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Group photos also have their own wisdom: Six taboos of travel photography

Published: 2026-09-25 👁 100 views
Last updated 2026-09-25 — Taking photos at scenic spots has become one of the must-do activities when traveling nowadays. Many tourists want to take pictures as souvenirs at beautiful locations, but there are some taboos to be aware of when out and about—even photography has its considerations...

By / MOOK Scenic Spots Editorial Team, compiled and reported

Taking photos at scenic spots has become one of the must-do activities when traveling nowadays. Many tourists want to take pictures as souvenirs at beautiful locations, but there are some taboos to be aware of when out and about—even photography has its considerations, since not every location is suitable for taking photos.

There are taboos to travel photography too (Photo / Pexels)

1. Avoid using cemeteries as a backdrop
When taking photos, try not to use graves or places with tombstones as a background, as they may easily capture something negative or attract spirits—especially during sensitive times such as tomb-sweeping or the Hungry Ghost Festival. Therefore, whether it’s a group photo or a landscape shot, you should be cautious.

Avoid using cemeteries as a backdrop (Photo / Stocksnap)

2. Avoid taking photos near high-voltage lines or corners
Try to avoid taking photos near high-voltage lines or street corners, as these places may bring you inexplicable bad energy or lingering spirits. 

3. There's wisdom behind three-person group photos
It is said that in ancient times, painters would refuse to include three people in a single painting because the person in the middle might be alienated by the friends on either side. If it can’t be avoided, have the two friends on the sides hold clothing in the photo to suggest that more people were supposed to join.

There's wisdom behind three-person group photos (Photo / Pexels)

4. Don't take photos directly under a pagoda
According to common folk customs, pagodas are used to suppress evil spirits, so taking a photo directly beneath one might make you feel oppressed. Also, if you visit a temple, try not to take photos with the Buddha statues. 

5. Avoid random photos during night outings
Late at night is when you’re more likely to encounter wandering spirits. When out and about at night, you should not only avoid certain things, but also refrain from taking random photos to prevent capturing something you shouldn’t see.

Avoid random photos during night outings (Photo / Stocksnap)

6. Be selective with photo locations when traveling while pregnant
When traveling, you should generally avoid places with heavy negative energy, such as hospitals, graveyards, funeral homes, long-abandoned buildings, or vacant houses where accidents have occurred. Pregnant women, in particular, need to be extra cautious—if you take photos in such places, it could negatively affect both the mother and the baby.
 

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》https://www.mook.com.tw/article.php?op=articleinfo&articleid=16572

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