Communicating Egyptian Style 255Women are particularly sensitive about having their
pictures taken by strangers. If a woman sees you aiming
a camera lens at her and does not want her picture taken,
usually she will turn away. An alternative way to let the
shutterbug know a picture should not be taken involves
raising the hand over the face or holding the arm up towards
the photographer. Some men also do not want their pictures
taken. They use the same non-verbal signals, and also will
occasionally shout out at you. Especially in tourist areas,
people allow you to take their picture for a small tip. Again,
ask. Do not offer a gratuity to a friend when taking pictures
among a group, but it never hurts to ask if it is OK to take
the pictures.
Photography is allowed at all antiquities, but sometimes
photography tickets are required. Other areas allow
photography, but no fl ash pictures. Still other places require
special tickets for the use of video cameras.
It is against the law to take some pictures, usually politically
sensitive buildings, embassies or military installations. Also,
there is still a prohibition against taking pictures of bridges,
but this seems to be less enforced now than in the past. If
you are in a locality where pictures are not allowed, usually
there is a policeman or military person around who will tell
you not to take pictures. Signs indicate a few areas where
photography is banned, such as the airport.
Finally, and this is very important, never tell someone you
will send them copies of the pictures unless you absolutely,
positively can do so. Many people in rural areas or even at
tourist sites ask if you will send them copies. Most tourists
are insensitive, usually saying, ‘Yes, I will send them as soon
as I get home.’ Then they go home and never communicate
with anyone again. On the other hand, do not tell them, ‘No,
I cannot send you a copy.’ Instead, tell them, ‘Inshallah’ or
‘I will send you a picture if I can.’ This will be understood.
It allows you to answer positively, which is appropriate, but
not to feel as though you committed to action you cannot
reasonably accomplish.