The most photogenic destinations, which we always encounter in pictures on Instagram and Facebook, causing us to drool, are usually also the most touristy places. In photos, it doesn't look that way. But when you arrive at the location, you are overwhelmed by tourists with giant cameras, Instagram influencers who came to take selfies, and mothers with children who just want to capture the moment.
For me, taking photos in these places was a challenge. There were countless people in the background of the photo, the most beautiful spot was probably occupied, I was sweating from the heat and the crowd, and it's likely that both you and your photographer will lose patience quickly. Well, I'm sharing with you a few tips that helped me on my trip and might help you too.
Arrive at opening hours:
Check in advance when the site you plan to visit opens and plan your time accordingly, so you can be there right when it opens. This will give you an advantage over everyone else and allow you to explore the place and take photos without having to push or be pushed by other tourists.
Assertiveness is key:
Try to find a clean angle for your shot, without tourists in the background, and not succeeding? Try gathering all the tourists in the same area and form a queue. It may be challenging, but it's possible and encourages everyone's desire to take a good photo without people in the background. If you are assertive and charismatic enough, they will follow you. Tap into your leadership skills. Eye for an eye:
Offer to take photos of other people and invest in the picture you are taking for them. It's desirable to take multiple photos from different angles. They will feel your investment and willingly offer to take your photo in return. If they don't offer, you can always ask politely, and rest assured that even then they will make the most effort to take a good photo for you.
Come back, if needed:
Did you go on a day tour and didn't have time to take photos at the places you wanted? Try returning to those locations after the tour ends. Since you already paid for the entrance ticket, it is valid for the entire day. Take advantage of that. It's likely that even at a later hour, it will be less crowded.
Maximize your skills:
It's important to realize that in touristy places, there isn't a lot of time for photography. The options for having a "photo day" at the site are almost impossible. Therefore, you need to make the most of your photos. How can you do that? Read more in the article "5 Tips for the Perfect Photo."