It turns out there are several versions explaining this prohibition. The main one states that in the 19th century, when photography was just starting to spread among the people, people often ordered photographs of their deceased relatives, because the photograph most often became the only memento of the deceased.

Naturally, to avoid associations with the dead, no one wanted to photograph their sleeping loved ones. And even when the tradition of photographing the deceased slowly remained in the past, memories of it lived on for a long time, gradually turning into superstition.

Those who believe in otherworldly forces have their own theory about this matter. According to their claims, during sleep the soul leaves the body, so at such moments people are not protected from dark forces. Witches can easily cast a curse based on a photograph where someone is captured sleeping, and even ordinary envious people can jinx them.

We shouldn`t forget the ethical side of the question either. In sleep, people often look not very attractive. Therefore, it`s unlikely anyone will be pleased to see their unflattering photograph.

Besides, the camera`s click or a flash not turned off in time can wake the sleeper. And if that angers them, then the unlucky photographer might simply be unlucky.

Here`s how the prohibition on photographing sleeping people is explained. Share this knowledge with friends, and also express your opinion on what you`ve read in the comments, if you know other answers to the question `Why shouldn`t you photograph sleeping people?`.