Instagram Vs The Law: The Surprising Legal Risks Of Sharing Holiday Snaps From Popular Destinations

Holiday photos have become almost mandatory, with the average Brit snapping around 14 selfies a day during their travels. However, some picture-perfect moments could come with eye-watering legal consequences. Luxury travel specialists at eShores are warning travellers of the seemingly innocent holiday snaps that can breach local privacy laws, copyright restrictions, and cultural sensitivities in destinations around the world.  

Here’s a look at the globe’s most expensive photo opportunities, and why you should think twice before you click. 

The world’s priciest picture spots  

1.     Dubai (UAE) – Potential fine: £110,000 

One wrong snap could bankrupt your holiday budget. Taking photographs of people without explicit consent is classed as a serious privacy violation in the UAE, with tourists facing eye-watering fines of up to 500,000 AED (£110,000) or even imprisonment. Cameras are strictly banned in government buildings, certain palaces, and designated areas throughout the emirate, so that Instagram story could literally cost you your freedom. 

2.     Spain – Potential fine: £26,400 

Snap a picture of a police officer in Spain? It may cost you. Under Spain’s controversial 2015 “Gag Law,” publishing unauthorised photos of law enforcement – even innocently on social media – can trigger brutal fines ranging from €600 to €30,000 (£530–£26,400). The law is actively enforced, especially during protests and in sensitive locations like airports, turning tourists into unwitting lawbreakers. 

3.     Japan – Potential fine: £55 

Japan’s photo restrictions go far beyond the obvious temple no-nos. Train stations, traditional ryokan inns, and historic geisha districts like Kyoto’s world-famous Gion quarter all enforce strict no-camera policies. That candid shot of a geisha could land you a ¥10,000 (£55) fine – not to mention serious cultural offence. 

4.     Portofino, Italy – Potential fine: £242 

Even Italy’s postcard-perfect Portofino has had enough of photo-obsessed tourists. The picturesque coastal town now fines visitors up to €275 (£242) for lingering too long in “no waiting zones” while hunting for the perfect shot. Be especially careful during peak season and busy periods when the rules are enforced – that golden hour snap could cost you.  

5.     South Korea – Potential jail time 

South Korea takes privacy seriously with its “Right to Face” legislation, granting individuals comprehensive image protection. Even street photography in public spaces can violate privacy laws if subjects are identifiable without express written consent. The consequences? Potential imprisonment for what you thought was harmless people-watching. 

Travel expert guidance: When to put your camera away 

eShores’ seasoned travel consultants highlight the danger zones every traveller should know: 

·       Religious sites: Churches, temples, mosques, and places of worship frequently prohibit photography, especially during active services 

·       Cultural institutions: Museums and galleries may permit photography, but typically ban flash photography to protect artwork 

·       Government facilities: Police stations, embassies, courthouses, and airports maintain strict no-photography policies 

·       Military and security zones: Photography near military installations or nuclear facilities can be treated as espionage in certain countries 

·       Public spaces with privacy laws: Countries including Dubai, Japan, and South Korea enforce stringent consent requirements for photographing individuals 

·       Regulated tourist areas: Popular destinations increasingly crack down on photo congestion with instant fines 

·       Copyright-protected landmarks: Some iconic structures maintain intellectual property protections for commercial imagery 

Gavin Lapidus, founder of eShores, comments: 

“While social media has transformed how we document our travels, it’s crucial that holidaymakers understand local laws and cultural sensitivities. What seems like an innocent holiday snap can result in serious legal consequences. We always recommend travellers research photography restrictions before they travel, or better yet, speak to experienced travel consultants who understand each destination’s cultural nuances and legal requirements. A few minutes of preparation could ultimately save you thousands of pounds in fines.” 

For more information about eShores and how they can help plan your next adventure, head to: https://www.eshores.co.uk/