Posted by & filed under Travel Photography.

Taking photos of people can be awkward. Usually, it’s because — even if your photo subject is a good friend — they simply don’t know what to do when you point a camera at them.

This is totally normal! As photographers, it’s our job to help people feel at ease, and give them some direction.

Not sure what to do? Grab a friend, head to a café, library, or their kitchen table. Then, hand them a phone, tablet, or laptop, and tell them to pretend to talk, surf, Skype, take photos, or work.

We’re all on our devices so often these days, that it comes naturally… AND it’s a much-needed stock photo subject, too. Works like a charm.

Take a look at a few recent photos I took that are now selling on Shutterstock:

As you can see, this works with groups of people, too.

Really, the trick with taking any “lifestyle” images of people – that is, photos in which people look like they’re out “living their lives” – is to get them to DO something. Grab a friend who likes to bike, hike, or walk their dog. Head out with a friend for happy hour and taste wine… take a cooking class and photograph the knife skills and sautéing… there’s so much you can do.

This month’s Summer Sprints Challenge theme is Connectivity! Premium members: Submit your 2nd photo for this Sprint by July 27 to get a review!

Simply sign up to receive our FREE daily e-letter, Snap & Sell Photo Club, and we'll immediately e-mail you our quick start guide to Photography "The 3 Best Markets To Sell Your Photos… And How To Break Into Them" and an exclusive Webinar: 5 Tips to Take You From Beginner to Pro in a Year or Less... Absolutely FREE...plus, a special offer for our online training program.

Travel Photography Resources

5 Dos and 2 Don’ts for Travel Photography

Take Great Photos And Get Paid More For Your Travel Articles

Turning a Photography Hobby into a Monthly Income

The Pros Of Selling Your Images As Stock Photography

16 Mobile Photography Tips And Tricks Every Photographer Should Know

Camera Buying Guide: How to Buy the Right Camera

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