Taking photographs of beings with a soul

Q: I am the headmaster of one of the primary schools in the south of Shimran. My supervisor asked me to bring photographs of students who will be going on a journey prepared by the school and the Scouts. (Part No. 1; Page No. 661) He also asked me to bring other photographs in order to display them in the school. We know that angels do not enter houses that have pictures. I am responsible for this work so I ask other people to take these photos and I pay them from the money I receive from my supervisor for this purpose. I do not take photographs myself. Whom does the sin fall upon in this regard?

A: There is no doubt that taking photographs of living creatures is prohibited and one of the major sins. A grievous punishment was dedicated for doing so in the texts of the Sunnah (whatever is reported from the Prophet). It likens man to Allah in His creation of beings. Moreover, it is an avenue that leads to temptation and an excuse for Shirk (associating others with Allah in His Divinity or worship) in many cases. The sin includes all those who take photographs, those who ask for it, those who make others do it and whoever is the cause for that. They are all cooperating on evil. Allah forbids that in His saying: ...but do not help one another in sin and transgression. May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.