Get
Great Pictures of Krakow with Your Camera
Photography
comes natural in Krakow. It’s a picturesque city with plenty of
scenic places and it has much to offer all camera-toting visitors.
Notably the Old Town at its heart, the nearby Kazimierz district,
and other historic spots as well as the rustic environs may reward
any photographer and/or cameraman.
Also,
Krakow is rich in festivals and other lively events that provide
plenty of attractive photo opportunities for memorable snapshots or
videos.
Generally
allowed, taking photos is restricted in some places.
As
a rule, outdoors you can shoot photographs or a film in public
spaces at will. Yet indoors, the use of camera is restricted one way
or another in most places of interest in Krakow. Even sites with
free admission, such as churches, often display a ‘no
photo-taking’ sign by the entrance. Elsewhere, including the
Wieliczka Salt Mine and the church of the Virgin Mary’s as well as
the Old Synagogue together with other branches of the City of Krakow
Historical Museum, they charge little extra for taking pictures or
making a film. And there are popular tourist attractions in Krakow,
notably the Wawel Royal Castle, where shooting photos and/or videos
is forbidden. Fortunately, the city still has such places as the
Archeological Museum that allow cameras.
Also,
please note that most museums and other institutions prohibit the
use of flash even as they permit making photographs or videos.
Curiously,
owners of businesses, even shopping centers, often ban taking
pictures and videotaping on the premises. Their restrictions may be
legally questionable but those ignoring them risk confrontation with
a security guard.
Photographing
the locals.
Krakow’s
tourist attractions and the city center are full of avid
photographers and nobody minds camera clicks in public spaces. On
the other hand most people don’t like being photographed by
strangers and unsolicited portrayals are considered rude and an
invasion of privacy. But when asked, the locals often agree to pose
for a photo or two. You don’t need to ask street artists in
fanciful costumes ubiquitous in the Old Town, notably its central
Rynek Glowny square – being photographed by and with tourists is
their job so don’t forget to leave them some change.
Shopping
and services
Photographic
equipment and accessories are readily available in Krakow’s
specialty stores, in electronics superstores, and even in computer
shops. Their selection of goods and prices match similar enterprises
in other cities of the European Union.
Your
digital photography may be turned into prints in service (or
self-service) centers across downtown Krakow and at shopping malls.
Many of them also develop rolls of film.
In
balmy weather Krakow restaurants
spill over sidewalks in the Old Town
historic district.
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