Hi,
On the CNTO official site http://www.cnto.org/ttips-customsclearance.asp
It says that film and photos are prohibited for both import and export?!? But a personal camera is permitted.

So what does one do about taking pictures while visiting? I can't bring film from home and then return with my exposed film to develop it here?

What do people usually do about this?

Thanks!

Yes you can bring unexposed film into and out of China and have it developed in your home country. Yes you can have film developed in China and bring the finished photos out with you. People do both every day.

Not to put too fine a point on it, but the regulations you saw are there quite frankly so that the Chinese government can confiscate anything they don't like, not from tourists like you, but from journalists or others taking photographs of things that the PRC government would prefer not be seen by the public. The PRC is not the most free or friendly government in the world. I am not discouraging you from traveling there, and travel there myself, and you probably are already aware of this, but that is how the PRC government operates.

You will not be followed while traveling and there is virtually no chance that your luggage will be searched, and if it is searched as part of a routine check (as it could be anywhere even the US) there is virtually no chance that anything would be taken from you. I would not worry about it.

I have brought in unopened film and taken exposed film home. I very much doubt this is an issue...which tourist hasn't?

You could also use a digital camera if you're really concerned.

No problem whatsoever. There are areas where you cannot take photos but these are not places where you would want to, and there would be signs up in any case.

Be careful about taking photos of people, get permission first as some, especially the elderly, are not happy about it I've found in some locations.

Thanks everyone. That does help.

Yes Cicerone, I am aware of the political situation and certainly expect to keep a good distance from any political complications. One does not imho need to approve of a nation's government or politics in order to want to visit it. Culturally, geographically, historically I find China a fascinating place.

Thanks for the explanation. It does help clear up the reason for the regulations.

Fenno a wise bit of advice. Much appreciated!