While photographing brown bears on the Katmai Coast last week our group, which was sitting on a gravel beach, was approached by the cub of an enormous mother bear. Some stern talking was needed to turn the cub back towards mom. They family remained nearby and took a nap. For over 30 years these bears have been accustomed to groups of photographers, and there has never been any problem. I do not carry a gun, but use a 60k candle marine handheld flare, of which I almost never need to use. Taken while guiding expedition for @nathab (Alaska monster bears go at it. )