Find the moment. Keep the photo.

What makes a useful photo prompt?

A good prompt is clear enough to judge but open enough to allow different answers. “A red mug” is precise; “something red” invites more possibilities. Choose the level of freedom that suits your players.

Avoid prompts that depend on access you do not have. A hunt should fit the area, rather than tempt people to enter private spaces or step into traffic.

Twelve photo prompts with room for interpretation

Pick a handful, or use the whole list on a relaxed walk.

• A reflection that changes the scene
• Three examples of one colour
• A natural curve
• A pattern made by people
• A pattern made by nature
• Something repaired
• Two objects that belong together
• A small detail on a large object
• Something that casts an interesting shadow
• A useful everyday object
• Two contrasting textures
• A shape inside another shape

Agree what counts before you begin

Decide whether one photo can answer two prompts, whether everyone may use the same object, and whether you are playing for speed or creativity. For a simple homemade game, accept one clear photo per prompt and award one point each.

For creative tie-breakers, let each person explain one favourite find. Keep that separate from objective scoring so the rules feel consistent.

Photograph thoughtfully

Ask before including other people. Avoid personal documents, number plates or private information where possible. Leave objects, plants and wildlife undisturbed.

If children are participating, keep an adult with them and agree the boundaries together. A shared device can turn taking a photograph into a group decision.

Let Seek run the hunt

Seek supplies photo prompts, checks your pictures and handles points inside the iPhone app. Try today’s free Daily Seek, or use Seek+ for more hunts. You can also make a separate paper-style hunt with the free generator on this website.

Questions before you play