a camera trick than a physical pose, but I add it to the list, nonetheless.

Focusing on the view rather than the subject shows the viewer exactly what they would see if they were with you. If the viewer was at the location with you, and if you were standing slightly in front of them, you would be out of focus as they look directly at the view.

To get the most blur, you will need a camera lens with a low f-stop. I suggest getting one with an f-stop under 2.0, like the Sigma 28-35mm F1.8 that I used in the above photos.

11. Block the sun with your hand. (Poses For Travel Photos)

Kind of like the wind-and-hat situation, sometimes you actually need to block the sun out of your face .

Not only can this pose cast a unique shadow across your face for an extra element of pattern, but it also makes a seemingly perfect photo location look a bit more realistic.

12. Play the main character.

Indulge in a main character moment while you’re traveling.

Have fun and act sassy if it fits the style of the location.

13. Look up in awe. (Poses For Travel Photos)

You know those moments when you go somewhere incredible and all you can do is look up and mutter, “Wow”? Try to reenact that feeling in your travel photos.

I especially love to use this travel photo pose in busy locations where I don’t want to look like a complete “influencer in the wild.” By looking up at the view like you would naturally anyway, you can sneak photos without bystanders even noticing that you’re posing.

14. Sit with your knees stacked.

Posing while sitting can be tricky.

The best way to pose while sitting is to sit with your knees stacked on top of one another . This pose elongates your legs, forces you to sit up straight and prevents a potentially awkward crotch shot.

15. Rock back and forth for a fake walking shot. (Poses For Travel Photos)

Would you ever guess that I wasn’t actually walking in the above photos? No? Exactly. I was just rocking back and forth!

Just like added emotion to a photo, adding motion is equally important for producing professional quality travel photos .

This posing hack comes in handy particularly when you want to stand in a specific spot of the photo frame but still want to add motion. Nobody will ever know you weren’t genuinely taking a stroll.

16. Face away and look down at an angle.

This simple pose for travel photos allows the view to speak for itself.

Its simplicity is physically flattering, and you can easily incorporate the triangle rule by popping one leg.

17. Throw your hands up. (Poses For Travel Photos)

Throwing one hand (or both hands) up in the air will inspire the viewer to travel and feel as free as you did in that moment.

P.S. if you’re a peace sign addict, this is one pose where you can throw up a peace sign appropriately without looking like a tacky tourist.

18. Throw a jacket or purse over your shoulder.

In you haven’t noticed, props are amazing when it comes to adding a little spice to your travel photos. Props can be as simple as your jacket, coat, sweatshirt, purse or scarf.

If you want an alternative way to hold your prop, throw it behind you over your shoulder.

19. Hold an object in front of you to add foreground. (Poses For Travel Photos)

A basic photography rule is to always have a defined foreground, middle ground and background whenever possible.

An obvious foreground, such as a foreground that is created when you hold an object slightly in front of you, can bring a lot of dimension to the photo, which is very pleasing to the eye.

20. Act like a drama queen.

Embrace your inner influencer, act like a drama queen and just have fun with it.

Even though you may feel silly in the moment, especially if you’re in public, remember that the awkwardness lasts 30 seconds but the amazing travel photos you create will last your entire life .

Who cares what strangers think!

21. Hold food or a drink in your hand. (Poses For Travel Photos)

Food and drinks are super simple yet impactful props in travel photos. Why? Because cultural foods are a huge part of traveling to a new place. Demonstrate this part of traveling by incorporating the foods you eat (and drinks you drink) into your photos .

And, chances are, you’ll already be eating out on your trip anyway.

Bonus tip: food and drinks act as props that give you something to do with your hands .

22. Stand tall and proud.

You don’t always need fancy camera equipment or stellar pose ideas to make a great photo.

This photo from the Bonneville Salt Flats was taken on an iPhone. All I did was stand tall and proud .

23. Hold or adjust your sunglasses. (Poses For Travel Photos)

Like hats and jackets, sunglasses make great props in travel photos as well. Adjust your sunnies to add a little attitude and pizzaz.

This pose also naturally adds a triangle shape with your arm(s), which, as you know by now, is one of the best ways to elevate any pose for travel pictures .

24. Get a bird’s eye view.

Disclaimer: yes, these are drone shots. But, you don’t always need a drone to catch a bird’s eye view.

Lay down on the ground and have a friend take a photo from above. A chair, ladder or ledge of some sort will get the job done and provide your viewers with a new visual perspective.

25. Grab your jacket collar or opening. (Poses For Travel Photos)

Lastly, acting like you’re going to button your jacket (or pop your collar) keeps your otherwise limp hands busy. Not to mention, it brings more life to the photo.

And that wraps up our 25 easy poses for travel photos . Which travel photo pose are you going to try? Be sure to follow me on Instagram and tag me in your posed photo for a chance to be featured on my Story .

More Tips For Travel Photos

15 Easy Beginner Tips To Elevate Your Travel Photography Beach Picture Ideas For Instagram You Need Now Cheap Travel Camera Gear For Better Photos 115 Travel Instagram Captions You Need To Copy

Save These Poses For Travel Photos

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About Indigo Sahara, M.A.

Indigo Sahara, M.A., is the founder and CEO of the Indigo Sahara travel blog. Since earning her master's degree in global leadership, she has traveled to more than 20 countries. Now, her goal is to make travel accessible to all by teaching others how to travel on a budget. She writes world travel guides and travel hacking tips weekly.

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Reader Interactions

January 29, 2023 at 5:00 pm

Love these tips! Thanks for sharing!

January 31, 2023 at 4:39 pm

So glad you like them, Brianna!

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How to Take Couple Photos While Traveling: Picture-Perfect Moments

Like any famous duo (at least we like to think so) capturing our adventures together is a must. We believe that taking couple photos while traveling shouldn't be a hassle.

It's about recording memories, not just poses. But when it's just the two of you, getting the perfect shot can be challenging.

We have learned some secrets on how to select the right equipment and location, understand basic photography rules, utilize natural light, and even a nod towards post-processing. It's not about being professional photographers, but about capturing our shared journeys in the most authentic way.

Disclosure: Links throughout the Mindful Nomadics site may make us a small commission at no additional cost to you. See our Affiliate Disclosure for more information.

• 1 Choosing Your Photo Equipment
• 2 Understanding Basic Photography Rules
• 3 Selecting the Right Location
• 4.1 Natural Poses Versus Staged
• 4.2 Expressing Emotion in Poses
• 5 Utilizing Travel Scenery
• 6 Utilizing Natural Light
• 7 Setting Up to Take the Picture
• 8 Post-Processing Your Photos
• 9 Capture the Perfect Travel Couple Photos

Choosing Your Photo Equipment

When traveling as a couple, it's important to choose our photo equipment wisely to capture those memorable moments. The right equipment can make the difference between a good photo and a great one.

Truthfully, we mostly just use our phones because at this point they are more than good enough for what we are trying to pull off. We also have an older GoPro Hero 6 that gets the job done as well.

Since we are minimalist, having just our phones and a GoPro seems to work well for now. That being said, we are always on the lookout for a camera we can travel with that can make our pictures pop even more.

We have traveled with friends who bring legit cameras and they always get amazing pictures. We travel more for a hobby but if you are a serious digital nomad trying to focus on content creation, a nice camera might be worth it.

Equipment maintenance is crucial, whether it is your phone or a standalone camera. We can't expect our equipment to perform optimally if we don't take care of it.

This means regularly cleaning cameras and lenses, storing them properly to avoid damage, and getting them serviced when necessary. It's also worth investing in a good-quality camera bag , like one from Peak (one of our favorite travel bag brands) , and lens cases for protection during transit.

Lens selection is another key aspect. You need to consider the types of photos you want to take. If you're after those dreamy bokeh shots, you'll need a lens with a wide aperture, such as a 50mm f/1.8. For landscapes, a wide-angle lens would be ideal, while a telephoto lens is great for capturing details from a distance.

It's also beneficial to have a versatile lens that can handle a variety of situations, especially when we're on the go and can't carry a lot of gear. A zoom lens, like a 24-70mm f/2.8, is a fantastic all-rounder.

Again, this is all good information for if you have or want a travel camera but we just get by with our iPhone or Pixel phone .

Understanding Basic Photography Rules

Before diving into the specifics of couple photography, we've got to grasp the basic rules of photography. Understanding these rules will help us take better photos, no matter the subject or location.

You don't have to always follow these guidelines but they may help set up a better shot for your travel photo diary.

• Composition Techniques: Composition is all about arranging elements within a photo in a way that suits the core idea or goal of your shot. Think about how you and your partner can interact with your surroundings to create a dynamic photo. This might mean considering the background, looking at the lines and shapes created by your bodies, and thinking about how to balance different elements within the frame.
• Rule of Thirds: This is one of the most fundamental photography rules. It involves dividing the image into nine equal parts by two equally spaced horizontal lines and two equally spaced vertical lines (hence the "thirds"). The idea is to place the important elements along these lines, or at the points where they intersect. This creates balance in the photo and can help viewers interact with it more naturally.
• Focus on Lighting: Good lighting can make or break a photograph. Try to use natural light as much as possible, and avoid harsh midday light that can create unflattering shadows.
• Understand Depth of Field: This refers to the range of distance within a photo that appears acceptably sharp. A shallow depth of field can be used to isolate the subjects from the background, while a large depth of field allows everything from the foreground to the background to be in focus.

Selecting the Right Location

After mastering the basics of photography, our next step is to carefully choose the location, as it plays a significant role in capturing stunning couple photos. The right location can enhance the mood of the shot, convey a story, and provide a beautiful backdrop that complements you as a couple.

When selecting a location, cultural considerations should be taken into account. For example, if you're traveling in a foreign country, it's essential to respect local customs and traditions.

We might adore the architecture of a sacred temple, yet it might be inappropriate or disrespectful to use it as a backdrop for a romantic couple shoot. Make sure to do your research and, when in doubt, ask a local or a tour guide.

Seasonal settings also have a significant impact on your pictures. Each season offers different aesthetics and vibes.

Spring provides a vibrant, blooming backdrop with a young, fresh feel. Summer's golden hour can offer the perfect lighting for warm, romantic shots.

Autumn leaves create a cozy, nostalgic atmosphere, and the snow in winter can turn any location into a magical, white wonderland. Keep in mind that the weather and lighting conditions can be unpredictable, so always have a plan B.

Whether it's a bustling cityscape, an idyllic countryside, a quiet beach, or a majestic mountain range, the location should resonate with your style and story as a couple. Remember, the goal of taking couple photos while traveling isn't only to get great pictures but also to create lasting memories that you'll cherish forever.

We are big fans of the winter vibes so you will see a lot of our pictures are offseason or winter pictures. We might look cold but the pictures look great!

Posing Tips for Couple Photos

Now let's move on to the art of striking the right pose. Posing can make or break a photo, whether it's a natural, candid shot or a more staged, deliberate pose.

We have some set poses we typically veer towards, or will just do what feels natural in the moment.

Natural Poses Versus Staged

In our quest to capture the perfect couple photos on our travels, we have found there are a few distinctive options when it comes to staged poses vs. natural poses or something in between.

• Capturing candid moments : These are spontaneous and often result in genuine expressions. They add authenticity and a unique flavor to your travel album.
• Staged poses : These are pre-planned and allow for incorporating personal style. They're great for capturing perfectly composed shots.
• Combination of both : Blend both styles. Capture candid moments for authenticity, then throw in some staged shots for variety.
• Experimentation : Finally, don't be afraid to experiment. Try different poses, angles, and expressions.

Expressing Emotion in Poses

We've touched on the charm of candid and staged shots, so let's delve into how to express emotion in your poses, an essential aspect of couple photography.

Emotion depiction techniques greatly rely on subtle body language. It's not just about the smiles; the way you hold each other, look at each other, or even the distance between you, all contribute to the overall emotion of the image.

Light touches can suggest affection, while a tight hug shows passion. A soft glance or a hearty laugh can exude warmth and happiness.

Remember, it's the genuine emotions that make the photo worth a thousand words so don't force it just enjoy the time you get to spend together and let it show in the pictures.

Utilizing Travel Scenery

Part of the point of getting travel couple photos is not only to capture you guys but also to get a glimpse of where you are traveling. You can come up with creative ways to not only get the perfect shot of your destination location but also use the stunning travel scenery to enhance your couple photos.

• Scenic reflections : Utilize bodies of water, windows, or mirrors to capture your reflections against a beautiful backdrop. It adds depth to the photo.
• Cultural backgrounds : Incorporate the locale's cultural elements in your photos. Posing in front of a historic monument or a local market can lend authenticity.
• Natural framing : Use natural elements like archways, trees, or flowers to frame yourself in the photo. It focuses attention on you while maintaining the scenic context.
• Sunrise or Sunset : Timing your photos for sunrise or sunset can produce gorgeous, soft lighting, adding a romantic touch to your images.

Utilizing Natural Light

When taking couple photos, it's essential to harness the power of natural light to capture the most flattering and authentic shots. The light direction impact can dramatically alter the mood and quality of your photos.

During sunrise and sunset, the soft, golden glow creates perfect conditions for romantic and intimate shots. Conversely, midday light can be harsh and unflattering, producing stark shadows and overexposed highlights.

Understanding the power of sunrise versus sunset is crucial. Sunrise offers a calm, serene atmosphere, often accompanied by fewer crowds, allowing for uninterrupted, intimate shots.

On the other hand, sunset provides a warm, vibrant backdrop, ideal for capturing passionate, dynamic images. Both offer unique lighting conditions that can either illuminate or silhouette you and your partner, depending on the desired effect.

To maximize natural light, we must be mindful of our positioning. Facing the light source can create a bright, clear image, perfect for showcasing facial expressions. Conversely, having the light source behind can result in a dramatic silhouette, highlighting the shapes and forms of your bodies.

Natural light is, undeniably, a powerful tool in photography. However, it's also unpredictable and ever-changing. So, flexibility is key.

We must learn to adapt quickly to changing light conditions to ensure we capture the perfect shot. Whether it's the soft pastel hues of sunrise or the vivid, fiery tones of sunset, natural light can transform our couple photos into captivating, cherished memories.

Setting Up to Take the Picture

The negative about traveling the world as a pair is that you often don't have someone who can take the picture for you. You could always ask a stranger or when traveling with others, monopolize on the chance and stock up on more photos.

Now for the times when it is just the two of you, actually taking the shot can be difficult. Not to brag, but we have gotten good at selfies but sometimes you want something with further range.

We will set up or lean our cell phones and take a timed photo in selfie mode to get further away photos. When using our GoPro we have a few accessories and the mini joby stand has been a game changer.

We set up the GoPro on the ground or something random nearby. Even though we could just have it snap a picture using the GoPro app on our phone, we typically like taking a video. This way we have the video for our travel video diary and can just take screen captures of cute moments perfect for a photo op.

Post-Processing Your Photos

Once we've captured our photos under natural light, it's time to enhance their appeal through post-processing. This is the stage where we finesse and adjust our images to make them truly stand out.

• Filter Usage : Filters can dramatically alter the mood and aesthetic of a photo. However, we mustn't go overboard. The use of filters should complement our photos, not overwhelm them. We often opt for subtle, natural-looking filters that can enhance colors and textures without making the image look artificial.
• Cropping Techniques : Cropping is an essential tool within our post-processing arsenal. It allows us to remove distracting elements, change the composition, or focus more on the subjects. Remember, the rule of thirds can be your guide when deciding how to crop your images.
• Adjusting Light and Contrast : Even though we've shot our photos under natural light, there may still be a need for adjustments. We can correct overexposed or underexposed images, and enhance the contrast to make our photos pop.
• Sharpening and Noise Reduction : Lastly, we often use these techniques to refine our images. Sharpening enhances the details while noise reduction helps to smooth out any graininess, particularly in low-light photos.

The post-processing phase is where we transform our good photos into great ones. It's about making subtle enhancements that uplift the image while retaining its authenticity.

Through careful filter usage and cropping techniques, along with light adjustment and detail refinement, we're able to create couple photos that not only capture our travels but also tell our story most beautifully.

Capture the Perfect Travel Couple Photos

We like to think we've cracked the code to capturing our love stories in a frame. Not every picture is perfect and that's okay too.

With the right gear, a basic understanding of photography, spot-on location, perfect poses, and the magic of natural lighting, we can craft masterpieces or at the very least, better photos overall. And don't forget, a touch of post-processing could be the secret sauce to give your photos an extra sparkle.

We tend to not focus too much on any one specific thing when it comes to photos but try to go with what feels best in the moment. Embrace being silly and embrace being yourself.

We try to get photos that we think will look good, make sure we take a few of them, and then move on. We found that when we took too many pictures we got bogged down and didn't know what to do with all of them.

One of Kelsey's favorite things to do is look back on our travel pictures to see where we have been and how much fun we had just being together in a new place. Trust us, if you travel you want to capture at least a few pictures to remember your travel and enjoy the moments you got to spend together long after you have come home.

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Meet the Mindful Nomadics

We are Phil and Kelsey Schaub. A minimalist travel couple exploring the world and sharing our life adventures .

The goal is to collect moments instead of things and spend more time on the parts of life that matter .

We hope you love the site! To learn more about us, check out our mini about page here !

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30 Best Couple Poses for Portrait Photography

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Here are some tips and tricks I have learned about couple poses. As a portrait photographer, one of my favorite types of work is couples photography. So, here’s a list of 30 great sample poses to try!

These photography tips will help you guide your couples in your next portrait photoshoot. Whether you’re doing poses for wedding photography , engagement pictures , or a couple’s photoshoot for friends, you’ll help them express their love.

You can give your couple these posing instructions throughout their photoshoot. Feel free to show them reference pictures to help them recreate these poses.

Not every pose works for every couple, and that’s okay. Be open to experimenting with different poses and adjusting the ones on our list. The more poses you try, the more successful your photoshoot will be!

1. Go for a Walk and Hold Hands

This can be done at any point during your photoshoot. Although the classic hand-holding pose is a bit cliché, it never gets old. Ask the couple to walk in front of you to make your photos more candid. They should have a specific destination, so you know how far to walk.

As the couple walks, they might talk, laugh, or point to something around them. This is the perfect time to shoot spontaneous, authentic photos of couples.

2. Point at Something

The couple should point at something interesting together. You can photograph them up close or create a wide shot where you can see what they’re pointing at.

3. Balance on Something

This probably sounds like one of the worst couple poses ever, but bear with me! Balancing on something with a partner symbolizes strength and trust.

Of course, the couple shouldn’t balance on something that could easily break. They can stand on a side wall, log, or anything that looks safe and stable. You can take full-body shots or focus on their legs.

4. Stretch Out an Arm

Travel photographer Murad Osmann has popularized this portrait pose. It’s often used in smartphone photography, but you can easily recreate it in your professional couple’s photography.

Shooting in a picturesque location is a good idea for a pose like this. Use a small aperture to ensure that the background remains sharp. You can also use a wide-angle lens to create a comfortable distance between the couple and yourself.

To make simple couple poses exciting, add movement to your shots. One of your models wearing a long, flowy dress would look fantastic. The model can throw a part of the dress in the air or twirl. Use a fast shutter speed to capture everything sharply.

But a long dress is not necessary. You can still freeze interesting movements in this couple pose.

6. Dance Like No One Is Watching

Many people find dancing awkward, especially when a camera is pointed at them. This is exactly why you should ask the couple to dance ! The awkwardness will inevitably make them laugh. This helps them loosen up, which might lead to more joyful couple portraits.

7. Do Something Silly

Ask the couple to do something silly, like make the ugliest faces imaginable. This will likely make them laugh, which is when you can start taking exciting portraits.

The point of this pose is to make your models have fun and laugh. You can also tell them a bad joke, share a funny personal story, or make them do something awkward on purpose.

8. Get Lost in an Activity

One of the easiest ways to take candid couple portraits is to photograph your models when they’re busy. Allow the couple to do something that they both love during your couple’s photoshoot.

This can be skating, walking, eating ice cream, singing, or anything else they genuinely enjoy. While the couple is lost in their world, you’ll get to capture all kinds of cute poses for couples.

You can also focus away from them. Focus on something that they both own or like. This can be a pet, a cup of coffee, or anything that helps define their relationship.

9. Pick Each Other Up

Ask the couple to take turns picking each other up. It’s fun to make your models laugh and be playful in front of the camera!

Black-and-white shots are very common in portrait photography . It gets rid of distracting colors and emphasizes emotions.

Shooting in black-and-white during close-ups can intensify the romantic atmosphere in your images. You can also convert your color photos to black-and-white later.

10. Piggyback Ride

The couple can take turns carrying each other on their backs. Piggyback rides might be childish, but they’re a fantastic way to loosen up and have fun. If you notice that the couple feels awkward, start with this pose to relax them.

A piggyback ride pose will also make the couple laugh and feel at ease in front of your camera.

11. Sit on Shoulders

This is a fun pose that inevitably makes the couple laugh. Ensure it’s safe and comfortable for the couple to do this. Shoot vertically to get proper full-body couple portraits. Take a few steps away from the couple before they try this pose so your camera doesn’t miss a moment.

12. Hold Hands With a Look

Have the couple hold hands and look at each other. This simple but powerful pose can show a deep connection.

You can also have the couple look outward in the same direction while holding hands. They’ll look like a powerful duo in your photos. Looking in one direction symbolizes strong values.

13. Gently Hold the Other’s Face

You can capture a tender moment by asking the couple to hold or caress each other’s faces. They can gently caress each other’s cheeks or faces with one or both hands. Ask them to look into each other’s eyes while they do this.

This is a great way to create intimacy in your photos. But it’s best to only do this pose after the couple feels comfortable. If you start with this, they might feel a bit awkward.

14. Lean on the Other Person

This is a simple but effective couple pose. It is easy to do as a stand-alone pose or during events.

One of your models can lean on the other’s shoulder. You can take photos behind them to show what they’re looking at. Their view can be something like a fireworks show or anything that tells a story about the couple’s relationship.

15. Touch Noses or Foreheads

The traditional Māori greeting is pressing your nose against someone else’s. You can incorporate this peaceful greeting into your couple’s photoshoot.

Your models can touch noses. Their foreheads can also touch to create more intimacy. Take close-up shots of them as they do this. And if they laugh while they do this, you’ll get even better shots!

16. Lean In at Sunset

This is one of the most popular couple poses incorporating the previous tips. The couple should lean toward each other until their foreheads touch. They can even press their noses together.

The background should be a sunset or a bright source of light. Shoot against the light, ensuring the couple stands right above it. This creates a beautiful haze.

You can create a silhouette by having the couple stand directly in front of the light. This covers the sun and creates interesting dark shadows. (See the end of the article for an example.)

17. Hug From Behind

There are different ways to hug a person. Instead of hugging each other directly, the couple can try a hug from behind.

This allows you to photograph both of their faces at once. Because their faces are so close, you can take romantic close-up photos. You can also have them close their eyes for a bigger emotional impact. This is also a good opportunity to capture fun and joyful couple photos.

18. Kiss a Hand

Kissing someone’s hand has always symbolized respect, love, and admiration. For this reason, it’s a good pose to use often during a couple’s photoshoot.

Combining it with other poses can make your couple’s photos look even more unique. For example, the couple can kiss each other’s hands while they walk. Or, one can kiss the other’s hand while they hug them from behind.

19. Kiss the Forehead

A forehead kiss is another subtle but sweet gesture for close-up portrait photography. The couple can be standing, sitting, or even lying down. With this couple pose, you can get very creative.

20. Kiss a Cheek

Cheek kisses are a classic pose in couple photography. If your models don’t want to kiss in your presence, cheek kisses are the next best thing. It’s a sweet gesture ideal for close-up photography.

21. Kiss Under an Umbrella

Photoshoots in the rain tend to be the most romantic. But having special rain equipment, like a camera cover or sleeve , is a good idea.

For unique couple photos, use a transparent umbrella . Shoot directly through the umbrella to create a soft and hazy effect. You can also cover part of your lens with the umbrella to create a beautiful blurred foreground.

22. Kiss With a Leg Lifted

This is a popular couple pose in the kissing category. One person can lift their leg behind them while their partner kisses them. This might sound simple, but it adds a huge difference in couple photos and makes them more interesting.

Alternatively, one person can dip their partner and lift their leg while they kiss. This can add a bit more drama and dynamism to the image composition.

23. Kiss in a Cozy Place

You can easily create many couple poses in cozy spaces on location or at home. You can have a couple’s photoshoot in a fun place, like on an amusement park ride or in a cozy room at home.

Your goal is to find a location that relaxes both of them. Ask them to kiss, hug, or hold hands.

24. Sit on Steps Together

Ask the couple to sit on a set of stairs or steps together. Steps can look just as beautiful as chairs in couple photos. This pose lets you showcase the couple’s outfits in all their glory. It lets the couple rest, chat, and pose more comfortably.

25. Feed Each Other

This might sound like another weird idea, but it’s a great pose for candid couple photography. This is easiest to do in cafes, malls, or around food trucks, where you can find a variety of treats.

One of the models should feed the other. Ensure the food isn’t something that would result in awkward pictures, like pasta! For example, you can try different fruits, like grapes, cherries, or berries.

26. Have a Conversation

You can find many romantic outdoor locations for this couple pose. Or, if you have some extra time on your hands, make a DIY studio. There’s no limit to what you can do with simple props.

You can build a tent where the couple can talk. For lighting, you can use fairy lights and a lamp. Fairy lights  create the perfect romantic atmosphere for a photoshoot.

Ask your models to interact with their surroundings, talk to each other, and ignore the camera. This gives you lots of opportunities to take spontaneous couple photos.

27. Whisper Something

Here’s another cute photo pose for couples. Ask the couple to share jokes, say something silly, or whisper gibberish into their partner’s ear. Then, shoot photos of them as they do this.

You’re guaranteed to get a lot of unexpected reactions, so make sure you shoot in burst mode. This continuous shooting lets you take multiple photos sequentially by holding your shutter down.

28. Snuggle Under a Cute Blanket

This is one of the most popular couple poses for autumn or winter photoshoots of couples. The couple can lean on each other while they snuggle under a blanket.

Make sure the blanket complements their outfits and isn’t too vibrant. It should just be a prop that adds coziness to your photos.

29. Lie Next to Each Other

This is a great pose for portrait photography shot from above. When shooting from above, it’s best to use a step ladder and a wide-angle lens . This ensures you get panoramic portraits without stepping on your models’ faces.

Your models can look at each other or the camera. Make sure they don’t look in different directions. This makes them look bored or disinterested in each other.

30. Cheek to Cheek

Detailed photos can say a lot more about a relationship than you think. This easy couple pose helps you take beautiful close-ups of the couple’s eyes . All they have to do is lie very close to each other.

Get in close with a zoom lens and capture both of your couple’s eyes. This is a great way to emphasize their similarities and differences.

4 Tips for a Successful Couple’s Photoshoot

Now that you have the 30 best poses for couples portraits let’s discuss some general tips you can use during the photoshoot.

1. Arrange Coordinating Outfits

What your subject wears influences their mindset. And you can tell whether they are comfortable from their pose and facial expression .

I always tell my models to wear something that makes them feel confident and comfortable. Tell them beforehand if you want your model to run, jump, or sit. This way, their choice of clothing lets them move freely.

Ask them to coordinate outfits to give a sense of connection. But this doesn’t mean they have to be dressed the same way!

Have the couple wear complementary colors and consider the fashion look they want. As you look through the pictures in our article, notice the couple’s complementary clothing.

I usually recommend that my clients avoid patterns, letters, drawings, or strong colors. These might distract from the picture’s most important element—their bond.

2. Make Adjustments Beforehand

Before you start a couple’s photoshoot, let your models know you’ll be directing them. Also, tell them if they need to adjust their hair or clothes. You want them to look lovely in the photos. And it’s your responsibility to make them look as great as possible.

Always pay attention to how they look. Look at them both on and away from your camera’s LCD screen. Get used to checking their hair and clothes before pressing the shutter. After a while, you’ll do it without realizing it.

They’ll appreciate how thorough you are. This also helps them relax, knowing they have one less thing to worry about.

My experience has taught me that long hair can get pretty unruly while shooting outdoors. I recommend bringing a comb, hair ties, and hairpins if your models need them.

3. Have Them Talk Romance

The great thing about working with couples is that they can interact with each other. They help each other fall into natural poses and situations.

This helps them relax and not feel as awkward as a single model might feel in front of the camera. They both know what makes the other smile or laugh. Use this to your benefit.

You still need to help them by setting the right mood and interacting with them. I like to ask my models how they met, what they like to do together, and what they like about each other.

I look for subjects that make them remember happy moments. This cements their bond, which shines through in the photographs. If they’re thinking about their love, it shines through in their mood and poses.

4. Use a Posing Guide

I like to separate my couple’s photography poses into categories for refernce. And I make sure to have two or three poses for each category in mind before the shoot. Here are some categories of couple poses I use:

• Holding hands
• Standing poses
• Leaning on a wall

I start by giving the couple some suggestions from these basic pose ideas. I then let the couple interpret for themselves what the pose should look like. As they pose naturally, I capture the moments.

When taking portrait photographs, it’s important to be ready to adapt. If one pose doesn’t work, try another. Mix up the posing ideas and try different camera angles .

This applies to shooting any couple’s photography, from an engagement shoot to a casual photo session. Various poses keep your clients from becoming uncomfortable, bored, or frustrated.

Conclusion: Best Couple Poses

Use any of the couple poses in this article to inspire your photography. Remember to guide your couple poses with gentle instruction and let them be themselves.

I recommend telling them to walk, dance, or experiment with different movements. You can get really beautiful candid photos this way! Make them feel comfortable and create a nice environment. Their love will shine through for you to photograph!

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Home » Blog » How to Take Stunning Travel Photos as a Couple

How to Take Stunning Travel Photos as a Couple

Want to take better couple travel photos? These tips have massively helped my husband and I over the years when capturing our travel moments. I love being able to look back and reminisce on our adventures and have those memories to keep for years to come. In this article I’ll share with you our best tricks for taking stunning couple travel photos!

Before we jump into the tips, I did want to mention that these ideas work for various scenarios … not just couple travel photos! If you are a solo traveler you can 100% apply the same tips! These are also perfect for family photography and snapping pictures with your friends. Do whatever suits your needs!

Disclaimer : This blog post may feature some affiliate links, which means I get a small commission if you make a purchase (at no extra cost to you). It’s one of the ways I can keep producing free guides and resources for my readers. Learn more about my affiliate policy  here . Thank you for the support!

A GUIDE TO TAKING COUPLE TRAVEL PHOTOS

Couple travel photos 101: invest in a tripod.

Nearly every couple travel photo you see in this blog post has been taken with a tripod . My husband and I are often the only people around when we travel, particularly if it’s at sunrise or sunset. We simply set our tripod up at the distance and height we want to capture, attach our camera, and snap away!

Using a tripod also means you can take the exact photo you want and don’t have to rely on a stranger getting it wrong. Plus, you avoid the risk of handing your camera to someone you don’t know.

We typically use a Gitzo carbon fiber tripod with a Really Right Stuff ball head + an L bracket for ease of use. You can see an entire list of the camera gear we use to capture couple travel photos in this blog post .

Couple Travel Photos 101: Use the Self Timer

Couple Travel Photos 101: Use an Intervalometer

We often take couple travel photos from quite far away and very quickly realized how exhausting it is running from the camera and back with a 10 second timer! A wireless remote control shutter release (also known as a remote commander ) is the perfect solution. Just make sure you buy one that works with your camera brand and model! Tip: some cameras have apps that allow your phone to function as a remote, so do your research before buying anything.

Some cameras ( like the one use use from Sony ) have an inbuilt intervalometer , which makes taking couple travel photos SO easy! You can set it up to take photos at a certain interval (e.g. every 3 seconds) and then just pose away until you get a bunch of options. This works the best for when you need to be quite far from the camera as the remote control shutter releases often have a limited range.

Couple Travel Photos 101: Ask for Help

We don’t often ask for help but sometimes we find ourselves without a tripod and no other option. Ask someone who looks like they know how to operate a camera, explain the basics, take a photo to show them how you want the image framed, and then cross your fingers! Obviously use common sense and be careful who you give your gear to.

Better yet, travel with a photographer friend like Berty Mandagie and get killer images like the one above! 😜

Couple Travel Photos 101: Use a Drone

Drones can be pricey but they will take your photography and video game to the next level. When an aerial shot is taken from far away you often can’t tell the “pilot” is holding a controller. My husband and I plan to take more footage with our drone this year, including some selfies! We own the DJI Mavic 2 Pro Drone  and really enjoy using it.

Couple Travel Photos 101: Set Up a Killer Composition

Setting up a killer  composition is another key to getting couple travel photos you will be proud of. One of our top tips is to have you or your partner stand in frame while the other person sets up the shot. This will help you dial in the focus settings and make sure everything is lined in nicely. There is often lots of “move to your left, no not that much, step back” … but it’s worth it to get an amazing composition! I have a downloadable mini guide on taking beautiful travel photos if you want more tips on composition – click here!

Couple Travel Photos 101: Work With the Light

Our preferred time of day to shoot is ‘golden hour’ – the hour or so just after sunrise and before sunset. Everybody and everything looks better in this soft golden light! Plus, destinations are usually much less busy at this time of day too. If you are shooting in the middle of the day then I typically find taking photos in the shade is best, but play around with angles and see how you go!

Couple Travel Photos 101: Mix Things Up

It’s nice to mix things up and have a variety of photos , especially if you are making an album and you don’t want them all to look the same. Here are some ideas for photo compositions and posing:

• Get a candid walking or hiking shot. Set the tripod up and literally walk past to get a realistic shot of what you are doing. You can stand still and pretend walk if you want a really sharp image (e.g. in low light conditions).
• If you hike or drive a long way for a specific view, when you first arrive you stand there and take it all in together… right? So capture that moment!
• Get a photo of you both inside or near your accommodation. This works particularly well with camping photos as they are way more interesting with people in the shot.
• Try different angles of the same photo. Does it look better from lower down or closer up?
• A little cliche, but try out a #followmeto style photo (guy holds girl’s hand from behind the camera)
• Stand next to each other a small distance apart and hold hands. You can look at the camera or at each other, or even be facing away from the camera. This pose is kind of corny but definitely a cute memory to have.
• Be cheesy and give each other a big smooch!!

Couple Travel Photos 101: Take Your Time

My husband and I often get people stare at us, comment or ask questions when we’re taking photos. It can be embarrassing at times but I just remind myself that they are strangers and I don’t need to care what they think. People also often say things like “wow, that’s such a cool memory to have” and I couldn’t agree more! Take your time getting photos , try different angles, and review your images before heading off.

Couple Travel Photos 101: Have a Laugh!

Pin for later, related guides.

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101 comments

Naria Travels and Tours is a leading travel agency based in Dhaka, Bangladesh, that provides a wide range of travel-related services to its clients. Established with the aim of providing top-notch travel services to travelers around the world, Naria Travels and Tours has become a trusted name in the industry.

Really useful article. As I’m traveling alone in my van (a bit like you), I was looking for the most simple way to photograph myself and my van. Thanks for the tips Renee 🙂

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Your blog articles are so nice and so helpful I am genuinely pleased to have come to your site

Your photo is very nice. Your picture look i am imprecise. Thanks

Renee, I just discovered you and you’re amazing! Love the couples pictures and hope to try some of these on our way through Canada. However, I would like to caution you and your readers about doing those edgy cliff photos! They are so dangerous! You just have to google the deaths caused by taking these type of pictures just this year and its been incredible! I know I sound like I’m over reacting. Actually my friend and I did those tops at the Cliffs of Moor last year in Ireland! However, after I read about the deaths (Cliffs of Moor, Grand Canyon and more) and the risks people have taken it is insane anymore to take those risks. Just to bring home the point a little more – a friends son wanted his picture (age 19) taken on a cliff. While his friend snapped it, the cliff gave way and he dropped to his death! Please, a picture for a second is not worth it. So many ways to take it and get a beautiful effect! Thanks and I will enjoy reading your blog! You have so many wonderful ideas!

Stunning clicks and amazing location.

Thank you so much for this Renee. Your photographs are stunning. I was wondering which lens do you use while traveling.

I must say really very impressive pictures. You have very good photography skills. I am the one who takes selfie all the time. But your tips are really very helpful.

This was so helpful! The hubby and I are headed to kauaii soon and I’ll def be using some of this tips. ✌?❤️

Thanks for the tips! We usually use a selfie stick but I’d love to up the quality of our pics – maybe it is time to lug around the tripod

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What type of chairs are those (red and black) in your picture?

Thanks so much for these tips, I just discovered your page and love all of your beautiful shots.

Thank you so much for this post, it’s so great to hear someone explain it. My husband and I have been trying to get more comfortable with the whole timer thing, but you’re correct it can be slightly embarrassing, haha (:

I fell in love with your photos the moment i saw it on IG. These are amazing shots. Do you still edit everything or do you just upload it as is.

Thank you! Yes I edit all of my photos in Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop 🙂

Do you have a video or blog post showing how you edit your photos?

Sorry I don’t currently but I am hoping to make something like that in the future, so stay tuned 🙂

I really enjoyed this post! Can’t wait amazing pictures with the hubby on our next holiday!

That’s interesting. I have to look for a wider range remote mine is out when the camera is more than 5m away… I even never realised that “long” distance remote were available… thank you anayway it was a useful post!

I love this!! Thank you for all the tips! It can be a little embarrassing. Especially if its a really crowded area!

Agreed! I still get embarrassed but just tell myself that I don’t know those people so it really doesn’t matter! Good luck 🙂

Hi Renee! Stunning images and good blog. I was just wondering what camera and lens do you usually bring especially those places that need hiking and trekking?

Hi! Thank you 🙂 I use a Sony system, including the a7ii and various lenses. A good go to lens for me is the Sony 24-70 f4

This is such a great article. I’m always battling to get good pictures with the two of us in it, I dont know why I never thought of a tripod. I am using my phone to take the pictures though, do you know of any good tripods for phones?

Hi Johara. Thank you for the kind words. I don’t know if any particular brands but one of those cheap phone tripods that has bendy legs would be perfect. I think you can find them on Amazon. Good luck!

Hi Renee! I was wondering how you folks took those insanely beautiful pics at Boroka Lookout! Then I stumbled onto this post and it all made sense! I’m a budding (no sorry, fumbling) photographer and I’ve really been struggling with composition. You’ve made this so easy to understand so now I can go ahead and practice that. You’ve made me fall even more in love with photography. Hopefully I can fall in love with my photos soon. Thanks, Astrid

Thanks so much Astrid! I’m glad you found the article helpful 🙂

Great tips! My husband and I have been traveling with our baby, so usually it’s only one of us in the picture, or one of us with our son. It would be nice to have a few more pictures as a family or even as a couple! We’ll have to start thinking about when it will be convenient to bring along a tripod. And it’s nice to know that I’m not the only one that feels super awkward sometimes taking a picture, even when we don’t have a tripod!

Thanks for reading! You’re right, pretty much all of these tips apply to traveling families as well as couples. It can definitely be embarrassing at times but totally worth it for some nice memories 🙂

What an awesome post! Thanks so much for sharing your tips! May I ask, what are your tips to focusing on the right spot (where you will be) when you are setting up the shot? This is one thing I have really been struggling with!

That’s a tricky one. Usually my husband or myself run into the frame so that we can focus the image on one of us before taking the shot together. If you are taking solo photos then I would use manual focus and focus on something that is the same distance from the camera to where you will be standing. This might be the ground or a tree right next to where you will be, as long as it’s the same distance from the camera. I hope that makes sense!

I think I will use all your advices in my next trip!! thank you!

I’m so glad to hear that Madeleine. Enjoy!

Hi Renee! I was so glad I found your blog last year. Love the new update! One thing that your blog stood out to me the most was the simplicity and a sense of peace when I read your blog. Love all your tips and especially this one! I remember asking you about the Norway picture and how you were able to capture a picture so far away. What I enjoy most about your blog is your focus on travel. Whenever I read your content it makes me feel like you value travel above all, and your passion seeps through your words to your readers and as one of many, I appreciate that. Thank you Renee for the tips and inspiring pictures. Can’t wait for more of my own. =)

You’re too kind Faye, I really appreciate that and want to thank you for being such a loyal reader. Happy adventuring 🙂

That is really Sweet! Maybe for my next trip with my girlfriend (: IG: _wynz_

Thanks Fabian! You should definitely try them out 🙂 Your IG gallery is insanely beautiful by the way!

Wow your photos are actually insane! Do you shoot in camera RAW and use lightroom to edit them? Amazing :]

Thank you! Yes I shoot RAW and then edit in Lightroom and Photoshop 🙂

Such beautiful photos! Your blog is stunning. What editing tools do you use? Kimmy x

Thank you Kimmy! I edit my images with Lightroom and Photoshop 🙂

Great blog post Renee, Peter and I have now got practical tips for when we go on our next adventure trip 🙂

Thank you Lois 🙂

Wow, I am in love with your photography! As a landscape photographer, I rarely take photos of me in them. This blog makes me want to change that! Thanks for the tips!

Thanks Kimberly. You totally should! It’s now your challenge for next time you are shooting landscapes 😉 My husband and I often have our tripods set up taking nature/landscape photos and then one or two of us will run into frame and get a portrait shot too!

This is PERFECT! Great ideas and I really appreciate all the explanation…and the tips to not let people looking at you funny stop you from getting that perfect photo. I mean, it’s your memory. Seriously awesome. Thanks 🙂

Thanks Jessica! I couldn’t agree more. I love your blog by the way – you and your partner are so cute!

Fantastic post!!! I laughed at the part about not being embarassed. I’ve had to work on that. Standing with a tripod set up in front of Big Ben helped. hhahah

Oh that would have been interesting! I just checked out your blog and absolutely love it!

Love this post! My husband and I have struggled to take good “couple” photos, but this gave us some much needed inspiration. We have a tripod so now we just need to use it! Thanks for sharing!!

Thanks for reading Danielle! Get that tripod out and start snapping :p

OMG! I love this post! I needed this so much, as when we travel as a couple there is rarely a pic where both of us are in it. Also, your photos are truly breathtaking.

Thanks Lena! Now it’s a challenge for your next trip together 😉

Love this! I laughed when you said you give your camera to someone who looks like they know what they’re doing then cross your fingers…. We’ve done that so. many. times… Then waited till they’ve gone and found someone else to try again! hahah. Beautiful shots guys. Particularly love that one from the Grampians!

Thanks Miranda! Haha too true about giving your camera to strangers… you never know what the outcome will be! I just checkout out your blog and absolutely love it!

Some really good tips here. And we really love your photos. What are you using for editing? Are you having a pre-set filter on LR?

Thanks Cory! I use Lightroom and Photoshop to edit my photos. I have created my own presets that I sometimes use on Lightroom, but usually I just edit from scratch. Thanks for reading!

This is such great advice! My boyfriend and I hardly ever get photos together when we travel and when we do, the person taking the photo usually does a horrible job! I have a tripod and really need to start using it more 🙂

You absolutely should! It only takes a minute to set up and you will come away with some awesome memories 🙂

Great tips! My boyfriend and I are so bad with taking pics together on our travels – we always forget! Then get so upset looking through the pics after and realising that we’re in hardly any of them.

Often my husband and I will plan our shots for the day. As in we will know where we are going and talk about the style of photos we might want to capture. That way we pack the right gear and (usually) remember to get all the photos we had planned!

I literally don’t think my bf and I have one good photo together because we’re so awkward, but now I’m feeling inspired to try for some! We just got a drone, so I’m definitely going to take your advice with it. Thanks!

You should definitely give it a try 🙂 Thanks for reading!

I really love the honesty and transparency in which you presented this “how to”. It’s fairly common sense but we all need a reminder. I myself need a push to get past the embarrassment of taking photos as a solo traveler and push the thoughts of “gosh, I look silly doing this by myself” but you’re right. Only you know what kind of shot you want and you know your gear the best. I especially liked the ideas on taking candid photos. Thanks for sharing!

Exactly! Plus I think most of the time people are wishing they had thought to do the same thing and are essentially jealous… and other times people are just curious. Keep on getting those shots Talia!

Wow! Just thought I’d let you know; your pictures are freaking amazing! WOW! Awesome tips by the way!

Thanks so much Melissa, I really appreciate that

What an amazing post! I am doing this with my partner now on.

Thank you and I’m so glad to hear that!

So many great tips in here even for me as a solo traveler! Thanks for sharing!

Thanks Sally! Most of these can totally be applied to solo travel 🙂

Your pictures are really impressive. I love your technique and work with light!

Thank you !

Some super shots here. I tend to take photos of my husband but then it looks like he’s travelling solo! 　 For me, it’s mostly about the location and the landscape, but I agree that people “humanise” photos and we subconsciously identify with them better.

Thanks Roxanne. My husband and I like to capture both landscapes/nature and also lifestyle/portrait shots. Often we are taking a landscape photo and one of us will just run into the shot to make it more relatable and also so we can remember the moment better!

These shots are stunning, and I love following you on IG! Tripods are indeed the way to go… But my boyfriend and I are often too lazy to carry the tripod, so we often end up just propping up the camera on a ledge and setting it on interval timer mode, haha. Need to invest in a remote for sure!

Thanks Alex! Ledges, rocks etc. are great for make-shift tripods, though sometimes there is literally nothing to put a camera safely on. It does suck to carry the tripod on long hikes though!

I am swooning over this post! I love your IG feed and these pictures would stop anyone in their tracks. I love the pointers in this article as well and I think the most important thing is to not be embarrassed. I’d rather have the memory than the moment of embarassment.

Absolutely! It is hard sometimes to not be embarrassed in the moment though… I’m getting better at it! Thanks for reading 🙂

I absolutely love these shots! I can’t wait to start practicing with my boyfriend and get more shots of us two on vacation that aren’t selfies

Thanks for reading Stacey! Good luck with your travels and photo capturing!

Your photos are absolutely incredible – thank you for sharing your priceless tips! It will definitely help us to up our game 🙂 Would love to see you at the Facebook community of romantic explorers @RomantiExplorers – please feel free to share your inspirational blogs there too!

Thank you Michelle!

Wow these are all such great tips and I actually do a lot of these when traveling solo! Love your photos!

Thanks Aubrie! Yeah I should have mentioned that these tips are perfect for solo travelers as well!

thanks for inspiration! We actually have a tripod, but my husband mainly uses it for taking pictures of birds and scenery haha – I will send him this article. And wow! Blown away by these pictures! Nice job! hugs, Nana

Challenge yourself next time and try to capture a nice photo of the two of you together. He might think it’s silly at first but you will have some beautiful printable memories 🙂

These are great tips, and wow you have such beautiful photographs! Followed you on Instagram as a result of discovering this 🙂

Thank you Kiara!

Longtime Instagram fan of yours here, so I love this! Y’all always capture the most gorgeous light and it’s so sweet to have both of you in the shot!

Thanks so much Emily! I really appreciate that 🙂

Love this!! x

Thank you 🙂

Love this Renee! You and Matt are the real life dream team 😉 xo

Aw thanks so much!!

Thanks for the tips. We’ll have to try a few of these out. Keep up the great work.

I loved reading this post! My boyfriend and I have been trying to take better photos of our travels and this is super helpful!

Thanks so much Sarah! I’m glad you found it helpful 🙂

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Couple Poses: 21 Posing Ideas for Beautiful Couples Photography

Looking for some couple poses to spice up your next photoshoot?

I’ve got you covered.

Because in this article, I share 21 of my favorite couple posing ideas – perfect for engagement sessions , wedding sessions , maternity sessions , and more. I also include example illustrations so you know exactly what each pose should look like in action.

By the time you’re done reading, you’ll be ready to handle a couple photoshoot, whether it’s casual or formal, indoors or out.

Let’s do this.

• 1. The intimate pose

Let’s start off with a universally excellent couples pose:

The two partners stand face to face but turn their heads toward the camera. Then one partner puts an arm on the other partner’s chest, like this:

This pose is perfect for engagement and wedding sessions. Make sure you capture a mix of vertical and horizontal portraits!

• 2. Looking into one another’s eyes

For this pose, simply ask the couple to stand very close to one another – the closer the better! – and look directly into one another’s eyes. For an even more romantic effect, ask them to touch foreheads.

Don’t be afraid to zoom in and crop extra tight, and be sure to play around with variations. For instance, you might ask the couple to both close their eyes, to put their hands on one another’s faces, and so on.

• 3. Hugging from behind

This is a very easy and cordial pose that works well for weddings and other formal photoshoots.

Ask one partner to stand behind the other, then wrap the front partner in an embrace:

The couple may look straight into the camera or at each other. They can kiss for a more emotive shot.

• 4. Holding from behind

This is a fun and loving couple pose, with one partner standing behind the other while holding onto their shoulders:

Pay attention to hand positioning; it should be simple and natural. Ask the partner in front to hold their hands over the hands around their neck. And for an especially romantic effect, ask the partner in back to put their chin on the front partner’s shoulder.

• 5. Holding from behind (casual)

This is a more casual variation on the previous pose. One partner should hold the other from behind, but their right arm should loop over the front person’s shoulder while their left arm drops down across their stomach:

Note that the couple doesn’t need to look into the camera. For the best results, ask them to interact with each other by talking, offering flirtatious looks, laughing, etc. Then be ready with your camera to capture the magic!

• 6. Holding from behind and looking out

This pose creates a very romantic couple photo, and in my experience, it works best when you’re doing an outdoor session with some beautiful open space in the background.

Ask one partner to hug the other partner from behind, then make sure you take a few steps back and to the side. The goal is to capture the couple looking out toward a field, lake, or distant horizon, so make sure you don’t get too far back. For the best results, you should capture each person’s eye; otherwise, the shot will seem impersonal.

• 7. Looking up

This couple pose is common – it’s a simple hug – but the trick is to capture it from an unusual angle:

I recommend you find some elevation and shoot your subjects from above. You might use a ladder, some stairs, a balcony, or – if you’re shooting in the wilderness – a large rock. The higher you can get, the better!

• 8. Holding hands

This simple couple photo pose is a bit more formal, though it can work in casual situations, too. Ask the partners to hold hands, lean their heads against one another, and turn away from the camera:

It’s a pose that works well outdoors with some open space in the background. It’s especially nice at sunset; if you can position the couple above the horizon, you’ll be able to capture some truly stunning silhouettes.

• 9. The gentle, staggered pose

This is an easy-to-create pose that makes for lovely full-height shots. It works great for more formal sessions, though you can always try it out when doing more casual couple photography, too.

Ask one partner to stand behind the other, then ask them to take a step outward for a staggered effect:

• 10. The piggyback pose

This one’s a fun pose, and it’s perfect for engagement photoshoots with young couples.

(That said, don’t assume that it only works for younger people. If an older couple feels fine with the piggyback pose, then by all means, go for it!)

Start by having one partner jump on the other partner’s back. Then try different framings; take full-height shots, half-height shots, and close-ups. Oh, and be sure to capture the partners’ faces, because this pose pretty much always results in a lot of laughter!

• 11. Standing face to face and kissing

This couples pose is perfect for engagement photoshoots, as it’s a great way to capture the affection the partners felt when they first met.

Simply ask the two partner’s to kiss (though be sure to direct their arms and hands!):

It’s a pose that you can do anywhere, though it works especially well in crowded places, such as famous monuments, markets, and even train stations.

• 12. Jumping and hugging

Here’s another fun pose, perfect for enthusiastic couples on an engagement photoshoot.

Ask one partner to jump into the other partner’s arms:

The crucial part is getting the leg positioning right on the jumping subject; each leg should be bent at different angles for the best effect (see the example above).

• 13. Walking and holding hands

Ask the partners to hold hands, look at one another, and walk toward your camera. Make sure they start at a good distance – that way, you’ll have time to fire off a handful of shots before they get close.

I do recommend you shoot in burst mode , as the majority of your shots wil be ruined by awkward leg movements. (The second part of your job is to select photos with the best leg movements and positioning, which can be tough!)

• 14. Walking and holding each other

This one’s another pose with a walking couple, though it’s slightly more intimate than the previous idea. The couple should walk close together, as before, but they should hold on to each other:

As with the previous pose, you’ll need to take a number of shots – burst mode is your friend! – and choose the ones with the best leg positions.

• 15. Walking away from the camera

If you liked the “walking and holding hands” couples pose that I proposed above, then this one is nearly the same – just with a different camera angle!

Simply ask your subjects to walk with their arms around one another. (Holding hands works, too!) Then stand behind them, and fire off a series of shots as they walk away from your camera.

It’s a simple pose, but one that looks amazing when done right.

• 16. Lying on the ground

Looking for unconventional couple poses? Then try this one, where the partners lie on the ground and look toward the camera:

Make sure they get close together for a more intimate effect, and ask them to lift their upper bodies a bit and use their arms for support.

I’d recommend that you, as the photographer, get down very low. Feel free to shoot through grass and other vegetation, and if you can, widen your aperture to f/2.8 or beyond to create a shallow depth of field effect .

• 17. Lying on the ground and looking at each other

This pose is similar to the one shared above, except the couple should look toward one another:

In other to make this one work, you’ll need to put a little space between partners. Again, use a low angle, and be sure to pay attention to the partners’ feet; you don’t want a distracting foot or two sticking out of a head.

• 18. Cuddling on the ground

Here’s another intimate couple pose, one that features some nice asymmetry:

One partner should be positioned slightly above, while the other should set their head against the ground. (If you’re shooting outdoors, then a blanket can be a big help!) You can experiment with different head turns; one partner can look toward the camera, both partners can look at each other, or both partners can look toward the camera.

• 19. Lying together, looking up

This pose is a casual, fun pose that’s perfect for engagement sessions. It’s also very easy to pull off, so it works great for subjects who aren’t totally comfortable in front of the camera.

Simply ask the partners to lie on the ground, heads next to one another:

In general, you get the best results when shooting outside, though it’s possible to get a good result when working indoors, too.

• 20. Sitting together on a sofa

If you’re trying to capture more formal couple images, then try out this simple option, where one partner leans back against a couch while the other leans on their chest.

For the most meaningful images, try shooting at the couple’s house (and on their favorite sofa!).

• 21. The classic maternity pose

While I’ve focused on engagement and wedding couple poses for most of this article, it does pay to think about maternity couple poses – just in case.

Of course, you can always use some of the poses that I’ve shared, though you may to want to consider this careful maternity pose pose:

It looks nice for pretty much any couple, it’s romantic, and it’s a bit emotional. Be sure to pay attention to both subjects’ hands!

• Couple poses: final words

Now that you’ve finished this article, you’re ready to try out some couple poses during your next session!

So commit these poses to memory. Experiment. See how well they work!

Now over to you:

Which of these poses for couples do you plan to use first? Which do you like best? Are there any poses that you dislike? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

This guest post was written by Kaspars Grinvalds from Posing App .

Table of contents

Portrait photography.

• 15 Common Portrait Mistakes to Avoid
• 10 Ways to Direct a Portrait Shoot like a Pro
• How to Photograph People: 7 Tips for Photographers Who Never Photograph People
• 10 Crucial Things You Need to Think About for Portrait Photography
• 5 Portrait Photography Rules You Should Probably Ignore
• Five Budget Portrait Photography Hacks to Save You Money
• 8 Lessons Learned from My First Attempt at Portrait Photography
• How Self-Portraiture Makes You a Better Photographer
• The Photo Critique: Portrait Edition
• 10 Shots, 10 Portraits, 1 Focal Length: Take this Photography Challenge
• How I Got The Shot: Portrait Style
• Tips for Preparing for a Portrait Session
• 8 Tips to Help Make People Comfortable for Their Portrait Session
• Clothing for Portraits – How to Tell your Subjects What to Wear
• How to Plan a Successful Sunset Portrait Session
• 5 Secrets for Finding Great Indoor Photoshoot Locations
• 10 Christmas Portrait Locations (with Bonus Lighting and Composition Tips)
• How to Build a Bench Prop for Great Portrait Photos
• A Beginners Guide to Taking Portraits of Elderly Clients: Part 1 – Preparation and Rapport
• How to Scout for Portrait Shooting Locations
• The Importance of Location for Outdoor Portraits
• How to Choose Urban Landscapes for Portrait Photography
• The Best Camera Settings for Portrait Photography
• How to Achieve Blurred Backgrounds in Portrait Photography
• How to Bypass the Portrait Mode on Your Digital Camera and Get Great Portraits
• Understanding the Focus and Recompose Technique
• Overcoming Depth of Field Problems in Portraits
• 9 Ways to Ensure You Get Sharp Images When Photographing People
• Stunning Portraits: Manipulating White Balance
• Shooting for HDR Portraiture
• How [Not] to Take a Self Timer Portrait
• How Focal Length Changes the Shape of the Face in Portraiture
• 5 Tips How to Set Up a Home Studio for Dramatic Portraits
• Simple Portrait Setups You Can Create on a Tight Budget
• How to Eliminate Reflections in Glasses in Portraits
• Portrait Photography: How to Photograph People in the Harsh Midday Sun
• 4 Ways to Shoot Portraits in the Middle of the Day
• 6 Portrait Lighting Patterns Every Photographer Should Know
• 3 Lighting Setups for Photographing Headshots
• 6 Ways of Using Reflector to Take Better Portraits
• How to Create and Shoot Night Portraits
• How to Make Beautiful Portraits Using Flash and High-Speed Sync
• How to Make a Low Key Portrait (Step by Step)
• Fill Flash Photography: How to Get Beautiful Portraits (Even in Bad Light)
• A Lighting Ratios Guide: How to Make (or Break) Your Portraits
• How to Mix Ambient Light and Fill-Flash for Outdoor Portraits
• How to Photograph Fantastic Portraits with One Flash
• DIY How to Build and Use a Reflector to Take Better Portraits
• Understanding Light for Better Portrait Photography
• Tips for Doing Natural Light Headshots and Portraits
• 3 Reasons to do Headshots with Natural Light
• A Beginners Guide to Taking Portraits of Elderly Clients: Part 2 – Lighting and Posing
• How to Create Stunning Wide-Angle Portraits (Using an Off-Camera Flash)
• Tips for Making the Most of Morning Light for Portraits
• 5 Ways to Use a Beauty Dish Light for Portraits
• Beginners Tips for Sunrise Portraits : Part I
• Getting to Grips with Fill Light in Portrait Photography
• How to Use Flash for Night Portraits
• What Size Beauty Dish is Right For Your Portrait Photography?
• How to Create Catch Lights in Your Natural Light Portraits
• Tips for Using Golden Hour Light for Portraits
• Side-by-side comparison between reflectors and diffusers for portraits
• 6 Tips for Taking Better Natural Light Classic Portraits
• How to Use a Small Softbox With Your Flash to Transform Your Portraits
• Simple Tips for Positioning Your Portrait Subject to Leverage Natural Light
• The Importance of Shadows in Portrait Photography
• So You Have No Model? Here are Ways to Practice Your Portrait Lighting With Toys
• How to use Colored Gels to Create Unique and Creative Portraits
• 3 Steps to Professional Looking Headshots Using One Flash
• How to Use Two LED Lights to Achieve Moody Portraits
• Made in the Shade – Why Taking Portraits in the Shade Can be Ideal
• What Is Good Light? (And How to Use It for Beautiful Portraits)
• How to do Accent Lighting for Portraits
• Tips For Great Indoor Portraits Using Natural Light
• 5 Reasons for Doing Natural Light Portraits
• Review of the Westcott Eyelighter for Headshots and Portraits
• How to Use Angle of Light in People Photography for Added Punch
• High Speed Sync Versus a Neutral Density Filter to Overcome Bright Sunlight in Portraits
• 5 Creative Portrait Lighting Tricks Using Only Phone Light
• How to Use Off-camera Flash to Fix Lighting Problems for Outdoor Portraits
• How to Create Awesome Portrait Lighting with a Paper Bag an Elastic Band and a Chocolate Donut
• Tips for Using Speedlights to Create the Right Lighting for Outdoor Portraits
• How to use a Gobo to add Depth to Your Portraits with Subtractive Lighting
• How to Use Hard Lighting to Create a Dramatic Portrait
• Portrait Comparison – Flash Versus Natural Light
• Stealing Light – Using Street Lights for Portraits
• Five Places for Perfect Natural Portrait Lighting
• How to See the Light for Portraits: A Quick Tip for Beginners
• Shooting with Available Light – Lifestyle Portraiture
• 5 Ways to Light Your Christmas Tree Portraits This Festive Season
• A Simple Lighting Technique for Couples Portraits
• Awash In Light: High Key Portraiture
• A Portrait Lighting Project for a Rainy Day
• Simple Portrait Lighting Setup: Gorgeous Result
• How to Achieve Great Portraits with Window Light
• A Simple Exercise on Working with Natural Light in Portraits
• Small Flash Portraits on Location with Adorama TV
• Portraits on an Overcast Day? Use a Reflector
• Tips for Using Flash for Beach Portraits
• How to Find and Use Natural Reflectors for Portraits
• How to Create Dramatic Portraits with Shadow Photography [video]
• Tips for Portrait Photography in Overcast Weather [video]
• How to Photograph People Outdoors Without Using a Reflector
• How To Use an Outdoor Studio for Natural Portraits
• Female Poses: 21 Posing Ideas to Get You Started Photographing Women
• Glamour Posing Guide: 21 Sample Poses to Get You Started
• Posing Guide: 21 Sample Poses to Get You Started with Photographing Men
• Good Crop Bad Crop – How to Crop Portraits
• How to Pose and Angle the Body for Better Portraits
• Posing Guide: 21 Sample Poses to Get You Started with Photographing Groups of People
• Your Guide to the Best Poses for Engagement Photos
• How to do Gentle Posing: A Collection of Prompts to Get You Started
• Tips for Posing Large Families and Groups
• How to Pose People for Headshots
• Tips for Posing People in Outdoor Portraits
• 20 Tips for Getting People to Smile in Photos
• How to Avoid Fake Smiles in Your People Photography
• Tips for Posing Muscular Female Body Types
• Your Posing Guide for Maternity Sessions
• Handiwork: How to Pose Hands
• Your Guide to Posing Bands in Photography
• Posing Tip for Portraits – Which Way Should Your Subject Lean?
• Posing Tips – Waistlines, Thighs and Bustlines
• 3 Posing Tips for Young Siblings
• What Everybody Ought to Know About Posing for Portraits
• Poser: Achieve Perfect Portrait Expression
• Capturing Better Portraits Between Poses
• A Posing Technique from A Girl With a Pearl Earring
• Tips for Posing Men
• 6 Types of Portrait Backgrounds for Creative Images
• 6 Tips for Perfect Composition in Portrait Photography
• How to Find Great Backgrounds for Outdoor Portraits
• How to Make Colors Pop in Your Portraits – Without Using Photoshop
• How to Use Foreground Framing to Improve Your Portrait Photography
• How to Use Negative Space in People Photography
• 3 Simple Ways to Use Framing and Layering in Portraits
• Is Portrait Formatting always best for Portraits?
• Portrait Tip: Don't Fill the Frame
• How to Use Portrait Angles More Creatively: A Visual Guide
• How to Use Facial View and Camera Angle to take Flattering Portraits
• Comparing a 50mm Versus 85mm Lens for Photographing People
• Comparing a 24mm Versus 50mm Lens for Photographing People
• 3 Tips for Taking Portraits with a Kit Lens
• Best Fujifilm X-Series Kit for Urban Portraits
• 3 Ways to Get Killer Portraits Using a Tripod
• Photographing Portraits with Classic Lenses (includes Example Images)
• Portrait Photographers: Do You Really Need a 70-200mm Lens?
• Essential Portrait Photography Gear You Need When Starting Out
• Portable Portrait Studio in a Bag: Now You Can Take Portraits While on the Road
• How to Choose the Perfect Portrait Lens
• Which 50mm Lens is Best for Portraits?
• 13 Tips for Improving Outdoor Portraits
• Create Beautiful Indoor Portraits Without Flash (NSFW)
• 10 Tips for Photographing Great Headshots
• 3 Simple Ways to Create Stunning Eyes in Your Portrait Photography
• 11 Tips for Photographing High School Senior Portraits
• Tips for Doing Fall Portraits
• 6 Tips for Photographing Large People
• 7 Tips for Black and White Portrait Photography
• How to Create Environmental Portraits (Tips and Examples)
• Capturing Unenthusiastic Teens: Forget the Perfect Pose and Get Photos You Truly Love
• Tips for Taking the Torture out of Extended Family Portrait Sessions
• Self Portrait Photography Tips
• What the Mona Lisa Can Teach You About Taking Great Portraits
• 5 Tips for Musician Portraits (So You Can Hit All the Right Notes)
• 5 Tips to Help You Take More Natural Looking Portraits
• 15 Tips for More Powerful Portraits
• How to Create Dramatic Portraits in Your Garage
• 9 Tips that Make Couples Happy During a Portrait Session
• 5 Tips for Taking Better Portraits in Nature
• Snow Portrait: Behind the Scenes
• Tips for Creating Dance Portraits
• How to Take Better Beach Portraits at Any Time of Day
• The Introverts Guide to Photographing People
• 6 Ways to Take a Candid Portrait of Somebody You Know
• 3 Body Language Hacks to Improve Your Portrait Photography
• 5 More Tips for Making Better Black and White Portraits
• Tips for Planning and Capturing a Creative Portrait
• 5 Tips for Creating Romantic Portraits of Couples
• 10 Tips to Create Emotive Portraits
• 7 Tips for Photographing a Bridal Portrait Session
• 3 Lessons I Learned by Doing a Self-Portrait Project
• The Ultimate Guide to Photographing People for the Shy Photographer
• Tips for Getting Yourself to Relax as a Photographer and Have More Successful Portrait Sessions
• Tips for Taking More Natural Engagement Portraits
• 6 Tips for Better Portraits on Location
• 7 Ways to Take Advantage of Autumn in Your Portrait Photography
• 7 Tips and Etiquette for Taking Portraits in Public
• How to Make a Unique Portrait in the City at Night
• 3 Tips for Creating Outstanding Portraits, Inspired by the work of Dutch Artist Van Gogh
• 5 Keys to Taking Beautiful Maternity Portraits
• Photographing People: To do Styled Portraits or Not?
• 7 Steps to Capturing Truth in Your Portraiture
• Engagement Portrait Shoots: 7 Professional Tips to take your Engagement Shoots to the Next Level
• Personalities and Portraits – and Getting Them to Mix
• 3 Reasons to Have Your Own Portrait Taken
• 5 Tips for Photographing Portfolio-Worthy Costume Portraits
• 3 Critical People Skills Portrait Photographers Need
• The Essence of Masculinity – Portraits of Men
• 5 Corporate-Style Portrait Techniques
• 5 Tips for Doing Portrait Photography in Busy Locations
• Tips for Great Beach Sunset Portraits
• How to Create Portraits with a Black Background
• How Using Props in Portraits Can Make Your Photos More Interesting
• How to Take Unique Crystal Ball Portraits
• How to Create a Hollywood Film Noir Portrait
• How to Create this “Fight Club” Inspired Portrait using One Light
• Dragging the Shutter for Creative Portraits
• 5 Secrets for Creating Perfect Silhouette Portrait Photography
• How to do Tilt-Shift Portraits
• Copper, Prisms, and Orbs, Oh My! – 3 Creative Techniques for People Photography
• Portrait Tip: Add Interest and Movement into Your Shots with Wind
• Glitter Portrait: How I Took It
• How to Create a Unique Bokeh Portrait for Under $10
• 5 Ways to Use a Piece of Glass for Unique Portraits [video]
• Room with a View: How to Create this Window with Blinds Portrait Anywhere
• 7 Steps to Perfect White Portrait Backgrounds in the Studio
• How to Make Unique Portraits Using Light Painting
• 11 Steps for Basic Portrait Editing in Lightroom – A Beginner’s Guide
• Five Common Portrait Retouching Mistakes to Avoid
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How To Take Great Couple Pictures While Traveling

One of the questions we get asked consistently is how we take our couple pictures by ourselves. Although sometimes we travel with friends, most of the time it’s just the two of us. So taking high-quality travel photos of us together can be challenging. But with some practice, a reliable tripod and a few tricks we have a very effective process now 🙂 So here it is, step by step:

1. Build yourself a mood board

It takes some time to figure out what kind of couple pictures you want to take. What is your style? What’s the overall vibe of your feed? What do you want people to feel when they look at your photos? We found that the easiest way to build a strategy is to have a mood board. Take inspiration from others, organize it, play around with it, and add your own shots to it.

You can find our inspiration board on Pinterest here . We look at it every time we travel and take a lot of photos to get us in the mood and to help us stick to the feelings we want to capture.

2. Be genuine. Capture real emotions.

This needs to be repeated. Capture real emotions . There are so many bloggers, Instagrammers, travelers these days that simply look for the most visually stunning background and then just sit there staring blankly at the horizon (we’ve done this too in the past). Yes, people like pretty landscapes but no one is inspired by your contrived pose when it’s clear nothing about the picture was spontaneous or real. People want to look at pictures that make them feel things . Don’t treat your pictures as a checklist – pose in front of the Big Ben, pose next to this giant Buddha, sit at the edge of so and so viewpoint, staring. Think of the photos you create as living your life and documenting it, rather than living your life around scheduled photo shoots.

For this reason, we think it’s best to have another person take your couple pictures. It’s even better if that someone is a close friend or someone who loves you or knows you well. Those are the people that are more likely to capture your true essence as a couple.

But if you can’t do that – don’t worry. Most of our pictures were taken with a tripod anyway 🙂

3. Buy a tripod

Get yourself a tripod. We prefer this option to asking strangers on the street which is a big hit or miss. Most people you randomly ask for a photo will not know what vibe you’re going for. You might not feel comfortable enough in front of someone you just met. A lot of them probably don’t even know how to use a camera properly. So in most cases you’ll end up with pretty unusable shots.

That’s why we prefer to shoot with a tripod. Get a nice compact one that’s easy to carry around but also sturdy enough to hold your expensive camera. If you’re spending thousands of dollars on a nice camera, don’t be cheap on the tripod! You want your expensive equipment to be safe. Here’s a link to the one we use.

4. Frame the shot

When you ask a friend or a stranger to take your photos, be as specific as possible about how you want it taken. We’ve found that when we give detailed instructions to people and even show them an inspirational shot, we get much better results.

If you’re shooting with a tripod, take a few shots yourself first to figure out what angle works the best. Set up the tripod, secure your camera on it and you’re ready to go!

5. Camera settings

Some people prefer to use a remote app that lets you operate your camera through your phone and take pictures with it. That’s a great option but it doesn’t really work for us. We find it awkward to have to keep clicking and looking at the screen. It kills any natural feelings we are trying to capture.

We use Interval Timer mode instead. This allows your camera to take photos without even being touched. We have a Canon camera so this mode might be named differently for other brands. Check out our equipment list for the exact camera, lens and accessories we use.

Settings: 40 shots, with an interval of 2 seconds.

So every few seconds your camera takes a shot automatically until it takes 40 total. This allows us to just get in front of the camera, move freely and be authentic. It’s not as real as having a friend take it but it still works! This allows you to take natural couple pictures that don’t look posed.

It will take you sometime to get there, so don’t get discouraged if your photos are not looking the way you want them to right off the bat. The important thing is to keep practicing and keep improving until you find what works for you. And don’t forget to have fun! Capturing real emotions always beats just being in a pretty place 🙂

6. Learn how to edit your couple pictures

It’s not all about taking pretty pictures – the editing matters a lot too! We add a little special touch to our photos through editing with our custom Lightroom presets. Whether you like sunny summer colors or romantic golden sunset lighting, our editing presets can help you achieve a similar look to our photos.

Check them out through the links below 🙂

You may also enjoy:

How to grow your instagram followers, instagram shadowbans bikini photos now, how to install lightroom presets (desktop & mobile), best instagram story dimensions & tips.

OMG! I didn’t even know about this interval timer thing!!! thanks so much for sharing your secrets as always 🙂

I love your tips, thank you very Much😊

I liked that you explained that you should frame the picture really well. That is good to know when you want to take good pictures with more than one person in them. It might be smart to get some expert help with taking great photos.

What camera do you use guys?

You can see our full equipment list here https://stayclosetravelfar.com/our-equipment/

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How to Pose in Travel Photos Naturally and Creatively

Someone recently asked me how to pose for photos naturally and I thought it was a great question. I am queen of awkward and only recently have I gotten better at the whole posing thing.

When I first started blogging as a fashion blogger, I had a few poses down that I thought looked ok and would showcase the outfits I was wearing. However, those got old; when I started incorporating more travel into my blog, I realized I had to change up my poses.

Fashion poses aren’t necessarily great for travel photos and I quickly discovered that I needed to look more fun and free-spirited. I started looking at the camera more and trying to be more natural every time a photo was snapped. So here are a few tips for how to pose in travel photos naturally, even for those of us who feel awkward doing it.

How to pose for photos

Employ some movement – I had friends tell me this in the past but honestly it’s a pretty hard tip to learn. My first thoughts on it: how in the world are you supposed to move? I’m a klutz and walk funny so why do I want to walk while you’re photographing me? What other movement should I do? Do I pat my hair down? Should I look at the camera at the same time? Admittedly, it was awkward at first.

My recommendation is to start off with simply walking while someone is taking a photo. Take normal strides at an average pace. But be sure to pause between steps. I’ve seen way too many blurry photos because of movement.

Once you’ve got walking down, you can add in other natural movement: look to the side, glance down, grab your sunglasses, tuck your hair behind your ear or touch the brim of your hat. It makes photos so much more natural and you look like you’re actually exploring instead of just rigidly posing for a photo.

The right outfit really helps in this department. I love boater hats most because they aren’t overly glamorous and they are great for keeping the sun out of your eyes (double advantage of using them). Click HERE for some of my favorite hats for travel.

Maxi dresses or shorter floral dresses are my favorites for sightseeing. If they’re loose, even better as you’ll be able to twirl in them or incorporate some natural movement in the fabric. Click HERE for some cute floral dresses.

Be confident – Have you ever looked at a photo of yourself and thought “Wow. I look frumpy.” I definitely have. Most of the time it’s because I wasn’t confident when the shot was taken.

When I’m posing for a photo now, I try to remind myself to be confident. And confidence starts with posture: shoulders back, head held high like you know 100% what you’re doing. If you exude confidence, that stray hair will look intentional, that stain on your dress won’t be noticed and no one will think twice about the wrinkles on your dress. So be proud of yourself!

Find something to make you laugh  – Ok so this one is hard for me. I hate my teeth so I usually smile close lipped. BUT I’ve realized that I look pretty natural if someone makes me laugh. At the very least, it makes my close lipped smile more genuine.

Some of you guys have gorgeous smiles, perfect teeth and beautiful laughing faces so be proud of those! They will make your travel photos so much fun as you’ll look like you’re having a blast exploring various parts of the world.

Don’t look fake – I can’t mention the laughing tip without following up with not looking fake. This is because I’ve seen WAY to many fake smiles and laughs and while you may think you’re masking the awkwardness of smiling without cause, people seeing your photo will definitely know you’re faking it.

Just make sure you’re not forcing a smile or laugh and if you feel like you are, then it’s perfectly fine to lightly smile or even look away from the camera and off into the distance.

Think outside the box – I get bored pretty easily and seeing bloggers pose the same way over and over really makes things monotonous. Don’t be afraid to have fun with your poses.

Try sitting down cross-legged (a favorite of mine), lean into a wall or turn to the side. You can also sit on a ledge, look up at the sky, twirl if you have a long skirt or dress, etc.

Shoot different angles – It’s always a good idea to capture different angles of your pose. Turn to the side, all the way around or have the person taking your photo capture you from the left or right.

It’s all about the angles and it’s amazing to see how much one pose can change with just a few quick changes in position.

Use props around you – Be warned that props might make your photo look more staged. I personally prefer having props whether it’s flowers, books, fruit or my handbag. I think it adds so much to a photo that I don’t mind looking a little more posed.

But how do you pose for photos when there are no props? Sometimes I bring my own (like I said, a handbag is a great trick for posing naturally as most of us gals carry them all the time) or I use what’s around me.

Do you – I think the most important thing to keep in mind while shooting natural shots is do what you would normally do. If you’re at a shop, pick up a hat and look at it. If you’re at the ocean, take a stroll. If you’re in a beautiful location, admire the landscape in front of you.

Be in the moment! And above all, don’t think about all those people staring at you; you’ll probably never see them again and really, who cares what they think!

Quick tips for cute poses for couples

Sometimes posing with someone else, especially a partner, can prove to be a challenge if you want to avoid the typical, traditional poses. We still love arms-around-each-other poses but sometimes it’s fun to incorporate fresh ideas into our travel photos. So here are a few unique and cute poses for couples that you can implement on your travels with your loved one.

Use accessories – As mentioned above, I’m a huge fan of accessories and they can be great when taking photos as a couple. You can adjust his tie, tie a bow on her hair, put a hat on each other’s heads, etc. Make it look natural and you’ll look cute doing it.

Be relaxed and chill – I kind of love it when one person looks at the camera while the other is looking away. We’ve posed like this a few times and it just adds a little bit of uniqueness to a photo and makes us appear super relaxed and laidback.

Affectionate poses – Don’t be afraid to show your affection! If you’re in a romantic spot, kiss away!

Be in your own world – Sometimes it’s just easier to look at each other and forget the awkwardness of the camera. It’s fun to just act like no one is around and just enjoy the moment! Don’t be afraid to have fun with this one – you can carry your partner, dance, walk hand in hand; it really doesn’t matter as long as you are enjoying the moment of each other! The background will only make your story more vivid.

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22 Comments

HI Grace, I loved this post. I struggle a lot with posing myself, and most of my pics are taken from behind haha I have recently bought a tripod and I will start practicing before going to shoots. This post is super helpful. Thank you!!

Thanks Ana! I’m sure it’ll become natural to you very quickly! If I can do it, anyone can! 🙂

Excellent tips, thank you! You make it sound easy 🙂 we’ll put them into practice in our next trip 🙂

I hope they work out for you!

These tips are amazing Grace! Cant wait to shoot using them x

Thanks Charu! I hope they help!

I wish one day I can be like you

Great post! Thank you. I found with the smile, make sure I am feeling it in my eyes, less fake. Also, The Resting Face! Beware , remember to have a Mona Lisa look . There is nothing worse than the turned down mouth. 🙂 just a gentle upturn is a photo saver

So true! It’s easy to look upset if you’re not smiling 🙂

This is such a great post! I always feel so awkward posing and only have a couple of poses that I revert to all the time but they get old pretty quickly. I’m definitely going to try some of your ideas! Oh and I’m super self-conscious about my teeth too and always smile with my lips closed for photos – it might look less natural (I’m a smiler in real life) but I still prefer it.

Same here! I laugh all the time in person but photos…nope 😉

Hi grace! Lovely pics and great tips. Are you on Instagram? I’d love to see more of your photos Jen

Thanks Jen!! You can find me @gracejsilla (www.instagram.com/gracejsilla)

Hi, great post. Will definitely try some of the poses in my next travel trip. Wonderful outfits too! Where did you get the sandals where you are next to the vintage blue car? Thanks for sharing C

Hi Corina! You can get the sandals here: https://www.macys.com/shop/product/steve-madden-womens-kimmie-flatform-espadrille-sandals?ID=4684246

I really appreciate your tip about not forcing a smile or laugh when taking photographs, My family is wanting to do a family photoshoot in the next few weeks, and I have never been really good at posing for photographs. I will have to see what the photographer can help me out with once we choose someone to hire.

This was so helpful! I’m legit so awkward in photos and it’s something I’m really trying to work on. I haven’t heard of a lot these tips and I’ll definitely have to try them! Thanks for sharing:)

I think we’ve all been there so you’re not alone! 🙂

What advice do you have if you’re top-heavy? I try to stand up straight with shoulders back, but if there’s an angle at all it’s not normally flattering.

One of my favorite ways to pose is to cross my arms – I think you could easily minimize if you cross your left arm over your chest (perpendicular) and then place your right elbow on your left forearm with your hand resting under your chin. Kind of like how you would lean on a desk. This way your arms will take the attention away from where you don’t want it 🙂 Hopefully that makes sense!

Thanks for this post! I really need to improve my poses. Im an awkward queen and definitely care too much about those around me! But I will try put these into practice – thanks for the tips!

At first, all your pictures are fabulous. Great interpretation

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The Travel Quandary

How to take couple pictures by yourself

These days, every aspect of our lives is seemingly captured and shared online. There are arguments for and against taking as many photos as we do, particularly when on holiday. But we cannot bemoan the invention of the camera as it has provided so much happiness and pleasure the world over.

Taking your own couples pictures can largely depend on your environment and uncontrollable elements so it’s best to focus on what you can control. Over time, we’ve refined our own techniques and we want to share our couples photography tips on how to take couple pictures by yourself.

how to take good couple photos

Foundation: how to take couple photos while travelling, a. tripod & timer.

The tripod & timer is a classic technique which continues to stand the test of time (sorry! We couldn’t resist that pun). When people ask us “How do you take couple pictures alone?”, the answer is usually our tripod. If you’re serious about improving your couple photos, then adding a tripod to your photography kit is almost a necessity. We highly recommend investing in a sturdy tripod that can withstand some of nature’s elements (think wind or water) but can also hold the weight of your camera and lenses.

Once you have your three-legged friend, you have a few options:

• Set the timer on the camera to 10 seconds and run into position (always fun). You and your partner may need to take turns running back and forth to click the shoot button. Alternatively, take a burst of photos after 10 seconds which allows you to make multiple poses. We tend to use the latter when we are shooting our couple photos. We find that a little bit of movement looks more natural and the slight nuances in each frame provide more options when reviewing.
• Buy a remote control and click as you please. Many DSLRs now have in-built Wi-Fi capabilities allowing photographers to connect their smartphone or a remote to the camera. Using a remote control means you can take the photo, well remotely! We recommend using the timer mode which will allow you to subtly hide the remote control from view. By using the remote control you can also snap your picture from a few metres away with no running into position required! 
• Use the interval timer mode to take a photo every second for a defined period of time (e.g. x1 photo every second for 60 seconds). We discovered this function recently and is now our preferred method over burst mode. Interval timer still allows you to move slightly and/or change poses between takes whilst also providing more shooting time (i.e. 30 seconds or 60 seconds rather than a burst of 10 photos after a 10 second countdown). When using the interval timer, it is important to stay in position if using auto focus points on your camera otherwise your pictures will return blurry. We recommend using a wide selection so that if you do move, you do not move out of focus.

It’s taken some time for us (ahem, Bevan) to learn to master the basics of our DJI Mavic Pro 2 but over time, we have relied on our drone to take several of our travel couple photos, particularly the epic aerial shots.

Like a DSLR, we are able to set an interval timer on the DJI Mavic Pro 2 to snap a photo every 3 seconds while it hovers in one position. The distinct advantage of shooting with a drone is the ability to shoot some epic landscapes from a perspective that isn’t possible at ground level.

If you’re contemplating purchasing a drone, we list out the pros and cons in this blog post – A Photographer’s Kit: What’s In Our Camera Bag ?

C. Selfie Stick // GoPro

Jasmine was a huge fan of the selfie stick when we first met and used to bring it along on all of our trips. These days we use it less and less, however, it remains a simple, budget friendly option for travel couple shots if:

• You want a quick impromptu picture with your smartphone
• You want to include more of the background in your photo that a selfie with your arm can’t capture
• You want something that doesn’t cost a lot nor takes up much room in your weekend carry-on luggage
• You want to mix up the perspective by shooting low or high

D. Ask a stranger or a friend

This is the method we rely on the least as we prefer to frame our own photos using our tripod. If you are travelling with friends, then you’re lucky if you can set up the frame and camera settings and simply ask them to click the button (in exchange for a few beers of course). However, taking your own couples pictures is not always possible. Should you find yourself in a spot where tripods, drones or selfie sticks are not permitted, then you’re going to need some human help. 

These are our top tips when asking for assistance:

Quid pro quo – offer to take one of them in exchange for a photo of the two of you. Most people generally accept this offer as we all want a nice holiday memory of us standing in front of that memorable backdrop. 

Provide guidance – snap a test shot of the frame that you’re envisioning and show your new friend a preview of this shot on your DSLR. Make sure to also ask them to stand in a certain place if it means nailing the shot. In our experience, it is rare to come across a fellow traveller who is comfortable holding and shooting with a DSLR so providing an example of what you’re after with clear instructions could improve your success rate!

Review & request – make sure to review the photo and assess the result. If you’re not happy, don’t be afraid to politely ask the hired photographer to shoot the photo again whilst adding further instructions. 

Don’t forget to consider your camera settings. Depending on crowds, light, weather etc, you may simply need to flick the camera to “automatic” and ask your new friend to point and shoot. If you can switch to manual mode to adjust your camera settings according to your environment, your human help still just needs to point and shoot, but you are likely to have less work to do during post production.

COUPLES PHOTOGRAPHY TIPS

Consider a unique angle or authentic frame. You may run into unplanned difficulties such as physical obstacles (e.g. fences, crowds) preventing you from setting up your tripod, having an inappropriate lens or bad weather forcing you to set-up and shoot quickly.

The structure of your photo is important; setting up a frame can take time and will require some patience. Change things up, vary your height or angles and don’t be scared to try something new – even if it doesn’t always work.

Many people feel awkward in front of the camera so learning to feel comfortable while posing and having your picture taken will take practice. Here are our tips for how to pose as a couple for pictures:

Be natural – Remember to relax. It sounds so cliche but it’s best to not overthink your pose and act natural. We try to incorporate some movement and imagine that there isn’t even a camera there in the first place.

Change things up – Add some variety and mix things up. Sit side by side, share a kiss, walk hand in hand, wrap your arms around each other. Look at the camera front on, show your side profile or turn your back completely. Dance together, lean on one another, incorporate your environment or some props. Have some fun!

Create a guide or lookbook – Create a collection of images of travel couple poses that you admire. Whether it is a collection of saved images on Instagram, a Pinterest board or a magazine, file these images under “pictures to take with your boyfriend”. We encourage you to add your unique twist and not to simply replicate or copy somebody else’s work!

C. Lighting

Light is a photographer’s best friend and worst enemy. Natural light, artificial light, low light – it will make or break your photo! An ideal time to shoot is during golden hour, usually about an hour after sunrise and the hour before sunset. This time of day often returns warmer light, softer shadows and highlights that are not overexposed. Of course, there are other obstacles you may not be able to avoid such as clouds and buildings so these elements add to the challenge!

To learn more about taking photos during golden hour, read our tips here – What is Golden Hour & How To Make The Most Of It.

D. Composition

What you see through your viewfinder is what you get. When taking a photo the aim should be to only include the good stuff. If shooting a cityscape, eliminate objects like trash or poles (where you can) if they do not add context to your photo. Similarly with landscapes, think about your focal length, as elements can be easily included or excluded by zooming in or out.

Depth of field – The ability to control depth of field in your photograph means that you can draw your viewer’s attention to a particular point of interest, namely the two of you.

Controlling aperture means that you can change the focal point of your picture. A wide aperture or low f-stops (up to around f4) will result in your subject in sharp focus and blurry surrounds. We tend to shoot with a low aperture when taking portraits. The person tends to be the focal point in the foreground and we blur the background.

In contrast, the opposite emphasis can be achieved when shooting photos at a narrow aperture or high f-stops (from around f13 and above). Higher f-stops remove any blurred effects so your focal point and surroundings all tend to be in focus. We tend to use this setting when we want to capture ourselves amongst landscapes and cityscapes. 

Rule of thirds – One of the most classic laws of composition is the rule of thirds. Imagine your frame is divided into a 3 x 3 grid. It is encouraged to place your focal point approximately on one of the intersections of horizontal and vertical lines that divides your frame into thirds to keep your composition uncluttered.

For example – if you are shooting sunset at the beach, you might use the horizon to form one of your horizontal grid lines and place yourselves on one of the vertical grid lines. If you choose not to shoot the frame following the rule of thirds, you can always crop the image in post-production to reposition yourself adopting the rule of thirds.

Our travel couple photography style tends to “break” the rule of thirds and we usually place ourselves (i.e. the focal point) in the centre of the frame. There is no hard and fast rule and you are likely to develop your own style.

TIP: Generally speaking, all cameras will have a grid function built in which you can use when setting up your frame. The gridlines can help you to identify where to place your subject when shooting.

Change the viewpoint – If you’re looking to create a unique photo, one of the easiest things to do is to simply change your viewpoint. Drones have redefined aerial photography of majestic landscapes, allowing viewers to see scenes never shown or accessed before. But you don’t need a drone to drastically change the perspective. Using your tripod is a good place to start mixing up your couple photos. You can lower your tripod and point your camera upwards to shoot a frame from below or you can place your tripod above you to shoot downwards.

E. Timing & Review

As best as possible – never rush your photos. Take your time. If the photo location requires you to queue, consider returning at a different time of day or shooting the backdrop from an alternative angle. 

Fix your camera settings. Take 5 photos and then review the results. Ask yourself some of the following questions:

• Are you happy with the frame?
• Do you like your pose?
• Did one of you have their eyes closed?
• Is the shot overexposed?
• Did any sudden movement appear blurry in the photo? 

Sometimes it’s not always easy to pick up slight nuances in the preview mode of your camera and imperfections may only become obvious during post-production. You don’t need to delete images from your camera straight away – you may want to wait until you have reviewed them on your desktop or laptop before deleting. You also don’t want to spend too much time trying to curate the “perfect” shot as this takes away from the two of you enjoying your travels together. Take a little time to review your photos before moving on as it is much easier to take another photo there and then if you’re happy with light and environment conditions.

F. Create Content

Be authentic, be unique, be you and practice, practice, practice. Create something that you’re proud of and is a reflection of you instead of replicating something that has been done a thousand times before. The one thing that you have that nobody else does is your love for each other so work together to capture those special couple photos that you’ll be able to cherish forever.

For more travel couple inspiration and couple pictures ideas, visit our Instagram account @thetravelquandary .

Got any other tips on how couples should take photos? Let us know in the comments below!

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1 thought on “how to take couple pictures by yourself”.

Really loved reading this post. Have been thinking for a while that I need to work on this side of the photography and your tips are brilliant. Just want I needed. Thanks 🙂

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30 Cute Couple Poses to Use For Your Next Instagram Post

• Sarah is the Entertainment & Celebrity Editor for The Knot, with special focuses on pop culture and celebrity wedding news.
• Before joining The Knot Worldwide, Sarah was a contributing writer for Bravo at NBC Universal.
• Sarah has a degree in journalism and resides in New York City.

Let us set the scene: You and your S.O. are all dressed up in a gorgeous setting when someone whips out a camera. You panic, because you don't know what couple pose to use. In a split second, you throw your hand on your hip and smile at the lens, resulting in a snap that looks like every other photo you have together. There's nothing wrong with knowing your angles and recycling the couple poses that make you feel most confident —but when you're in the mood to shake it up, we've got you covered.

If you feel like you and your partner take the same pictures over and over again, these creative couple pose references are fun, fresh, and oh-so-easy to recreate. Whether you need couple photo ideas for your engagement shoot , your wedding day, or your next Instagram post, study this list to be prepared the next time a camera comes out. (Then, be sure to use our roundup of couple photo captions to complete your photo dump.)

The Skyline Stare

Coming up with a creative couple photo idea really can be as simple as shifting your gaze. Instead of staring directly at the camera, turn both of your heads to glance off into the distance. This one is especially good to keep in mind if you get camera shy—because the less you have to look straight into a lens, the more confident you'll feel.

Bottoms up! Need a funny couple pose to show off your personalities? Stop with the fake candids and give your photographer real candid moments to work with. Grab some glasses and raise a toast to each other. It'll create the most opportune photo op that feels cheeky and natural.

The Pool Splash

Remember back in the day when pool hair flip photos were all the rage? Consider this the adult version. The next time you and your partner are standing in water, whether it's in the pool or at the beach, start splashing around. Who knew taking pictures could be so fun?

The Romantic Hand Hold

There's hand-holding, and then there's romantic hand-holding . We love how this couple pressed their foreheads together and raised their interlocked hands up. While it may seem simple, it's a creative take on a classic couple pose that's not hard to accomplish.

The Hug from Behind

The "hug from behind" couple pose is always a framer. Don't just take our word for it—consider this example as proof. When someone takes out their phone to start snapping, wrap up your S.O. from behind. We guarantee it'll become your new favorite picture of the two of you.

The Sweet Tooth

Stuck on coming up with casual couple poses for a photoshoot? If you're prepping for your engagement session, it won't hurt to bring in some food for a few shots. We're obsessed with this gorgeous snap of a couple eating donuts together. Could there be anything sweeter?

The Confetti Toss

Mark our words: You'll never regret adding a confetti toss to your engagement or wedding shot list . Throwing a handful of something sparkly or shimmery will make you feel like a kid again, resulting in the best photos. Plus, it's fun. Who can resist smiling under a cloud of confetti?

The Look Back

When in doubt, look back at it. Often used for engagement photoshoots, this cute couple pose reference is a good one to start out with at the beginning of your session to start loosening up and building your confidence. You'll feel like a pro in no time.

The Hand Kiss

Bridgerton , but make it modern. The hand kiss may seem like an old-timey photo pose for couples, but there's no denying this pic is cute, romantic and downright adorable. Be sure to keep this one in mind for the next photo op that arises.

The Pup Cuddle

There's no photoshoot prop quite as adorable as your dog. When you aren't sure how to pose for the camera, grab your furry friend to make a cameo. We guarantee it'll be an instant crowd-pleaser, especially on the 'gram.

The Staircase Seat

Tired of standing in all of your photos together? Find the nearest staircase and pop a squat. While it may be simple, this couple photo idea is always a winner in our eyes. (Especially if your shoes are less-than-comfy.)

The Champagne Pop

Need some help getting comfortable in front of the lens? A few sips of bubbly may do the trick. Plus, there's no denying a gorgeous bottle of champagne makes for a fabulous prop too. When you need a funny couple pose, pop the cork and tip your bottle allll the way back for some memorable snaps.

The Car Kiss

If you're lucky enough to have access to a vintage car, take advantage by using it as a photoshoot prop. This cool couple pose is a great one to include in your engagement or wedding session, particularly because it effortlessly creates depth and dimension you don't have when standing.

The Beach Walk

We've got a serious soft spot for beachy couple poses. Can you blame us? Next time you find yourself on sandy shores, ask your friends to snap a photo of you and your love holding hands on a relaxing beach stroll.

The Adventurous Kiss

Kissing photos are always an easy couple pose idea to whip out when you need something to do, but try upping the ante by giving your partner a smooch in the middle of an adventurous activity. We love how this couple paused to share a kiss amid their scenic hike. Wouldn't you just love to recreate this snap for yourself?

The Sailboat Sit

If you find yourselves perched on the back of a sailboat, enlist a friend to shoot some nautical pictures of you and your S.O. After all, what's more picturesque than a couple pose with high seas in the background?

The Dance Party

When it comes to fun poses for couples, you simply can't top a dance party. All your nerves will melt away when you and your partner just start dancing. There's no rhyme or reason to this couple pose, and you don't even need music to start busting out your best moves. All you need to know is that your photographer will capture some real gems with this pose idea.

The Outdoor Snuggle

Aren't the great outdoors just so…cozy? Next time you find yourself near a bench surrounded by lush greenery, get comfortable in the outdoor snuggle pose. This casual couple pose for photoshoots is easy to nail, so make sure it's on your engagement shot list.

The Dramatic Stare

Channel your inner runway model and strike a pose while smizing off into the distance. This couple photo idea is best done when accompanied by a fire outfit, as seen here. We know Tyra will be proud.

The "Just Married" Carry

You might be familiar with the age-old wedding folklore tale that said the groom had to carry the bride over the threshold of their new home for good luck—but we say you don't have to be married to whip out this cute couple pose. The best part? It works whether you're at home or in the middle of the street. (Just be sure to check for cars.)

Sometimes, you just can't think of another couple pose to use. When that happens, let your background do all the talking. This fun couple pose idea is best executed in front of a colorful mural, so get out in your neighborhood and start scoping out good backdrops.

We'll never not swoon over this romantic couple pose idea. Grab your love's hand and give them a twirl. You don't have to be professional dancers to nail this timeless snapshot.

The Lady and the Tramp

We'd be remiss not to include a Lady and the Tramp recreation in this list of couple pose references. Grab your favorite meal—whether it's In-N-Out or spaghetti and meatballs—and pose for a few photos that document you two feeding each other or sharing a bite.

The Sun Flare

Whether you're posing for a professional photographer or a friend who knows their way around a camera, ask them to capture a sun flare as you and your partner cozy up nice and close together. This ultra-cool effect is an easy way to level up a classic couple pose.

The Piggy Back

You're never too old for a piggyback ride. When you're in the mood for a funny couple pose, hop on your partner's back as the camera clicks away. We have a feeling you'll both be left in a fit of giggles.

The Fountain

Be on the lookout for fountains in your hometown or at your wedding venue, because they make for iconic photo backdrops. When you find one, hold your partner's hand as you walk around the perimeter. This couple pose idea will get all the likes on social media.

The Breakfast Date

Waffles or pancakes? Regardless of your go-to breakfast dish, this couple pose idea is downright adorable, and perfect for foodies. Don't forget to add a dash of syrup for extra sweetness.

The Dramatic Distance

Not all couple poses require physical touch. In fact, we'd dare to say this dramatic idea is one you and your S.O. should definitely try out next time you're taking IG photos or formal portraits.

The Cutoff Kiss

A simple angle change can make even the most classic couple pose ideas feel fresh and new. Ask your photographer to bring the lens down so it cuts off the very top of your heads for a unique take on the classic kiss photo.

The Classic Kiss

The classics are classic for a reason. Of all the couple poses to reference, this is always a fool-proof option. Grab your partner and give them a smooch for the camera—it will never go out of style.

McMillans Meet World

Travel + photography, 5 easy couple poses for your next adventure.

Capturing memories through photos is so important to us when we travel.  Check out these 5 easy couple poses for your next adventure!

We have photo albums full of pictures from every one of the trips we’ve taken.  Framed photos from some of our latest trips are displayed around our home.  We spend a lot of time taking pictures when we travel, and each picture we look back on holds a memory.  After taking a photography course and figuring out an editing system , we learned how to take pictures together with a self-timer and tripod.  If you’re curious about our photography gear, we have a full list of everything we use here.  

These 5 easy couple poses are a great starting point for taking pictures together!

Pose #1 Forehead to Forehead

Pose #2 Hold and Kiss

Pose #3 Hold and Look at Each Other

Pose #4 Walking Hand in Hand

Pose #5 Forehead Kiss

Tip:  Set your timer interval to 2 seconds and 10 or more photos.   Some of the best pictures are captured in between the posed shots.  Also don’t forget to take a simple photo of you two smiling at the camera.

Tag us on Instagram @mcmillansmeetworld if you use any of these poses on your next trip!  We’d love to see your pictures!

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The Ultimate Guide to Captivating Couple Poses: Unleash the Magic of Love

In the world of photography, skillfully capturing the love and connection shared between couples is considered a true art form. Whether it’s for a wedding, engagement, or simple couple photo pose , the right poses can beautifully convey the emotions and bond shared by two individuals. This guide will cover a variety of couple poses in detail that will help you create stunning and memorable images. From romantic and intimate couple picture ideas and poses to fun and playful ones, we have got you covered. So, grasp your camera, and get ready to explore a variety of mesmerizing cute couple poses .

Table of Contents

The Magic of Couple Photography

One of the most challenging parts of portrait photography is posing, and it becomes even more complex when working with a couple of photographs . Suitable poses can make all the difference in capturing natural and authentic moments between partners. Nowadays, couples are seeking more natural and personalized poses, as opposed to the stiff and traditional ones of the past. By mastering the couple’s photo poses , you can create the best picture that truly reflects the unique personality and love shared by each couple.

• Read more about Graduation Photoshoot Ideas and Poses

Couples Photoshoot Ideas – Romantic Couple Poses

When it comes to capturing the romance and love between cute couples , the right poses can make all the difference. Here are some best couple poses that will help you learn how to take couple pictures and create alluring images filled with passion and tenderness –

The Embrace

The embrace is a classic and timeless pose that beautifully displays the bond between partners. Guide the couple to embrace tightly with their bodies close. Encourage them to relax and show affection. For more intimacy, suggest resting heads or whispering sweet words. This pose is appropriate for both indoor and outdoor environments. You can try out various angles and compositions to introduce diversity to your photoshoots.

Pro Tip: To add an extra touch of intimacy, ask the couple to softly rest their heads against each other or whisper sweet nothings.

• Check out the list of Friend Photoshoot Ideas

The Forehead Kissing Pose

A forehead kiss is considered not only a tender and intimate loved pose but also the most sexy pose that showcases the deep connection between partners. To get the desired shots, help the couple by guiding them to face one another and touch their foreheads together. Motivate them to become closer to their eyes and share a tender kiss on the forehead. This kissing pose for couples forms a sense of intimacy and vulnerability, capturing a moment of pure love and tenderness.

Pro Tip : To improve the emotional impact of the photo, shoot in black and white. With the absence of color from the frame, attention is drawn to the expressions of the couple and the depth of their connection.

• Check out list of the Senior Picture Ideas

The Dancing Couple Pose

Dancing is often associated with romance and joy, making it a perfect couple pose for capturing the love between them. Don’t forget to guide the couple to hold each other close as much as possible, with their bodies pressed together. Encourage them to sway gently or take a few steps in a dance-like motion. Adding this pose to your couple photoshoots can create a sense of movement and fluidity, bringing a dynamic element to your shots.

Pro Tip: Try out various dance styles and moods, like a sensuous and slow waltz or a playful and energetic vibe.

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The Whisper Pose

The whisper pose is a beautiful way to capture intimate and screened moments between couples. Suggest the couple get close to each other, with one partner leaning in to whisper something into the other’s ear. Inspire them to maintain eye contact and capture their genuine reactions to the whispered words. This pose creates a sense of intimacy and openness among each other, showcasing the trust and connection between partners.

Pro Tip: To add an element of mystery, take the shot from the viewpoint of the whispering companion, capturing the moment from their perspective.

• Check out the list of Photography Poses for Female

The Hand Hold Pose

The simple act of holding hands can express a feeling of being together and united through the couple’s photoshoots . Advise the couple to hold hands with their fingers intertwined or clasped together. Motivate them to relax their shoulders and let their hands rest naturally. This pose is versatile and can enhance intimacy and connection when combined with other poses in different settings.

Pro Tip: Experiment with different hand positions, such as placing one hand on top of the other or interlocking fingers, to add variety to your shots.

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Before the kiss – The Sexy Pose

Looking to capture the true essence of your shoots in a photograph? One classic pose that never fails is the romantic couple pose . Simply face each other, with one partner gently holding the other’s cheeks, as if they are about to share a kiss. This intimate pose perfectly captures the love and closeness between two people. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to immortalize your love in a stunning photo. Try this pose during your next photoshoot!

Pro Tip: For getting the best and outstanding results, make sure to have good lighting that can be natural or artificial and a neutral background so the focus is on the couple and their connection to intimacy.

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Playful and Funny Couple Poses for pictures

Capturing the playful and fun side of a couple is a delightful way to showcase their uniqueness dynamically. These poses will help you create easygoing and joyful images that are sure to bring a smile to yours.

The Piggyback Ride Pose

The piggyback ride pose is a classic and playful pose that brings out the inner child in couples. Introduce to the couples one partner to jump on the back of the other, piggyback style. Assist them to laugh and enjoy the moment as they playfully interact with each other, resulting in capturing a perfect moment. This pose creates a sense of joy and carefree spirit, resulting in candid and perfect moments to capture in a couple of photos .

Pro Tip: Experiment with different surroundings and backdrops to add variety to your ride shots. Let the surroundings add to the fun and playful atmosphere, whether you’re at the beach, by the sea, in a park, or in an urban area.

View more Summer Photoshoot Ideas

The Tickle Fight Pose

A tickle fight pose is a fun and spontaneous pose that captures the laughter and playfulness between couples. Instruct the couple to engage in a playful tickle battle, encouraging them to let loose and enjoy the moment. Capture their genuine reactions and expressions as they playfully interact with each other. This pose creates a sense of joy and camaraderie, resulting in lively and energetic couple pictures .

Pro Tip: To add an extra element of fun, incorporate props such as feather dusters or playful signs that say “Tickle Fight.”

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The Bubble Blowing Pose

Blowing bubbles is a whimsical and playful activity that can create magical moments in your couple’s photoshoots . Instruct the couple to blow bubbles together, capturing their expressions of delight and wonder. Experiment with different angles and try to capture the bubbles floating in the air. This pose brings out the childlike joy and sense of adventure in couples, resulting in charming and enchanting photographs.

Pro Tip: Use a bubble machine or bubble wand to create a continuous stream of bubbles, adding a touch of magic to your cute couple pictures.

• Check out Sweet 16 Photoshoot Ideas

The Playful Chase Pose

A playful chase pose is a dynamic and energetic way to capture the fun and excitement between couples that ensures capturing cute couple pictures . Instruct one partner to playfully run away from the other, encouraging them to laugh and enjoy the moment. Through this, you can capture the moment as they playfully tease each other. This pose creates a sense of adventure and spontaneity, resulting in a lively and candid cute couple poses for pictures.

Pro Tip: Experiment with different locations and backdrops to add variety to your playful chase shots. Whether it’s a beach, forest, or cityscape, let the environment enhance the sense of playfulness.

• Check out Flower Photoshoot Ideas

The Jumping Pose

A jumping pose is a fun and dynamic way to capture the energy and enthusiasm between couples. Instruct the couple to jump together, encouraging them to laugh and enjoy the moment to capture the best couple poses . Capture their mid-air poses and expressions of joy as they leap into the air. This pose creates a sense of excitement and freedom, resulting in energetic and vibrant photographs.

Pro Tip: Experiment with different jumping styles, such as synchronized jumps or jumping in opposite directions, to add variety to your shots.

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Simple and Intimate Couple Poses

Sometimes, simplicity is key when it comes to capturing the intimate moments between couples. These simple and intimate poses focus on creating a sense of closeness and vulnerability, allowing you to capture the raw emotions shared by partners.

Talk About Their Romance

Working with couple photography is not only enjoyable but also has a unique advantage as they naturally engage with each other. The chemistry between the couple leads to spontaneous and genuinely natural poses , which are a treasure trove for couple photography. This interaction helps them to feel at ease, avoiding the potential awkwardness that a single model may experience in front of the lens. They playfully trigger each other into smiles and laughter. You can exploit this dynamic to your advantage. Nevertheless, your guidance is still essential for setting the appropriate ambiance and fostering interaction. I prefer initiating conversations with my subjects about their initial meeting, shared activities, and the aspects they appreciate in each other. I focus on prompting discussions that evoke joyful memories. This interaction strengthens their emotional connection, which is exhibited in the photography poses for couples . When their thoughts focus on their affection.

• Receive professional wedding photo retouching services for about $0.45 per photo.

Couple Kiss Poses In Hand

Kissing your partner’s hand is a powerful gesture of respect, affection, and reverence. This gesture can be effectively incorporated into your couple’s poses for a photoshoot . You can infuse the couple’s kissing pose with creativity by blending it with other postures to enhance its impact. A picture of the couple sharing hand kisses while strolling adds an extra layer of unique calmness. Alternatively, consider a scenario where one partner tenderly kisses the other’s hand while embracing them from behind, further beautifying the visual harmony. 

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Hug From Behind Pose

The hug from behind is a simple yet powerful pose that beautifully showcases the intimacy and connection between partners. Instruct them to look in the same direction and ask one of them to hug the other partner from behind, pressing the body against the one standing at the front. This pose creates a sense of comfort and vulnerability, resulting in intimate and heartfelt photography posing couples . To capture the couple’s expressions and the depth of their connection, experiment with different angles and compositions. To add some variety to your shots, try capturing the moment from different levels or at eye level.

Find out more The How to for Double Exposure in Photoshop Made Easy

Northern Soul Dance

Dancing usually makes a person feel uneasy, especially if under the scrutiny of a camera lens. Interestingly, this discomfort can be used to your advantage by encouraging the couple to dance. The inherent awkwardness should spark laughter, effectively breaking down their initial shyness. This lightheartedness can work wonders in unraveling their natural selves, possibly resulting in a series of cheerful and candid couple portrait photography.

Read more about How to Cut Out an Image in Photoshop

Lay your head on a captivating sight

This particular one is most effortlessly and efficiently executed among couple poses during events. Have one of the models gently lean onto the other’s shoulder. Capture this scene from a rear angle, framing the perspective they share.

Their line of sight could encompass a spectacular fireworks display, a picturesque vista, or any tableau that narrates the story of their relationship.

Check out How To Edit Waterfall Photos .

Mutual enjoyment Pose

If you want to capture candid couple portraits , this can be effectively achieved by photographing your subjects while they’re engrossed in activities they love. Ask the couple to engage in something they both cherish and love to do during the photoshoot of the couple’s picture poses . Be it simple as strolls, savoring ice cream, sharing a song, or any other activity that holds genuine appeal for them. As they become indulged in their shared passion, you’ll have the opportunity to seize many cute couple poses . These photos will also give them unforgettable memories of their youthful loving moments. 

View more How To Take Pictures Of Shoes

Lie Next to Partners

Here’s a fantastic pose for aerial couple portrait photography . Capture stunning shots with either a camera or a drone. To shoot from above, you’ll need a ladder and a wide-angle lens to achieve panoramic portraits without getting too close to your clients. The models can either look at each other or at the camera, but it’s crucial to ensure for the couple that they’re all looking in the same direction. This will prevent them from appearing uninterested or bored with each other, resulting in amazing couple photoshoots .

Receive professional image masking service for about $1.25 per photo.

Mastering Tips for Couple Photography

The importance of clothing and coordination.

When a couple poses photography , it’s essential to consider their outfits and how they complement each other. The clothing choices can greatly influence the overall mood and aesthetic of the photos. While it’s not necessary for couples to dress identically, coordinating their outfits can create a sense of unity and connection. Encourage them to choose colors that complement each other and avoid distracting patterns or logos. By guiding them in their clothing choices, you can ensure that the focus remains on their love and connection.

Preparing for the Shoot for best couple poses

Before the couple photography shoot begins, it’s important to make any necessary adjustments to ensure that your models look their best. Communicate with the couple and let them know that you will be providing direction throughout the shoot. Pay attention to details like hair and clothing, and make suggestions if necessary.

Another of the most beautiful aspects of photographing a couple’s pose is capturing their genuine love and connection. Bring out the natural affection between the couple by encouraging them to interact. By asking them about their love story, their shared interests, and what they appreciate about each other, you can create an environment that allows their love to shine through in the photographs. These genuine moments of connection will add depth and emotion to your images. By taking the time to ensure that your models feel confident and comfortable, you set the stage for a successful and relaxed couples photoshoot.

Receive professional photo color correction service for about $0.50 per photo.

Using Posing Guides as Inspiration

While it’s important to capture candid moments between couples, having a couple posing guide can provide a helpful starting point and inspiration for your photo shoot. Categorize different types of couple poses, such as standing, leaning on a wall, walking, holding hands, kissing, sitting, and lying down. Before the shoot, prepare a few poses from each category, but allow the couple to interpret and make them their own. This approach encourages their natural expression and allows for more authentic and unique photographs.

Editing capturing photos

Photo editing is important regardless of whether you’re a professional photographer or just sharing your pictures on social media. Adobe Photoshop is a great app to help you showcase your photos in the best way possible with just a little retouching.

Photo retouching is a common practice, especially in the world of fashion and modeling. Photo retouching allows you to digitally apply makeup, adjust skin tones, remove blemishes, and even change hairstyles or eyebrows. If you’re not familiar with photo retouching, AdeptClippingPath can help you enhance your models’ appearance and capture their true beauty with captivating images. They offer a convenient service for transforming your models into their best versions.

Background removal – Sometimes, even after capturing an excellent photo, the background may not be as appealing as you want. It may be distracting to have unwanted objects or people in the picture. Rather than feeling frustrated, you can edit the image to remove or change the background. So, the process of editing your photos is one of the most significant steps in photography. You can simply edit the image to remove or change the background or learn . No matter how you look at it, it is impossible to deny the benefit of photo editing if you are a professional or an amateur. If you’re new to Adobe Photoshop, don’t hesitate to seek assistance from Adept Clipping Path .

Capturing captivating couple poses is an art form that needs a deep understanding of the special dynamics and emotions shared by partners. By mastering a wide range of poses, from romantic and intimate to playful and fun. You can create stunning and memorable photographs that beautifully showcase the love and connection between couples. Remember to communicate openly with your clients, encourage them to relax and be themselves, and provide gentle guidance throughout the couple’s photo poses . With the right poses and a touch of creativity, you can create images that truly capture the magic of love. So, go out there and unleash the power of couple pose photography !

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• teamthomastravels
• Apr 3, 2021

5 easy poses for Travel Couple photos

Taking fun photos with your other half for your Instagram doesn't need to be stressful or hard work. If you feel awkward setting your tripod up in front of other people, or just want some new ideas to mix up your content, here are 5 go-to easy poses to fall back on.

1. The Smooch

Capture a romantic moment with your travel partner in front of a beautiful view.

2. Let's Explore

This one is looks nice and candid, adds movement to the shot and makes the viewer feel as if they're going on a journey with you. If you're camera shy, walk away with your backs to the camera.

3. Standing Cuddle

This is a good one to do if you're asking someone else to take your photo as it requires minimal framing and it's very natural.

4. Having fun!

Whether it's a celebratory "ta da" or creating levels with a cute piggy back, being playful in your photo brings energy to your feed and keeps you from thinking about the people watching you pose.

5. The Selfie

No tripod necessary! The selfie is a classic. Mix up your photos of you in beautiful landscapes with a nice closeup of your smiling faces and let your followers get to know you!

What's your go-to pose?

Like it? Pin it!

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15 Romantic And Natural Photography Standing Poses For Couples

Posted In: Wedding Photography

By Jim Campbell | Updated on February 14, 2024

Photography standing poses for couples are a versatile way to produce romantic images. You and your partner can use your body to create sweet and intimate gestures. 

Want to pull romantic couple poses that radiate love while remaining natural-looking? We’ve curated 15 ideas for the ‘gram and your engagement and wedding photoshoots.

Casual Couple Standing Poses For Instagram

When you’re in love, you want to tell the world about it. And in this digital age, Instagram is one of the best platforms to showcase a portrait of yourself and your significant other. Here are some casual couple poses that are worth the double tap.

1. Standing side by side in front of a landmark

Living in a city with a famous landmark? Traveling to your dream destination with your partner? Visit an iconic spot, stand next to each other, hold hands, and gaze (or smile) at each other. 

2. Standing back to back while holding hands

Tell through a photo that you got each other’s back. In this pose, you only have to maintain a close distance, stand back to back, and let your fingers intertwine. 

3. Walking down the road

Before you walk down the aisle, here’s a walking-down pose you’ll be stoked to post on Instagram first. While holding hands or having your arms interlocked with each other, own an empty street like you’re ready to conquer the world. 

4. Holding the shoulder 

This is a more casual version of the abovementioned pose. It’s a sweet gesture where your partner holds your shoulder and pulls you closer to him while you’re casually walking down the road (or descending the stairs).

5. The shoulder sit pose

Want casual and fun couple standing poses? A great alternative to the piggyback pose is the shoulder sit pose. Let your partner carry you on his shoulders and rest your hand on your lap and near his face.

Couple Standing Poses For Engagement Photoshoot

Do you plan to have a pre-wedding photography session? This section rounds up couple standing poses for engagement photoshoot to commemorate your engagement.

6. The reverse pose

No matter your location, this is a twist you can inject into the usual standing-side-by-side pose. Here, one of you is facing the camera while the other is facing the opposite direction. This other person can tilt their head as if sneaking a glance at their significant other.

7. Silently touching each other’s hands

Casual but with a hint of intimacy, this pose features you standing next to each other. Find a suitable surface where you can rest your hands, then place your hands at a distance where you only almost touch each other.

8. Her behind him pose

Moments of couples embracing each other are worth every camera click. But if you want a unique pose, consider this one: If you’re the bride-to-be, stand behind your man and give him a warm embrace as you rest your head on his broad back. It’s also a great way to flaunt your beautiful shoulders.

9. Leaning on the wall

A slight variation to the usual standing poses, this is a good idea if there’s an aesthetic wall somewhere in your engagement photoshoot location. You both can lean on the wall and gaze at each other. Or, one of you can lean on while the other is romantically looking at the other in the eye, with their hands placed on the other’s waist or shoulders. 

10. Walking into the sunset

Sunset poses are timeless. If you want to create a story out of a single frame, consider walking into the sunset while you hold each other’s hands. You can also turn your gaze at the camera for that happily-running-away vibe.

Couple Standing Poses For Wedding Photography

Lovebirds standing in front of the camera are a common sight at weddings. To make photoshoots more efficient and enjoyable, having a list of couple standing poses for wedding photography you want to do is helpful. Here are five poses to check out.

11. The twirl pose

Add a romantic spin to the typical standing poses you see at weddings. To do this pose, simply have your man twirl you around. This pose also beautifully showcases your wedding dress.

12. Arms around the neck 

Putting your arms around your spouse’s neck is a romantic before-the-kiss pose. It’s heart-fluttering through and through, and the resulting images will be a gorgeous testament to your affection for each other.

13. Resting on his chest 

This is pretty much the first-dance pose. But you can make it more romantic and idyllic by letting your head rest on his chest (or shoulder, depending on your height difference). 

14. Whispering in the ear

Even exchanging whispers becomes an intimate experience for couples enamored by each other. It’s the kind of moment that photographers love to capture.  

15. Gazing at the horizon

Will you hold your wedding near the beach? Or will you have a garden wedding and one of the buildings in the venue has a balcony with a great view? Maximize those picturesque scenes by doing a pose where one stands behind the other. Look at the horizon with hopeful eyes — imagining the life ahead of you as a married couple. 

Photography Standing Poses: 5 Tips For Couples

One of the most challenging aspects of couple photography is capturing and preserving that authenticity. You have to mind your pose to ensure that you and your partner look genuinely in love during photoshoots. 

Here’s a quick roundup of tips you need to know.

Showcase your flattering sides and angles

Every couple wants to look their most beautiful in their engagement and wedding photos. As it’s you who knows your best angles and sides, make sure to highlight them during your photoshoot. Convey them to your photographer beforehand as well.

Ensure proper posture

Keep an upright posture by taking a deep breath and rolling your shoulders back. This will help you do your standing poses better and eliminate that awkward feeling in the resulting photos.

Know the basic feet positions

Couples usually stand on their feet less than a hip distance apart, making a V shape. For ladies, you can cross your feet or let the other stretch out a bit backward if you’re doing facing-each-other poses. 

Mind the ‘fits

Even if you pose in the most natural-looking way possible, your photos won’t be as good if you’re not wearing complementing wardrobes. Also, choose an outfit where you can comfortably do the poses you have in mind.

Trust your photographer

Hire a photographer you trust to pull off authentically romantic photography standing poses. Follow their instructions and let them do micro-adjustments that they deem essential to create the best photos possible. 

About The Author

Jim Campbell

Jim is the owner of Honeymoons.com. A lifelong traveler, Jim's wanderlust has led him to spend months living on the Mayan Rivera, instruct SCUBA diving in Croatia, sail from San Diego to Hawaii, and cruise the Caribbean on a catamaran. Jim launched his honeymoon business while planning his own honeymoon in 2019. Since then, he has helped thousands of honeymooners plan their trips through his honeymoon travel agency .

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Take Better Travel Photos with These Easy and Natural Poses

Part of the fun of travel is taking photos, especially photos with us in them. Whether you are looking to take travel photos for Instagram, to have for your own memories, or even just to send home to mom to prove you are still alive, having travel photos of yourself is, for many of us, somewhat important. But the dilemma is always figuring out how to take better travel photos of yourself and, perhaps even more worrisome, how to pose for them.

For a long time, the go-to pose for many travellers, especially female travellers, was to face away from the camera and look off into the distance so you just see the back of the body. Like this one:

Now, that probably works really well for a tourism marketing campaign but it’s not the goal for personal photos. We want our photos to be about us, to show our personality, and to show off what a good time we are having. While I definitely have my share of those view from the back photos, I’m a big believer in showing my face. After all, my brand is very personal and, if you are a regular reader/follower, you already know I’m a dork so really I have nothing to hide: proof below.

Let me be clear in stating I am no model. Far from it. I am beyond awkward and I have more than enough photos to prove it. So, why is the awkward one writing a guide on easy and natural poses for better travel photos? Well, needless to say I’ve had a lot of practice. Plus, I’ve worked with a few photographers in the past couple of years, including during a few  photoshoots, and I’ve learned a lot.

While I still definitely take some awkward shots, I’ve also learned how to pose naturally for photos. Enough so that I at least have a pretty decent looking Instagram feed and have been asked many times for tips. So, here we go. From me to you, here are some easy and natural poses you can use to take better travel photos.

Choose Natural Poses That Create Lines

Creating lines with your body is a) more flattering and b) gives the viewer’s eye something to follow. Remember, leading lines is a common trick used by photographers when composing photos. Long lines and angles add more interest but also make you look better. They help create space so you look longer and leaner.

So, how do you do this? Easy.

Stand with your hand on your hip so your arm creates a triangle.

Ta-da! 

If you look at the photo above, the space I’ve created by bending my arm and not holding it right against my body highlights my ‘hourglass’ shape and is much more flattering than if I just stood with my arms down to my sides. Pretty simple. 

With your legs, however, you do need to be a little more careful. You don’t want them to face the camera straight on- that will actually make them look shorter. If you are facing straight forward, swivel your hips a bit to one side so your leg is a bit more angled (like I did above) and stretch one leg out to create a longer line. Or, if you bend at the knee to create more of a triangle shape, then take the photo from a side angle like below. 

The same applies when you are sitting. Try to prop one leg up to create a triangle or, bend them both. Again, away from the camera, not directly facing it. You can also cross your legs/ankles. If you cross your legs while sitting, try to extend your feet towards the camera (heel up, toe down) again so your legs look longer.

Create Movement While Taking Travel Photos

If standing and posing feels weird, then just move. Walking is one of the easiest ways to get better travel photo. Walking is easy and natural so you’ll automatically feel more comfortable since this is something you naturally do. Plus, since people explore by foot, it fits the travel theme and gives it an authentic feel. 

If you want to get a bit more fun with it, you can also run, jump, or spin.

The added bonus to these types of photos is that movement adds interest to photos. When you move so does your hair, your clothes, your accessories etc. Which can make photos a lot more interesting. In the photo below, I was just walking slowly up the stairs, but it was windy and that, combined with my walking, added movement to my hair and the skirt of my dress. 

Even if you don’t move your body, you can still add movement to your photos by flipping your hair, taking on/off a sweater or jacket, or swishing your skirt or dress.

Tip: For movement photos, your best bet is to take photos on ‘burst’ mode OR take a video then take a screenshot of the moment you like best. The tulip photo below is actually a screenshot I took from a video.

Where Do I Put My Hands when I Pose For Photos?

Hands can be super awkward in so many situations. We all have them but we never seem to know where to put them. Especially when we are getting our photo taken.

As mentioned above, putting your hand on your hip is an easy position with the added benefit of creating angles. If you are a man, put your hand(s) in your pocket(s) instead of on your hip.

Another easy, natural move is to play with your hair. This is common for women but men can run their fingers through their hair too.

You can also touch/hold the brim of your hat if you are wearing one or even a pair of sunglasses you are wearing. Again, this works well for both men and women.

Hold something; food, flowers, an umbrella, a drink. Or play with a piece of jewellery. If you are a man, adjust your collar on your jacket or sleeves of your shirt.

You can also lean against things; a wall, a handrail, a tree etc. Again, keep in mind: long lines, angles, create space. 

Some people also suggest touching your face or resting your hand under your chin. Personally, I think I always look awkward as hell when I do this so the closest I get is tucking my hair behind my ear. But, it’s worth a trying- it might be something you feel comfortable and look natural doing.

What About Facial Expressions?

Facial expressions are up to you. Generally, I like to smile. I don’t do the sexy pout thing. Again, I’m too awkward. But, smiling is sometimes easier said than done. I’ve ‘smiled’ for photos before and it actually looks like I’m in pain. That or a deer stuck in the headlights. Neither option is cute. 

When it comes to smiling, I sometimes like to make myself laugh. I learned this from another blogger a few years ago and have tried it since. It works out pretty well, especially if you are looking for more fun/candid type photos of yourself. 

Where Do I Look when I Pose for Photos?

Looking towards the camera is normally the most obvious option. You can look over your shoulder or face the camera straight on. 

However, looking straight to the camera can get pretty repetitive. Especially if you want shots that look slightly more candid.

Looking up and to the side is easy, or down and through your eyelashes. Just make sure that your eyes follow the line of your nose so you see your entire eye in the photos- not just the whites of your eyes. That’s creepy.

If I am taking my own photos, I sometimes end up looking at the screen of my camera (where I can see how I would look) and not at the lens itself. I’m getting better at remembering to look at the lens, but it’s still sometimes an issue.  Also, I have blue eyes so if it’s bright and sunny outside I end up getting pretty squinty.  This is why I often wear sunglasses in my photos. That way it doesn’t really matter if I’m looking the wrong way or squinting- you can’t tell!  

Let’s Talk About Angles When Taking Travel Photos  

Another quick thing I want to mention is angles. When we take typical selfies or even talk on IG stories, we always lift our cameras higher so we don’t risk the dreaded double chin look. However, lower angles can actually work really well for taking better travel photos of yourself. Obviously, you don’t want the camera right underneath you, composition is still key, but low angles tend to be more interesting. Especially in narrow spaces like city streets if you are trying to incorporate buildings into the photo. Shooting from a lower angle is also an easy way to get rid of some of the unwanted objects (potentially even people depending on the angle) in the foreground. In the photo below, I was actually standing in front of a trash can, but because I aimed my lens higher, you can’t see it.

Final Tips for Posing for Better Travel Photos

Posing for photos can feel super awkward. Especially if you are alone and trying to take self-portraits. It’s easy to feel self-conscious. However, it’s way more common than you think and often the people looking at you are trying to see if it’s worth them stopping to get the same photo. Seriously, I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been casually followed by other travellers who hop into spots after me to get their own version.

Additionally, it will get better with practice. I promise. Don’t trust me? Go check out my Instagram profile and scroll back. I really only started getting comfortable in front of the camera in 2019 and it is painfully obvious.

Finally, just keep shooting. Set your camera to burst mode, keep pressing the clicker on your remote, or set your camera/phone to video and just keep moving around. You will always have more bad shots than good ones but that’s ok. All you really need is one so take plenty to make sure you get it!

Hope these tips help and have fun!

YES! I’ve been wanting this and I love the practical advice you give. This has inspired me to bring along my tripod and set up some shots 🙂 I am usually too self conscious to take travel selfies, but regret not having them later. They’re the difference between my pics and buying a postcard or looking up a destination online!

Yay! But also, lets just travel together again and take photos of each other 😀

I’m saving this post so I can refer to it the next time I am able to travel and having a picture taken of me. I loved your suggestions on facial expressions as too many times my face is what I hated about the photo.

I hope it comes in handy!!

I absolutely love this! These are such great poses with awesome examples. I love taking photos (with and without me) in them, but when I am in them I have no idea what to do. These were brilliant suggestions! Thank you so much for sharing!

I hear you! Sometimes it can be so awkward! I’m glad this helped give you some ideas 🙂

[…] of how to pose which has been incredibly valuable. If you haven’t yet, check out my article on how to pose for travel photos. I promise it will come in […]

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Best Poses for Pictures from a Travel Blogger

April 23, 2022.

Please note that this post may contain affiliate links and any sales made through such links will reward me a small commission – at no extra cost for you.

When I first started my travel influencer journey my photos were painfully awkward to say the least. I’d see all of these photographs of travelers looking so effortlessly natural, and yet the second I was in front of the camera I would completely freeze up. My body would stiffen, my smile unnatural, not cute. I had yet to nail the best poses for pictures.

Luckily, over the years I have had quite a bit of practice. After countless photoshoots for my Instagram account ( @tavernatravels ) and for the many brands that I’ve worked with over the years, I’ve nailed some simple and easy tricks for the best picture poses. 

This article will cover all of the cute and best poses for pictures that will make you feel more confident and beautiful next time you’re trying to get your perfect shot. 

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Cute poses for travel photos

Before we dive into this list I do want to call out that posing might always feel awkward to you, and that is totally fine. I have never been able to shake the awkwardness, and sometimes I feel a bit stupid in the moment while twirling and spinning. But I promise these simple cute poses for pictures will give your photos the effortless touch that you’re looking for. Even if it requires a bit of practice. 

1. Turn away from the camera 

We’re going to start this list out with the easiest pose for cute travel pictures: the “turn away from the camera” pose. If you’re anything like me, you’re probably not wearing a full face of makeup when traveling. And when you finally get to that epic mountain view point after a few hours of hiking, your face might be a bit red and sweaty.

This pose is one of my favorites because it allows you to face away from the camera so that the backdrop can be the focus of the picture. 

Tip: Since you’ll be facing away from the camera, I recommend finding ways to take up a bit more space. This might mean raising your arms, or using a prop like a hat. 

2. Fix your hair 

If you spend just 5 minutes scrolling through my Instagram or blog, you’ll find hundreds of photos of me in the “fix your hair” pose. This is probably one of my favorite poses because it feels like an effortlessly cool pose for pictures. Rather than feeling overly posed, by fixing your hair you’ll be able not only adding a more dynamic pose to your body, but also adding some movement. 

Tip: To get the desired effect, I will hold my hand up to my head, and then slowly whip my head back and forth to add movement to the hair. Make sure that your eyes are always facing the same direction as you head!

3. Twirl and spin

This is one of those picture poses that always makes me feel the most awkward in public, especially if I’m taking my own photos , but it is also easily one of my favorite fun poses for pictures. Similar to the fixing your hair pose, the twirl and spin pose is a good pose for pictures because it helps you to add natural movement into your shots. Not only will this help your photos to feel more dynamic, but it will also help you to avoid looking overly stiff. 

Tip: While not a requirement, I find this pose works the best with a dress. The flowing of a dress adds such a fun element to photos. It also gives your hands something to hold onto to avoid the dreaded awkward arm poses. If you’re not wearing a dress, another option is to add a prop like a hat, which I’ll go into more detail on down below. 

4. Walk towards the camera 

The fake walk. You love to see it!

If you’re looking for good picture poses for your travel photos, the fake walk is it. If you’re just starting out in your picture taking journey, you may find that actually walking towards the camera, with your head angled slightly down, is the easiest.

As you feel more comfortable over time, rather than always walking, which requires the photographer to sometimes move with you, you can try the fake walk. Simply rock back and forth on your feet to make it look as if you are walking. This bit of movement will still add some of the desired wind to your clothes and hair.

Tip: It is super important that you keep your arms loose. You want to avoid gluing them to your sides, which will appear stiff and awkward. 

5. Use a prop 

Adding props is easily one of the easiest ways to snag a great travel photo. They make your photos way more dynamic, and give you something to do with your hands. Hands down my favorite prop is a hat. Whether it is a straw hat in the summer months, or a felt hat in the fall, a hat is so versatile. You can hold it on your head, wave it around in the air, or even hold it in front of your body. 

Other good photo props or accessories include:

• A maxi dress for twirling and swishing
• Flowers for a pop of color
• Seasonal accessories (gift box, pumpkin, etc)
• Relevant food items (a croissant in Paris, a hot dog in NYC) 

6. Look down and away from the camera

I am the queen of awkward faces. Well, honestly I’m just an awkward person in general. So it makes sense that I’ve nailed the “look down and away from the camera” pose. This one is really just as simple as it sounds. It works best, however, if you combine it with walking towards the camera.

Tip: Make sure to not look straight down, as that will put your neck in an awkward position. Instead, look at a spot on the ground about 5-10 feet in front of you. 

7. Sitting naturally pose 

Sitting is a great way to pose for your travel photos, but it can go horribly wrong as well. This biggest mistake when trying cute sitting poses is slouching. This pose works best if you sit up straight and arch your back just slightly. I find this is easiest to accomplish when you fully bend one of your legs (I usually do my leg that is closest to the camera), slightly bend your other leg, and prop your elbow up on your leg. 

Tip: Make sure if you’re propping your hand up on your leg that you don’t make a fist. This will add too much tension to your body and make it look stiff. Instead, pretend that you are holding an egg in your hand! 

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Other photography tips for cute poses

• Make sure to shoot with natural light and avoid shooting directly into the sunlight. Instead, it is better it you look into the sun, and utilize the look away poses if necessary.
• Practice, practice, practice. It will only get easier over time.
• Take photos early in the morning to avoid crowds. I am a sunrise queen when I am traveling and it is always worth it.
• Don’t take yourself too seriously. Laugh, smile, and twirl for the best results!

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