What Not to Do When Taking a Selfie

Don't: Take A Selfie In A Historically Tragic Location

This should be common sense, but we've all seen the news stories of people taking lighthearted selfies at places like concentration camps and massacre memorials. If you think for even a second that it might not be appropriate to take a selfie at the site you're in—don't do it.

Do: Find Another Way To Share Your Location

The most common reason for taking a selfie is to share where you are on social media. Instead of posting a selfie in a place commemorating a great tragedy, post a short tweet memorializing the site. Or better yet, just share your experience with friends and family when you get home. It will mean more.

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Don't: Block Other People’s Views

There are few things more annoying than when a person in pursuit of a selfie blocks everyone else's view to get a picture of themselves in front of a place of interest.

Do: Find A Less Crowded Spot To Take Your Picture

Rather than block other people's views to get your picture, wait until the crowd disperses and take your picture then. Or, you could find a different spot where there are fewer people and take your selfie there.

Don't: Risk Your Safety

Taking pictures from the tops of buildings is cool, but no one wants to have to admit they were attempting a selfie when they ended up in the hospital. This rule also applies to taking selfies in dangerous places, with wild animals, and at riots or other perilous gatherings.

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Do: Use Different Angles to Make Your Shot More Exciting

If you absolutely have to take the selfie, make sure you are 100 percent safe before you do so. You can also change the angle of your photo to make the shot more exciting and visually interesting.

Don't: Let Taking The Perfect Picture Ruin Your Experience

Spending your entire trip pursuing the perfect selfie is a definite misstep. Sure, you'll have some great photos, but will you actually remember being there? You will also probably irritate everyone you're with if you can’t stop obsessing over your filters and hashtags.

RELATED: Tips for Taking Better Travel Photos

Do: Take a Picture and Move On

Simple as that. Take one or two selfies, then sit back and enjoy your experience. You don’t need a picture of yourself everywhere you go. That's what memories are for.

Don't: Ignore The Rules Of Your Location

Did you know selfie sticks are illegal at some music festivals, theme parks, and other attractions? Some museums don't allow photography within their buildings either. Make sure you know the rules before you attempt to take a picture as some places deal out hefty punishments.

RELATED: White House Lifts Ban on Visitor Photography

Do: Learn What Is And Is Not Acceptable

Every time you're somewhere unfamiliar, look for signs, ask a staff member, or check online for photography restrictions.

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Don't: Use An IPad To Take Pictures

It needs to be said— you just look foolish. What's more, tablets are popular targets for theft. So if you travel with a tablet, keep it tucked away in your bag (or leave it at the hotel) and find another way to capture that selfie.

Do: Use Literally Anything Else

Chances are, someone in your travel group has a smartphone. Or a regular camera. There are plenty of other devices with selfie-taking capabilities that are much smaller and easier to use than an iPad—please choose one of those instead.

More from SmarterTravel:

• One Simple Tip for Taking the Best Travel Photos Ever
• 10 New Rules for Traveling Without Being a Jerk
• How to Take Great Travel Photos on Your Smartphone

Nicole DiCenso prefers taking selfies with a group rather than alone, but would rather just avoid selfies altogether.