Travel Advice - Snake charmers and other photo opportunities

When traveling in the Third World (and Las Vegas) you will encounter subjects who will pose for a picture that will look, well, posed and artificial. Of course, it is not every day that you run into a "snake charmer" or a roaming tea steward with an elaborate and exquisite tea urn on his back. For some travelers, these picture opportunities are worth paying for. 

 If you fall into this category, exercise a little caution.

• Do not be the first to take the picture.
• Listen for the going rate and decide if the picture is that valuable to you.
• If so, pay and snap away.
• If you have not paid for the privilege, do not take the picture, as it will result in a major hassle.

In other situations, you may find the perfect picture of an individual demonstrating a distinct act or wearing a distinct outfit.

• Make sure that local customs and religious beliefs allow photography.
• If you are taking a close up picture of an individual, ask for their permission.
•  If the subject of the photograph requests a small fee, pay it if the picture is important to you.

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