Faces of Morocco

If you know my photography, then you will know my favourite thing is to photograph people. I love wandering around a market at sunset with my camera and a fast prime lens such as my favourite Sigma Art 50mm f/1.4 to capture local peoples faces in low light.

If I see someone I want to photograph, I always ask their permission first. You get a far better, more personal image if you have asked, especially if they look into the camera. It can be a challenge, and you get to know how to approach complete strangers with a smile. I've been declined many times, certainly more in Marrakech than anywhere I have ever been, but you have to simply thank them and walk on.

'Hassan' - Essaouira

I had heard before my first visit to Morocco in April 2026 that the people do not like to be photographed, and this proved to be very true. Not sure if it's a cultural thing, or if they are jaded from a million tourists walking about with cameras. Probably something in the middle. Morocco, especially the main tourist areas of Marrakech is absolutely heaving with tourists, so maybe they are just sick of being photographed? Whatever the reason, I thought I would show you a few of the images of local people that I did manage to photograph, all with their permission, in the Medina of Marrakech and in the Atlantic fishing port of Essaouira.

'Welcome my Friend' - Jemaa el-Fnaa, Marrakech

'Nadhim' - Essaouira

Everyone photographed in this series gave me their permission to do so. Either after a chat and a laugh about something, or with the simple nod of the head before going about their business. Some happy to look at the camera, while others preferred to look away or continue with their work while fully aware I was photographing them. I guess we are all different........

'Rashid' - Essaouira

'Khalid' - Marrakech

'Fisherman' - Essaouira

'Morning Mint Tea' - Marrakech

'Omar' - Marrakech

'Mohammed' - Marrakech

'Snail Man' - Marrakech