Photographing strangers
Neutral Can sound rude
What it really means
Taking close-up photos of strangers without asking — especially of children — is considered intrusive in Britain and can cause real anger, even in public places where it is generally legal. People appearing small in the background of a landmark photo is fine. If you want someone in your shot, just ask: "Do you mind if I take a photo?"
Chinese explanation
在英国，不经允许近距离拍摄陌生人——尤其是儿童——被认为很冒犯，即使在一般允许拍照的公共场所也可能引起真正的愤怒。地标照片背景里出现的小小人影没有问题。想拍到某个人，直接问一句："介意我拍张照吗？"
Example conversation
A: That man looked really annoyed when I photographed his dog stall.
B: Ask first next time — photographing strangers up close without asking doesn't go down well here.
A：我拍那个卖狗粮的摊位时，摊主看起来很不高兴。
B：下次先问一声——在这里不打招呼就近距离拍陌生人，很招人反感。
What you could say back
Related phrases
Go deeper
All Customs & Etiquette
Reviewed by the UK Decoded editorial team
· Last checked 24 July 2026 · Report a mistake