Welcome to my Campfire Q&A series, where I answer your burning landscape photography questions. This time, Lorraine asked about solo nature photography safety and how to handle those moments when you’re out on your own.

Lorraine writes:

Hi Chrissy,
I enjoyed your recent article in the NVM Issue 9 magazine. When you go out alone early and late, how do you handle the fear of being alone/vulnerable? I love the idea, but I get worried about creatures or creeps and being a woman out very early or late.
Thanks for any thoughts on that.
Lorraine

Lorraine, you asked such an important and thoughtful question, and it’s one I’ve wrestled with myself over the years. I’ve definitely spooked myself more than a few times while photographing solo. Even now, it’s something I stay mindful of.

Most of the time, I’m out for sunrise rather than sunset, and I rarely see another soul. I’ve always been an early bird, but thinking about it now, maybe that’s not an accident. Mornings tend to feel quieter, calmer, and consciously or not, safer. Additionally, creatures have always seemed more interested in avoiding me than engaging. And I try to return the favor by staying on trails, keeping my headlamp on, and moving slowly and attentively.

I think every woman out there would admit that I’ve absolutely had those darker “woman alone in the woods” thoughts, where I ponder how useful my tripod might be as a weapon. I think every one of us has been conditioned to be aware when we walk into a parking lot or metro station. It’s no different when we’re on the trail. So I let myself have those thoughts, but I don’t let them drive. They need to stay quietly in the back seat, where I acknowledge those whispers, but they don’t stop me from exploring. I do carry a Garmin InReach for added peace of mind. At the very least, I recommend always having someone know where you are going and how long you anticipate being out.

Over time, I’ve come to feel more at ease in the forest than in a city. But comfort grows in steps, and it’s okay to start small. If you want to learn to be comfortable being solo for landscape photography, I recommend beginning with overlooks where you can park and photograph without venturing far from civilization. Another alternative is to connect with a local photo group, birding group, or even a small workshop. A few small group trips can be a great way to explore those early or late hours as a supportive stepping stone to build confidence in feeling secure.

Most of all, I believe the heart of solo nature photography safety is learning to trust your instincts and honoring what feels safe is just as important as any gear or plan. Nature welcomes us, but we’re still human, and it’s okay to make space for those feelings too.

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In summary, some habits I rely on when photographing solo include:

• If you feel uneasy, start with easy-access spots, such as overlooks, before venturing deeper alone.
• Carrying a Garmin InReach (or other satellite communicator, maybe even your iPhone) and know how to use it.
• Keeping a headlamp on in low light to clearly see around me and make myself visible.
• Staying on marked trails and moving slowly and attentively.
• Letting someone know where I’m headed and when I expect to return.

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And here are a few additional safety habits that can be useful for solo nature photography:

• Carry a whistle on your pack strap, a simple tool for signaling if needed.
• Set GPS waypoints or use offline maps so you can navigate back even without cell service.
• Trust your gut, if an area or situation feels off, it’s okay to turn around.
• Stay weather-aware, check forecasts, and be ready to adapt plans quickly.
• Pack the 10 essentials, an extra layer, and snacks, small comforts that buy time if you’re delayed.
• Keep gear accessible, such as your headlamp and whistle, where you can grab them quickly.
• Tell someone your “return window”, not just your destination, but when to expect you back.