Climate change is a growing concern, one which intensifies behind us as we carry on our daily lives. Photographer Benjamin Von Wong embarked an epic project to capture this phenomenon, using storms—those dark, unstoppable forces of nature—as his metaphor. Titled “Surreal Stormchasing Portraits,” Von Wong traveled seven states in two weeks alongside weather and environmental photographer Kelly DeLay. In each staged image—which was constructed and torn down in under 10-15 minutes, given the dangerous conditions—people perform ordinary and leisurely activities, such ironing and barbecuing. The contrast between the models’ indifference and the threatening skies provokes awareness and conversation about the action needed to address climate change.
Images © Benjamin Von Wong