Photography and keeping photographs

A: Taking photographs of living beings, be they humans or animals, and keeping these photos, is unlawful. In fact, it is one of the major sins, for there are authentically reported Hadiths about the terrible threat and severe torment that will befall photographers and those who keep photographs, also because taking photographs is similar to imitating Allah in creating living beings and may be a means to Shirk (associating others with Allah in His Divinity or worship) like honoring the photographs of great figures and righteous people, or a means for temptation like photographs of beautiful women, actors, actresses, and semi-naked women.May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.