How to Capture the Best Photos and Videos While Visiting Iraq

Travel in Iraq is an amazing adventure. The rich history and stunning landscapes make it a photographer’s dream. But if you want to take the best photos and videos on your trip, you have to be prepared and know some important tips.

The Best Locations for Photography in Iraq

1. Erbil Citadel

One of the oldest continuously inhabited places in the world, the Erbil Citadel is a gem for any travel photographer. The ancient architecture and narrow streets give countless opportunities for interesting shots. Try getting wide-angle photos from outside the citadel to capture its impressive size.

2. Baghdad’s Al-Mutanabbi Street

For street photography, head to Al-Mutanabbi Street in Baghdad. This historic market street is full of life, culture, and a wide range of subjects. Be polite when taking photos here, though; some locals might not feel comfortable with their picture being taken.

3. The Ziggurat of Ur

This breathtaking ancient structure is one of the remaining wonders of Mesopotamia. The Ziggurat of Ur offers stunning perspectives and is especially dramatic during sunset. Take photos from below to capture the structure towering above you.

4. The Marshes in Southern Iraq

The Mesopotamian Marshes are unlike anything you’ve seen. The traditional boats, mirrored waters, and peaceful atmosphere are perfect for both photos and videos. A drone can be useful here for getting aerial shots of the vast wetlands.

5. The Mountains of Kurdistan

The Kurdistan region is full of natural beauty. For epic landscapes, the mountains of Sulaymaniyah provide incredible views. Whether you are capturing wide, snowy vistas or green valleys, Kurdistan should be on your photography list.

The Best Times of Day to Shoot

Golden Hour (Sunrise and Sunset)

Golden hour is always the magic time for photography. Early in the morning and late in the afternoon, the light is softer and warmer. Whether you’re shooting the Ziggurat of Ur or the bustling streets of Baghdad, golden hour gives your photos a natural glow.

Midday (Only in Specific Areas)

During midday, the light is often harsh and creates strong shadows. But in some places like narrow streets or buildings with strong geometry, this kind of light can create highly dramatic shots. The Citadel in Erbil, for example, is a good candidate for midday photography.

Night Photography

Many parts of Iraq, especially in cities like Erbil and Baghdad, are lit beautifully at night. Bring a tripod if you want to shoot at night to avoid blurry images from long exposures. Look for historic mosques or public squares where the lighting adds a unique touch.

Cultural Considerations When Taking Photos in Iraq

Ask Permission Before Photographing People

If you’re going to take photos of locals, always ask for their permission first. Many people won’t mind, but some may not want their picture to be taken. Instead of taking candid shots without asking, try approaching people and chatting with them. You’ll often find that people are very friendly and willing to be photographed once you’ve shown them respect.

Be Cautious in Religious Sites

Iraq is home to many important religious sites. If you’re visiting mosques or holy shrines, be respectful. Not all visitors appreciate photography in these places. Some mosques might even have signs prohibiting photography in certain areas. If you’re unsure, politely ask someone nearby or follow what other visitors or locals are doing.

Avoid Military Areas

Military zones or areas near police are highly sensitive. Always avoid taking photos of military buildings, checkpoints, or any type of armed forces. Even snapping a quick photo could lead to trouble. If you’re unsure whether it’s okay to photograph something, it’s better to skip it.

Recommended Photography Equipment

Cameras for Travel Photography

If you’re serious about taking great photos, invest in a good mirrorless or DSLR camera. A lightweight option like the Sony Alpha a7 III or a Canon EOS RP works well for travel. These cameras are compact but still produce high-quality images.

Carry two lenses: a wide-angle lens (like a 16-35mm) for landscapes and tight spaces, and a zoom lens (70-200mm) for capturing distant subjects.

Smartphone Photography Tips

If you’re not carrying a camera, don’t worry. You can still take amazing photos with your smartphone. Smartphones like the iPhone 13, Google Pixel 6, and Samsung Galaxy S21 feature excellent cameras for both day and night shots.

Enable grid lines on your phone to improve composition. This helps you follow the rule of thirds, a basic principle in photography that makes your images more balanced.

Use the exposure slider on your phone: Tapping and holding part of your screen lets you adjust the lighting, preventing overexposure or underexposure.

Drone Photography

Drones are incredible for capturing Iraq’s landscapes from above, especially in open areas like mountains and marshes. But flying your drone here can be tricky because of restrictions in certain regions. Before you fly, make sure it’s permitted in the area you’re visiting. You don’t want any trouble with authorities.

The DJI Mavic Mini is an affordable and travel-friendly drone that delivers high-quality photos without being too bulky.

Video Tips for Capturing Your Journey

Stabilization is Key

Whether you’re shooting on your phone or a camera, stabilizing your footage makes a big difference in quality. If you don’t have a gimbal, try to keep the camera close to your body, using both hands to stabilize it. You can even use a small tripod if you’re stationary.

Capture Local Ambiance

When shooting video in markets, cafes, or streets, remember to capture environmental sounds like conversations, music, or the sounds of the market. These details bring your videos to life and tell the story of the place more clearly.

Edit Your Footage

Don’t forget to edit your videos when you’re done! Simple apps like iMovie (for iPhone) or InShot (for both Android and iPhone) are easy options to use for trimming videos, adding music, and cleaning up your shots.

General Tips to Keep in Mind

Carry Extra Batteries and Memory Cards

Iraq can be unpredictable. Some days you’ll be out for hours without a chance to recharge. Bring a few extra batteries and memory cards to make sure you don’t miss a moment. Missing a once-in-a-lifetime scene because your battery died is the worst feeling!

Backup Your Photos

Always back up your photos as regularly as possible. Travel can be unpredictable, and losing your camera or phone is a possibility. Use cloud storage like Google Drive or Dropbox so you can access your photos from anywhere.

Respect Local Customs

Iraq is a country with deep traditions. Always be respectful when taking photos that involve people, buildings, or activities. If you’re unsure whether taking a photo would be appropriate, it’s best to ask someone before you go ahead with it.

Summary

Iraq is one of those places that stays with you long after you leave. Its rich history, incredible landscapes, and welcoming people provide endless opportunities for photography and videography. Whether you’re planning to explore ancient sites or bustling markets, being prepared with the right gear and knowledge will make capturing perfect moments easier. Most of all, remember to respect local customs and enjoy the experience!