When photographing local people in Egypt, practice the following etiquette:
- Always ask permission—get verbal or non-verbal consent before taking someone’s photo, especially for portraits.
- Be sensitive—many Egyptians, particularly women and in rural or conservative communities, may decline or feel uncomfortable being photographed.
- Smile, thank, and respect “no”—it’s polite to thank people and move on if they decline.
- Avoid photographing children without explicit parental consent.
- Respect privacy and dignity—do not take intrusive, exploitative, or embarrassing pictures.
- Some people may ask for a tip—this is common in tourist areas and markets and can be negotiated.
- Prohibited areas: Do not photograph military sites, police, government buildings, or airports.
Being considerate not only shows good manners but also helps create positive travel experiences for both you and your hosts.