Photography Etiquette in Morocco While on Tour

Travelling to Morocco is a memorable experience that will leave you with vivid and colorful images. It’s a beautiful country with picturesque landscapes, busy medinas, snow covered mountains and stunning architecture. This urges every traveler to reach out for the camera and take a snapshot of this amazing place.

Photography Etiquette in Morocco

There are certain aspects that need to be taken into consideration when you wish to be taking pictures or filming in Morocco. Although, there isn’t a strict photography etiquette in Morocco being established, it’s important to show respect towards the religion and the culture of Morocco.

• Landscape photo shooting is fine anywhere in the cities. Make sure no military personnel or buildings should be present. Try to use the roof of the building you are staying in for great shots of the city you are visiting.
• Taking pictures of markets (souks) or crowded places where there are many people doesn’t require special permission.
• Mosques can be pictured from the outside, there are no restrictions; the only mosque that allows entrance is the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca
• Be prepared with change if you wish to picture the snake charmers or dancers in the medina. Once you have paid them they will allow you to take pictures. Usually a price between 5-10 Dirhams is acceptable.
• If you want to make an up-close picture of a Moroccan, always ask before you take the camera out as it is not deemed appropriate to act before asking. You will likely have more success if you ask for a photo after you have befriended with a local. It can be your taxi driver, your tour guide or even someone you’ve met in the hotel or the medina
• Water/tea servers are very friendly when you ask them for a picture and a payment of 5 Dirhams will leave them extremely than happy

In general, you should be careful taking pictures as some Moroccans do not feel like being photographed. If you have managed to get some local acquaintances during your stay and you are on friendly terms, don’t be afraid to ask.

As Ansel Adams has said: “There are no rules for good photos, there are only good photographers” which is very true for Morocco, a land of breath-taking landscapes and rich culture.