Image Credit: Stephanie Ervin

Sure, taking pictures on your vacation is a no-brainer. But watch out, or you may inadvertently be breaking the law.

Did you know it’s technically illegal to take a picture of a police officer in the UK?

That’s right, under the UK’s Counter-Terrorism Act, it’s an offense to take pictures of officers “likely to be useful to a person committing or preparing an act of terrorism.”

Whatever THAT means.

But the scary thing is photographers who refuse to follow the law can face up to 10 years in prison or fines.

In India, you want to avoid taking photographs of any official buildings, including roadblocks, border posts, and airports.

Here in the U.S., the general rule is that anyone can take photographs when they are in a public place or places where they have permission to take photographs.

But there’s one major exception: the military can prohibit photographs of specific areas if they deem it necessary.

Now, contrary to popular belief, the TSA doesn’t prohibit photographing or filming security checkpoints, as long as the line is not slowed down.

But don’t point your camera at security monitors, or you may get pulled aside for questioning.

On a day to day basis, keep in mind reasonable standards of privacy. And if you’re not sure, it never hurts to ask.

Learn more in our Global Etiquette section.

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