Top-10 photography tips for taking photos of people on your holiday

Photographing people can be incredibly rewarding when you are on vacation. Here are some key tips to help you capture compelling and engaging portraits:

Establish a Connection: Connect with your subject to make them feel comfortable and relaxed. This will help bring out their natural expressions and personality in the photos.

Use Natural Light: Whenever possible, opt for natural light as it is flattering and gives a soft look. Avoid harsh midday sun; instead, shoot during the golden hour (early morning or late afternoon).

Choose the Right Background: A clean and simple background will keep the focus on your subject. Look for complementary colours and avoid distractions that could take attention away from the person.

Focus on the Eyes: The eyes are usually the most compelling part of a portrait. Ensure they are in sharp focus, as this creates a strong connection between the subject and the viewer.

Experiment with Composition: Explore different compositions such as the rule of thirds, leading lines, or framing to add interest to your portraits.

Consider Depth of Field: Use a wide aperture (low f-stop number like f/2.8 or lower) to blur the background (create bokeh) and make your subject stand out.

Capture Candid Moments: Sometimes, the best portraits are captured when the subject is not aware. Be ready to take spontaneous shots that showcase genuine emotions.

Pose Guidance: Provide gentle guidance on posing. Encourage natural and relaxed poses, and consider the person's best angles.

Tell a Story: Aim to capture portraits that tell a story or evoke emotions. Pay attention to details and capture the essence of your subject.

Experiment with Black and White: Sometimes, converting a portrait to black and white can add a timeless and artistic quality.

Remember, the most important aspect of photographing people is to capture their personalities and emotions. Be patient and observant, and always strive to convey a sense of authenticity in your portraits.

Check out the tours we lead where a component is taking portraits and capturing different cultures around the world.