The Kuwait Times, Gizmodo and Engadget have reported that the government of Kuwait has outlawed DSLR cameras.
“The Ministries of Information, Social Affairs and Finance (hello, 1984!) have collectively decided to ban the use of the chunky shooters in public places, except where it can be shown that it’s for journalistic purposes.” – Engadget.
—UPDATE—-
The Kuwait Times Newspaper has rescinded this story. Go figure.
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This ban reportedly affects tourists too, so if you’re headed to Kuwait for some relaxing time over the holidays, come prepared. I understand that compacts and camera phones have not been banned, so you can still get the shot…-ish.
I’ve read all I can on the topic this morning, but for the life of me I’m having trouble understanding. Why they hatin’ on the interchangable lenses? What about micro 4/3? Can anybody out there shed some light on this bizarre state of affairs for me?
Jay
This is total crap..i cant understand this myself..what is there to hide…then again its sells them out where ever things are…
Very odd indeed. Makes me think of the common argument against gun laws. It keeps them out of the hands of everyone except those who has ill intent, who will find a way to get them.
As someone already pointed out, the people who have nefarious reasons for taking pictures, will find a way to do it. And the only people who will be effectively prohibited, are the people who have no ill intentions, and just want to document a vacation or make art.
Lame to the max. I hope it is unsubstantiated, as someone up above presumed.
Thanks for posting, Chase!
Funny thing is if it is about super zoom lenses the quite frankly my point and shoot has more zoom than than my DSLR, with a 18-55mm lens! Really they didn’t think it through!
here’s another article on the issue:
http://thenextweb.com/me/2010/11/23/kuwait-dslr-camera-ban-now-in-effect/
totally weird move … it just doesn’t make sense. i guess they’re afraid of super-zoom type pictures, which is something they know a regular p&s can’t do???
Although extreme, considering middle eastern attitudes explains the ban (if the reporting is accurate).
I have seen the problem in a Greek based photo-forum where members post “portraits” of unsuspecting men, women, and children. I am sure that this is wide-spread among amateur forums — specially in the middle east.
Now, if you take into consideration how strict many Arabs are with the females in their families as well as their children, then it is understandable.
Q: Do I agree with it? A: Hell no.
Q: Would I ever visit Kuwait? A: What exactly for?
But you can keep posting images – only DSLR is banned, not a compact or phone camera.