We all love taking a selfie now and then. It’s a fun way to share special moments and to create personal keepsakes from our travels. But it’s not always such a smart idea to take a selfie of everything that catches our eye, no matter how amazing or photogenic the scene.

Here’s a look at some situations and locations when you’ll have to allow your own imagination or a postcard to provide the memories. Sometimes a selfie would just be too rude or dangerous.

When You Need to Watch Your Step

Grand Canyon at sunrise

The Grand Canyon, Hawaii’s giant waterfalls, and the viewing platform at the top of the Empire State Building in New York. These places may provide perfect panoramas for selfies, but be sure to always play it safe. Ask yourself whether backing up another inch to frame your shot really worth the risk? The same goes for anytime you’re in a precarious setting where watching your footing is important and even a simple slip can lead to big trouble.

When You Have to Break the Law or Trespass for Your Shot

Say you’re in a new and exciting place. Even if you don’t speak the language, it won’t be too hard to understand what’s acceptable and what’s not. If the sign says “do not enter” or “keep off the grass” that applies to everyone, even when you only want a quick click of your phone’s camera. Don’t damage other people’s property or end up getting fined or arrested for your selfie! Just because you’re on vacation doesn’t mean you the rules no longer apply to you.

When You’re in a Solemn or Sacred Place

Holocaust Memorial in Berlin

You know the sorts of places we’re talking about: Holocaust and war memorials, the 9/11 museum, catacombs, cemeteries, cathedrals. It doesn’t matter how excited you are to be on vacation, or how much fun you’re having with friends and family. Keep in mind where you are, why you’re there, and what this place is meant to honor and commemorate.

When Other People Might End up in the Shot

Will other people unwittingly be the subjects of your shot? People who might not want to be, or who have explicitly expressed they don’t want their picture taken? Just as it’s important to consider where you are when you take a selfie, it’s also important to consider the people around you. People can be especially touchy about other people taking pictures that include their children. So try to frame your shot so you’re not including other people.

When You’re Around Wild Animals

Just because you want to pose with that amazing animal doesn’t mean that the animal wants to pose with you. Always pay attention and give plenty of room and respect to any animal you’re not familiar with. This is especially true when they’re wild and you’re in their habitat. If you’re with a guide on safari in South Africa, diving in Thailand, or hiking in the Colorado Rockies, ask when it’s okay before taking photos. If you’re alone, use your best judgment, think things through, and be extra careful. Otherwise, you may wind up causing the animal to flee, or causing to harm yourself or others.

When You’re in the Way

Are you holding up a line, stopping traffic, or interfering with the natural flow of events? As with all the situations listed in this post, use your common sense and courtesy when you feel the urge to take a selfie. Don’t interfere with everyone else’s good time.

What are your rules for when somebody should or shouldn’t snap a selfie? Tell us in the comments!