I don't walk around, living my life in fear of some imaginary intruder.

I also don't own a gun.

As a photographer the poses and facial expressions are aggressive which feeds into the 'scary black man' stereotype. There's enough of that without feeding white fear.

Beyond that people with guns, regardless of who they are, intimidate. That, as far as I can tell, is the entire purpose of carrying guns.

Regardless of intention this article does nothing to promote the feeling that black people (or any people) carrying guns is not frightening.

How so?

I'd say.... 'assertive'.

As a photographer I would have put more emphasis on the person and used the gun as an accessory instead of making the gun the center of focus. All guns holstered, subject interacting with the environment instead of direct eye contact with the camera/viewer which can be seen as confrontational particularly if the subject is being assertive.

My opinion as a photographer, YMMV.

...was entirely appropriate, given the topic being addressed.

would be everyone standing around having a good time, smiling, etc. A scowling, even "neutral-ish" expression, along with actually holding a firearm in your hands, may be considered "aggressive". After all, just plain pictures of firearms here, with no individuals seen, are labeled as "porn" by some.