 Eric S. Rundle |
How Do You Shoot Lightning? I am interested in shooting lightning. Thanks!
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Alan N. Marcus |
Hi Eric, To get a dramatic shot of lightning, the camera must be aimed and the scene and composed and the shutter pressed during the actual lightning strike. Not an easy task. Therefore, we place the camera's aperture at f/22. This is a tiny lens opening. It is so tiny that at night, nothing much records. An even smaller f/32 might be better if your camera has that setting. Next, we point the camera at that region of earth and sky likely to receive a lighting strike. The camera is focused on infinity (as far as the eye can see). Next we are going to use a long ¨C long shutter speed. This way the shutter is open for one or more lightning strikes. Because of the long shutter speed it will be necessary to place the camera on a tripod or some other sturdy mount. It will be important not to jiggle the camera when you press the shutter release so a cable release appliance is best. These are 8 or 10 or 12 inch long mechanical devices that screw into the shutter release post found on many cameras. If your camera will not accept a cable release you will need to resort to other measures. Shutter speed: Many film cameras have a time setting on the shutter speed dial. This setting causes the shutter to open and remain open until the shutter release is pressed a second time. If your camera has a "T" setting, use it with a cable release. Most advanced cameras have a "B" setting (a holdover from the old rubber bulbs used on early cameras). The "B" setting causes the shutter to open when the shutter release is pressed however unlike the "T" setting, pressure must be continuously applied while the shutter is open, otherwise, the shutter will close. If your camera has a "B" setting, use it. Again "T" is best. We use a cable release with the "B" setting to keep pressure on the shutter release without transmitting vibrations to the camera. Get a cable release that has a locking thumbscrew. This keeps the shutter open relieving you of the necessity to hold pressure. Now the idea is to aim and compose and hold the shutter open during the lightning strike. No "T" or "B", set the shutter to the longest possible exposure time. Use a cable release. Use a tripod. Best of luck.
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Eric S. Rundle |
Thank you Alan I figured that the shutter had to be long exposer But did nit think about aperture. That will help a lot
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