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Scotland by Lou Abecassis

Photography

Ethical Photography

Imagine you are walking around Boulder when a group of tourists get off a bus and start taking your photo. They do not ask permission and offer no reasons. An encounter like this would likely make you uncomfortable, and the same is true for locals in your host country. You may want to capture a moment you don’t want to forget, but in these moments, it is important to pause and consider ethical photography.  

People are people, not props, so you should always ask someone before taking their picture. There may be cultural differences regarding photography in your host country. Be mindful of taking photos at certain cultural religious or cultural events where taking photos may be disrespectful.

If you wouldn’t take a photo in Boulder, don’t take it abroad. 

Pro Tips:
Before taking a photo, ask yourself : 
  • Do you have the person’s permission to take their photo? Would they like you to share it with them?  
  • Are you being respectful of people’s privacy?  
  • Do you know the local laws about photography and privacy? 
  • Is photography allowed at this location?  
  • Are you putting an individual, an animal, or yourself in danger to get the photo?  
  • Are you being respectful of cultural practices and important cultural/historical sites?  
  • When photographing children, do you have the permission of their parents or guardian? Is the child appropriately dressed? Why are you taking their photo? Do you need to show the child’s face? What are you going to do with the photograph? Do not post these photos on social media.
  • Be mindful of how you take pictures with wildlife, particularly animals. More info at Orangutan SOS and Click Magazine. 
Also ask yourself these questions before posting photos on social media. Your posts may be the only information some of your followers have about a certain country or community. Be mindful of what story your images and captions you use. Ensure that your posts do not unintentionally highlight stereotypes or misrepresent local culture. 

Safety & Security

Many countries prohibit taking pictures of locations such as airports, train stations, major roads, and dams. Avoid taking pictures of all police and military staff installations. More info at TripSavvy.   

Drones & Selfie Sticks

Education Abroad recommends leaving drones at home, and some providers prohibit them. If your program allows drones and you choose to travel with one, research and follow the drone laws of each country you visit. Many countries require you to register your drone before flying it. Do not fly your drone near crowds of people to protect their privacy. Visit The Travel Blogs for more important considerations when traveling with a drone.  
 
Selfie sticks are also banned in many popular tourist locations. Research whether they are allowed before bringing them. Many cultural sites (including the Colosseum), sporting venues, museums and other popular tourist areas ban selfie sticks.  
 
Taking photos is a fun part of your adventure abroad-- but shouldn’t be the whole adventure! Be mindful of when to take pictures and when to put the camera away and live in the moment.
 
Thanks to Ohio University and Passports and Pixels for many of these tips!  
Last Updated February 2025
Photo, Scotland by Lou Abecassis