lightening
Most beginners assume that you need video on your camera in order to capture lightening…that you would record and then select the frame with the best shot. While this would work, it is certainly not the most effective way.

So here is how it’s done:

What will you need?
Your SLR camera, a tripod, a remote control (not a train smash if you don’t have one then just use the self-timer on your camera) and an umbrella (just incase! You are going out in a thunderstorm after all!)

The trick…long exposure. I have chatted to photographers that set their exposure to 8 seconds and others that go as high as 20 seconds. It’s up to you, depending on the effect you want to create in your photograph.

Set your camera up on the tripod, making sure that the background which will surround the lightening strike is attractive. Once you have gauged the ‘pattern’ of the lighting you should be able to estimate when you push your shutter. Don’t be shy about taking a ton of photos until you get it right, this is one of the fantastic plus points about digital cameras!

Remember that, even though it is dark outside, with your shutter open for a long period of time there is going to be a significant amount of light let into your lens. Make sure your ISO and F-stops are set to compliment the long shutter speed.

A note: if there are city lights or street lamps in your shot shot keep in mind that they will become much brighter in the image as the camera absorbs their light, this creates a beautiful effect if you have your settings right.

Good Luck!
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