Photography

PHOTOGRAPHY:

Egypt offers some of the finest backdrops for photographs. But there are a couple of things that should be pointed out. First, while you may take pictures as you like from the outside of most monuments, many require that you do not use a flash when taking pictures inside. Please note that there is a fee involved if you want to take pictures at temples or museums. That fee changes from place to place, but you should be prepared to pay it. If you intend to take pictures inside tombs, for example, you will need to bring high-speed film. Most people use ASA 800 film, which they push to 1600. For the most part, this requires a good 35 mm SLR camera. In addition, monuments in Egypt are truly monumental, and visitors will often be disappointed with regular lenses. If possible, a good wide-angle lens will be nice to bring along. A video camera will also provide you with nice souvenir footage of your trip, however, keep in mind that filming inside many of the museums, monuments and tombs is prohibited.

Be sure to take along plenty of film or video stock tape and buy it beforehand. Although film is for sale locally, it is expensive and limited. For color slides, many professional photographers use Fuji Velvia, 50 for bright scenes, and 100 and 200 for low light. Also for color slides, Kodachrome 64 and high-speed Ektachrome 400 are dependable. Take along extra batteries for the light meter, and a waterproof pouch, such as a zip lock bag, to protect your camera from moisture and dust. Heat can affect the emulsion and color quality, so keep your film supply in the shade. Use an aluminum bag to shield it from the x-ray screeners at airport security, or ask for a hand check. Take extra batteries and adapters if you plan to use a video camera. For landscapes, we recommend a wide angle, 28 or 35mm lens.

VIDEO:

Charging facilities for video cameras should be available in every hotel and on board the ships on the Nile, as long as you have a standard charger. Please bring along enough batteries to last you at least three days of video filming.

DID YOU KNOW?
Many of today's household objects were invented or
used by the ancient Egyptians, including the
lock and keys, combs, scissors, wigs,
makeup, deodorants, toothbrush and
toothpaste