A guide to photography restrictions in Cairo

As a freelance photographer, it is important to be aware of the restrictions and laws in the places you are working, as these can vary greatly from country to country. In this blog post, we will be focusing on the restrictions on freelance photography in Cairo, Egypt.

First and foremost, it is important to note that Egypt has a history of censorship and media control, and this extends to photography as well. As a result, there are certain restrictions in place that photographers should be aware of.

One of the main restrictions in Cairo is that photographers need to obtain permission from the relevant authorities before taking photographs of certain buildings or landmarks. This includes government buildings, military installations, and other sensitive locations. Failure to obtain permission can result in fines, confiscation of equipment, or even arrest.

In addition to obtaining permission, freelance photographers in Cairo should also be aware of the local customs and traditions of the places they are photographing. In some cases, it may be considered disrespectful or offensive to photograph certain places or people without permission. For example, it is generally considered inappropriate to photograph people at prayer or during funerals.

Another important restriction to be aware of is the prohibition on photographing certain individuals or groups. In Egypt, it is illegal to photograph certain officials, including members of the military and the police, without permission. Photographers should also be cautious when photographing individuals who may be involved in sensitive political or social issues, as this can be seen as a form of interference.

In addition to these specific restrictions, photographers should also be aware of the general laws and regulations regarding photography in Egypt. For example, it is illegal to take photographs of individuals without their consent, and it is also illegal to publish photographs that are considered offensive or inappropriate.

Despite these restrictions, it is still possible to pursue freelance photography in Cairo as long as photographers are aware of the laws and regulations in place and obtain the necessary permissions. In many cases, this simply involves obtaining a permit or permission from the relevant authorities before taking photographs.

Overall, being a freelance photographer in Cairo can be a rewarding and exciting experience, but it is important for photographers to be aware of the restrictions and laws in place. By obtaining the necessary permissions and being mindful of local customs and traditions, photographers can capture unique and memorable photographs while staying safe and respectful of the local culture.

In addition to the restrictions mentioned above, there are a few other things that freelance photographers should keep in mind while working in Cairo. One is that it is generally not safe to photograph or film in crowded or busy areas, as this can be seen as a security threat. It is also important to be aware of the local laws regarding drones, as the use of drones for photography is heavily regulated in Egypt.

Finally, it is worth noting that the restrictions on freelance photography in Cairo may change over time, so it is important for photographers to stay up-to-date on the latest laws and regulations. This can be done by keeping in touch with local photographers or photography organisations, or by checking with the relevant authorities before beginning a shoot.