Solo Travel Photography in Paris: Tips on Self-Portraits
If you're planning a solo adventure to Paris, you've chosen one of the most enchanting places in the world for your journey. Paris, with its dreamy streets and iconic landmarks, is a paradise for photographers and travelers alike.
I’m a firm believer in solo traveling. If no one else can go with you, don’t watch your dream trip slowly disappear…make it happen! You might even discover that you really enjoy your own company! But seriously, life is short. Too short to miss out on the things we most want. Plenty of people travel to Paris without a travel companion each year, and still have magical experiences. So just book the ticket and see what happens! If this is your first solo trip, here are some of the best tips we can offer for travel photography!
Oh, and if you’re trying to figure out your itinerary, we have some ideas!
But let's talk about a common challenge for solo travelers: capturing those perfect moments. How do you get those beautiful photos when you're on your own? In my opinion, solo traveling is the perfect excuse to book a professional portrait session. This is your time, and you will definitely want physical memories to return to later.
I've got you covered with tips for taking stunning self-portraits and why booking a professional portrait session can be a game-changer.
Capturing Self-Portraits in the City of Light
Taking self-portraits can be fun and rewarding, especially in a city as picturesque as Paris. Here are some tips to help you capture those Instagram-worthy shots:
1. Use a Tripod and Remote Shutter
A small tripod is your best friend for self-portraits. Pair it with a remote shutter or your camera's timer function to get steady, well-composed shots. This setup allows you to explore different angles and poses without the worry of camera shake. Any camera you have available is the best camera. This blog isn't about equipment advice or anything like that. Just the easiest way to get great photos of your new adventure.
2. Find the Right Locations
Paris is filled with iconic backdrops. The Eiffel Tower, Louvre, and charming streets of Montmartre are must-visit spots. Early mornings are ideal for avoiding a lot of people and capturing the soft, golden light.
At Katie Donnelly Photography, we always shoot in the morning for the very reason that there are fewer people and the light is perfect and soft. In case you’re unsure about the lighting and results, go check out some of the portraits on our website HERE
3. Play with Angles and Perspectives
Experiment with different angles to add variety to your shots. Try shooting from a low angle to make landmarks like Notre Dame or the Louvre appear grander or from a high vantage point to capture a wider scene. Don’t be afraid to get creative! I personally love playing around with angles and photography styles.
4. Incorporate Props
Props can add an element of fun to your photos. Think of a stylish hat, a bouquet of flowers, or a classic Parisian accessory like a baguette or beret. These little touches can make your solo traveler portraits uniquely yours.
5. Use Natural Light
Natural light is flattering and adds a soft, beautiful glow to your portraits. Aim for the golden hour—early morning or late afternoon—for the best lighting. Avoid harsh midday sun, which can create unflattering shadows.
Why Book a Professional Portrait Session?
While self-portraits are great, there's something special about booking a professional portrait session, especially when traveling solo. Here’s why:
1. Stress-Free Experience
A professional photographer takes the stress out of capturing the perfect shot. You can relax and enjoy your surroundings while they do the hard work of finding the best light, coming up with creative poses, and taking amazing photos for you to cherish. If they're doing a good job, then you should feel relaxed and at ease in front of the camera, even if it's your first time and you're out of your comfort zone. Taking all of your own photos is a lot of work. If you're on vacation, you should hire someone else to do that work so you can have the best time on your solo travel adventure.
2. High-Quality Images
Professionals have the skills and equipment to produce high-quality images that you’ll treasure forever. Most photography studios gently retouch the photos as well, which is not always a possibility for amateur photographers or when working with iPhones. Believe me, you’ll want to commemorate your trip with gorgeous photos that truly capture the essence of your experience.
3. Local Expertise
Photographers who are based in Paris know the best spots, hidden gems, and the ideal times for shooting. They can guide you to locations you might not discover on your own as a solo traveler. It's also kind of like having a tour guide on your first trip to Paris!
We LOVE scouting out new and interesting spots for portrait sessions. After years of shooting around Paris, we have lots of insider knowledge about beautiful streets, proximity to landmarks and charming cafes, and how to maximize the seasonal colors and changes. This alone, is a HUGE reason to book a local photographer in a city you’re traveling to.
4. Personalized Sessions
Professional photographers tailor the session to your style and preferences, ensuring that the photos reflect your personality and the story you want to tell. Every photographer has their own style. But so does every client. Make sure to find one who aligns with your vision and is willing to collaborate on the art piece of your professional portrait.
Pose Ideas for Stunning Portraits
Whether you're taking self-portraits or working with a photographer, here are some pose ideas to try:
1. The Classic Look-Back
Stand with your back to the camera, then look back over your shoulder. Go-to poses like this are timeless and work wonderfully with iconic backdrops to create amazing travel photos.
2. Candid Moments
Pretend the camera isn’t there. Walk, laugh, or sip a coffee at a café. Natural, candid moments often make for the most memorable photos. We love photographing clients at cafes with a croissant or a cappuccino in hand. Settings like this can add a lot of warmth and energy to solo travel photos.
3. Embrace the Surroundings
Interact with your environment. Lean against a charming door, select produce from an outdoor market, sit on a café terrace, or stroll along the Seine. These interactions add context and storytelling to your solo shots.
4. Close-Up Details
Don’t forget to capture close-up shots. Focus on details like your hands holding a book, a close-up of your face with a beautiful backdrop blurred behind, or a shot of your feet on a cobblestone street.
Finding the Right Photographer in Paris
Finding the perfect photographer is the best way to ensure a great portrait session. Here are some tips:
1. Research and Reviews
Start by researching photographers in your google search bar. Look at their portfolios to see if their style matches your vision. Read reviews and testimonials from previous clients.
2. Ask for Recommendations
Ask friends, family, or fellow travelers for recommendations. Personal referrals can lead you to talented photographers who might not be as widely known. You can also trust friend/family referrals more than recommendations from random people, which can help narrow down your options when finding a personal photographer.
3. Social Media and Photography Platforms
Explore Instagram, Pinterest, and photography websites like Flickr or 500px. Many photographers showcase their work on these platforms, making it easy to find someone whose style resonates with you.
We love posting portraits and blog posts on Pinterest, for example. It’s basically a treasure trove of inspiration!
4. Reach Out and Communicate
Once you’ve found a few photographers you like, reach out to them. Discuss your ideas, preferences, and any specific locations you have in mind. Good communication ensures that both you and the photographer are on the same page.
So, whether you're capturing your own moments or booking a professional session, Paris offers endless opportunities for the solo traveller. Enjoy every moment of your solo adventure and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Ready to book your solo portrait session with a professional photographer in Paris? Contact us HERE to schedule your unforgettable Paris portrait experience!