Customs and taboos, what are you allowed and not allowed to photograph.

When taking photograhs away from home, it is extremely important to be sensitive to the cultural differences and legal issues that may limit your right to photograph subjects indiscriminately. Certain cultures have negative superstitious beliefs about the effects of being photograped; some countries or regions may have restrictions on photographing sites or buildings that are associated with national security.

Prior to taking any photographs, you should do some research into finding out if any such cultural or legal taboos exist with respect to photography. The best way to do this is by speaking to locals in the area, or the curator or other staff in the case of museums and artworks. Buildings and artworks are often protected by copyright and therefore need permission to be photographed. People also have a right to privacy, and for this reason, you should exercise some caution and care when photographing human subjects.

The best way to approach photographing people is to be respectful and polite at all times. Most people don't mind being photographed, particularly if you ask them nicely, and if they do have a problem with cameras, they have a right to their privacy. The last thing you want to be as a traveller is offensive or intrusive, so if it is clear that someone is reluctant to be photograped, don't push the issue.

In less developed parts of the world, people may be fearful of being photographed due to a lack of knowledge or understanding about cameras. In these cases, it may help to 'introduce' your camera - allow them to look at it, hold it, even take a photograph. Once familiar with your equipment, they may come around to the idea of being photographed.