SCRAMBLING over rocky riverbeds, contending with stingers and photography using only natural light the Far North's tropical wilderness was a perfect but challenging backdrop for Paul Giggle's project, 12 Natural Wonders.

The 17-year veteran of fashion photography, who has worked with the likes of supermodel Miranda Kerr, wanted to capture 12 Australian models in 12 iconic locations to create a limited-edition calendar.

"I came up with a concept which is over 12 years doing a calendar with 12 different models in 12 different countries," the Brisbane-based photographer said.

"It's very classy, black and white and beautiful."

Casting models from across the nation and accompanied by a film crew, stills photographer and hair and makeup team, Mr Giggle captured the beauties at Sydney's northern beaches, Byron Bay, Moreton and Stradbroke islands, Cape Tribulation, Daintree Rainforest and Mossman River.

"We shot at Silky Oaks Lodge at the base of Mossman River and using Ocean Safari we went out to a reef (off Mackay) and shot underwater," he said.

"We were trekking through the jungle (Daintree) and trying to find the right place."

Mr Giggle said there were also risky moments when taking photos of a semi-nude model in the ocean during stinger season. "It was a risk for the sake of art," he said.

"The main vision (of the project) was to portray women in a beautiful, elegant style which was non-sexual and with the confidence to marry them in with the environment to try and create one look."

Mr Giggle, who will travel to Brazil in July to shoot the next calendar, will launch 12 Natural Wonders in a Brisbane art gallery on Wednesday.

The photographer plans to create a display book with the images over the next 12 years.

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