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Expressions for Asking Someone to Take a Photo|Polite English Phrases for Requests

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Izumi

When I visit tourist attractions or beautiful scenic spots, there are often moments when I would like to have a picture taken of myself or with my friends.

At such times, if I can naturally say something like, “Excuse me, could you take a picture of me?”, my travel memories will become even more special.

In this lesson, I will introduce standard phrases for politely asking strangers to take a photo, along with the grammar and key expressions behind them.

Dialogue

A
A

Excuse me, could you take a picture of me?

B
B

Sure! Just press this button, right?

A
A

Yes, thank you so much.

B
B

All set. Would you like to check it?

A
A

It looks great! Thanks again.

B
B

You’re welcome. Have a nice trip!

Grammar and Expression Points

1. Polite Requests: Could you ~?

The phrase “Could you ~?” is a polite way to ask someone to do something for you.

Although “Can you ~?” is also possible, “Could” sounds more polite and reserved, making it safer to use with strangers.

  • Could you take a picture of us?
  • Could you hold this for a second?

The phrase “take a picture of me” means “to take a photo of me.”

By changing “of me” to “of us” (of my friend, of my family, etc.), you can adapt it to different situations.

2. Polite Offers or Confirmations: Would you like to ~?

After taking a picture, the person might ask: “Would you like to check it?”

“Would you like to ~?” is a polite phrase used for suggestions or invitations, equivalent to “Would you care to ~?”

  • Would you like to take another one?
  • Would you like to try a different angle?

3. Expressing Impressions of a Photo: It looks great!

When looking at a photo and wanting to say “It looks nice!” or “Well taken!”, a common phrase is “It looks great!”

The structure “It looks + adjective” means “It appears ~ / It seems ~.”

Other examples include:

  • It looks perfect.
  • It turned out really well.
  • It came out nice.

Besides look, verbs like “turn out” and “come out” are also natural choices when describing how a photo turned out.

4. Friendly Farewells: Have a nice trip.

After such an exchange, a farewell phrase leaves a warm impression.

  • Have a nice trip!
  • Enjoy your stay!
  • Safe travels!

These are common in tourist settings, and a natural reply is simply “You too!”

Summary

  • Could you take a picture of me?
    → A polite and standard expression for asking someone to take a photo.
  • Would you like to check it?
    → A courteous way to offer confirmation after taking a picture.
  • It looks great!
    → A phrase to show appreciation and delight about the result.
  • Have a nice trip!
    → A friendly farewell that adds warmth to the conversation.
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Izumi
Izumi
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「English Morning|基礎から学ぶ英語講座」を運営している泉(Izumi)です。このサイトでは基礎から応用まで、英語の文法を解説しています。
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