Photography Rules Abroad: Military Sites, Places of Worship, Museums and People
Where you should not photograph, whether to ask before shooting locals, museum and church rules, and what to do when you are told to stop. About 6 min read · Updated 2026-11-01
Most of the time photography abroad is fine, but a few places are easy to get wrong. These are common practices; details vary by country and site.
Places to avoid or be careful
- Military sites, bases, warships and personnel.
- Government buildings, police stations, courts and prisons.
- Airport security areas, border posts, ports and some bridges, tunnels and rail facilities in sensitive countries.
- Banks, ATMs and security systems.
- Anywhere with a "no photography" sign.
Strictness varies; some countries may confiscate cameras or ask you to delete photos. If unsure, do not shoot, or ask staff.
Places of worship
Look for photography signs. Do not photograph during prayers or rituals, avoid flash, and do not shoot worshippers' faces. Some statues and sacred objects cannot be photographed.
Museums
Usually photos are allowed without flash; some special exhibits and loans are not. Tripods and selfie sticks are often banned.
Photographing people
Smile and ask first, especially with women and children and in conservative places. In Europe, publishing identifiable photos can raise privacy issues. In Japan some places, such as certain private lanes in Gion, Kyoto, explicitly ban photography with fines. Stop if someone refuses.
Drones
Drones have their own rules; see our drone guide.
If you are told to stop
Lower the camera and apologise, delete if asked, stay calm with police or military and show your passport, and never try to sneak a shot.
A 3-second check
- Is there a no-photo sign?
- Is there a person in the frame, and did I ask?
- Is it a sensitive site?
Our take
The best photos often come after a little human contact. A greeting and a question make a better story.
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