Ultimate Morocco Travel Photography Guide: Best Tips & Spots

Morocco is a vivid dream for travel photographers: a land of rich contrasts, intricate textures, and striking light. From the golden dunes of the Sahara to the azure alleys of Chefchaouen, every corner holds visual magic. Whether you’re drawn to the pulse of street life, medieval architecture, or the vastness of desert and sea, Morocco travel photography offers an abundance of photographic inspiration. Being prepared is key. 

Here are the top photography tips to help you make the most of your Moroccan adventure.

Gear & Preparation: What to Pack for Morocco

Versatile Lens Setup

For casual to advanced photographers, a 24–70mm or 24–105mm lens is your go-to for being versatile enough for street scenes, portraits, and landscapes. If you’re more serious, consider adding:

• A wide-angle lens (14–24mm or 16–35mm) for tight alleyways, interiors, and sweeping architecture.
• A 70–200mm telephoto for compressing mountain ranges, isolating patterns in sand dunes, or even distant wildlife.
  

Lightweight and Mobile

Morocco often requires navigating crowded medinas, narrow alleys, and hiking desert paths. A mirrorless setup (like a Sony Alpha with a prime lens) helps you stay agile and spontaneous, without the weight dragging you down.

ND Filter + Tripod

Bring an ND filter for long exposures, think blurred ocean waves in Essaouira or shifting sands in the Sahara. A lightweight tripod is a must for sunrise, night shots, or sharp detail in low light.

Extra Batteries & Memory Cards

Power outlets can be rare in the desert or mountains. Always carry a spare battery and enough memory cards to avoid tough choices on what to delete – Morocco travel photography can be overwhelming.

Where to Shoot: Top Moroccan Photo Locations

Fes & Marrakech Medinas

Labyrinthine alleys, vibrant markets, and sensory overload, medinas are rich with photo ops. Shoot early morning or late afternoon for golden light and softer crowds. Rooftop access is a major bonus for wide views, and don’t miss the Fes tannery for bold color and texture.

Chefchaouen (The Blue City)

Tucked in the Rif Mountains, Chefchaouen’s iconic blue walls and peaceful vibe make it a photographer’s paradise. Look for doorways with symmetry, winding steps, and soft light. Including a local or a cat adds narrative and scale – just be respectful.

The Sahara Desert (Merzouga or Zagora)

Photographing the desert is about texture, light, and simplicity. Use sunrise and sunset for warm, dramatic lighting. Telephoto lenses work wonders here, pick out dune ridges, camel caravans, and intricate wind patterns. Stay overnight in a desert camp for Milky Way or fire-lit portraits.

The Atlas Mountains

Raw landscapes and rich culture collide in the Atlas. Capture layered peaks with a long lens and document Berber village life. If you’re lucky enough to meet local artisans, rug weavers, ceramic makers, ask before photographing, and show appreciation. If you get a “yes” to your request, be sure to show them their picture. 

Essaouira

A coastal gem with strong winds, bold architecture, and a colorful fishing port. Capture blue boats, peeling walls, and golden-hour horseback riders on the beach. The old medina and the surrounding countryside offer excellent detail and people shots.

People, Cultural Sensitivity & Cats

Always Ask Before Photographing People

In Morocco and other Arab communities, there are deeply rooted religious reasons why people may not want their photo taken. Islam is about modesty and privacy.  Some individuals will gladly allow photos when asked; others will decline. Some may request a small tip. A smile and a polite gesture go a long way. Being with a local, such as an Open Doors Morocco guide, will get you a long way in this area because the trust will have already been built.

Tipping is Normal for Portraits

This is especially true with performers, snake charmers, and traditionally dressed locals in public squares. Keep small change ready.

Be Discreet in Conservative Areas

Use a smaller camera or shoot from the hip using a tilt screen. Most mirrorless cameras have a silent shutter mode, which can be useful in these situations. Avoid pointing your lens at women and elders without clear permission.

Cats Galore

When people aren’t available or willing, the cats of Morocco make charming subjects. Found everywhere, from medina doorsteps to rooftops, they add life and personality to street scenes.

Best Times of Day for Photography

Early Morning

The golden hour offers beautiful soft light, fewer tourists, and locals just beginning their day, setting up stalls, sweeping streets, or heading to prayer. Don’t go out too early or you’ll miss the human presence that adds depth to your shots.

Late Afternoon & Sunset

Markets come alive with warm tones and animated scenes. Light falls beautifully on architecture, and shadows create mood and contrast.

Night Photography

Old cities glow under lanterns and streetlights. Tripods are useful here, but so is awareness; stay safe and avoid walking alone in less-populated areas at night.

Colors, Textures & Composition Techniques

Use Morocco’s Color Palette

Deep reds, cobalt blues, mosaic greens, and earth tones are everywhere. Think in complementary color schemes and isolate tones with framing.

Frame Within a Frame

Shoot through archways, doorways, latticework, or shop windows. This adds visual layers and a sense of mystery or depth.

Include Human (or Feline) Elements

A lone figure walking down an alley, a child looking out a window, or a cat sunbathing in a doorway adds scale, movement, and story. Look for symmetry and leading lines to guide the viewer’s eye.

Safety & Etiquette for Photographers in Morocco

• Keep your gear close in crowded markets. Pickpocketing can happen anywhere.
• Be discreet when photographing people or religious spaces.
• Mosque interiors are generally off-limits to non-Muslims unless explicitly allowed – always ask. An exception to this is visiting the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca, where photos are allowed in most areas.
• Drones are heavily restricted – unless you have government approval, leave them at home to avoid confiscation at customs.

 

If you’re planning a photography-focused trip, consider working with Open Doors Morocco (ODM). They have extensive experience hosting photographers and organizing photo tours.  Their guides understand the unique needs of photography travelers. Unlike standard tours, photo trips often revolve around light, timing, and flexibility. ODM’s guides know the importance of being on location during the golden hours, at sunrise and sunset, and are skilled at adjusting itineraries to maximize creative opportunities. Whether you’re capturing portraits, landscapes, or candid moments, they’re attuned to what makes a great photographic experience.