Can one use electricity or photography on Shabbat?

[Adapted from Issac Klein's "A Guide to Jewish Religious Practice"]

     Kindling light is one of the 39 categories of melacha [loosely translated as "work"] that is prohibited by the Torah on Shabbat.  In modern times the question arises as to whether the turning on of an electric light is included in this prohibition.  One responsum of the CJLS concluded that electricity is not a form of fire, and thus lights can telephones can be freely used on Shabbat.  Note that this teshuvah does not remove other prohibitions, such as the prohibition against cooking on Shabbat.  A second CJLS opinion takes a stricter view, and rejects the use of electricity in this regard.  As always, CYLR (consult your local rabbi).  On a related note, it is permissible to use a microphone on Shabbat if it was turned on before Shabbat.

     Photography is prohibited on Shabbat as a violation of both the law and spirit of the day. This prohibition applies even when the photographer is non-Jewish.  One opinion of the CJLS allows for videotaping on Shabbat if the video camera is connected to a timer or placed in operation by a non-Jew;  Another CJLS opinion forbids all videotaping on Shabbat outright.  Consult your local rabbi for guidance.