Photographing Deadly Beauty

What is beauty? What is deadly? Two questions which could incite debates that would probably go on forever as each of use sees things differently from one another.

Through photography you can undertake a project which features images of subjects which can be considered, at least by many, to be both beautiful yet deadly.

The topic offers various perspectives and can provide many different reasons which can vary widely from person to person.

A good way to be selective in your choice of subject matter will be to conduct a simple survey of several people; your friends, your family, your neighbors and so on. It would be good to keep notes also on why each participant considers why something is be beautiful yet deadly at the same time.

Compare all of the answers and try to come with some sort of consensus. Research the best locations to gather photos as well as any other elements that may be necessary to do the project such as an approaching thunder storm.

Based on a combination of answers you can begin to formulate ideas in how to approach and how to compose your images. Keep in mind that some people consider activities that are thrilling, exciting can also be beautiful. So you have some leeway in choosing.

The project can be based on only scenes within nature such as a beautiful waterfall, but deadly if you should fall, a beautiful, snowy mountain peak, yet deadly if you should become trapped at the summit, beautiful lighting displays yet deadly if it should strike and so forth. An impressive and massive volcano but deadly should it erupt.

The subject matter could also be focused on the animal kingdom; deadly yet beautiful poisonous snakes, impressive looking yet dangerous crocodiles, lions, tigers, hippos and the list goes on.

Plants can also offer a wide variety of subjects; beautiful flowers yet deadly if consumed. The ocean has its share of subjects; sharks, poisonous snakes, some mollusks and other invertebrates.

Activities such as car racing, sky diving,scuba diving, rapid rafting and so forth also serve as a list from where to take subject for the theme.

If you choose to make the project revolve around a social issue, then your emphasis could focus on social customs which are considered to be acceptable such as drinking yet its abuse can often lead to more serous consequences.

For most subjects a regular camera with a standard lens will do. But for many, though, you will probably need a long zoom lens to both capture the images and stay clear of any dangerous situations. Best to carry an assortment of lenses when seeking the subjects and a good powerful flash unit.

For scenes during dusk or night such as volcanoes, and photographing lighting strikes a good tripod is also a requirement.

Never try to photograph animals which are considered dangerous in the wild without the help of a professional. Doing so alone is not only foolhardy but can bring on very serious consequences not only to you but in some instances to the animal itself.