How to Photograph and Create Time-Lapses of Lightning

Lightning can be a fantastic way to add a bit of drama to a landscape image, though it takes some technique to capture those fleeting moments. This fantastic video tutorial will show you how to photograph and create time-lapses of lightning.

Coming to you from Brent Hall, this great video tutorial will show you how to photograph and create time-lapses of lightning. Most storms occur in the afternoon and move from southwest to northeast, so you will want to consider your position. If you want a darker, moodier look, you will want to be ahead of the storm to get the sun behind it, while if you want a brighter look, you will want to be behind the storm to allow the sun to light the clouds and landscape. All that being said, remember that lightning is highly dangerous, and you should exercise due caution at all times, including avoiding standing in an open field or under an isolated, tall object. Also, keep in mind that other hazards include heavy rain and flooding, hail, high winds, and occasional tornadoes. I like to set my camera on a tripod and use a remote release while I sit in the safety of my car. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Hall. 

Alex Cooke's picture

Alex Cooke is a Cleveland-based portrait, events, and landscape photographer. He holds an M.S. in Applied Mathematics and a doctorate in Music Composition. He is also an avid equestrian.

Log in or register to post comments
1 Comment

I really enjoyed this.