Freelance photography is a great way to make money from your passion and have creative freedom, but it is never an easy or simple task. If you are starting your career as a freelance photographer in Dubai, you have to face many restrictions in the country that other photographers don't have to worry about. In Dubai, there are strict rules and regulations about photography that one can’t ignore. Ignoring these laws can land you in trouble! In this blog, we will discuss the top challenges faced by freelance photographers in Dubai and also suggest the best ways to overcome them!

Strict Laws and Restrictions

One of the biggest challenges for freelance photographer in Dubai is the restrictions on what and where they can photograph. The government has strict rules about taking pictures of certain places, such as military sites or government buildings. Additionally, many outdoor locations are off-limits due to environmental or privacy concerns. Therefore, you have to perform your photography within the limited locations that are allowed to be photographed. If you are visiting tourist sights like beaches and deserts, go through the instructions provided at the site before starting with your shots. 




High Competition

Freelance photography is a very competitive field in Dubai. As a beginner, you will have to fight to the finish. You must have unique skills and a positive attitude to attract more clients and work. There could be many other established photographers with years of experience and a strong market. You do not get demotivated by this. In fact, show your skills and portfolio to your potential customers and give them a valid reason to hire you on them. 

Work Permit/License is Mandatory

One more challenge for freelance photographer in Dubai is obtaining a work permit. In order to legally operate a business here, you must obtain a license from the local authorities. This process involves submitting paperwork and undergoing an interview with officials, which can be lengthy and complicated. If you do not have proper documentation, it may be difficult to find clients who will hire you. Therefore, you must apply for a license long before you actually begin with the work professionally. 

High Cost of Living

In Dubai, the cost of living is a bit high compared to the other locations. It creates difficulty for freelance photographers who have just started their careers. It is another difficulty that freelance photographers in Dubai face. A photographer has to buy a camera and lenses. There are some overhead expenses also. So, it is important to treat your camera and other tools with great care during and after use. 

Get the Necessary Permissions

Finally, freelance photographers in Dubai must also be aware of the laws on copyright and intellectual property. It is important to understand how these regulations apply to your work and what measures you should take to protect it. Additionally, photographers must know the rules related to sharing photos online or selling them through stock photography sites. Without a proper understanding of these matters, you could find yourself in trouble with the authorities. 




Do not Take Photos Without taking Permission

In Dubai, there are strict laws on clicking photos of other people. As a freelancer, you might make the mistake of taking images of a person going nearby without his/her permission. It is considered a crime in the country. If you have taken any picture by mistake, it is good to delete it immediately to avoid any trouble.

Let’s Find a Solution to the problem

Although these challenges may seem daunting, you can still overcome them with consistent hard work and determination. Working hard on your portfolio and staying focused on your goals will help you stand out in the competition against established professionals. You must go through all the rules and laws for photography in Dubai. Once you have complete knowledge about them, you don’t have to worry more. 




Final Thoughts

These were all challenges freelance photographers in Dubai face when trying to operate their businesses. By understanding the restrictions and taking steps to protect yourself legally, you can still make a successful career out of freelance photography in Dubai. With some dedication and hard work, you can overcome any difficulties that come your way. Visit getflashy.com and register on the platform to get started. Once your portfolio is reviewed, you can start getting invites to photoshoots!