The first district to be discussed is the most famous district of Amsterdam – De Wallen or the Red Light District. The erotic capital of the world is filled with nightclubs, historical buildings, and legal brothels; consequently, traveler’s always want to take pictures of the place. It is however important to know the legal provisions and cultural believes regarding photography in this area. In this blog post, I will talk about this option and also give some suggestions on how to photograph the AESD and its surroundings, if at all.
It is important also to note certain rules and principles that govern all the activities.
The Red Light District in Amsterdam is a unique part of the city that function based on some rules. To protect workers in sex work since the industry is legalized and well regulated the privacy and safety of the workers is of paramount importance. So this means that it is forbidden to take photographs of the work of the corresponding people behind the windows, which is considered impolite.
Therefore it is important to know that the streets in the Red Light District is considered public domain and those being photographed may not be willing. Everyone has the right to privacy and nobody should be photographed at the area without permission from the affected persons including the residents.
Advice for Shooting Pictures in the Red Light District
Although it is absolutely forbidden to take photos of people involved in sexually provocative gestures or nude, there is nothing wrong with capturing the spirit and the ambiance of the city’s most famous district. Here are some tips to ensure you can take pictures respectfully:
1. The contents are primarily about Architecture and Surroundings.
The Red Light District is beautiful containing some of the oldest architecture and buildings. Get better views of the exterior of buildings and the network of narrow water channels and the mood of the place without having to focus on people. This way, you are able to photograph your visit while observing other people’s privacy and without feeling like you are invading someone’s privacy.
2. Respect Individuals’ Privacy
If you meet people who are not sex workers, do not interfere in their business, and do not take close-up photographs without their consent. They could be dwelling in a close by home, in a resort, or at several other places coming to the active area.
3. How to Catch the Charm from Afar
Pose your shots from behind or just use a lens that has a wide angle to capture scenes without focusing on people you want to capture. It also ceases to intrude the privacy of the parties involved while helping you make records of your experience.
4. Be Discreet
When capturing photos, make sure not to cause attention to your-self or attract attention to yourself. This way, you won’t stand out as a photographer and capture the essence of the place and its people, how lively the place is.
Understanding the Cultural Calendar
One must always had in mind that Red Light District belongs to the package of tourist attractions also is a real living and working district. People living and working in these places are adults, they should be respected and allowed private lives. Being aware of these areas then, you can have your fun in the Red Light District of Amsterdam and still respect citizens of the beautiful city.
In Conclusion
Among all the regulations, certain rules are active in the Amsterdam Red Light District, prohibiting taking pictures of sex workers. But you are still able to narrate the event by pointing out the good architectural design of buildings and the environment and the joyous nature of the region. As is the case when photographing people, one’s privacy must always be respected, as must the cultural nuances of the area while properly capturing this peculiar district.
