Laos is a fantastic destination for photog­raphy and if you take the following into account there is no reason why you won't come away with some great shots - without upsetting anyone.

Digital photography is spreading fast and, particularly in popular tourist central such as Vientiane, Luang Prabang, Vang Vieng and Pakse, the usual range of batteries, memory cards and even a limited range of cameras are available.

There are still plenty of old-school film cameras around, and Fuji and Kodak colour print films in ASA 100 or 200 are available in larger towns. A few of the better photo shops in Vientiane and Luang Prabang carry slide film, typically Ektachrome Elite or Fu-jichrome Sensia. For B&W film or other slide film stock up in Bangkok, where film is relatively cheap, before you come to Laos. Processing is inexpensive.

Most internet cafes have card readers and can write photos to either CD or DVD for about US$1 or US$2.

Photographing People

In rural areas people are often not used to having their photos taken, so smile and ask permission before snapping away. In tribal areas always ask permission before photographing people or religious totems; photography of people is taboo among sev­eral tribes. Breaking such taboos might not seem like a big deal to you, but it is to your subject. See Sleeping with Spirits for details.

Use discretion when photographing vil­lagers anywhere in the country, and think before you shoot.

Restrictions

Lao officials are sensitive about photography of airports and military installations; when in doubt, refrain, and if you get stopped be as apologetic and dumb-tourist as you can be.

Technical Tips

As in other tropical countries, the best times of day for photography are early to mid-morning and late afternoon. A polarizing filter is helpful for cutting glare and improv­ing contrast, especially when photographing temple ruins or shooting over water.

Moisture is the biggest threat to your gear so during the rainy season (from June to October) pack some silica gel with your camera to prevent mould growing inside the lenses. Also always carry a plastic bag, at least, to keep your gear dry when the heavens open.

The wet season isn't all bad. The skies are clearer and the greens of the forest are much brighter, compared with the hot sea­son (March to May) when you'll often find a layer of dust damping down the colors and adding glare to the skies.

Outside major cities and towns electricity is not always available. This is a problem if you need to recharge batteries, so be sure to pack enough and keep them charged. Standard camera batteries are readily avail­able in big towns but you'll be lucky to find them out in the sticks, so carry all you'll need.

Lonely Planet's Travel Photography con­tains tips on how to get the most out of your camera.

Video

Blank videotapes in popular formats, includ­ing DV, are readily available for sale in Vi­entiane and Luang Prabang, and to a lesser extent in Savannakhet, Pakse and a few other profincial capitals.