Omar Benali · 8 min · Photography
The blue city rewards those who arrive early, move slowly, and look past the obvious doorways. Here is how to make the most of your photography in Chefchaouen.
The blue-painted medina was not designed for Instagram — it has been blue for over a century, originally associated with Jewish communities who painted walls blue to ward off evil, and later adopted more broadly. The visual coherence of blues against bright whites, terracotta pots, and mountain light creates a palette that is almost impossible to photograph badly.
Blue hour (30 minutes after sunset) is underused in Chefchaouen: the artificial lighting of shops and cafes combines with the last blue sky to create a completely different palette from daytime photographs. Carry a small tripod or use a wall as a stabiliser for low-light shots.
The repetitive-blue-wall shot is everywhere; stand out with: reflections in morning puddles after overnight rain, cats (abundant and photogenic) in architectural context, artisan hands at work through doorways, doorknobs and handles as macro subjects, the contrast between blue walls and saffron-coloured dried herbs sold at market stalls.
Always ask before photographing individuals. Many residents have become justifiably weary of being treated as props. A genuine interaction — greeting in Arabic, admiring a craft, making a small purchase — nearly always results in a willing, natural portrait far better than a hurried snapshot. Some locals request a small payment for photographs, which is entirely reasonable.
The first 1–2 hours after sunrise are magical: soft light, empty lanes, and the blue paint at its most vivid. Late afternoon golden hour before sunset is the second best window. Midday light is harsh and the streets are crowded.
No permit is required for personal photography in public spaces. Photography inside private shops, homes, or of individuals requires consent. A small purchase from a shop whose exterior you photograph is a nice gesture.
A standard 24–70mm equivalent lens covers most situations well. A 35mm prime is ideal for the narrow alleys. A wide-angle is useful for the panoramic views from the Spanish Mosque. Bring a clean microfibre cloth — morning dew can affect lens elements.
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