Is it forbidden for the questioner to adopt the permissibility of photography (and other issues)?

If one is ignorant of the ruling on a matter and asks someone he trusts for their knowledge and piety, and then acts upon their fatwa (definition), he has done what is required of him and is excused. This holds true whether the mufti (definition) was correct or mistaken, and whether there was someone more knowledgeable than him or not. He is not obligated to ask the most knowledgeable person; it is sufficient for him to ask a scholar qualified to issue fatwas.

If the muftis differ, then he must seek out the most knowledgeable and trustworthy among them. If they are all equal, he may act upon whichever of their opinions he wishes.

Regarding the issue of photographic imaging, if a common person asks a scholar and he permits it, and the person acts upon that, there is no sin upon him. If he later learns that some scholars have forbidden it, then if he is able to weigh the two opinions, he is obligated to act upon the preponderant one, and there is no sin upon him for what has passed. If he is unable to weigh them, then he may act upon whichever of the two opinions he wishes, and there is no harm in him taking the easier opinion.