Q: Is it permissible to take photos of animals, not as a job but as a hobby?
A: Pictures of all animate objects are forbidden in shariah. Hence, it is not permissible for you to take pictures of animate objects, whether it is as a job or as a hobby. Both are haraam and forbidden. Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) has sounded severe warnings regarding photography, picture-making and keeping pictures of animate objects.
Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) said, "Those involved in picture-making will be subjected to the worst forms of punishment on the Day of Qiyaamah." In one Hadith, Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) has cursed the one who receives interest, the one who gives interest, the tattooist, the tattooed and the picture maker. In another Hadith, it is mentioned that the angels of mercy do not enter a home wherein a picture of an animate object is present.
And Allah Ta'ala (الله تعالى) knows best.
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