350. Taking Photographs

By Asma Bint Shameem

1. Although taking photographs is “permissible”, for a reason, it’s not right to put these pictures up on social media. 

The woman is ‘awrah’ and it goes against the very concept of Hijaab that we put up pictures of ourselves on social media even if we’re ‘covered’. 

If that’s for someone who’s alive then what about the one who’s passed away?

Some of the scholars are of the view that although keeping pictures of oneself in their possession is allowed, it’s absolutely haraam to keep pictures of the deceased. 

And although other scholars disagreed with them, that’s still something to consider when taking or putting up pictures of the deceased. 

Shaikh Assim al-Hakeem said:

“taking pictures for photography is permissible but not recommended. 

For example, if you take pictures and photographs of your holidays, of nice scenery, nice sightseeing , this is permissible. 

If you want to take pictures of men, boys, children, again, this is permissible. 

What is not permissible is to keep photographs of dead people, for example, your devastated

It is completely impermissible to keep such photos. One has to destroy them. 

And secondly, it is not permissible to take photographs of women or grown up girls. 

You cannot take pictures of your 13 or 14 year old daughter or sister, as it is an 'Awrah', i.e. It has to be covered.”

2. Your friend is heartbroken and devastated at losing her mother. 

And it’s understandable that she wants to remember her mother and one of the ways she is doing that is by putting up her picture on social media. 

So be gentle and wise when advising her of the above ruling. 

And realize that she would be very sensitive to this issue right now. 

So deal with it with Hikmah and understanding. 

I ask Allaah to bless you and guide you in doing that which is best. 

Ameen. 

And Allaah knows best