A new companion photography service has recently emerged at popular tourist spots like Lihuangpi Road and Jianghan Road in Wuhan, central China’s Hubei Province. Mostly run by college students, it targets young solo travellers.

Priced at 35 to 69 yuan per hour, with half-day packages from 200 to 300 yuan, the service differs from traditional photo shoots that focus on finished images. It also offers extra perks such as route planning, local guidance and food recommendations, delivering a relaxed, casual travel experience.

Some students work full time in the role over summer break for solid pay. One 20-year-old practitioner can earn up to 7,000 yuan a month at peak. Many solo tourists say the service solves their struggles with taking photos and feeling lonely, calling it good value for money and likening it to travelling with a local friend.

As a typical example of China’s companionship consumption trend, it fits young people’s desire for low-pressure socializing. As the sector grows, potential issues have emerged. Experts suggest clarifying service boundaries, setting industry standards and guiding rational consumption to ensure healthy development.