Amateur photography and the UAE can be a volatile mix.

A 70-year-old American named Robert Black could tell you about it, once he gets out of prison.

Black appeared at a Creative Thinkers conference in Abu Dhabi last month, and before leaving the country apparently decided to take some photos in the city.

The problem with that?

Photos are prohibited in several areas of the city and the emirate. No photos are allowed in the main embassy area, which includes the U.S. embassy, on the eastern end of the island. The warning signs are widely posted.

More than one visitor has run into trouble here while taking photos; the port area seems to be a particularly sensitive area. UAE authorities may also be less forgiving in these matters because of the country’s current involvement in air strikes in Syria.

Black’s family and friends have told The National they are sure he had no idea he was taking photos in banned areas, which got him arrested. They also maintain he is interested in architecture, and often takes photos of structures that interest him.

He apparently has been in Wathba Prison for weeks. Only over the past few days have those who know him raised enough money to get him a lawyer here.

His family had no idea where he was, after his arrest. In an earlier story, it was suggested he got word through to his family while borrowing a fellow inmate’s phone while in prison.

Black is said to be a diabetic.

When traveling, it is always a good idea to research cultural no-nos in the countries you are visiting.

In the UAE, it is considered rude, verging on provocative, to take photos of residents without their permission, particularly if women are in the photos.

So, rule of thumb, here: Don’t take photos in banned areas and, when in doubt, leave the camera behind.