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What is the ruling on: 1. Altering the form of a picture using mobile applications to produce a new image radically different from the original appearance of the person, knowing that this may be considered a necessity for security pursuits and to avoid envy when posting it on social media and freelancing websites to attract clients? 2. Converting pictures taken of the face only with a mobile phone into digital cartoon images, and does the ruling differ if they are printed? 3. Taking pictures with a mobile phone camera for purposes not necessitated by need, such as a person photographing themselves or their family members on occasions?

1 min readAlso available in العربية

The more cautious approach is to refrain from photographing living beings. It is prohibited to alter photographic images or enhance them, as this transforms them from mere capturing of a shadow into an action that mimics Allah's creation. The prohibition is particularly emphasized regarding photographing women at events, for fear that non-mahram men may view their images. If there is a possibility of this, then photography is not permissible. As for possessing photographs, some who permitted photographic imaging have forbidden their possession.

Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026

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